Hyundai Getz
Year: 2006
Price: $4200
Contact: 5886464
Info: This car runs well and is fuel efficient.
Fully Loaded Nissan Sentra
Year: 2008
Phone Contact: 5202595 or 5872595
Email:
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Engine, transmission in good working condition.
Total Loss due to accident in the rear of vehicle.
Price: Negotiable
Call 520-2595 / 587-2595
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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Romans 8:28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of
Etta Adlean Gumbs
Sunrise: 7th September 1921 ~ Sunset: 10th June 2010
Mother: The late Elizabeth Gumbs
Step daughters: Sharon Simmons aka Chevy - Holland
Anlucinda Mijdt - SXM
Step son: Melvin Richardson aka Mello - SXM
Close Love ones & Friends:
Aubrey Rouse - England
Morgan Rouse - St. Kitts
Alice Phillips - Curacao
Iona Scott - Curacao
Lillian Phillips - SXM
Theodora Phillips - Curacao
Viviane Phillips - Sxm
Donovan Blackman & Family - SXM
Lee Blackman & Family - SXM
Antonisha Heel & Family - SXM
Rosila Joseph & Family - SXM
Kyle Brown - Holland
Tonisha Heel - Holland
Bernell Brown & Family - St. Kitts
Nelda Tuliana & Family - Curacao
Calixto Anselmo Rudolph - Barbados
Carlyle Mijdt & Family - SXM
Daisy Gumbs
Nirmala Vlaun - SXM
Family of the deceased Ernest Gumbs - Anguilla
Sidney Gumbs - Anguilla
Etta was well known be many at home & abroad in Anguilla, St. Kitts, Sxm, Curacao, Holland and England.
Her family members- Gumbs, Lake, Mijdt, Blackman, Barter, Webster, Rouse, Scott, Merchant, Phillips, Brown, Heel & Richardson families at home and abroad. And a host of others too numerous to mention.
Special thank you goes out to all the nurses & staff of SXM Home especially nurse Nancy & Michelle & Mafelgo.
The funeral arrangements for the late Etta Adlean Gumbs will be held on Tuesday June 15th, 2010 at the Saint Simon and Saint Jude Anglican Church on Backstreet. Viewing of the body will be from 2:00pm to 3:00pm. Service will commence at 3:00pm with interment at the Cul-de-sac cemetery.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May Her Soul Rest in Peace
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Psalms 91; He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High, shall abide in the shadow of the Almighty.
It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of our beloved mother, sister, grandmother, aunt and friend
Patricia Jeremie-Stevens of Dominica
Sunset: 17 Jul 1948 ~ Sunset: 16 June 2010
Those Left to Mourn:
Husband: Bernard Jeremie
Children:
4 Sons
Earnard Jeremie
Irvin Jeremie
Kervin Jeremie
Simeon Jeremie
2 Daughters
Laurel Marryshaw
Kathleen Jeremie
Son in-law
Justin Marryshaw
2 Daughters in-law
Lisa Jeremie & Kinzi Jeremie
3 Brothers
Paul Stevens & family
Martin Stevens & family
Simon Steven & family (in Guadeloupe)
2 Sisters
Sylvia Pierre & family (in Dominica)
Clemencia & family (in Dominica)
Special niece: Carol Regis
Special friend: Rosa & Lucinda (in Dominica) & Octancia Leblanc
Grand Children
Reeder & Lilian Jno-Baptiste, Vennicks Marryshaw, Kellian , Kevin, Kernisha & Sanai Jeremie, Sharmara Marryshaw & Laura-lee Thomas
The funeral service for the late Patricia Steven will be held on Wednesday 23rd June, 2010 at the Dutch Quarter Pentecostal Church in Dutch Quarter. Viewing and tributes will be from 2:00pm to 3:00pm. Service will commence at 3:00pm with interment at the Cul de Sac cemetery.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May Her Soul Rest in Peace
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Psalms 91; He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High, shall abide in the shadow of the Almighty.
It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of our beloved father, brother, grandfather, uncle and friend.
Earl Vibert Cato
27-05-1947 - 26-06-2010
Those left to Mourn:
Wife: Patricia Cato Salomon
Children: Rene Cato
Yolanda Cato Johnson
Vaneska Nicaela (NL)
Mother: Elise Cato (St. Vincent)
Brothers: Errol Cato (England)
Lennox Cato ( Curacao)
Jeffrey Cato (St. Vincent)
Sister: Marva Cato (St. Vincent)
Daughter in-law: Melanie Cato-Rijnita (Curacao)
Son in-law: Jermaine Johnson (USA)
Grand Children: Kyra, Cato (Curacao)
Ylana Cato (Curacao)
Chayenne Johnson (USA)
Juwan Johnson (USA)
Aunt Camelita Daize and family (St. Vincent)
Uncle Aflick Haynes and family (St. Vincent)
Good Friend: Lorenzo Gibbs (SXM)
He also leaves to mourn many other friends too numerous to mention
8 Nieces & 1 nephew in Holland, England, USA and Canada
Other close relatives
Dominga Castro, Salomon families in SXM & Aruba, Family Harmans (NL), Vincent Williams & Family, Arnold Saunders & Family (NL), Giovanca Nicaela, Gioneldi Jerez,(NL),Toney families in St. Vincent, USA& Canada, Barbara Mc Farlane and family, Ermine James and family, Lilliette Lewis (Canada), Jean Kelly-Peters and family (Tortola, USA and Canada), Joyce Haynes and family (St. Vincent), Winnifred and Rhonda King (St. Vincent), John and Tim Hamlet and their families (St. Vincent & USA)
He was a member of The KFC Hotwings Sporting club & Former Secretary of St.Maarten Sea Rescue Foundation organizations
The funeral service for the late Earl V.Cato will be held on Friday 2nd July, 2010 at the Philipsburg Methodist Church on Front Street. Viewing and tributes will be held from 2pm to3pm. Service will commence at 3pm with interment at the Cul-de-Sac cemetery.
A Wake will be held on Thursday July 1st , 2010 at the Raoul Illidge Sports complex in Cay Hill from 7:00pm-9:30pm
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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Luke 23:46: Father into thy hands I commend my spirit.
It is with profound sadness we announce the sudden passing of our beloved Son, Brother, Nephew, Grandson & Friend
Rolando CAHADO
Sunrise: 1 May 1991 ~ Sunset: 22 July 2010
He leaves to mourn:
His mother: Santa Bertha Ramirez
His father: Filomena Cahado Luis
Grandmothers: Ana le Juan & Maria Teresa Luis
Brothers: Charlie & Jerry Ramirez
Sisters: Brianna Ramirez
Many other relatives and friends will be announced in a subsequent announcement.
The funeral arrangements for the late Rolando CAHADO will be held on Thursday July 29th, 2010 at the Salle Omni Sport in Galis Bay, St.Martin. Viewing n Tributes will be held from 11:30am to 12:45pm. Service will commence at 1:00pm. Interment will follow thereafter at the Sandy Ground Cemetery.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of a cherished & dedicated mother, sister, grandmother, aunt & friend
Laurelle RICHARDS aka YAYA OR Red Bird of Taxi 671
Born on April 28th 1955 in Anguilla
Died on May 26th 2010 in Saint-Martin at the age of 55
Those left to mourn and carry on her legacy:
Her children:
Laurent RICHARDS aka Tash
Mitchel BENJAMIN
Martial BENJAMIN
Laurellye BENJAMIN ep FONTENELLE
HANNA BENJAMIN ep LUC – USA
Grand Children:
Tyana RICHARDS
Rae- Anne RICHARDS
Shadya RICHARDS
Ivana FLANDERS
Ivan FLANDERS
Mickael BENJAMIN
Martial
Companion TAMPSON Leo
Sons in Law Jean LUC & Keron FONTENELLE USA
Daughter in law Veronique BROWN BENJAMIN
Brothers:
Ferdinand RICHARDS Taxi 917
Lorenzo ROBERTS
Sisters:
Rose-Marie RICHARDS & Family
Suzette BROOKS RICHARDS & Family
Anita FLANDERS RICHARDS & Family Taxi 554
Carmen RICHARDS & Family
Adrienne RICHARDS & Family
Priscille FIGARO RICHARDS & Family
Josette RICHARDS & Family
Brothers in Law Victor BROOKS aka King
Maurice FLANDERS
Charles FIGARO
David BROOKS
Great Aunt JOHNSON Leonie & family in Aruba
Aunt GLASCOW Laurentine & Family
Friend Monique HYMAN
Nieces & Nephews BROOKS Valentin, Victorien & Valencia
FLANDERS Alphonso & Ali
BEAULT Brigitte, Sylvie & Thierry
RICHARDS Franceline, François, Calvin, Rudy, Jean-Philippe,
FIGARO Rubens & Sarah
LEWEST Elodie
Great Nieces & Nephews: Giovany, Akim, Romalia, Romaric, Denicia, Alysha, Kimberly, shyane, Alain, Jai- Shaunique
She was related to : RICHARDS, BENJAMIN, BRYAN, GUMBS, BROOKS, FLANDERS, FIGARO, GLASCOW, JOE, FONTENELLE, CHAMPARE, GAMIETTE, CONNER, BALY, LEWEST, HODGE, HUGHUES, CARTY, PROCTOR, RICHARDSON, VANTERPOOL, MACDONNA, ROGERS, DORMOY, VIOTTY, HYMAN, MACCOW, LEWIS, WARNER, ROLLAN, MONTOUT, POTONY, EMMANUEL, JANSON, CAINGS, LAKE, REED, FLEMING, LARMONIE, BUTE, THOMAS, AFRICA, FORTUNO, HANSON families.
She also leaves many more family, friends and relatives too numerous to mention by name
Laurelle was an employee of La Samana Hôtel in Housekeeping and was an avid Taxi driver aka Red Bird of Taxi 671
She was the President of “The Cultural Women Association of Saint-Louis” & the President of “The Rambaud & Saint-Louis Association”
She was a member and entrusted with cultural actions in the Lion’s Club Oualichi
The funeral service for the late Laurelle RICHARDS aka YAYA or Red Bird will be held on Friday 4th May, 2010 at the Roman Catholic Church in Marigot. Viewing of the body and tributes will be from 1:00pm to 3:00pm. Service will commence at 3:00pm. Interment will follow at the Sandy Ground cemetery thereafter.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May Her Soul Rest in Peace
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Psalm: 116-13 “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his servants”.
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, Clemencia Georgina Caroliny-Weinum
Sunrise: March 26, 1915 ~ Sunset: May 16, 2010
She leaves to mourn:
7 daughters: Cynthia Weinum-Proctor and family
Murie Weinum
Henriette Weinum and family
Alicia Weinum
Priscilla Weinum-Delanoe Minos and family
Aline Weinum and family
Anne-Marie Weinum-Olivacce and family
3 sons: Robert Weinum
René Weinum
Serge Weinum
2 adopted daughters: Marilyn Balentin in Aruba
Miranda Arnell and family
2 sisters: Adamise Caroliny-Balentin and family in Aruba
Maude Lake and family in USA
Grand-daughters: Daniella Robinson and family in USA
Amy G. Johnson and family in USA
Giselé Proctor-Philips and family
Rolinda Weinum
Sandra Weinum
Karine Delanoe Minos and family
Priscilla Delanoe Minos and family
Jannelle Van Heyningen
Christelle Olivacce and family
Aïda Weinum
Grandsons: Alex Weinum and family in USA
Christopher Weinum and family in USA
Roger Weinum and family
Rodriques Weinum and family
Yann Delanoe Minos and family
Patrick Delanoe Minos
Angelo Olivacce and family
Kendji Weinum
Kevin Weinum
21 great grandchildren
Nieces: Sonia Singh and family
Cecilia Thomas and family in Aruba
Elisa Balentin in Holland
Valerie Connor and Family in Aruba
Judith Connor and Family in England
Nephews: Guillermo Balentin and Family in Holland
Leo Connor and Family in Aruba
Basil Connor and Family in Aruba
Carol Connor and Family in Aruba
Drummond Connor and Family in Aruba
Jessy Connor and Family in Holland
Thomson Connor and Family in Aruba
Glenn Connor and Family
Trevor Connor and Family in USA
Clyde Lake in USA
Many other family, godchildren and friends too numerous to mention.
The late Clemencia Georgina Weinum was related to the: Carolinys, Weinums, Gumbs, Lakes, Burnetts, Connors, Denises, Rogers, Brooks, Cartis, Paines, Reeds, Javois, Hodges, Emmanuels, Olivacces, Duzants, Balys, Grenovelts, Arrindells, Bryants, Richardsons, Simmons, Lawrences, Scott-Labagos, and Novels families.
Special thanks to the priests Fr. Samson and Fr. Frantz
Caretakers: Dr. Thibaut and Christen Hermine
Nurses: Fanny, and Jean Marc
Therapist: Mary and colleagues.
The wake will be on Thursday, May 20th 2010 from 6:00p.m. at the family home in Grand-Case.
Funeral service will be on Friday, May 21st at the Saint Mary, Star of the Sea Roman Catholic Church in Grand Case, St. Martin.
Church viewing 2:00 p.m to 3:30pm
Service starts at 3:30 p.m.
Interment will follow at the Grand Case Cemetery thereafter
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May Her Soul Rest in Peace
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Thy will be done Lord
With deep sadness we regret to announce the death of Manuel Van Heyningen, age 59,a.k.a "Manny." He was born in Aruba on December 29th, 1950 and died on August 14th 2010.
Left to mourn
Sisters:
Marjorie Stewart and family (USA)
Deanna Williams and familly (Holland)
Estella Lynch and family (Holland)
Rose Hodge and family (St.Maarten)
Brothers:
Wilfred Van Heyningen and family (Aruba)
Roy Violenus and family (Aruba)
Clement Van Heyningen (St.Maarten)
Fernando Violenus (Holland)
Sisters in-law:
Agatha Van Heyningen (St.Maarten)
Guendalyn Van Heyningen (Curacao)
Nieces and Nephews:
Too numerous to mention including, Kenny Van Heyningen, Dena Van Heyningen, and Kim Simmons.
Cousins:
Too numerous to mention and also with special reference to Arlette Van Heyningen.
Close friends:
Ms. Parfait and Angela Arrondell
He was related to Van Heyningen, Violenus, Hodge, Priests, Wilson, Bowers, Bredewoud, Simmons, Drijvers, Richardsons, Charles and Gumbs families
Special thanks goes out to the staff of the "St.Maarten home" and Dr. Bus.
The funeral service for the late Manuel van Heyningen a.k.a "Manny." Will be held on Friday August 20th, 2010 at the Emerald Funeral Home Chapel in Cay Hill. Viewing & tributes will be from 2:00pm to 3:00pm. Service will commence at 3:00pm with interment at the Cul de sac cemetery.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of our beloved Father, Husband, Brother, Grandfather & Friend.
Mr. Alexis Duliste
Sunrise 25th April 1939 - Sunset 28th January 2010
He leaves to mourn:
Wife: Delicia Paul
Sons: Wilmer Alexis
Gustin Alexis
Janas Alexis
Santho Alexis
Jean – Michel Alexis
Daughters: Delimene Alexis
Edeline Alexis
Jacquiline Vaden Alexis
Wilda Alexis
Grand children: Wildania, Beatrice, love Edith, Fernand De Magelland, Daniell, Dorly, Fathma, Doudie, Modeline, Douby, Elicia, Dialy, Bengi, Pier Richard, Dorley, Dude, Kanisha
Close friends: Mr. & Mrs. Masner Diamond, Bernard Bourjoly & Alitha Lecante
Funeral service for the late Mr. Alexis Duliste will be held on Wednesday February 3rd 2010 at the Emerald Funeral Home Chapel in Cay Hill. Viewing will be from 2:00pm -3:00pm. Service will commence at 3:00pm with interment at the Cul-de-sac cemetery.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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“THE LORD IS MY LIGHT ANS SALVATION, WHOM SHALL I FEAR”
It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of our father and husband;
Owen Antonin Harrigan better know to all as SAGÉ, born 10 May 1946 on Saint Martin and died Friday 12th February, 2010.
He was a retired Sapeurs Pompiers
He leaves to mourn:
His wife : Mary Harrigan
His children : Monique Joe & fam. (Guadeloupe)
: Cindy Harrigan & fam.
: Dave Hodge & fam. (U.S.A)
: Rosalie Harrigan & fam. (Anguilla)
: Lisa Harrigan & fam.
: Bernadette Harrigan & fam.
: Elvia Harrigan-Fleming & fam. (Holland)
: Natasha Harrigan & fam.
: Julienne (Annie) Harrigan & fam. (France)
: Marius (Mike) Harrigan (France)
Adopted son : Jean-Eddy Harrigan & fam.
His brother : Auguste Arrondell & fam
His sister : Yuanita Hunt & fam
: Olympia Harrigan (France) & fam
Sons in law : Shawn Fleming, Kenrick Carter, Sylvain Harrigan, Justin Gumbs, Lucius Gumbs Jean-Luc Cenia, Antoine Lewis.
Ex-sons in law : Don Richardson
: James Anselm
Daughter in law : Lisa Hodge (U.S.A)
Sister in law : Caroline Arrondell
: Veronica Romney
Aunt : Constance Richardson & fam. (England)
22 grandchildren, 7 great grand children.
7 Nieces and 13 Nephews, and many great nieces and nephews.
Close cousins: Ammarette Hodge(Canada ), Philip (chiney) Richardson( Anguilla), Jerry Van Heyningen, Violet Jones(Anguilla) , Mercedes & Wilma Richardson, Marcel Reiph, Condita Harrigan, Connie Gumbs (Canada), Melida Hughes, Tony Jacobs, Jean-Pierre Roumou, Christine & Susan Harrigan and many more too numerous to mention.
Close friends: Justlin Martin, Ruth Gumbs, Maria Chemont, Louisa Halley, Denise Louisy, Armanda & Fred Ellis, Leon Joe, Hilton Wilson, Francois & Beatrix Carmont, Arlinthia & Albert Shillingford, Medina Lewis, Ivan Fleming, Patricio Heward, Gwendoline Davis, Julius Karrot, Laurent Minville, Gerard Deliscar, Pastor Hodge,Rev. Stephane Brooks, George Gumbs, Aixie, Leonard Benjamin, Members of the Adventist soup kitchen, Members of the Simpsonbay Methodist church, Anselm Paines,
former colleages of the Sapeurs Pompiers , friends of the dutch side Fire Dept. The domino Exterminators team,
Fred & Joselyn Bourgeois, Erick ambulance personel : Theo ,Bennet , Aldain, friends at the dialysis center Marigot, and many more too numerous to mention.
Personal nurse: Anne Delifa
Special thanks to Staff of Erick Ambulance, Nurse Ann Delifa, Dr. Marc Thibault, Staff of the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital, Centre Dialyse.
He was related to: Harrigan, Romney, Richardson, Roumou, Hunt, Arrondell, Joe, Jederon, Fleming, Gumbs, Hodge, Carter, Shillingford, Bradshaw and many more too numerous to mention.
The funeral service for the late Owen Antonin Harrigan better know to all as SAGÉ will be held on Saturday, February 20th, 2010 at the Roman Catholic Church in Marigot. Viewing and Tributes from 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm. Service will commence at 2:00pm with interment at the Sandy Ground Cemetery.
A wake will be held on Friday, February 19th, 2010 from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm at his home in Cole Bay.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most high shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. Psalms 91.
We regret to announce the passing of our beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, and friend
Mr. Cecil A. Joseph better known to all as “Tim” or “Shorty”
Sunrise : July 6th, 1948
Sunset: March 8th, 2010
He leaves to mourn:
Mother: Ellen George (Dominica)
Wife : June Joseph (St. Maarten)
Mother in law : Agnes Baptiste (Dominica)
Daughters: Donatien Joseph-Reid bka Donna (St. Maarten)
Samantha Joseph-Clarke (St. Maarten)
Sharon Joseph (Guadeloupe)
Carla Joseph (Guadeloupe)
Sons: Roland Joseph (St. Maarten)
Sherwin Langford bka Benjie (USA)
Melville Langford (Dominica)
Grandchildren: Felicia Joseph Langford (St. Maarten)
Joshua Joseph Langford (St. Maarten)
Rolanda Joseph Lake (St. Maarten)
Dwanijsha Reid (St. Maarten)
Roshaun Joseph Lake (St. Maarten)
Sisters: Myrtle Baron (Dominica)
Shirley Joseph (Dominica)
Francis Joseph (Dominica)
Brothers: Henry Joseph & Family (U.S.A.)
James Joseph bka Mangoes & Family (Dominica)
Franklin Joseph & Family(Dominica)
Hilary Joseph & Family (Dominica)
Nelson Joseph & Family (Dominica)
Silvanus Nicholas & Family(Barbados)
Sisters-in-law: Grace Baptiste Xavier & Family (Antigua)
Fafan Baptiste & Family (Antigua)
Sandy Baptiste & Family (Antigua)
Nathanie Baptiste James & Family (Dominica)
Brothers-in-law : Dayton Baptiste (Antigua)
Warden Baptiste & Family (Antigua)
Dayton Baptiste & Family (Dominica)
Ross Baptiste & Family (Antigua)
Kave Baptiste & Family (Antigua)
Atfield Baptiste & Family (Dominica)
Sons-in-law: Dwayne Reid bka Boy Blue (St. Maarten)
Uwaine Clarke bka Prince (St. Maarten)
Daughters-in-law: Kerry-ann Charles (St. Maarten)
Julaika Lake bka Laika (St. Maarten)
Many Neices&Nephews too numerous to mention in St. Maarten and Dominica
Close friends & Neighbours: Reginald Pantophlet & Family, Touchie Meyers & Family, Louis Fortuno Speedie) & Family, Gerturde Lambert, & Family, Karen Jones & Family, Rudolphia George & Family,Sonja Clarke & Family,Mr & Mrs. Patani, Jim, Fabrice, George, Belgade, Sea Breeze and Sonesta Great Bay Hotel Staff, All residents of Miltons Drive in Dutch Quarter and the members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
A wake will be held at his residence in Dutch Quarter on Wednesday 17th, March 2010 from 7:00 pm
The Funeral Service for the late Mr. Cecil A. Joseph better known to all as “Tim” or “Shorty” will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Colebay (next to Prime Distributors), on Friday 19th, March 2010. Viewing will be from 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Service will commence at 2:30p.m with interment at the Cul De Sac cemetery.
The Family of the deceased would like to thank the Staff and Nurses of Dialysis Centre and Medical Surgery ward at the SMMC, Dr. T. Jolles, Dr. C. Wynter, Dr. Z. Perez, and Dr. F. van Leeuwen for their comfort and support.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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“To live in the hearts of those we leave behind, is not to die”
Sir Ian Michael Valz Knight in the Order of Orange Nassau.
Sunrise: August 28th, 1957
Sunset: April 28th, 2010
Son of the late: Ralston and Hyacinth Valz
Wife: Patricia Atmodimedjo
Son: Cody Valz
Stepchildren: Michèle Ferrier, Kim Ferrier & David Moniz
Sisters: Joan, Sonja Abbott – Valz and family
Helena Ann Mitchell – Valz and family
Brothers: Raulyn Valz and family
Sherman Valz and family
Nephews: Ryan Valz & family
Marlon Valz & family
Rezik Valz & family
Daniel Mitchell
Roberto Valz
Nieces: Safia Valz & family
Shania Valz
Shona Valz
Brother in law: Alvin Abbott
Terry Mitchell
Sister in law: Nagiba Valz
Bernadette Valz
Aunt: Joyce Byrne
Family members:
Selma Baker & family
Gail Valz
Maxime Larmonie & family
Oswald Francis & family
Edgar & Nilda Lynch-Arduin
Ria & Lydia Uiterloo & family
Irene Kartopawiro & family
Close Friends: Jasper Adams, Edward Isaacs and sisters, Actors’ crew and Theatre family, Don Hughes, Glenfield Gipson and the rest of the PJD-2 family, other friends and relatives too numerous to mention.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the St. Maarten Independent Theatre Foundation,
Bank of Nova Scotia account number: 1000851
Viewing of the body will be from 011.00 to 13.00 at the Emerald Funeral Home.
Public Viewing at Victory Temple Church of God of Prophecy in Ebenezer from 1:30 to 3pm
Interment will follow at Cul de Sac Cemetry at 4:30pm
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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2 Timothy 4:7 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.
It is with deep regret we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle & friend
HENRIQUE ALEJANDRO TONDU aka PAPACITO or Mr. Tondu
Sunrise: 10th December 1929 in Santo Domingo
Sunset: 16th April 2010 in St-Martin at the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital.
The late Henrique Alejandro TONDU leaves to mourn:
His Wife: Violet Landora Chance-Tondu
5 Children: Christina Simeon & Family, Joanita Tondu & Family, Denise Diana Tondu & Family, Jean Tondu & Family, Josiane Tondu-Laville & Family
13 Grand Children: Mario Biabiny & Family, Raymond Biabiny & Family in Guadeloupe, Meligen Tondu & Family in the Netherlands, Sharon Smith, Robbie Smith, Willard Smith, Yane Bryan, Richard Martin, Samara Simeon, Dion Petty, Lorenzo Tondu, Joshua Tondu & Joachin Tondu.
14 Great Grand Children: Anne Shirley, Tricia, Marcus, Christopher, Jamal, Jonie, Shequan, Isaiah, Lestad, Shanisha, Sheyla, Ruben, Ronaldo, Shanun.
1 Brother: John Tondu aka. Holito
2 Sisters: Carmen Nicoupe & Family in Surinam, Lise Tondu-Bordier & Family
Many Nieces, Nephews too numerous to mention.
3 Brothers-in-law: Albert Chance & Family, James Chance & Family & Remi Bordier & Family
4 Sisters-in-law: Ruth Hawley, Josephine Serarie in Guadeloupe, Finch Sherley in the USA & Maria Luce Tondu
2 Sons-in-law: Anthony Simeon, Oswald Laville
Close Friends: Mr. Albert Fleming, Clement Gumbs, Oger Tondu & Family, Joseph Hodge aka. Jocrup, Louis Constant Fleming, Lowel Brown, Fefé Javois, Julian Brooks, Apostle Rosemond Romney & family, Pastor Ambrose Richardson & family in Anguilla, Pastor Eugene Hodge, Pastor Constant Hodge & Pastor Victor Belles.
Henrique Alejandro Tondu was related to the: Tondus, Chances, Flemings, Tacklins, Williams, Rovelets, Viottys, Halleys, Massons, Richardsons, Turpins, Bordiers, Rodinios, Pagets in Guadeloupe and Galvanys.
A wake will be held at his home in Concordia on Thursday April 22nd, 2010.
The funeral Service for the late Henrique Alejandro TONDU will be held on Friday April 23rd, 2010 at the Christian Assembly Tabernacle in La Savane Grand Case. Viewing will be form 1:30pm to 2:30pm.Service will commence at 2:30pm with interment at the Sandy Ground cemetery.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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Jesus Friend of little children be a friend to me.
With deep sadness we announce the death of little Ronel Germain Colling
Ronel died at the tender age of 2 years.
He leaves to mourn:
His mother Elaine Jones in St. Martin
His father Callton Colling
His brothers Ritchel Jones in St. Martin
Dewaine, Gregre, Levons & Ardly Collin
His sisters Sherel & Jadien Collins
His Grandfather Lulmise Colling & Jasper Jones
His Step grandmother Luwise Jones
Aunts: Jennifer Judith
Winsom Julian
Pam
Uncles: Delroy Devon
Deyon Donavon
Dean
Miceal
Godmother Meana Lake
6 Great aunts in Jamaica and Dane in Sxm
Many cousins too numerous to mention.
He was related to the Jones and Colling families
The Funeral service will be held on Tuesday April 13th 2010 at the Miracle Revival Church in French Quarter. The viewing of the body will start at 2:00 p.m to 3:00pm. Service will starting at 3:00 pm. Interment will follow at the St. Georges Cemetery in French Quarter.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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“Then Sings my soul my savior God to thee, How great thou art.”
It is with deep sadness that we anounce the passing of our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, godmother, cousin & friend
Mrs. Hyercinth Ianta Jacobs-Lake affectionately known as Cynthee or Ma Jacobs
Sunrise : 6th December 1930 ~ Sunset 27th March 2010
Left to mourn:
Her husband: Charles Jacobs
Daughter: Cheryl Bergland-Jacobs
Sons: Leopold Hughes
Vernon Jacobs
Gilford Jacobs
Mervin Jacobs
Raymond Jacobs
The deceased Floyd Jacobs
Lester Jacobs
Brothers: Roland Bryson
John Hughes and fam.
Sister: Vera Hughes and fam.
Sisters-in-law: Julia Peterson and fam.
Gloria Bryson and fam.
Doreen Lake
Daughters-in-law: Jermila Jacobs
Annette Jacobs
Lizette Bryan
Son-in-law: Lloyd Bergland
Grandchildren: Chad Jacobs, Norwin Gumbs, Melmarie Jacobs, Christopher
Bergland, Bernard Jacobs, Jundree Jacobs, Fernella
Jacobs, Charlene Jacobs, Leona Hughes, Rachel Smith, Joel
Holman and Albert Anthony
Cousins: Veronica and Irene Lake and fam., Rufina, Leona and Sandra de
Lain and fam.Dorothy Richardson and fam.
Calvin, Maurice, Stephanus, Neville and Patrick Lake and fam.
Adolphus Richardson and fam.Irwin Pretty and fam
Bernadine, Paula, Tess and Della Horsford and fam., Emily Hodge
and fam., Blondell Woods and fam., Titania Lake and fam., Dora
Hanson and fam.
Nieces and nephews too numerous to mention.
12 godchildren at home and abroad.
Step daughters: Emma Actaville and fam., Thelma Miller and fam.
Jo-ann. Mardenborough-Lewis and fam.
Step sons: Calvin Primus and fam.and Winston
Duport and fam. Ornaldo Niles and fam.
Aunts-in-law: Henrieta Salomon and fam. Christine Cannegieter and fam. Inez Krythoff and fam.
Special friends: the Vlaun fam. on Front Street, Leocadia Lake and fam., Cynthee and Nell Lake and fam, Mildred Rochester and Fam. Althea Ferdinand and fam. Mary v/d Berg and fam. Agnes Novels and fam.Maisie Richardson and fam. Maria Chemont, Mr.& Mrs.Piper and fam.Inez Laviest, Phyllis Gumbs,Louise Berry and fam.Essy Maccow, Mr.& Mrs.G.Davis and fam.Balborda fam.Harriet Monsanto and fam.Linette Jones, Iwandai of 97.7 FM on Anguilla & many more friends too numerous to mention
She was related to the: Jacobs, Hughes, Lake, Hodge, Bryson, de Lain, Ruan, Smith, Horsford, van Grup and Richardson Families.
The thanksgiving service for the life of the late Mrs. Hyercinth Ianta Jacobs-Lake affectionately known as Cynthee or Ma Jacobs will be held on Thursday 1st April,2010 at the Philipsburg Methodist Church. Viewing & tributes will be from 1:00pm -2:00pm. Service will commence at 2:00pm with interment at the Mount Plaisance Cemetery in Philipsburg thereafter.
The family respectfully wishes no visitors following the interment service.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May Her Soul Rest in Peace
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“If you fully obey the LORD your God and carefully follow all his commands I giveyou today, the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations on earth” - Deuteronomy 28: 1
Mrs. Mary Sarah HUNT A.K.A Monmen
Sunrise: December 29th 1939 ~ Sunset: November 15th 2010
She leaves to mourn:
Husband: ROSMOND BERNADIN HUNT
Sisters:
PERNEL RANSON
Cynthia PINOCK
Brothers:
RALPH PINOCK
FEDERIC PINOCK
Children
Daughters:
Rosette HUNT
Ruth GOODMAN
Anne-Marie FONTENELLE (TAXI 89)
Jacqueline TOUSSAINT
Sons:
Rosemond HUNT b.k.a (bob)
John HUNT (TAXI 580)
Paul HUNT
Pierre HUNT b.k.a (peter)
Marc HUNT
Step children:
Aline JAMES
David HUNT
Daughters in law:
Diana HUNT
Lydia HUNT
Janet KING
Sons in law:
Junior FONTENELLE
Michael TOUSSAINT
Junior GOODMAN
GRAND CHILDREN
Nadina LAKE
SARAH NABINTOU HUNT
NAKISSA HUNT
JACQUELINE HUNT
MOUSSA HUNT
MATINA HUNT
APRIL GOODMAN
NIJEL GOODMAN
MARK GOODMAN
DARION HUNT
THALYA HUNT
ZARIAH HUNT
JUNIOR HUNT
FABIEN PIGEAUNAU
NATHALIA HUNT
SHANEY HUNT
YASNEY HUNT
ELIAKIM HUNT
DOMINIQUE JOHN BABTISTE
DAVID FONTENELLE
VICTORIA TOUSSAINT
ELAINE HUNT MC DONALD
DANIELLE HUNT MC DONALD
GREAT GRAND CHILDREN
JULIESHA LAKE
NEEMYKAH LAKE
MICKEL LAKE
Close friends: Gina Frias, Therese BENJAMIN, Sports CHANCE, Bobaly, Thelma, Karina Simon
Nieces, Nephews and Cousins to numerous to mention.
She also leaves to mourn the members of the Seventh Day Adventist Churches.
She was related to the families:
Hunt, Pinock, Fontenelle, Toussaint, Jean-Baptiste, Carty, Hodge, Lawrence, Lake, Hendrickson, Langlais, Goodman, Dulorme, Vlaun, Brian, James, Pigeaunau, Mc Donald …..
Special thanks to: Yvonne Blythe, Gina Frias, The staff at the Louis Constant Fleming hospital.
Other family and friends here and abroad to numerous to mention.
A WAKE WILL BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 20TH 2010 AT HER HOME IN FRENCH CUL DE SAC FROM 7 PM UNTIL 10 PM
Funeral service on: Monday, November 22nd 2010
Place: at French Cul de Sac’s Seventh Day Adventist Church.
Viewing of the body from 2:00 to 2:45 pm
Service: 3:00pm
Interment will follow at the French Cul de Sac Cemetery
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May Her Soul Rest in Peace
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Our Wife, Daughter, Sister, Aunt, Cousin, Friend
RODIN RICHARDSON Martine Marguenrite B.k.a “ Rita “
Has gone home to rest with the other angels whom have left this earth
Sunrise 23 Nov. 1971 – Sunset 23 Oct. 2010
She leaves to mourn:
· Her husband : RODIN Thierry in St. Martin
·Her children : RODIN Rashawny
RODIN Mathieu in St. Maarten
· Her Mother : RICHARDSON Ambrosine B.k.a Geene in St. Martin
· Her Father : RICHARDSON Martin B.k.a Papa of taxi in St. Martin
· Her in-laws : Mr. and Mrs. RODIN Augustin in Guadeloupe
· Her sisters : JAVOIS Georgette in St. Martin
RICHARDSON Bernadette in St. Martin
RICHARDSON Viviane in St. Martin
RICHARDSON Cynthia in St. Martin
RICHARDSON Jocelyne in St. Martin
·Her brothers: RICHARDSON Jean Philippe B.k.a Guy in St. Martin
RICHARDSON Ernest in St. Martin
· Her sister in-law : LAWERCIE Marie in St. Martin
GUMBS Annette in St. Martin
RODIN Marie- Annick in France
RODIN Agnes in France
· Her brothers-in-law : JAVIOS Leo in St. Martin
ANDREW Patricio in St. Martin
HODGE Philbert in St. Martin
ROMNEY Conrad in St. Martin
ISAAC Franklin in Guadeloupe
RODIN Jack in Guadeloupe
RODIN Guy- Roger in France
RODIN Michel in France
RODIN Claude in Guadeloupe
RODIN Philippe in Guadeloupe
· Her aunts : BRYAN Claudette in Anguilla
FORBS Viola in the USA
· Her uncles : Richardson Nathaneal in Anguilla
RICHARDSON Charles in St. Martin
MILLER George in St. Martin
· Her God-mother : FONROSE Juliana in St. Martin
· Her God-father : HUNT Jean-Louis in St. Martin
· Her special cousins : BENJAMIN RICHARDSON Miranda in SXM
FLEMING Germina in St. martin
· Her Special friends : DENIS Rosemary in St. Martin
QUESTEL PHILIPPS Jacky in St. Martin
· Her care taker and close friend : RICHARDSON Bernadette in SXM
Niece, great-nieces, nephews, great nephews, cousins, friends and other
Family member too numerous to mention.
She worked at the Howell Center Pharmacy.
She was related to the :
RICHARDSONS, RODINS, ILLIDGES, VANTERPOOLS’, JAVOIS’, LAMERIECES, GUMBS’, ANDREWS, HODGES, ROMNEYS, ISAACS, BRYANS, FORBS, MILLERS, FONROSES, HUNTS, BENJAMINS, FLEMINGS, DENIS’, QUESTEL, ROHANS, SMITHS, REYS, DUNCANS MINVILLE , BERLEAUX , RICHARD .
FUNERAL ARRAINGE,MENTS WILL BE ON FRIDAY October 29, 2010 AT THE MARIGOT CATHOLIC CHURCH VIEWING FROM 1:00PM – 2:00PM SERVICE COMMENCE AT 3:00PM WITH INTERMENT AT THE SANDY GROUND CEMETERY.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May Her Soul Rest in Peace
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Proverbs 30:5 He is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.
It is with profound sadness we announce the sudden passing of Justin Felicien PAGE
Sunrise: 14 April 1964 ~ Sunset: 28 September 2010
He leaves to mourn:
His Mother : Severine HOLLAND PAGE a.k.a Lise
He was the son of the late Felix Emmanuel PAGE a.k.a BOOM BOOM
His Wife : Ideline ETIENNE PAGE aka Josian
His Daughters: Julissa PAGE
Funlandia PAGE
His Sons: Julien PAGE
Jimmy PAGE aka Akim
His step daughters: Kasia ETIENNE & Yoland JOSEPH
His step grandson: Lionel MACCOW
His Sisters : Justine PAGE MALBRANCHE & Family
Rosalie PAGE & Family
His Brothers : Charles PAGE & Family
Hubert PAGE & Family
Sisters in law : Madeleine QUESTEL
Felixia JERVIER
Jocelyne CARTY PAGE
Brothers in law : Lawrence ETIENNE
Philippe ETIENNE
Mathew ETIENNE
Erick ETIENNE
Anthony ETIENNE
Winston ETIENNE
Odrigue MALBRANCHE
His Aunt : Denise HEWARD PAGE
His Uncles : Maxime SILVERE PAGE
Ivan RICHARDSON
His Nieces : Carine Page; Felicia Page; Aarona Page; Tamara Page; Naomie Page; Jahima Page; Crisy Page;
Narissa Page.
His Nephews : Ludovic Cesaire; Gregory Cesaire; Jonathan Cesaire; Gery Malbranche; Kevin Malbranche;
Charlie Page; Thierry Page; Gaetano Page; Jamal Page
His Cousins : Maryline Heward ; Janice Heward ; Marcel Heward ; Claudie Marianne ; Junie ; Isidore ; Jacky.
His Great Nieces & Nephews: Lakiecha Cocly & Jamal Alexandre
Uncle in law : Maxime Heward
Aunt in law : Helen PAGE
Many more relatives and cousins too numerous to mention
Special friends: Alexis, Edward, Gerard, Charlie Rolland.
He was related to the Page; Holland; Arrondelle; Richardson; Cesaire; Malbranche; Cozier; Ratchel; Mingau; Dessout; Cannegeiter; Claxton; Hunt; Van Heyningen; Roumon; Romney; Etienne; Joseph families.
The funeral service for the late Justin Felicien PAGE will be held at The Christian Assembly Church in La Savanne Grand case on Monday, October 4th 2010. Viewing from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Tributes from 2:00 to 3:00. Service will begin at 3:00 p.m. Interment will follow at the Marigot Cemetery.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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Psalms 121;I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord which made heaven and earth.
We regret to announce the sudden death of
Clotride HANSON de RODRIGUEZ
Born: July 12th, 1964
Died September 19th, 2010
She was the daughter of the late Alberic Narcisse HANSON of Colombier
She leaves to mourn:
Husband: Daniel RODRIGUEZ
Children: Daneris RODRIGUEZ
Darineris RODRIGUEZ & family in Sto Domingo
Damirkis RODRIGUEZ
Grand-children: Jader & Dariel RODRIGUEZ in Sto Domingo
Mother: Francisca De La ROSA HANSON
Father in law: Bernal INIRIO in Sto Domingo
Son in law: Hansel Jaer JIMENEZ in Sto Domingo
Sisters: Angelita HANSON de CARABALLO & family
Maritza De La ROSA & family in Sto Domingo
Carmen POLANCO & family in Sto Domingo
Brothers: José HANSON BKA (Alberto or belto ) & family
David HANSON & family
Victor HANSON & family
Josué HANSON & family
Daniel HANSON & family
Ezequiel HANSON & family
Ramon POLANCO & family in Sto Domingo
Brother in law: Carlos CARABALLO
Joselito, Alejandro, Anjito, Bitico RODRIGUEZ in Sto. Domingo
Sisters in law: Maria, Ysela, Luisa, Milagros RODRIGUEZ in Sto. Domingo
Aunts: Raymonda De la ROSA in Sto. Domingo
Uncles: Francisco De La ROSA in Sto. Domingo
Pedro De La ROSA in Sto.Domingo
Aunts in Law: Adrienne HANSON
Nieces & nephews: Hector, Junior, Alexander, Iselo, Mabel, Angel, Albert, Danny, Gregory, Nilky Ezequiel, Emmanuel, Alexis, Margarita, Angelita, Jeffrey, Marta and many more too numerous to mention.
Cousins: Viviane Gombs, Florentin Kingsale, Stanley, Francky, Sylvain, Hubert, Eugene & Claire HANSON, Janine Charbonnier, Yvette Miller, Liliane MAXWELL and Many more too numerous to mention.
Also leaves to mourn: The Pastors & members of Iglesia de Jesu-Cristo “Ecos de Salvacion” in Rambaud & Iglesia Fuente Inagotable in Sto. Domingo
Many friends in St Martin & Sto. Domingo too numerous to mention.
She was related to: Hanson, De La Rosa, Rodriguez, Wilson, Polanco, January, Richardson, Gibbs, Carty, Vlaun, Ellis, Brooks, Philips, Van-Heyningen, Gombs, Chance, Cocks, Miller, Gumbs, Charbonnier, Maxwell, Vanterpool, Arsten, Bell, Caraballo, Kingsale, And many more too numerous to mention.
Funeral arrangements for the late Clotride HANSON de RODRIGUEZ will be announced in a subsequent announcement.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May Her Soul Rest in Peace
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AVALAN ISIDORE HENRY
Sunrise November 1st 1985 --- Sunset February 18th 2010
Those left to mourn:
Son: Raphael Avalan HENRY PAROTTE (in sxm)
Girlfriend: Rolinda PAROTTE ( in sxm)
Father : Marcellin Isidore HENRY ( in sxm)
Mother : Amorelle Patricia HENRY ( in sxm)
Sister: Amandine HENRY ( in sxm)
Brothers: Alex HENRY (in sxm) & Maximilien Junior THOMAS ( in nevis)
Grandmothers: Glady’s ELLIS (in sxm) & Murielle HANLEY ( in Nevis)
Great-aunt:
- Carmen HANLEY & family ( in Nevis)
- Joyclyn HANLEY & family ( in Nevis)
- Silvani BUTTLER & family ( in St Kitts)
- Orita HANLEY & family ( in St Kitts)
- Viva HANLEY & family ( in St Croix)
- Sylvia HANLEY& family ( in Canada)
Great-uncle:
- Donald WILSON & family ( in sxm)
- Earl Dinsie HANLEY & family ( in Nevis)
- Mitchel HANLEY & family ( in St Croix)
Uncles:
- Gilbert GIBS aka (Bosaké) & family (in sxm)
- Jean Christian GIBS & family ( in sxm)
- Felix ELLIS & family ( in France and sxm)
- Aberic ELLIS & family ( in sxm)
- Miguel ELLIS & family ( in Saint barths)
- Michel ELLIS & family (in sxm)
- Daniel ELLIS & family ( in France)
- Glenroy PARRALON & family (in Antigua)
- Aldane PARRALON & family ( in Antigua)
- Thomas PARRALON & family ( in Antigua)
- John WILLIAMSON & family ( In Tortola)
Aunts :
- Pulcherie GIBS & family ( in sxm and France)
- Romaine GIBS & family ( in sxm)
- Bernadine CLAXTON & family ( in USA)
- Victoria PARRALON & family ( in Antigua)
God mother: Olivia BROOKS & family (in sxm)
God father: Claude LAKE & family (in sxm)
Close friends:
- Rita RAYMOND( in sxm)
- Sidonie MILLER (in sxm)
- Kitia QUESTEL ( in sxm)
- Ludovic WILLIAMS ( in sxm)
- Diana COCKS ( in sxm)
- Dazila COX ( in sxm)
- Christopher FLANDERS ( in sxm)
- Mauline PARROTTE ( in sxm)
Special cousins:
- Anthony GIBS ( in Holland)
- Oscar RICHARDSON ( in Guadeloupe)
- Clifford JEFFERS ( in France)
- Jean-Christian GIBS ( in France)
- Dilano ( in sxm)
Many other relatives too numerous to mention.
Related to: Henry, Gibs, Ellis, Brooks, Hanson, Chance, Miller, Lake, Richardson, Hodge, Artsen, Wilson, Reymond, Manuel, Romney, Hanley, Claxton, Parralon, Willianson ( in Antigua, Nevis & St. Kitts),Connor, Hughes ( in Anguilla).
A wake/gathering of family and friends will be held on Monday 1st March & Tuesday 2nd March, 2010 at the family residence in Colombier from 7:00pm to 9:00pm.
The funeral service for the late AVALAN ISIDORE HENRY will be held on Wednesday March 3rd, 2010 at the Ebenezer Methodist Church in Marigot. Viewing and tributes will be from 2:00pm to 3:00pm. Service will commence at 3:00pm with interment at the Sandy Ground cemetery.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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With deep sadness in our hearts we announce the passing of
Orelio Ignacio Superville a.k.a. “Hector”
Sunrise: September 29th , 1959 – Sunset: February 18th , 2010
He was the son of the Late Lolita A. Richardson a.k.a. “Lola”
Left to mourn:
Wife: Altagracia Superville
Step children: Aurelio Superville
Lolita Superville
Hector Superville
Step grandfather: Norman Pantophlet (Aruba)
Aunts: Maria Richardson and family (sxm)
Francisca Frias-Richardson and family (sxm and USA)
Catharina Richardson and family (sxm)
Mildred Flemming and family (French St. Martin)
Uncles: James Arrindell a.k.a. “Jaime” and family (Aruba)
Ruben Richardson and family (Aruba & The Netherlands)
Rafael Richardson and family (sxm)
Donicio Richardson and family (Aruba)
Ivan Illis (Aruba)
Ruben Illis (Aruba)
Arnold Illis and family (sxm)
Alvin Illis (Aruba)
Cousins: Rosita Dirkzs and family (sxm)
Gina Carty-Richardson and family (sxm and The Netherlands)
Judith Richardson and family (sxm)
Brother in law: José Luis Adams and family (sxm)
Related to the: Superville, Richardson, Illis, Rogers, Hawley, Philips Beauperthuy and his Middle Region families
Close friends: Marjorie Richardson and family (sxm)
Judith James and family (sxm)
Guardian: Gloria F. Courtenay and family (sxm)
Caretaker: H. Richard Courtenay and family (sxm)
The funeral service for the late Orelio Ignacio Superville a.k.a. “Hector” will be held on Friday 26th February, 2010 at the Emerald Funeral Home Chapel in Cay Hill. Viewing will be from 1:00pm to 2:00pm. Service will commence at 2:00pm with interment at the Cul-de-Sac cemetery.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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Navindranauth “Navin” Saywack
In loving memory of our beloved Navindranauth “Navin” Saywack, who departed this earth on February 12th, 2010. Navin was born on September 7, 1967 in Guyana.
He is survived by his mother Reno, brothers Ricky and Davin & sisters Shalini and Nalini. He resided on the island of St. Maarten for 18 years along with his cousins Jeff and Mike. Navin was a kind and gentle soul who touched the hearts of all those he came in contact with and will be sadly missed by all.
The funeral service will be held at Royal Funeral Home on Thursday February 18th , 2010, with viewing of the body from 1:00pm to 3:00pm and service from 3:00 to 4:00pm. Cremation will take place thereafter
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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Psalm 31; In you Oh Lord I Put My Trust.
It is with deep regret we announce the sudden passing of
Mrs.Lilawatty Goberdhan Kooblall b.k.a Enid or Mai
Born: 19 October 1952 in Guyana
Passed away: 31 January 2010 in St.Maarten
She leaves to mourn:
Her Husband: Brahmanarayan Kooblall (Bram)
Only Daughter: Kavita Thompson
Sons: Rakesh Kooblall (Rudeboy or Chopra)
Rajesh Kooblall (Sancho)
Son in Law: Hoover Thompson (Cliffy)
Daughters in law: Shahana Baksh
Hema Hussein
Grandchildren: Tamara, Trisha, Raveena, Tia, Therisa, Satesh, Prakash
Great ghrandchildren: Terrel Webster
Brother: Jadoo in Canada
Sisters: Shirley, Easter, Lovin,Golin & Gladis in Guyana
In laws: Mr. & Mrs. Jainarayan Kooblall & Fam. (Usa)
Mr. & Mrs. Keshonarayan Kooblall & Fam. (SXM)
Mr & Mrs.Hardat Kooblall & Fam. (Canada)
Harol Kooblall & Fam. (Guyana)
Nevil Kooblall (Suriname)
Michael Kooblall (USA)
Bramdat Kooblall (USA)
Sister in Law: Adarshani Kooblall “ Baby” (USA)
Rajmani Kooblall “Shirley” (Guyana)
Many Nieces and Nephews to numerous to mention
She was related to the Goberdhan, Kooblall, Thompson, Baksh, Hussein & Webster Families.
Funeral arrangements will be announced in a subsequent announcement.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May Her Soul Rest in Peace
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IT IS WITH PROFOUND SADNESS THAT WE ANNOUNCE THE TRAGIC LOSS OF OUR BELOVED SON, NEPHEW, GRANDSON, COUSIN & FRIEND.
LEONADO ELOHANDRO CARTER A.K.A NADO
SUNRISE: AUGUST 12TH ,1987 ~ SUNSET: JANUARY 24TH, 2010
MOTHER: VALERIE CARTER
FATHER: LEONARD JERMIN
SISTER: CIONNE CARTER
BROTHER: ELIJAH JERMIN
STEP-MOTHER: GHISLAINE JANUARY-JERMIN
STEP-FATHER: JOEL ARNDELL
GRAND-MOTHER: MARY HUGGINS-JERMIN
SPECIAL MOTHERS: BERNADETTE PETERSON-BROOKS a.k.a. “BERNS”
BERNICE FREDRICK
GIRLFRIEND: NIKISHA CARTY
UNCLES: ALWYN CARTER (SXM) & FAMILY
ESTON CARTER (USA) & FAMILY
JOEL JERMIN & FAMILY
ELWALDO JERMIN & FAMILY
DONNIE JERMIN & FAMILY
EDWARD JERMIN & FAMILY
LIBERT JERMIN & FAMILY
ALAIN JERMIN & FAMILY
JOSEPH BROOKS a.k.a. FRENCHIE & FAMILY
AUNTS: MILLICENT SIMMONDS-CARTER & FAMILY (USA)
WINNIFRED CARTER & FAMILY (USA)
ANITA MONGAU-CARTER & FAMILY
ELMA CARTER & FAMILY
GLADYS CARTER & FAMILY
WENDY CARTER & FAMILY (HOLLAND)
EDITH DEMBROOK-CARTER & FAMILY
ELTRICIA JERMIN & FAMILY
MARIE JERMIN-DOUGLAS & FAMILY
GREAT-AUNTS: EUDINE JERMIN & FAMILY
ROMAINE JERMIN & FAMILY
MARIANNA JERMIN & FAMILY
GOD-PARENTS: JULIO ROOI,
RAYMOND BRYAN
JOSIANNE FLEMING
ANASTACIA LARMONIE
COUSINS: TOO NUMEROUS TO MENTION BY NAMES
CLOSE FRIENDS: GREGORY, FACHIE, DEAN, SEBASTIEN, MANUEL
MERVIN, GREGORIUS, STEVE, MIAHS, XAVIER,
KOTO, THE ST. PETERS BIKE RIDERS CREW, &
OTHERS FRIENDS TOO NUMEROUS TO MENTION.
HE ALSO LEAVES TO MOURN HIS CO-WORKERS OF THE SEA-VIEW HOTEL
HE WAS RELATED TO: CARTER, JERMIN, JANUARY, HIGGINS, BROOKS, BENJAMIN, RICHARDSON, YORK, MATHEW, MARLIN, ROGERS, LAKE, WEBSTER, BEAUPERTHUY, GLASCOW, WESCOTT, FLEMING, GUMBS, BERTIN-MAURICE, PETERSON, FLANDERS, BOASMAN, BROWN, DAVID & ARNDELL FAMILIES
The wake will be held on Thursday 28th January, 2010 at the Emerald Funeral Home in Cay Hill from 8:00pm to 10:00pm
The funeral service for the late LEONADO ELOHANDRO CARTER A.K.A NADO will be held on Friday 29th January, 2010 at the Risen Christ Roman Catholic Church in South Reward. Viewing will be from 2:00pm to 3:00pm. Service will commence at 3:00pm with interment at the Cul-de-Sac Cemetery.
The family would like to retire quietly after the funeral service and kindly requests no visitors after.
FUNERAL ARRANGEMENT WILL BE ANNOUNCED AT A LATER DATE.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE
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“He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most high, shall abide under the shadow of the almighty”
We regret to announce the passing of our beloved brother, uncle, godfather & friend
Mr. Raymond Alberic Rohan b.k.a Ghandi or Gon to Gon
A former employee of Mullet Bay Resort
Sunrise: 27th April 1948 Sunset: 3rd March 2010
He leaves to mourn:
Brothers: Mr. Julien JERMIN aka Socker & family in St. Martin
Mr. Pierre JERMIN aka Barba & family in St. Martin
Mr. Rigobert JERMIN & family in St. Martin
Mr. Jervais BROOKS & family in St. Martin (Taxi 903 ZAE971)
Mr. Frantz BROOKS & family in St. Thomas
Mr. Julien BROOKS aka JUKO & family in St. Martin/USA
Mr. Danny FLEMING & family in St. Maarten
Mr. Paul T. FLEMING & family in the USA
Mr. Franklin HELLIGAR & family in the USA
Sisters: Ms. Pearl ROHAN in St. Martin
Ms. Evelyn ROHAN & family in St. Martin
Ms. Georgina ROHAN & family in St. Martin
Ms. Panchita JERMIN aka Chita & family in St. Martin
Mrs. Nicole JERMIN- COOPER 7 family in St. Lucia/Curacao
Ms. Adeline BROOKS-BENEDICT & family in the USA
Ms. Elswita BROOKS in the USA
Ms. Miriam BROOKS-HODGE & family in the USA
Ms. Mavis BROOKS-PAYTON & family in the USA
Ms. Suzette CONNOR & family in the USA
Ms. Patricia HELLIGAR & family in the USA
Ms. Shirley GUMBS & family in the USA
Ms. Evelyn DOPWELL & family in St. Maarten/Holland
God child: Daryl JERMIN
Aunt: Ms. Mildred LABEGA aka “Auntie Millie” in St.Maarten
Brothers in law: Mr. James HODGE in the USA
Mr. Edmund COOPER in St. Lucia
Mr. Matthew BENEDICT in the USA
Sisters in law: Mrs. Sharon FLEMING in St. Maarten
Mrs. Sharon HELLIGAR in the USA
Mrs. Sharon FLEMING in the USA
Mrs. Jacqueline BROOKS in St.Martin
Close Neighbor: Ms. Elise RICHARDSON & family
He also leaves to mourn many beloved cousins, nieces & nephews too numerous to mention along with
Many close friends and the members of the Bouilotte & Domino Teams.
He was related to the ROHAN, BROOKS, JERMIN, LAKE, COOPER, GUMBS, HELLIGAR, FLEING, PHILIPS, JAMES, MUNZON, DOPWELL, LABEGA, BARRY, RICHARDSON, PAYTON, BEAUPERTHUY, BROUTA, HODGE, MENTA, CARTY, NESTOR-HUBERT, BERTEAUX, DAVIS, FLANDERS, GODETT, CHITTICK, CHERMONT, BROWN, CONNOR, CANWORTH, MEYERS, JACOBS, ROLLAN, HYMAN, ILLIDGE, DUNCAN, BALLY, THOMAS, MATHEW, COCKS, BRYSON, BLYDEN, ELLIS, SALOMEN, GLASGOW, WARNO, BRYAN, YORK, LAVIEST, PANTOPHLET & RACHAEL FAMILES AND MANY OTHERS TOO NUMEROUS TO MENTION.
The wake will be held on Wednesday 10th March, 2010 at the home of Pearl ROHAN in French Quarter (Sig 30 in the project) starting from 7:00pm.
The funeral service for the late RAYMOND ALBERIC ROHAN will be held on Thursday 11th March, 2010 at the Saint Joseph Roman Catholic Church in French Quarter. Viewing and tributes will be from 2:00pm to 3:00pm, service will commence at 3:00pm. Interment will be at the Old Glory Cemetery in French Quarter.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.
Bianca Keycha ST. LOUIS
Sunrise December, 27 2006 - Sunset March 01, 2010
Mother (mère) Marie Fernande Lalanne
Father (père) Neillio Israêl St. louis
Step sister (demi-sœur) Israêline Mitha St. Louis
Step brother (demi-frère) Israêl Son St. Louis
God mather (marraine) Dieulène
Grandfather (grand père) Fernand Lalanne
Grandmother (grand-mère) karine Edouard
Aunts (tantes) Mauraine Fostan (St. Barth)
Marie Danièle Lalanne (Haïti)
Oberne Victorieux St. Louis (Guadeloupe)
Dieubon Beauciquot St. Louis (Guadeloupe)
Etienne Anne-rose St. Louis (Guadeloupe)
Yve pierre St. Louis (Guadeloupe)
Petiote Jermanie (Guadeloupe)
Uncle Nesly Lalanne (Miami)
Belange St. Louis (Guadeloupe)
Great aunts (grandes tantes) Nicole George (France)
Anna George (France)
Chrisna George (France)
Malia Lalanne (Guyane)
Manoussia Lalanne (Haïti)
Sylvia Lalanne (Haïti)
Marie Edouard (Haïti)
Great uncles (grands oncles) Dieuseul Lalanne (Haïti)
Ilric Lalanne (Haïti)
Great cousin Marc Coulange
Great Grand Mother (arrière grand-mère) Solitor Mauriço
Rose Lafleur
Laurette Mauriço
Great Great Grand Mather (arrière arrière grd mère) Zelia Noal (Gyanne)
Cousins (cousines) Beatrice St. Louis (Guadeloupe)
Roseline St. Louis (Guadeloupe)
Lamercie St. Louis (Guadeloupe)
Valentine Haygiène
Close friends (Proches amis) Solitor Moriço, Damas Etienne,
Argentine Géirréro, Balito Difficile
Rose marie, Pascal ludovic, Andromed Lauren
Bernadette Charles
Funeral arrangements for the late Bianca Keycha ST. LOUIS will be announced in a subsequent announcement.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May Her Soul Rest in Peace
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It is profound sadness we announce the passing of
JOSEPH LILIA SONIA
Sunrise: 13 June 1960 ~ Sunset: 9 August 2010
MOTHER: MELANIE YOSEPH (DOMINICAN REPUBLIC)
FATHER: WILSON CHARLES (DOMINICAN REPUBLIC)
BROTHERS:
- PAPO (SXM)
- DOMINGO TIPITI (SXM)
- DANIEL (REP.DOMINICAN)
- ALEXI (REP.DOMINICAN)
SISTERS:
- ANAIRIS (REP.DOMINICAN)
- ANILIA (MIAMI)
- NANI (SXM)
- NANCI (SXM)
CHILDREN
- BIENVENIDO (REP.DOMINICAN)
- YESENIQ (REP.DOMINICAN)
- ANEURI(REP.DOMINICAN)
- YENNIFER (SXM)
- WINNY (SXM)
- ELIBERTO (SXM)
SUS NIETO: WILBERT, ALEXANDER
SUS TIA: ANA, HERMINIA
SUS SOBRINOS/SOBRINAS: YUNIOR, NICAURI, GILBERTO, CARLOS, KIARA, ALEXA, ANTHONY RUDDY, DALISA, LENY, RAUSEL, ANGEL , PEDRO
FRIENDS:YEBETI, DULCE, DOMINGA , TERESA , ERIDANIA , ELISA, IBANIA , GELMITA, YUDI , FAMILLE JOE ,FAMILLE ARTSEN ,PAOLA , SILBANIE , NATHALIE
The funeral service for the late JOSEPH LILIA SONIA will be held on Thursday August 19th, 2010 at the Apostolic Faith Church in Sandy Ground. Viewing and tributes will be held from 2:00pm to 3:00pm. Service will commence at 3:00pm with interment following at the sandy Ground cemetery.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May Her Soul Rest in Peace
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Roman 14:8 If we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord; so then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord's.
Otmar Leonard
Sunrise: 21 July 1988 ~ Murdered: 14 July 2010
He leaves to mourn:
Mother: Victoria Leonard-Carty
Father: Pastor Raphael Leonard
Adopted grandparents: Judith & Vanio Richardson
Sisters: Raphaela( Racha) Kerindongo (Ned)
Sylvia (Sylvie) Jackson-Leonard
Lola Levenstone-Leonard (Ned)
Sheila (LOvey) Leonard
Adopted Sister: Harty Abraham- Stapleton
Brothers: Stephen (Stevie) Leonard (Ned)
Omar Leonard (Ned)
Lee leonard
Nieces: Yolanda (Yoyo) Leonard (Ned)
Chandrelica (Chan) Willemsburg (Cur)
Romaria (Roro) Leonard
Demaria Leonard
Demyra (Victoria) Levenstone
Nephews: Jamal Willemsburg (Bonaire)
Jaimison (John John) Leonard
Emilio (Booboots) Leonard
Demetrio Levenstone (Ned)
Jaden Leonard (Cur)
Aunts: Bernice Jones & Fam, Sylvia Henson-Carty & Fam, Wilhelmina (Mina) Carty & Fam, Josepha (Safa) Carty,
Marina Carty & Fam, Juliana (Julie) Carty & Fam, Diane (Deedee ) Brooks & Fam (Axa), Violette (Vy) Baptiste & Fam
Linda Boddie & Fam (Florida), Janet Hodge- Baptiste & Fam, Rose Brooks & Fam (Axa), Evis Cocks & Fam (Ned)
Mercedes Liburd & Fam (Cur)
Uncles: Harry Carty & Fam
Austine Brooks (Bus # 42) & Fam
Donnald (Danny) Carty & Fam
John Carty (Taxi #3) & Fam
John Baptiste & Fam (Can)
Wilmonh Day (Can)
Adoptive Uncle: Mr. Samuel
Cousins: Too numerous to mention
Close relatives: Donald Carty (Donny), Winston Buncamper, Devolsio (Vinny) Carty, Yolanda Willemsburg, Kizzy (Ned), Natasha Fleming
God fathers: David Lejuez & Eustas Richards
Godmother: Rosie Richardson
He leaves to mourn many many other families and friend to numerous to mention by name.
He was related to the Leonard, Carty, Pantophlet, Jones, Cocks, Eusibius, Priest, Scott, Richardson, Gumbs, Hodge, Wilson, Baptiste , Stampers, Berkel, Liburd, brooks, Violenus, Willemsburg, Levenstone, Lejuez, Hanson, Rogers, Arrindell, Principal, Webster, Buncamper, Monson, Henry, Williams, Hughes, Romeo.
The funeral service for the late Otmar Fernando Alfred Leonard will be held on Monday 26th July, 2010 at the Victory Temple Church of God of Prophecy in Ebenezer. Viewing will be held from 2:00pm to 3:00pm. Service will commence at 3:00pm with interment following at the Cul-de-Sac cemetery.
In Lieu of flowers the family kindly requests a donation be made to the Ujima Foundation.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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It is with deep sadness in our hearts that we announce the sudden passing of
Enohema Richards Medina
Sunrise: July 23, 1933 ~ Sunset: July 8, 2010
(better known as Doña Maria)
Wife of the late George Richards
She leaves to mourn:
Sons: David Contreras Medina & Family – Dominican Republic
Cabral Contreras Medina –Dominican Republic
Jonathan Richards Medina & Family – Holland
Daughters: Milan Contreras Medina & Family – St. Maarten
Soraida Contreras Medina & Family – Dominican Republic
Magalis Contreras Medina & Family – St. Maarten
Carmelina Contreras Medina & Family – St. Maarten
Step Children: Beverly Richards & Family - USA
Barbara Richards & Family - USA
Kennedy Richards & Family – Sint Maarten
Daughters-in-law: Lydia Contreras Ivar –Dominican Republic
Carmen Contreras Mercedes – Dominican Republic
Suzanne Richards Schokker – Holland
Sons-in-law: Carlos Beltre – St. Maarten
Geronimo Polanco – St. Maarten
Olmedo Lopez- St. Maarten
Grand Children:
Jeffrey, Dalfrey,Lemarfey, Milbert, Willy, Tiami, Jumalys, Erwin, Jennifer, Carolyn,
Jairo, Shelley, Raikel, Brain, Madeline, Maikel, Luisito, Johansel, Jonathan, Denise, Elias, Eliseo, Ezequiel and 15 Great Grand Children
Brothers: Eugenio Medina & Family – Dominican Republic
Emilio Medina & Family – Dominican Republic
Roberto Medina & Family – Dominican Republic
Sisters: Elsa Medina & Family – Dominican Republic
Vertudes Medina & Family – Dominican Republic
Jacoba Medina & Family – Dominican Republic
Close Relatives & Friends:
Patricia Castillo, Ramonita Medina, Soribel Medina, Frank Schokker, Sonia Medina, Josefina Medina, Henry Medina, Reynita Medina, Christian Medina, Jaqueline Medina,
Marcos Azore, Maritza Rodriquez,Montero, Narsiso, Migdalia, Dr. Jose Beltre, Consuelo, Sonia, Irsera, Altagracia, Joceline , Melfort.
Mrs. Enohema (Doña Maria) Richards was related to the: Medina, Richards, Cuello, Contreras, Schokker, Beltre, Polanco, Lopez & Castillo Families.
Viewing of the body and tributes will be held on Wednesday July 21st, 2010 from 10:00am to 11:00am at the Emearld Funeral Home Chapel in Cay Hill. Burial will take place in the Dom. Republic.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May Her Soul Rest in Peace
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Psalm 27:The Lord is my light and my Salvation; whom shall fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid.
We regret to announce the sudden passing of
Fabian John Maximea
Sunrise, June 4th 1971~ Sunset, July 7th 2010
Common-law wife: Mavis Bozel
Mother: Felide Maximea (DA)
Children: Shomari Maximea
Tyshana Maximea
Brothers: Casimir Jules (STT), Bernard Joseph (STX), Daryl Maximea (DA), Levi Maximea (DA), Jeroll Maximea
Sisters: Julie Williams, Myrtel Maximea
Adopted sister: Zephrina Williams (DA)
Mother In law: Henrietta Bozel
Father in law: Gaynor Bozel
Sister in laws: Fransisca Jules, Jennifer Jospeh, Elenora Bozel
Brothers in law: Mervin, Arthur, Errol Bozel, Claude Williams
Aunts: May Seaman (DA), Saraphine Wallace (USA), Muriel Andre (ENG), Telma Romain (USA) Steline Seaman (Guadeloupe), Cynthia Seaman (DA)
Aunt in law: Nathilie Azille, Ursula Bailey Rosana Polydore
Nieces: Anthia, Cassandra, Grieselda, Carlin, Natasha, Gustina, Alicia, Patricia, Glenda and others too numerous to mention
Nephews: BJ, Dwight, Barry, Nicolai, Mervyn, Craig, Martin, Neilus, Bill and others too numerous to mention
Cousins: Teddy, Kelvin, Anita, Mary and others too numerous to mention
Close friends: Fritstroy, Molars, Mossam, The Hazel Family, Black eye, Marigot, Bounty, The Polo Crew, Claudie, Roy, Cindy’s Roti Crew, Sadis Crew, Cul de Sac Crew, No Limit Band, Peru, Pancho, Iya, Warren Springer Tempo Jerry, R, Earl, Vilma and many others too numerous to mention
Fabian was related to the: Maximea, Bozel, Williams, Joseph, Jules, Wallace, Seaman, Romain & Nicholas families
The Funeral service the late Fabian John Maximea will be held on Tuesday July 13th, 2010 at the Risen Christ Roman Catholic Church in South Reward. Viewing will be held from 2:00pm to 3:00pm. Service will commence at 3:00pm with interment at the Cul-de-Sac Cemetery.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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The lord is my Shepherd I shall not want
John Marius
Sunrise: 19 Dec 1963 ~ Sunset: 18 June 2010
He leaves to mourn:
Wife: MARIUS Pam-Ester
Children: MARIUS Jeanine, Jamal & Janice
Father: MARIUS Jn Baptiste
Mother: MARIUS Rosana
Grandfather: HAMILTON St. Clair
Mother in Law: Anita Thomas
Father in Law: Allenworth Thomas
5 Sisters: Marielyn Wilson & fam
Josephine Marius & Fam.
Julita Marius & Fam
Justina Samuel & Fam.
Marlyene Marius
5 Brother: Francois Marius & Fam.
Auguste Marius & Fam.
Linus Marius
Godfrey Marius
Ernest Peter
Sisters in law: Sarah Peters & fam.
Ranella Thomas & Fam.
Noline Thomas & Fam.
Brothers in law: Aaron Thomas
Anthony Thomas
Alex Thomas
Nimrod Thomas
12 Aunts
11 Uncles
14 Nieces
16 Nephews
Many other relatives and friends too numerous to mention including Jonathan James and Stacy.
He also leaves to mourn Pastor & Mrs. Eugene Hodge, Judith Richardson & Fam., Monique Seaman & Fam., John James & fam. The members of the Apostolic Faith Church in Sandy Ground
The family will like to thank the doctors and staff f the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital in Marigot for the care during his illness.
The funeral service for the late John Marius will be held on Friday June 25th, 2010 at the Apostolic Faith Church in Sandy Ground. Viewing and tributes will be held from 1:00pm to 3:00pm. Service will commence at 3:00pm with interment following at the sandy Ground cemetery.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of our beloved brother, uncle, brother in law and friend.
Albert Roger Richardson b.k.a Saggi
Sunrise: December 6th 1954
Sunset: May 27th 2010
He leaves to mourn:
His mother: Antonia Richardson aka Nana
Wife: Yuverka Berroa Richardson
Daughter: Poala Yuverka Richardson
Adopted Son: Carlos Emmanuel Richardson
Adopted Daughters: Caroline Caltia Richardson
Carolle Catherine Richardson
His Companion: Maria Haze
Sisters: Octave Procter, Julienne Lake & Aline Lake in Martinique
Brothers: Lucien Richardson & Fam., Felix Richardson & Fam. In the USA, Adrien Richards, Natharin Richardson & Fam., Alphonse Richardson & Fam. In the USA, Alcide Richardson in France, Ipolite Lake aka Polo in Guadeloupe & Celestre lake aka Sweat
Sisters in law: Maude Richardson, Rosie Richardson & Judith Lake
Brother in law: Bobby Proctor
Aunt: Rufine Lake Vanterpool & Elsie Richardson
Uncle: Constantin Richardson & Peter Flanders
Nieces: Ghyslaine Procter aka Jycelyne, Josianne Procter, Cheryl Richardson, Shande Richardson, Moonlight Richardson, ZJamila Connor & Arlette lake
Nephews: Noppy Richardson Justin, Francois Richardson aka Franky taxi, Alain Richardson, Alexandre Richardson, alexi Richardsonin france, Angelo Richardson in France and amny others to numerous too by name
Cousins just to mention a few: Gervais, Ermine,Herriette, Bernadine, Oger, Antoine aka Tony, Nicole,Astride, Gerad, George, Clarita, Rannie & Elise
Good friends: Duzant Francois, Gumbs Ruben, Phillips Martin, Markus, Brooks Charlisia, Charbonnier Serge
He was related to the Richardson, Lake, Procter, Romney, Brookson, Simon, Carty, Novel, Carleni, Weinum, Hodge, Reed, Adams, January, Charbonier, Vanterpool, Dormoy & Richards families
Special thanks to Pastor Jerome Thomas, his caretakers Dr. Bussuel, Chartolle, Dr. Gualioti & therapist Anne
Funeral arrangements for the late Albert Roger Richardson b.k.a Saggi will be held on Wednesday, June 2nd 2010 at the Christian Assembly Tabernacle in LaSavane Grand Case. Viewing of the body and tributes will be from 1:30 – 2:30. Service will commence at 2:30pm with interment following at the La Savanne Cemetery.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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John 14:27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you: not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
It is with deep sadness we announce the home going of our dearly departed
Austin Adolphus Benjamin
Affectionately known as”Benjamin, Pang or Pange”
Sunrise: 19 October 1940 ~ Sunset 14 may 2010
Left to mourn are his:
Companion: Juliana Illidge a.k.a. Julie
Ex-wife: Geraldine Gumbs
Children: Minerva Benjamin and family
Romayne Benjamin
Althea Arndell and family
Albert Arndell
Sharlene Roberts
Sister: Avar Chittick-Vanterpool
Brother: Victor Benjamin (St. Thomas)
Uncle: Nathaniel Samuel and family
Grand children: Shamira Benjamin
Lakeisha Arndell
Jahmal Benjamin
Tyrese Belle
Sherriane Roberts
Katyann Roberts
Sharod Roberts
Great grandchild: Elisha Arndell
Shaquana Roberts
Brother in Law: Robert Chittick
Sister in Law: Denver Benjamin (St.Thomas)
Nieces: Amelia Kubish-Vanterpool and Family (Anguilla)
Arliene Chittick and family
Rosalind Chittick and family
Angelica Chittick and family
Brenda Remy-Chittick and family
Judith Carty-Benjamin and family (USA)
Marlene Nisbett-Benjamin and family (St. Thomas)
Nephews: Clinton Benjamin and family (New York)
Keithly Benjamin and family (Anguilla)
Raymond Chittick and family
Jerome Chittick and family
Robert Chittick a.k.a Robbie or Bullet and family
Keith Rogers and family (Puerto Rico)
Romayne Benjamin and family (USA)
Floyd Benjamin and family (USA)
Step children: Sharisia Duzong, Tony Milton and family, Kenneth Richardson, Roy Richardson, Ricky Illidge and family, Cassandra Illidge and family, Jacky Illidge and family, Esmerita Illidge, Dalidia Williams and family, Prudencia Illidge and family, Adella Thomas and family, Lucien Gumbs and family,Rudolph Gumbs and family, Zylpha Romney and family
Cousins: Children of the late James Samuel a.k.a. Jim Tucker
Florence Samuel
Close Friends: Morrisson, Trini, Lionel, Avril, Bolongo, Betty, Carlson, Jimmy, Harrigan and Alfred (Anguilla).
Care taker: Sheila Brown
The late Austin Adolphus Benjamin was related to the following families: Benjamin, Samuel, Chittick, Gumbs, Arndell, Vanterpool, Isaac, Remy and Mills.
The funeral service for the late Austin Adolphus Benjamin will be held on Friday May 21st, 2010 at the Saint Simon & Jude Anglican Church on Back Street. Viewing of the body will be from 2:00pm to 3:00pm. Service will commence at 3:00pm with interment at the Cul de Sac cemetery following thereafter.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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We Regretfully announce the passing of our Beloved Mother, Grandmother, Aunt;
Edna Margaritta Gumbs born FLANDERS.
Sunrise: January 14 1924 Sunset: 21 April, 2010
Daughter of the Late: Wilfrid, Hyppolyte, Janaury dit Flanders aka: Freed
And Leonie, Heloise Barrington-Flanders aka Tatie
Sister of the late:
Adrianne Emmanuel
Lucien Flanders aka Son
Theophile Flanders aka Neg
Rosalia Curlingford aka Rosa
Oliva Fortuno aka Vava
Albert Flanders aka Bébé
Elfrida Brill aka Frida
Florentin Flanders aka Vava
Florentin Duzant aka Tain
Alexis Duzant aka Bibi
Left to Mourn:
Husband: Guillaume, Austin Gumbs aka Wilmut
Daughter: Shirley, Gumbs. In USA
Son: Guillaume, Gumbs Jr & Family in USA
Grand Children: Elean Cox, Kassandra Gumbs In USA
Step daughter: Ursla Gumbs
Two: (2) Sister in Law: Lorenda Flanders , Silveri Gumbs in Sxm
One: (1) Brother in Law: Henrique, Curlingford in Sxm
Many Nieces, Nephews and close friends to numerous to mention.
She was related to the following Families:
Flander, Gumb, January’s, Barrington,Emmanuel, Curlingford, Fortuno,
Dixon, Baly, Duzant, Roger, Dormoy, Lake, Arnells, Priest, Poulina
Marlin, Brill, Brook, Minville, De- Polo, Choiy, Kingsale, Reiph, Blijden
Bute, Fronton, Marshall, Hunter, Duinkerk, Whit, Mussington, Illidge, Richardson,
Families.
Funeral Services for the Late Edna Margarietta Gumbs Born Flanders will be held on Friday 7th, May 2010 at the Roman Catholic Church in Marigot. Viewing will be from 2-3 PM. Mass will commence at 3:00 PM, with interment at the Marigot Cemetery.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May Her Soul Rest in Peace
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Psalm 118:19-21 Open to me the gates of righteousness ………..Thou art become my salvation.
It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.
Lionel Selwyn Pantophlet b.k.a Nel, TaTa Nel or Panto
Sunrise 18th July 1938 ~ Sunset: 21st April 2010
Left to mourn are, his:
Wife: Angela Irene Pantophlet
Son: Antonio Pantophlet and family
Daughters: Patsy Pantophlet and family
Angie Pantophlet-Agol and family
Grand children: Lavaune Henry-Hodge and family
Sue-An Agol & Selwyn Edward
Great grand children: Naima and Femi Hodge
Sisters: Nilda Pantophlet and Family
Oldine Bryson-Pantophlet and Family
Violet Pantophlet and Family
Theo Pantophlet and Family in Curacao
Sheila Pantophlet in Curacao
Veronica Pantophlet and Family bka Weewee
Esperina Pantophlet bka Didi and Family
Joyce Pantophlet and Family in Curacao
Family of Lynchie Pantophlet in Curacao( deceased) +
Family of Florence Hodge-Pantophlet (deceased)+
Brothers: Hubert Pantophlet and Family
Errol Pantophlet and Family
Joseph Pantophlet bka Buddy
Max Pantophlet and family in Anquilla
Family of Angel Pantophlet (deceased)
Special in Laws: Bernard and Lucia Schmidt and family
Florence Milton and Family
Adopted children: Barry Grant and Family
Rita Edwards and Family
Aunts: Endora Hatma & family in Curacao, Sylvbia Hodge in Anguilla & Eunice Koeiman & Family in Curacao
Uncles: Lee Carty & Family in England & Ricardo Carty (deceased)+
Many special cousins and their families amongst others to numerous to mention
Simon Carty and Family, Balo and Joycelyn Griffin and family, Antonio and Georgette Pantophlet and Family, Hubert Hughes in Anguilla, Clastina Richardson in England, Nella Richardson and Mariette Carty in St. Thomas, Dorothy Bergland, Vero Arndell, Marlene Christopher and Family on Curacao & the family of the late Rose Pantophlet and family.
Many special friends and their families amongst others to numerous to mention
Merarda Richardson, Ashley Arrindell, Whitfield Vlaun Sr., Cyril Bute, Cyril Hazel, Lionel Gumbs & family, Ursula and Chico Gumbs, Laurant, Belto David in Aruba, Nel Thompson in Curacao, George Leonard, Willy Romney, Miriam Illidge, Mary Bryson, Felix & Laurent Flanders, Micheal Jeffers, Austin & Ermin Richardson & family & Mary Gumbs
Special God children amongst others:
Barbara Thomas-Schmidt, Carlos Carty, Nadjesca Gumbs and Monica
He also leaves to mourn his neighbors and his GEBE Family and The Lange Crew
He was related to the following families on St. Maarten, Anguilla and Curacao: Pantophlet, Carty, Richardson, Brill, Woods, Philips, Arrindell, Arndell, Violenus, Lambert, Romney, Rombley, Larmonie, Scot, Hughes, Mardenborough, Hodge families.
Funeral arrangement:
The funeral arrangements for the late Mr. Lionel Selwyn Pantophlet b.k.a Panto or Tata will be held on Tuesday April 27th 2010 at Christian Fellowship Church in Cole Bay across from Dominoes Pizza. Viewing and tributes will be from 1:30pm – 2:30pm.Service will commence immediately after. Interment will follow at the Cul de Sac cemetery thereafter.
A wake will be held on Monday, April 26th 2010 at the family residence on St. Peters Road #39 from 7:00pm – 10:00pm.
A Special thank you to Melmik Aviation for their service and support.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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Heureux dès à présent les morts qui meurent dans le Seigneur !
Oui dit l’Esprit, afin qu’ils se reposent de leurs travaux, car leurs œuvres les suivent. - Apocalypse 14 :13
Mme. LOUIS Resie
Nee: 2 Jun 1959 ~ Decede: 16 Avril 2010
:
Son mari monsieur Louis Rosevelt
Ses filles Louis Rose- Christella, Louis Rouselande
Ses sœurs André Saint Surin Denise, Saint- Vil Saint Surin Marie- Thérèse, Cayio Cassaol
Ses frères Joseph Fritz, Joseph Gérard et Joseph Gesner, Lafontant Saint Surin.
Ses neveux Saint-Vil Richard, Saint-Vil Rey’m, Saint-Vil Randolphe
Sa nièce André Catianna
Son beau-frère Saint-Vil Reynold
Sa belle sœur Louis Guerda
A ses amies
Famille Fleurantin
Famille Saintemes Marjorie
Thimothée Mimose
Famille Bernard
Famille semexant Janine
Piverger Alide
Saint-Jean Medgine
Gassant Thérèse
Vincent Germaine
Sr Dniel Isméide
Béata
Brédy Janette
A toute la communauté adventiste de Marigot
Service funeraire a Eglise adventiste du 7e jour de Galisbay Saint-Martin Jeudi 22 Avril 2010. Les hommages seront de 14 heures a 15 heures service commence a 15 heures.
La famille Louis remercie bien sincèrement ceux qui sont venus nombreux la soutenir pendant cette période de grande épreuve.
May Her Soul Rest in Peace
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“The Lord is my shepherd I shall not want.”
It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of our beloved son, brother, nephew & Friend
Franck Petion
Born: 25th December 1991 ~ Died: 13th March 2010
He leaves to mourn:
Father: Max Franck
Mother: Venette Petion
Sister: Marie Madeline Franck
Brother: Arthur Franck
God Mother: Nounounne Pierre Louis(Haiti)
Grandfather: Jules Petion
Grandmother: Christiane Micout
Aunts: Fexteuse Micourt & Yvette Franck
Uncle: Julcoeur Petion & Ambroise Franck
Great aunt: Elianie Vincent
Great Uncle: Joseph Franck
Great-great-grandmother: Mannie Moncherie
Cousins: Junior Petion, Jean Joseph & Renold Cassy
Special Friends: Arlene Gumbs , Zeinia Eomar, Liundi Gedezon, Shimano, Stefvon, Christopher, Sudhis & Lescard Gumbs, STJ Crew, LTP Crew & 785 Boyz.
He also leaves to mourn many other family members & friends too numerous to mention.
He was related to the Franck, Petion, Vincent, Micourt, Joseph, Cassy & Petron families.
The funeral service for the late Franck Petion will be held on Friday, 26th March, 2010 at the Roman Catholic Church in Marigot. Viewing will be from 2:00pm to 3:00pm. Service will commence at 3:00pm with interment at the Sandy Ground Cemetery.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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Blessed are they that mourn for they shall be comforted
HAROLD ALEXANDER YORK
Sunrise – June 9, 1911--- Sunset – December 6, 2010
YORK, Harold Alexander, born to Mr. and Mrs. Alexander York, on the beautiful island of St. Maarten, Dutch West Indies, on June 9, 1911.
HAROLD was a storyteller and joker; he had a quick wit and dry sense of humour, always happy to have a war of words with anyone up to the challenge. Those who knew him in this life will miss his laughter, his counsel, his retold jokes and stories, and most of all his big heart. He was truly an inspiration to his family, friends and all who knew him.
HAROLD YORK died peacefully on Monday, December 6, 2010. He is survived by his loving daughter, Astrid Angela York Webb; son-in-law, Rafael Webb; granddaughters, Ingrid Webb, and Rachel Webb Dixon and husband Evron Dixon; great grandchildren, Christopher, Matthew, Samantha, Asya, Jasmine, Vanessa, Jennifer and Ravyn; brother, Frederick York; nieces; nephews; great nieces; great nephews; his caretaker and neighbours, Esperancia and Alex Sutton; special friend Shirley Hodge and Marisa Boekhoudt.
HAROLD YORK was related to the York, Webb,Dixon, Pond, Gomez,Denis, Hazel, Meyers, Lake, Sutton, Rogers,Toney, Romou, Arrindell, Richardson, Clark, and other families here and abroad.
Special thanks to the Methodist prayer group, doctors and nurses at the SMMC, and all who visited him during his illness.
Thanksgiving service for the life of Harold York will be held on Thursday December 9th, 2010, at the Emerald Funeral Home chapel in Cay Hill. Viewing will be from 1:00pm-2:00pm. Service will commence at 2:00pm. Burial will take place at the Cul de Sac cemetery
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid." - John 14:27
Marcia Wright
Sunrise: October 14, 1959 (Jamaica) - Sunset: November 23, 2010 (St.Martin)
Marcia Wright is survived by her:
Father: Edgar Wright (Jamaica)
Daughter: Caroline Brown (Suzette)
Sons: Carlington Brown (Jermaine)
Conroy Williams and family (Miami)
Companion: Ferdinand Parker (Parker)
Grandsons: Paul Brown Jr.
Reshad Williams
Conroy Jr. (Roan)
Granddaughters: Caroline Brown (Shanice)
Kelaya Williams
Demannia Williams
Dennia Williams
Abbigail Williams
Son- in –law: Paul Brown Sr.
Daughter in-law: Annakay Bailey
Close friends: Marcia, Bennie, Joy, Gwen, Doreen, Stephanie
Other relatives include: Charles Brown Jr.
Lisa Brown
Charles Brown Sr.
Maria Brown
Anouska Violenus
She also leaves to mourn members of the Faith Victorious Ministry
She was related to the Wright, Brown and Williams families, other families here and abroad too numerous to mention.
Special Thanks to: the staff at the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital.
The funeral service for the late Marcia Wright will be held on Thursday, December 2, 2010 at the Emerald Funeral Chapel in Cay Hill
Viewing:1:00pm -2:00pm followed by the funeral service at 2:00pm
Interment will follow at the Sandy Ground Cemetery in Marigot.
“Loving memories will always keep her near”
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May Her Soul Rest in Peace
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It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of
Nathan Jason Romney
November 14, 1977 – November 18, 2010
He leaves to mourn:
Wife: Icharda Nicolaas-Romney
Son: Kal-El Romney
Step-Daughter: Caisha Frederick
Mother: Clemence Rollan-Romney, b.k.a Dooda
Father: Apostle Rosmond Romney
Brother: Stanley Romney
Sister: Claudia Cook-Romney
Niece: Anayah Cook
Brother in Law: Anthony Cook b.k.a Rebel
Mother and Father in Law: Mr. & Mrs. Richard Nicolaas
Aunts:
Elise Lake-Rollan, Olivia Sanchez-Mendez, Marie-Claire Harrigan, Marie-Louise Webster, Juliette Rollan b.k.a. Ponsie (FRANCE), Eliane Rollan, Lisette Connor, Maria Humphreys, Gladys Housen, Rozella Laurence (ST.MAARTEN), Lucienne Warner (FLORIDA), Lionise Leverock (CURACAO) and Claudette Javois (USA).
Uncles:
Clement Duruo bka Toro, Louis Rollan, Charles Rollan, Rudolph Groeneveldt, Reynold Groeneveldt (ST.MAARTEN), Ralph Groeneveldt (HOLLAND) Clebert Simmon, Wilhem Simmon (USA), Aristide Simmon (USVI).
2 Great Aunts: Suzanne Brooks, Adeline Romney
God-Parents: Diane Halpike (ANTIGUA), Rufus Webster
God Children:
Shakainah Gumbs, Geanah Gumbs, Omari Gumbs and Alizee Groeneveldt
Also many cousins, relatives and beloved friends too numerous to mention.
Management and staff of the Windward Island Bank Ltd (especially the Proof & Computer Operations Department)
He was related to the Romney, Rollan, Groeneveldt, Simmon, Lake, Brooks, Cook, Harrigan, Webster, Conner, Norris, Richardson, Glasgow, Illidge, Baly, Leverock, Humphreys, Warner, Housen, Laurence, Sanchez-Mendez, Andrew, Peter, Flanders, Nicolaas and many other Families to numerous to mention.
Special thanks to: Dr. Galeotti, Staff of the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital (Dialysis Department), his close friends and family members too numerous to mention, Youth Department and members of the CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY MINISTRIES.
Funeral Service at
CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY MINISTRIES, La Savane Grand Case
Wednesday November 24th, 2010
Service at 2:00 p.m.
Interment at the Grand Case Cemetery
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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Psalm 34:1 I will Extol The Lord at All Times
It is with deep sadness we announce the sudden passing of our beloved Mother, Grandmother, Sister, Niece, Aunt, God mother & Friend Ms. Sonja Cecilia Clark
Sunrise: 14 May 1950 ~ Sunset: 9 May 2010
She leaves to mourn:
Her daughter: Sulaiska Clark and family
Her son: Luvanny Clark and family
Her sister: Bernadine Clark
Step Sisters: Rosita Enesia
Editha Wright
Xenia Welvaart
Step brothers: Edwin Wright
Chino Bryan
Daughter in law: Marilyn Clark
Aunt: Olivia Clark (Canada)
Niece: Tamara Clark (Canada)
Grandchildren: O’Shaunessey and Sonijka Clark
Great nieces: Syphronia and Dahmariah Clark
Great nephew: Jodesy Clark
Cousin: Maria Clark and Richenel Clark and Evelin Reiph
God children: Michelline Wilson, Vanessa Martina and Michael Vorst
Adopted children: Eugene Abram, Ramon Perez, Darnell and Daryl Thomas
Close friends: Lucious Carty and family
Minelva Aleaxander
Shirley Eleonora and family
Brenda Courtar
Donna Reid and family
Marcela & Kiki Waterfort & family
Fabrise James
Adolpha and family
Palucho and family
Ramerez and family
Sattie and family
Aggie Pheilipa and family
Pastor Crown
And many others too numerous to mention
Care taker: Samntha Clarke & Egwin Carbon
She was related to: Clark, James, Laveist, Reiph, Cannaegieter, Halmon, Jacobs, Arnell, Keythoff, Roland,Carty, Maccouw, Bells, Marlin, Hazel, Brown, Thomas, Wright, Enesia, Welvaart, Peterson, Rombley, Flanders, Brills, Daniels & many other families and friends too numerous to mention
The funeral service for the late Ms. Sonja Cecilia Clark will be held on Tuesday 18th May 2010 at the St. Martin of Tours Roman Catholic Church on Front Street. Viewing of the body and tributes will be from 2:00pm to 3:00pm, service will commence at 3:00pm with interment at the Cul de Sac cemetery thereafter.
The wake will be held on Sunday 16th May 2010 at the family residence on Front Street (behind the Ikembe Art Gallery) from 7:00pm to 11:00pm
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May Her Soul Rest in Peace
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2 Timothy 4:7 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.
It is with deep sadness we announce the home going of the late Angella Leblanc better known as Angie of Dominica resides in St. Maarten.
Sunrise: July 31st 1967 to Sunset: April 23rd 2010
Left to mourn:
Parents: Olive and Hillaron George of Dominica
Husband: Alickson Leblanc in St. Maarten
2 sisters: Sandra Jean in St. Maarten
Clarone Joseph in Dominica
4 brothers: Joseph, James, Allan George in Dominica
Riviere George in St. Maarten
8 Aunts: Catherine Ettienne and family
Catherina Jean and family
Elisabeth Williams and family
All resides in St. Maarten
Nora Anatol and family
Sylvia Oscar and family
Magaret Thomas and family
Vignet George and family
Eunelda Jean and family
All redides in Dominica
5 Uncles: Jones Thomas and family in St. Maarten
Gregory George and Family in St. Maarten
Renix, Manix, Frank George in Dominica
6 sisters in law: Mavis George, Lina George, Annie Leblanc, Veronica Marcellin resides in Dominica
Emma Cassel and octancia Leblanc in St. Maarten
Brothers in law: Lincoln Jean in St. Maarten, Keith Joseph in Dominica, Eric and St. Luce Leblanc in St. Maarten, Gabriel, Henderson, Clement and Robert Leblanc in Dominica.
11 Nieces: Shanella Jean in St. Maarten.
Vernel, lean, Leanna, Keishma, Jemilia, Ricia, Jamescia, Afyia, Marisa in Dominica and Jasmine in Guadeloupe.
2 Nephews: Kezton and Jequan George in Dominica
3 God Children
Close Friends: Pastor Sam Smith the third and family, congregation of the Mount Zion Evangelistic Pentecostal Church in Middle region
Many other friends, cousins and relatives in Dominica, St.Thomas, St. Maarten, New York, Alabama, Guadeloupe, Antigua, too numerous to mention
She was related to the George, Jean, Ettienne, Thomas, Leblanc, Williams, Anatol, Paul, St. Jean, Wilkinson, Bontiff, Charles, Anthony & Royer families
The funeral arrangements for the late Angela Leblanc George b.k.a Angie will be held on Thursday 6th May, 2010 at the Mount Zion Evangelistic Pentecostal Church in Middle region. Viewing and tributes will be from 1:00pm to 2:00pm. Service will commence at 2:15pm with interment following at the Cul-de-Sac cemetery.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May Her Soul Rest in Peace
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The Lord is my Light and my Salvation, Whom Shall I fear.
It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Mother -
MENTA MARIE LAURETTE
Menta Marie Laurette born on the 20th November 1931 on Saint Martin & died on Friday 19th February 2010.
She leaves to mourn:
Her Children:
Daughter : Melvina Jones ( USA)
Germaine Clements ( USA)
+ Caroline Fleming (decease)
Marie Clarie Fleming ( SXM)
Angele Fleming ( SXM)
Claudine Menta ( SXM )
Sons: Alex Chittick ( SXM)
Lucien Chittick ( SXM )
Robert Menta ( SXM )
Mathurin Fleming ( SXM )
33 Grand Children
11 Great Grand Children
Sons in Laws: Hussein Mohamed (SXM)
Marcus Gavey Alexander (SXM)
Steven Jones (USA)
Cecil Lake (SXM)
Special thanks:
Nurses: Sevrine,Michel,Francoise
Caretaker: Menta Angele
She was related to the Menta, Hyman, Hodge, Chittick, Davis, Fleming, Wescott, Richardson, Alexander, Hussein, Clement, Jones, James, Febe, Carty and many others too numerous to mention.
Funeral arrangements will be announce at a later date.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May Her Soul Rest in Peace
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As long as your memory lives, you will never die.
It is with deep sadness in our hearts that we announce the passing of
Christian Lloyd a dedicated family member and friend.
Sunrise:29th August 1973
Left to continue his journey on the 25th January, 2010
He was the son of:
Father: Maurice Thomas +
Mother: Sylvia Lloyd+
He is survived by his:
Brothers: Stanley Lloyd
Martin Lloyd
Albert DemBrook
Uncles: Carl Thomas & Fam.
George Thomas & Fam.
Alfred Thomas & Fam.
Hugh Thomas & Fam.
James Thomas & Fam.
Franky Thomas & Fam.
Frederick Arrindell (Son) & Fam.
Lorenzo Thomas (Jobe) & Fam.
Family of the late Alvin Thomas
Family of the late Ashley ”Jack” Thomas
Family of the late Edward “Milk” Thomas
Family of the late Granville “Deco” Thomas
Aunts: Cynthia Thomas & Family
Alma Thomas & Family (Arrindell)
Shirley Thomas-Lake & Family
Rita Richardson-Brooks
Mercedes Gumbs-Thomas (Sadie) of bus 161 & Family
Family of the late Thelma Gumbs
Nieces & Nephews: Darion & Isleen Every
Many Cousins to mention by name; Charles “Chico” Thomas, Zulekha & Zaida Arrindell
Favorite cousin: Allister
Best Friends: Sheila Sorton (Wifey), Bria & Boyston Sorton & Joyce Brooks
Best Friend/Cousin: Rudolph ”Rudy” Davis
Best Friend/Brother: Francis Matthew
Close Friends: Bertrand “Bertie” Charles & Micheal Seebaran
Employer/ Close Friend: Steven Brown & Luz
Close Friends: Mirugia “Mientjie” Brown, Amelia Pantophlet, Maribelle Muizenring, Jackie Richardson, Maggie Matthew, Cherry Forde, Bevel, Zaihira Marchena, Miguel, Jijo & the staff of Desmo shoe store
He was related to the Thomas’ Gumbs’ Arrindell, Brooks’, Busby, Petty, Davis, Mussington, Richardson, Every, Fleming, Lake, Webster, Bunccamper, Arnaud, Nestor-Hubert, Bennett, Lloyd, Roumou, Bryan, James, Martina, Gonzales, Maccow, Harrigan, Matthew & Hyman Families.
A wake/ gathering of relatives & friends will be held on Wednesday February 3rd,2010 at the family residence on the Pond fill (next to Talk Cell) from 7:00pm to 9:00pm.
The Service of Thanksgiving for the late Christian Lloyd will be announced in a subsequent announcement.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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Oh give thanks unto the Lord for He is good because His mercy endureth forever.
It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of Mr. Franceiko Elvoldo Haddocks
Sunrise: 7th November, 1929 ~ Sunset: 19th January, 2010
Wife: Camelia Altagracia Haddocks
Sons: Jojanci & Manuel Haddocks
Daughters: Margarita, Alfreda, Anyelis & Eureka Haddocks
Grand daughter: Jesenia marte Haddocks
Grandsons: Janssell, Sedny & Adonis Zorrilla Haddocks
Sister: Eurika Arrandel
Niece: Joice Rodrigues & Fam.
Brother in law: Juaquin & Aneudi Altagracia
Friends: Alejandro, Javier, Miranda, Melanie & the Henson family
The funeral service for the late Franceiko Elvoldo Haddocks will be held on Monday 25th January 2010 at the Philipsburg Methodist Church on Front Street. Viewing will be from 2:00pm to 3:00pm. Service will commence at 3:00pm with interment following at the Cul-de-Sac cemetery.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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“The lord is my shepherd, I shall not want, he maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters......”
(Psalms 23)
We hereby announce the passing of our beloved Brother, Uncle,
Father, Grand Father and Great Grand Father & Friend
Mr. Simon Cyrene Wilson
Better known as
Soy or Mr. Wilson from Bush road #1,
Pensioneer of Customs Curacao
Sunrise: February 6th 1924 ~ Sunset: January 14th 2010
He left to mourn:
His Son: Lorenzo Emile Wilson bka Pablito
His Brothers: Charles Wilson b.k.a Nathan in Aruba and
Leonard Burke b.k.a Boechie in Aruba
His Sister: Rosalie Burke in Aruba
His Grand Childeren: Remy, Emile and Albert Wilson in French Quarter, Yvonne, Vivian, Marie, Altagracia, Jaqueline, Albert, Gilbert & Nelson Richardson in Holland, Curacao and the USA all with their respective families
His Great Grand Childeren: Zaid Mussington and Emilio Wilson
His Sisters in Law: Delphine Hyman bka Ollet & Family in French Quarter & Guadaloupe
Albertha Burke in Aruba and
Meline Burke in Aruba
His Nieces: Helmira Lloyd- Burke and family in SXM and Jeanette Burke in Aruba, Maritza, Sheritza bka Jenny and Jourella bka Jou or Joury Melfor & their families in SXM, Curacao & Holland, Ursula Kock-Thompson & faimily, Nelly Thompson, Sandra b.k.a Sandy Burke, Indira Burke and Amalia Burke and their families in Aruba
His Nieces in Law: Jeanette-, Bernadine- and Jermaine Hodge and their families
His Nephews: Ricardo Dollison in Curacao and Lionel Dollison and family in Holland
Erben-, Max-, Kenneth- and Francis Melfor & their families in Curacao,
Nicio Thompson and family in Aruba, Conrad Thompson in Holland,
Clyde, Ernie, & Sergio Burke in Aruba
His Cousins: Daniel Hanson & family b.k.a Danny or the shoe shine man, Daisy Bell-Hanson & family, Patricia Vlaun & family, Adela Wilson & family and many other cousins too numerous
to mention
His God childeren: Richardo Patrick and family, Stephan Pemberton
His Care taker: Jaqueline Pemberton
Close Friends: Walter Plantz, Hubert Patrick, Franklin Carty, Jeffrey Richardson, Donavon Froston, Maisie Richardson, The Mens fellowship and all the members of the Philipsburg Methodist Church
He was related to the following families: Wilson, Burke, Melfor, Dollison, Menta, Richardson, Hyman, Panthoplet, Hodge, James, Thompson, Kock, Lloyd and Hanson in Aruba, Statia, Dom. Republic, Curacao, USA & Holland and many others too numerous to mention
Special thanks goes out to: Dr. Spencer, Dr. George, Dr. Counter, The White and Yellow Cross, The Nurses at the SMMC , The Staff of the Ambulance and Fire Departments, Mr. Franklin Carty and Mr. Dion Gumbs, Donavon Froston & Maisie Richardson
Funeral Services for the late Mr. Simon Wilson will be held on Wednesday, 20th January, 2010
Viewing of the body and tributes will be from 2:00 to 3:00 pm at the Methodist Church in Philipsburg. Service will start at 3:00 pm interment will take place at the Mount Plaisance Cemetery in Philipsburg thereafter.
The family seeks no calls of condolences after interment.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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Psalms 23: The Lord is my shepherd I shall not want.
Heliberto Asiento Brooks better known as Sinto or Asiento
He was the son of the late JULIA Illis A.K.A. Mona + from Middle Region.
Sunrise: February 3rd, 1958 in Aruba
Sunset: May 29th, 2010 on St.Maarten
He leaves to mourn:
Sisters: Minerva Pinto-Brooks a.k.a Mimi, Patricia Brooks a.k.a Patsy & Maria Brooks
Nephews and Niece: Terrick Pinto, Lenrick Pinto, Elicio Brooks, Allan Brooks & Malaika Brooks
Brother in law: Freddys Pinto
Cousins: Patricia Beauperthuy & Fam, Ursula Brown & Family in AUA, Ivan Illis in SXC, Harry Brown & Fam, Arnold Illis & Fam, Alvin Illis , Clifford Illis & Fam, Daniel Brown & Fam.
Great aunt: Augustine Gustry- Illis
Close Friends: Georgette, Carlson and His extended family at the Sister Basilia center
He was related to the Brooks, Ellis, Illis, Pinto, Brown, Beauperthuy, Wilson, Jermin, Brill, David, Violenus, Richardson, Washington, Hill, Radjouki, De Bequic, Hawley, Reed & Wellington families
Funeral arrangement for the late Heliberto Asiento Brooks better known as Sinto or Asiento will be held on Thursday June 3rd, 2010 at the Risen Christ Roman Catholic Church in South Reward. Viewing and tributes will be from 2:00pm to 3:00pm. Service will commence at 3:00pm with interment at the Cul de Sac cemetery.
Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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Romans 8:37-39 “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
It is with deep sadness that we announce the tragic and sudden passing of our beloved son brother nephew & friend
Patrison Isarac
Sunset: 4th December 1992 ~ Sunset: 16th June 2010
Mother: Patricia Isaac
Father: Fesnel Bosse
Brothers: Jefferson Bosse (sxm) & Reginaldo Bosse (sxm)
Aunts: Rosiannie Joseph-Delices (USA), Marie Judith Isaac (Sxm),Ketia Isaac (Haiti), Sandy Isaac (Haiti) & Gierlin Isaac (Haiti)
Uncles:Fritz Edwige Isaac (Sxm), Reviles Fabien (USA) & Evens Fabien (Haiti)
Cousins : Samuel & Richardson Garcon (France),Marie Jude & Marie Lucie Dorzier (Sxm), Marie Noemie Schaina (Sxm),Kingsley, Danica & Mardochee Deprovil (sxm),Marie-Marthe Delices- Deprovil (sxm),Cenavil Deprovil (sxm), Pierre Delices (Haiti), Jonas, Philemon & Masita Delices (USA)
Best Friends: Sheldon, Shanic, Shaquil, Joselgien, Elder, Josine Emmanuel
He also leaves to mourn many other relatives and friends to numerous to mention
The Funeral Service for the late Patrison Isarac will be held on Tuesday June 22nd ,2010 at the Philipsburg Adventist Church in Zagersgut. Viewing and tributes will be held from 2:00pm to 3:00pm. Service will commence at 3:00pm with interment following at the Cul de Sac cemetery.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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We regret to announce the tragic and sudden passing of our dearly beloved Son, Father, Companion, Brother, Nephew, Uncle ,GrandSon, Cousin and good friend
DAVID ANTHONY MARSHAM
(A.K.A) TONY CHANG
Sunrise: October 23rd 1979 (St. Kitts)
Sunset: July 6th 2010 (St. Martin)
Left to mourn:
Mother: Veronica Patricia Marsham (St. Kitts)
Father: Ephraim Henderson (St. Kitts)
Companion: Jeannette Amelie Harrigan ( st-martin)
Daughters: Avril Nadika Harrigan (st-martin)
Annie Nikita Marsham (st-martin)
Son: Anthony David Marsham ( st-martin)
Mother in Law: Anita Harrigan ( st-martin)
Sister: Avril Marsham in Family ( st kitts)
Brothers: Lomay,Garvin, and Terrance Marsham (st kitts)
Nieces: Shakyejah, Kalifa &Sadejah Marsham (st kitts)
Grand Mother: Cassandra Farrell (st-martin)
Great Grand Mother: Vivian Rawlins (Saddlers st kitts)
Grandfather: Sydney Liburd (St kitts)
Edmond Thompson (St thomas)
Aunts: Leonie Lewis, Gloria Greene, Cythia Marsham (st kitts)
Hilda Clarke (st-martin)
Sharmine, Morvin, Talia Thompson (st thomas)
Uncles: Bernel, st claire, Cecil Marsham, Leon Thompson (st kitts)
Allan, Dwayne, Gary, Riley and Junior Thompson ( st thomas)
France Hendrickson, Franklyn Henderson, Leihton Ramsey ( st kitts)
Uncle in Law: Gene Lewis ( st kitts)
Aunty in Law: Andrea,Coreen Marsham ( st kitts)
Sisters in Law: Félicia Harrigan in Family (St.Martin)
Jeanne Phipps (A.K.A) Shanach & Family (St.Martin)
Brothers in Law: Phipps Charles (A.K.A) LION & Family ( st-martin)
Phipps Louis (A.K.A) kuick & Family (France)
Family Close Friends: kintu Bradshaw, Clement Hodge, Fire delvin Harrigan (st-martin)
Claude Harrigan in Family ( st-martin)
Alfred Hitchcock ( st- martin)
Dwayne Germain in Family (St.Martin)
Alex (St.Martin)
Tobyjah (St.Martin)
Diane in Family (St.Martin)
Cousins: Herrilyn, Mandecia, Malcoml, Kyam, Zicanella Marsham
Estillita Clarke, Odelmo Williams, Tanique Wyatt and many more too numerous to mention.
Special Thanks to the Sapeur Pompier/Doctors/Nurses at the Louis Constance Fleming Hospital.
Funeral arrangements for the late Davaid Anthony Marsham (A.K.A) Tony Chang
Will be held on Friday July 16th, 2010 at the Catholic Church in Marigot. Viewing and tribute will be from 2:00pm to 3:00pm. Service will commence at 3:00pm with interment following at the Sandy-Ground Cemetery.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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Blessed are they that mourn for they shall be comforted
It is with deep sadness that we announce the dead of
Mr. ADAMS Ephise a.k.a FIFI
Sunrise: April 26 1932
Sunset : October 22 2010
He leaves to mourn :
His wife : Rose ADAMS
His daughters : Martine ADAMS
Marlène ADAMS
Maria ADAMS
Jocelyne NIBBS
Diana NIBBS
His sons : Martin ADAMS
Rudolph ADAMS
Jean claude NIBBS
His brothers : Louis ADAMS &family
Adrien ADAMS & family better known as (DIDI)
His sisters in law : Rhénita ADAMS
Marie ADAMS
Gloria ADAMS
Mélanie FLEMING
Mary BLYDEN
Etelle SMITH
Nora FLEMING
Maude FLEMING
Brothers in law : George FLEMING & family
Edward DAVILLE & familly
God child : Justine DAVIS
Special grand children :Sabrina & Mélissa ADAMS
Close friends : Mr Etienne & Wawa MUSSINGTON
Nieces & Nephew too numerous to mention
Grand children & Great grand too numerous to mention
He was related to the : ADAMS,FLEMING,NIBBS,ROGERS,RICHARDS,VANTERPOOL,
REYSCARTY,PAINES,ANNICETTE,CONNOR,SAMUEL,DAVILLE, RICHARDSON,
DAVIS,DUFFAIT,STJOHNS, BURNETT,DANIEL.
The family would like to thank the staff of : Ambulance des îles du nord, Eric ambulance,
Armelle& Unité AUDRA, Infirmières,CHU de Guadeloupe,
L.C Hospital de Saint Martin,Dr Gibbs,Dr Paucod
The late Mr. ADAMS Ephise will be laid to rest October 28th 2010 At the Roman
Catholic Church in marigot.Tributes & viewing from 1: 30pm to 2:45pm .Service at 3pm
Follow by the interment at the Sandy Ground cemetery.
THE FAMILY HAS REQUESTED NO VISITORS AFTER BURIAL
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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Psalm 23:1 The Lord is my Shepherd I shall not want
Marthe Augustine Hunt
Sunrise: August 27, 1915 ~ Sunset: September 14, 2010
She leaves to mourn:
Son: Dr. Emile Antoine Hunt
Daughter in law: Ramona Mercedes Martinez Hunt
Grandsons: Jeffery, Michael & Rafael Hunt
Granddaughters: Nicole Hunt Jackson & Karen Hunter
Daughters in law: Kim Klyn & Darnee Hunt
Ex daughter in law: Hanna james
Great grandchildren: Antonio, Angelique, Sidney, Joshua & Matthew Hunt, Brianna Walton & Michael Hunt Jr ., Tajan, Nia & Yana Jackson.
Brother: Isidore Hodge
Sisters: Pirette Hamel, Marcelle Hodge & Angel White.
Many Nieces & Nephews too numerous to mention
Special cousins & caretaker: Gracita Thomas & fam.
Special cousins: Natalie Richardson & fam., Nancy Bryan & fam., Sandra Panka, Micheal Hunt & fam., Bernice Thomas, Mireille Bryan,Pastor Desmond & Allen James.
Caretaker: Sonia Brown & Ruby Harriot
Many other relatives & friends too numerous to mention
She was related to the: Hodge, Duzang, Hunt, Rogers, Brian, Lake, Thomas, Lawrence, Gumbs, Richardson, White, Jackson, Hunter & Flynn families
The funeral service will held on Friday, September 24th, 2010 at the Seventh Day Adventist Church in French Cul de Sac. Viewing will be from 1:00pm to 2:00pm. Service will commence at 2:00pm. Interment will follow at the French Cul de Sac cemetery.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May Her Soul Rest in Peace
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It is with deep sadness we regret to announce the passing of
Mr. Robert Casseus
Sunrise: 26 January 1954 ~ Sunset: 5 November 2010
Robert Casseus leaves to cherish his memory:
His Four children Claudette Pierre( a.k.a Darline), Robertson Casseus, Sherline Casseus JeanCharles, Sandra Jennifer Casseus.
His Grand Children; Ryan Gregory Pierre, Sean Gregory Pierre, Claudia Casseus, Errine Rebecca JeanCharles, Sherna JeanCharles, Erica JeanCharles, Ernestson Shneider JeanCharles and Jaylin Beaubrun.
Frere Bertrand Berthieu USA
Sr. Madelle Berthieu USA
Frere.Paul Jacques Casseus St.Maarten
Frere Gesner Casseus haiti
Sr. Marie Sonie Casseus Lenus St.Maarten
Borfrere Vital Lenus St.Maarten
Belser Miruelle Casseus St.Maarten
Berfile S Moyne
Neve Rosvel Berthieu USA
Nice Nayanne S.Lenus St.Maarten
Nice France & Joseline Berthieu (France)
Nice Guerda berthieu (USA)
Nice Loudine Berthieu Haiti
Nice Immacula Aristhane USA
Nice Majory Aristhane Haiti
Nice Biona Casseus (Orlando USA)
Nice Sharina Casseus Holland
Neve Claudy Aristhane USA
Neve Widson Casseus St.Maarten
Neve Winthe Casseus Holland
Neve Gregory Casseus St.Maarten
Neve Wiliamme Son
Neve Gerald Casseus Hollander
Neve Micheal Casseus St.Maarten
Neve Jerry,Nixon & Jude Lenus (Providence Rhode Island USA)
Neve Akisch Lenus St.Maarten
Close Family Simone sumeon and Yves sumeon & All Bus Driver St.Maarten And St.Martin
Funeral arrangements for the late Robert Casseus will be held on Monday November 15, 2010
Location: Church of God, Haitian Community,Cork Tree Drive # 9, Well Road, Cole Bay.
Time: viewing from 1:00pm to 2:00pm.
Service: 3:00pm
Burial: Cul de Sac cemetery
The Casseus Family Wishes to express thanks and appreciation for all the sympathy and support giving to us in this hardship time. You have shared our grief in many ways including visits,flowers, telephone calls and demonstrated a profound caring for which we will be forever grateful. Whatever you did to console our hearts, we thank you so much.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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Psalm 27:1 The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear?
It is with sadness we announce the sudden passing of
Mc McCarthy Jason Haddocks B.K.A Coda.
Sunrise: December 30th 1982 ~ Sunset: November 12th 2010
He leaves to mourn:
His Father: Anthony Haddocks
His Mother: Marie Haddocks
His Brothers: Randolph Haddocks, Devin Haddocks
His Sister: Tasheema Haddocks all in St Maarten
His Grandmother: Josephine. E .Haddocks in Aruba
His Grandfather: Lester Wilson in New Jersey
His Aunts: Patricia Holiday + Family in St Maarten
Aunts: Bernadine Bryson in Aruba
Yanick Masse in Paris
Andre Rose in U.S.A
Sharon Wilson in New Jersey
Janette Wilson in New Jersey
Uncles: Nelson Wilson in Aruba
Alejandro Haddocks + Family in Aruba
Joseph Haddocks in Aruba
Steve Bayne in Aruba
Ralph Bayne in Aruba + Family
Michael Eustace in Aruba
Terry Wilson in New Jersey
Letie Wilson in New Jersey
Patricio Wilson in New Jersey
Jamel Masse in Paris
Soni Masse Guadeloupe
Great Aunt: Cassandra Arrindell in Aruba
God Mother: Pansy Jacobs in St Maarten
God Father: Gesher Macerlus in St Maarten
Cousins and relatives in Aruba , Miami , Florida , Haiti , Guadeloupe , Holland , Paris , New York , Curacao , Saba.
He was an employee at the International Juliana airport.
Relative: are the Haddocks, Holidays, Wilson, Williams, Masse, Bryson, bryne Tross, Jacobs, Eustace, Arrindell
And many other relatives too numerous to mention.
His Special Friends: Rose, Derry, Amoly, Kelly, Kevin, Goolee, Dakin, Ishmael, Tasha, Raymond, Michael
And close neighbor & good friend Laura Bryan.
The Funeral Service for the late McCarthy Jason Haddocks better known as Coda will be held at the New Testament Baptist Church in Philipsburg on Thursday November 18th 2010.
Viewing and tributes: 1:00 pm to 2:45 pm.
Service: 3:00pm
Interment will follow at the Cul de Sac Cemetery.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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L’ Eterne lest ma lumiere et mon saluts: De qui aurais- je crainte? L’ Eternel est le soutien de ma viede qui aurais- je peur? – Psaumes 27v1
Joseph Dieusimene
Nee le 06 Janvier 1952
Decedee le 06 Septembre 2010
A Saint- Martin, France
HUSBAND / SON CONJOINT: SATURNE LENER
HER CILDREN / SES ENFANTS:
· JOSEHP NADEGE
· JOSEPH MARIE EP. MAUVAIS
· JOSEHP NADIA
· JOSEPH SEBASTIEN
· SATURNE ROSE-MARTHE EP. ANTOINE
· SATURNE JOCELYN
HER SISTERS / SES SŒURS:
· JOSEPH JONA EP. HERCULE
· JOSEPH MARIE MARTHE
HER GRAN CILDREN / SES PETITS ENFANTS:
· JOSEPH NATHANIEL
· JOSEPH LOUISA
· MAUVAIS DAREN’S
· MAUVAIS DAMIEN
· ANTOINE TATIANA
· ANTOINE THAILER
HER NIECES & NEPHEW / SES NEVEUX & NIECES
· HERCULE MYRTHA
· CASTEL ELMITHA
· HERCULE BETSY
· HERCULE MACKENZIE
· JOSEPH BETCHINA
ISAAC THERESE ( COUSINE)
MICHEL MILLET ( FILS ADOPTIF)
FRIENDS/ AMIS: TROP NOMBREUX POUR CITER
Le service funerarire :
A L’EGLISE CHRETIENNE DE LA NOUVELLE JERUSALEM D’AGREMENT
· DATE: 14 SEPTEMBRE 2010
· EXPOSITION DU CORP: 2: 00 à 3 : 00 PM
· DEBUT DE SERVICE : 3 : 00 PM
· INCINERATION: CIMETIERE DE MARIGOT
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May Her Soul Rest in Peace
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“Remember now thy creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days
Come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shall say, I have no pleasure In them;” - Ecc. 12:1
Gerline Maingrette-Blaise
Born: June 5th, 1993
Died: August 19th, 2010
Mother: Maingrette Claudette B.K.A. Joline (Haiti)
Step Mother: Julina Louis B.K.A. T.C. (Saint Martin)
Father: Jean-Robert Blaise (Saint Martin)
Sister: Berline Blaise (Saint Martin)
Brother: Roberson Maingrette-Blaise (Haiti)
Kevin Almé (Haiti)
God-Mother: Mène (Miami)
God-Father: Lauror Nickodème (Saint Martin)
Aunts: Mme Gerald, Alvie, Longin Anette, Gasnère Phébé, Mélicia Esperance
Phébé Losta (Haiti)
Phébé Tinette (Haiti)
Longin Odette & family
Longin Anne-Marie
Uncles: Phébé Cenet,
Phébé Jouanet (Haiti)
Phébé Senet (Haiti)
Phébé Kenol (Paris)
Phébé Jouakim (Paris)
Phébé Jean-Baptiste (USA)
Others to numerous to mention
Cousins: Jean-François Jocelyne, Jean-François Jeffry, Jean-François Marie-Josette, Phébé
Germina, Phébé Jean-Luc, Blaise Gilot, Irra Talita, Irra Martine, Irra Marc-Daniel,
Irra Beatrice, Irra Valérie, Irra Antoine, Irra Jonathan, Noel Martha, Noel Cyril, Phébé Rodrigue, Phébé Garry, Phébé Phito & Family (Saint Martin), Phébé Jean Tony (USA),
Phébé Gracien (USA), Phébé Wilfrid & Family (Saint Martin),Phébé Vicker & Family (Saint Martin), Phébé Fritzner (Saint Martin), Phébé Mariane (Saint Martin), Phébé Cidrique (Saint Martin)
Phébé Aboudou (Saint Martin), Phébé Cenor (Haiti), Phébé Manes St Maarten) and many others too numerous to mention.
Best Friends: Renilia Rollan, Marie Lauren, Carty Chantal, Wiline Sanon, Wakendell, Pierre Hol, Xavier…
She was a student of the Lycee Professionnel de Saint Martin.
Close Friends and neighbours: Anna Aka crip gyal, Paul Aka Sean Paul, Beatrice Aka Bébé, Dafné, Joana, Jimmy, Marie-France, Stacy & Kids, Roxane & kids, Jocelyne, Lisa, Leon & Sylvianne, Josette Aka voisine
The funeral service for the late Gerline Maingrette-Blaise will be held on Friday 3rd, September, 2010 at the Eglise Nazereen, rue de Coralita in French Quarter. Viewing will be from 2:00pm to 3:00pm. Service will commence at 3:00pm with interment at the St.Georges Cemetery in French Quarter.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May Her Soul Rest in Peace
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Psalm 91:1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
It is with profound sadness we announce the home going of
Susannah Elizabeth Delaney-Ryan better known as Liz/Sis
Sunrise Jan 10th 1951 – Sunset Aug 27th 2010
Left to mourn:
Husband: Charles O. Delaney
Father: Peter R.Skerritt in England
Children: Sherolin C.Boirard-Delaney
Shaunetta C. Delaney
Shameda K. Delaney
Sheldon C. Delaney
Grand Children: Ryne T. Boirard
Rhianna S. Boirard
Rasheema S. Boirard
Rayeesha S. Boirard
Ershaunio A. Delaney
Malia S. P. Delaney
Sister: Marion Skerritt *New York
Brothers: Alfred Skerritt *Montserrat
William Skerritt * Montserrat
Mother in law: Yvonne G. Iles
Father in law: Samuel A. Hodge
Son in law: Ralph T. Boirard
Sisters in law: Barbara Charville, Sophia, Ghyslaine, Elderine Iles and Moyenva Bromet
Bother in law: Edouard Arrindell (Eddie) *Virginia
Aunts: Frances Ryan *Montserrat
Mary Polly Ryan * England
Lydia Ryan *Montserrat
Nieces and Nephews, Cousins, God children and close friends too numerous to mention here and abroad.
Bishop: Michael & Annette Greenaway and members of the Victory Temple Church of God of Prophecy
Bishop: Melroy Meade & Family and members of The Church of God of Prophecy in Montserrat
She was related to Delaney, Ryan, Skerritt, Boirard, Fenton, Hixon, Harney, Fagan, Allen, Silcott, Williams, David, Iles, Bromet, Artsen, Arrindell, Cassell, Kirnon, Charville, Charlmers, Barnwell, Sorton, Hodge, Godet, Rey, Harrigan & Smith families
The funeral service for the late Susannah Elizabeth Delaney-Ryan better known as Liz/Sis will be held on Tuesday September 7th, 2010 at the Victory Temple Church of God of Prophecy in Ebenezer viewing will be from 1:30 pm – 3:00pm service commence at 3:00pm with interment at the Cul-de-Sac Cemetery
The Family kindly Requests no visitors after the service.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May Her Soul Rest in Peace
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Está con tristeza profunda en nuestros corazones de los cuales anuncie
Pasar:
Polito Polo-Adams Damien Yohan
llevado el 19 de Enero de 2007 murió el 7 de Julio de 2010
El servicio fúnebre para el último Polo-Adams Damien, Yohan de Polito será llevado a cabo el Viernes 13 de Agosto de 2010 en la Iglesia Apostólica en Sandy Ground St. Martin from 9 :00am to 10 :00am. Interment seguirá en el cementerio de Sandy Ground.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
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The Lord is my shepherd I have everything I need. I will not be afraid, Lord for you are with me. Your shepherds rod and staff protect me.
It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of our Beloved Son, Nephew, Cousin – Grand-Son & friend
LAUTRIC Xavier.
Sunrise: 09 December 1987
Sunset: 23 November 2010
He leaves to mourn:
His mother ARRONDELL Julienne
His father LAUTRIC Henri, in GUADELOUPE
Grand Mother: ARRONDELL Parfaite
Sisters: VISSEMBERG Corinne, in France –
LAUTRIC Marie-Michelle – Natacha – Micheline – Marie line – Ingrid Henriette, in GUADELOUPE
Special Cousins: ARRONDELL Thierry - SANTIAGO Melvina
ARRONDELL Marie-Elise - CAGAN Jacinta – MARTIN Steve
Rita
Aunts: HALLEY Amour – SAUNDERS Angèle – RICHARDSON Raymonde – FELIX Hélène – BALY Lillie & Lydia – CARTY Gwindeline.
Great Aunt: HOLAND-ARONDELL Florisse
Uncles: VAN HEYNINGEN Clément – ARRONDELL Omer Marius & ROGER – BALY Louis & Constant – MAC DONAL Jean-Luc.
Cousins: ARRONDELL Jean-Paul - Nadia SAUDERS – Clarisse & Unika FELIX – Irena & Arlette ARRONDELL
TO NUMEROS COUSINS TO MENTION
Very close friends: RICHARDSON Christian – HAMLET Marina – SANTIAGO Ovril – QUESTEL Delamo – Gina.
He was related to: LAUTRIC in GUADELOUPE – ARRONDELL – BALY – CARNEY –
FELIX – HALLEY – RATCHEL – ROUMOU – GIBBS – MILLER.
A wake will be held on Tuesday 30 November, 2010 at Clement Van Heyningen’s home in Sandy Ground from 7:00pm to 10:00pm.
The celebration of the late LAUTRIC Xavier, will be held at the Roman Catholic Church in Marigot on Wednesday 1st December 2010.
Viewing and tribute from 1:30 to 2:30 pm.
Service at 2:30 pm fallowed by interment at the Marigot Cemetery.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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It’s with deep sadness in our hearts to announce the passing of beloved brother and son.
Joseph Raymond Hodge b.k.a Rat
Sunrise: 15th November 1954 ~ Sunset 20th February 2010
He leaves to mourn:
Father:
Joseph Hodge bka (Joerup)
Brothers:
James Hodge and family
Enoch Hodge and family
Guy Hodge
Louis Hodge
Antoine Hodge and family in the US
Jean Pierre Brooks in the US
Yvon Illidge
Roger Arrondelle and family
Remy Lake and family
Sisters:
Joycelyne Brooks Emeh and family in the U.S
Jacqueline Hodge in the U.S
Catherine Hodge in the U.S
Morveth Hodge Bosse and family
Claire Liburd and family
Cecile Liburd and family
Uncle:
Alfonso De La Cruz in the Dominican Republic
Special niece:
Nadia Hodge
Many nieces, nephews and cousins to numerous to mention.
He also leaves to mourn many close neighbours and friends; Miss Beryl Boyrard, Johnny Gibbons, Florence Tyrell, Monique Flanders.Jacqueline and Jerry Vanterpool (guadeloupe), Hector Peters, Rosan Maccow, Leno Hughes, Freddy Auguste,Austin Heyleger
He was related to the Hodge, Ruan, Gumbs,Vanterpool, Harrigan, Fleming, Rogers, Duncan & Del la Cruz families.
A wake will be held at the family home in Concordia on Wednesday 24th February,2010 from 7pm to 9pm.
Funeral service for the late Joseph Raymond Hodge b.k.a Rat will be held on Thursday February 25th, 2010 at the Emerald Funeral Home Chapel in Cay Hill. Viewing will be from 1:00pm to 2:00pm. Service will commence at 2:00pm. Followed by interment at the Sandy Ground Cemetery.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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It is with deep sadness in our hearts that we announce the passing of
Avis Merle Lee Fung Otherwise known as Cherry
Born: 3 December 1944 ~ Died: 2 November 2010
She was an ex employee of Intermar Shipping.
She leaves to mourn:
Nieces: Laurett Spragg (Jamaica)
Tashaster Crawford (Jamaica)
Toostsie Tulloch (Jamaica)
Nephews: Don & Dilworth Tulloch (Jamaica)
And many friends in St. Maarten too numerous to mention.
The service of thanksgiving for the life of Avis Merle Lee Fung will be held on Tuesday November 9, 2010 at the Emerald Funeral Home Chapel in Cay Hill. Viewing of the body will be from 2:00pm to 3:00pm. Service will commence at 3:00pm with a private cremation service following thereafter.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May Her Soul Rest in Peace
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It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of our beloved Mother, Sister, Grandmother, Aunt and Friend.
CHRISTIANA JOSEPH
Born on June 24, 1932
Died Tuesday, January 12, 2010 at 8:00pm
Daughter: Rose-Marie JOSEPH, New-York
SON-IN-LAW: Lionel LABADY
BROTHER: Antoinier SEVERE, Haiti
GRANDCHILDREN: Chrisnie Macon, St-Martin
Jean Joel JOSEPH, New-York
Jouline LABADY, New-York
Carlos Macon, St-Martin
Jean Marry Macon
Lionel LABADY
Leineker LABADY
GREATCHILDREN: Chris MASSON
Christopher MASSON
NEPHEWS: AMOS CHARLES, St-Martin
Louinel CHARLES, SXM
Etienne CHARLES, SXM
ENEL SEVER, SXM, SXM
LOUINET ETIENNE, SXM
NIECE: MARLENE SEVERE, SXM
She also leaves to mourn her faithful and trusted neighbours and friends: Marie-AngeDouared, Henry Janvier, Butho Gerard, Petroline, Guillaume Paule & family, Charline Louis, Celide Gourdet, Mrs Raymond Coulange, Mrs Eric Brazila, Christelhomme Paul & family, Raymond Felissaint & family, Francette and many other too numerous to mention.
The funeral service for the late CHRISTIANA JOSEPH will be held on Tuesday, January 19th, 2010 at the Emerald Funeral Home Chapel in Cay Hill. Viewing will be from 1:00pm to 2:00 pm. Service will commence at 2:00pm with interment following at the Marigot Cemetery.
May Her Soul Rest In Peace
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Proverbs 30:5 He is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.
It is deep sadness we announce the passing of our beloved mother, sister, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt & friend
Violet Lendora Chance Tondu better known as Dora or Sister Tondu
Sunrise: November 13th, 1934 – Sunset: July 28th, 2010
Violet Lendora Chance Tondu was the late wife of Henrique Alejandro Tondu aka Papacito
She leaves to mourn
4 Children: Joanita Tondu
Denise Diana Tondu
Jean Tondu
Josiane Tondu-Laville
Stepdaughter: Christina Simeon & Family
14 Grandchildren: Mario Biabiany & Family, Raymond Biabiany in Guadeloupe, Meligen Tondu & Family in the Netherlands, Sharon Smith & Family, Robbie Smith, Willard Smith, Yane Bryan, Richard Martin, Samara Simeon, Dion Petty, Lorenzo Tondu, Joshua Tondu, Nicole Tondu & Joachin Tondu.
14 Great Grandchildren: Anne Shirley, Christopher, Markus, Tricia, Jamal, Jonie, Shequan, Isiah, Lestad, Shanisha, Sheyla, Ruben, Ronaldo & Shanun
2 Brothers: Albert Chance & Family and James Chance & Family
3 Sisters: Ruth Hawley & Family, Josephine Serarie & Family in Guadeloupe and Finch Sherley & Family in the US
Brother-in-law: John Tondu aka Holito
Sister-in law: Lise Tondu-Bordier & Family
Son-in-law: Oswald Laville
Close friends: Apostle Rosemond Romney and Sister Romney & Family, Pastor Ambrose Richardson & Family in Anguilla, Pastor Eugene Hodge, Pastor Constant Hodge, Pastor Victor Belles, Mingau Family (Miss Mapy) and Sister Sylvia Edwards
Many Nieces and Nephews too numerous to mention.
She was related to the: Tondu, Chance (St. Martin & Anguilla), Hawley, Krolis, Biabiany, Carter, Van Heynigen, Gumbs, Hodge and Fleming (Anguilla) families.
The funeral service for the late
Violet Lendora Chance Tondu better known as Dora or Sister Tondu will be held on Wednesday 4th August, 2010 at the Christian Assembly Tabernacle in La Savane Grand Case. Viewing will be from 1:30p.m to 2:30p.m. Service will commence at 2:30p.m. Interment will follow at the Sandy Ground Cemetery.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May Her Soul Rest in Peace
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God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference.
ALFRED G. BRISON aka Fredo or Bado
Sunrise: November 27, 1932
Sunset: July 29, 2010
Those left to mourn:
His Sons:
Wilbert Brison & family in NYC
Melvin Brison & family in SXM
Franklin Philipps & Family in SXM
Keith Artsen & family in SXM
Aloysuis Artsen & family in SXM
Daughters:
Merva Brison & family in NYC
Mercida Romero & family in NYC
Marelva Brison & family in NYC
Earsia Brison in SXM
Pamela Philipps in SXM
Brothers:
Joel Brison & family in SXM
Franklin Brison & family in SXM
Denicio Brison & family in SXM
Sisters:
Esperanza Todman & family in SXM
Gwendolin Westerveld & family in Holland
Gladys Held & family in Aruba
Miranda Arrindell in Holland
Grandchildren: 24
Great Grandchildren: 7
Good Friend: Freddy Macow
He leaves to mourn a host of Nieces, Nephews, Cousins too numerous to mention.
The wake will be held on Wednesday August 4th , 2010 at Poinsette Rd #9 Betty Estate from 7:00 – 10:00 pm
The funeral service will be held on Thursday August 5th, 2010 at the Emerald Funeral Home Chapel in Cay Hill. Viewing will be from 2:00pm to 3:00pm. Service will commence at 3:00pm with interment following at the Cul-de-Sac cemetery.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble.
It is with deep sadness we announce the sudden passing of our beloved son, father, grandfather, brother and friend
Dasent Emmanuel Pemberton b.k.a “Ira” or “Brown”
Sunrise: 29 Nov 1942 ~ Sunset: 25 Aug 2010
Left to mourn are his father Mr. Renold Pemberton in Nevis
His eight children:
Michele Pemberton-Williams (Miami)
Dasent Browne Jr. (Germany)
Deserie Pemberton (Nevis)
Tracy Pemberton (St. Maarten)
Cordelia (Glency)Pemberton (Nevis)
Marguerite (Lisa) Pemberton - Isaac (St. Kitts)
Deora Pemberton (Nevis)
Natassicia Pemberton (Miami)
Sons in law: Christopher Williams (Miami) & Keeden Isaac in St. Kitts
Daughter in law: Lera Browne (Germany)
Grandchildren: Carrim Browne, Tiffani Browne, Adiah Budgeon, Dasente Browne,
Patrice Nisbett, Keeondre Isaac, Camille Williams, Christopher Williams Jr
His brothers:
Christian Pemberton (U.S.A.)
Don Pemberton (Nevis)
Pastor Eversley Pemberton (Nevis)
Glenn Pemberton (Nevis)
Godfrey Browne (Nevis)
James Pemberton (Nevis)
Paul Pemberton (U.S.A.)
Melville Pemberton (Nevis)
Sisters:
Deloris Browne (Holland)
Esther Pemberton (U.S.A.)
Favorite Brother: Don Pemberton in Nevis
Favorite nephew: Everson Powell in SXM
17 nephews and 11 nieces in SXM, Nevis, Holland, and the U.S.A.
13 sisters in law including Mrs. Vera Illidge, Beverly Milliard & Yvonne Pemberton in SXM
4 brothers in law in Nevis and Sxm
Close friends: Ronald and Joyce Carty
Friends: Wanda, Nicole, Sinclaire, Nevile bka Top Secret, and many more too numerous to mention not forgetting the staff at the Airport Cargo Building and all of his loyal customers.
Mr. Dasent Emanuel Pemberton bka Ira, Browne, was related to the Pemberton, Browne, Williams, Isaac,
Powell, Nisbett, Budgeon, Milliard, and IIlidge families.
A Memorial Service will be held at the Emerald funeral home Chapel in Cay Hill on Thursday 02 August 2010. The body can be viewed from 9:00am to 10:00am. Service will commence at 10:00am.
The body will be transported to Nevis for burial on Friday, September 3rd, 2010.
The family will like to thank everyone for their support in this difficult time
of their mourning.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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Revelation 21:4 And GOD shall wipe away all the tears from their eyes and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain, for the former things are passed away.
It is with profound sadness that we announce the home going of Felicienne Hughes – Pieternella, affectionately known as “Rosey”
Sunrise: 9th June 1953 ~ Sunset: 6th September 2010
Left to mourn:
Husband: Hector T. Pieternella
Children: Antonia “Chema” Magloire (USA), Shawn Lokey, Kemani Austrie, Sharena Andrew
Step Children: Ravie Pieternella & Family (Holland), Weiner Pieternella & Family (Holland)
Grandchildren: Jazmine Magloire (USA), Kemiara Austrie, Jakira Austrie, Khayr Austrie
Brother: Gaymond Hughes (USA)
Sisters: Evangeline Hughes (Guadeloupe), Demeter V. Hughes
Daughters in law: Tamika Lake Lokey, Janet Austrie, Sabrina Vrutaal
Brothers in law: Junior Pieternella (Curacao), Edsel Pieternella & Family (Holland)
Sisters in law Gladys Klienmoedig & Family (Curacao), Elista Camille & Family (Curacao)
Close Niece Laura Bryan & Family
Close Cousin Brenda Hughes & Family (Anguilla)
Many Nieces, Nephews, and cousins too numerous to mention
God Son Avery Brooks
Close Friends Aurora Berkel, Noon Holaman, Kerell Maynard, Nadia Gumbs, Carmen Gumbs & Nadira Mohadeo
Care takers Vera & Bernadine
The Staff at Ballerina Jewellers
Dialysis nurses and patients of the St. Maarten Medical Center
She was related to Hughes, Collidor, John, Romere, Pieternella, Austrie, Lokey, Andrew, Lake, Gumbs, Hodge & Connor families
The funeral service for the late Felicienne Hughes-Pieternella affectionally known as Rosey will be held on Monday September 13th, 2010 at the New Testament Baptist Church in Philipsburg. Viewing will be from 2:00pm – 3:00pm. The Service commences at 3:00pm with internment at the Cul-De-Sac Cemetery.
There will be a Wake held at her home on Sunday September 12th, 2010 from 7:00pm – 11:00pm.
The family kindly requests no visitors after the funeral
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May Her Soul Rest in Peace
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Psalm 23: The Lord’s My Shepherd I Shall Not Want.
The funeral service for the late George Elwaldo Racherds will be held on Thursday August 5th, 2010 at The Philipsburg Methodist Church. Viewing and tributes will be from 9:00am to 10:00am, service will commence at 10:00am. Interment will follow at the Mt Pleasant Cemetery in Philipsburg thereafter.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May His Soul Rest in Peace
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Psalm 23: The Lord’s My Shepherd I Shall Not Want.
It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of
Florice Bernadette Nile
Sunrise: July 21st, 1948 ~ Sunset: August 7th, 2010
She was an ex employee of Mullet Bay
She leaves to mourn her:
Mother Helen Niles (SXM)
Daughter Precillia Niles (SXM)
Granddaughter Fabiana Niles (SXM)
Brothers Alfonse Niles (Holland) &Alfread Niles (Curaçao)
Foster Sister Gwendolyn Euson (Curaçao)
Uncle Reycaldo Hodge aka “Brother” (Anguilla)
Son-in-law Owen Lanammans (SXM)
God Sister Paulina Dollison (Philadelphia)
God children Sharina Jeffers (Holland),Lizette Carty & Family (SXM) & Suzy Isabbella (Holland)
Cousins James Lake & Family (SXM)
Agnete Brooks & Family (Anguilla)
Mary Froston & Family (SXM)
Joycelyn Froston & Family (SXM)
Don Froston & Family (SXM)
Monique Gumbs & Family (SXM)
Dunstune Richardson & Family (Anguilla)
Felicia Priest & Family (SXM)
Anita Priest & Family (SXM)
Edith Priest & Family (Holland)
Johanna Hodge & Family (French SXM)
Majorie Gumbs & Family (SXM)
Lionel Hazel & Family (SXM)
Julian Lake & Family (SXM)
Majorie Gumbs & Family (SXM)
Eilda Radjouki & Family (SXM)
Edwardo Radjouki & Family (SXM)
Helen Mulcare & Family (New York)
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Nieces Grenalda Schoobaar (Curaçao) & Georgette Schoobaar (Holland)
Nephews Winstone Niles (Holland),Shawn Philp (Curaçao) & George Schoobar (Curaçao)
Close friends Adie Hanson & Family (French SXM)
Grenet Levons & Family (SXM)
Georgina Richardson & Family (SXM)
Ramon Richardson & Family (SXM)
Mary Robinet (SXM)
Iris Newton & Family (SXM)
Eddy Ruan & Family (SXM)
Ercita Isabbella (Holland)
Hugo Curiel (SXM)
Teacher Clara Curiel (SXM)
Nitcha Scott (Curacao)
Monique Wilson (SXM)
Ikey Morris & Family (SXM)
Mariea Ammountrading & Family (Anguilla)
Lillian Holaman & Family (SXM)
Glen Fecunda (SXM)
Leroy Hutchinson & Family (SXM)
Mona Hutchinson & Family (SXM)
Roosha Hutchinson & Family (SXM)
Diana Bute & Family (French SXM)
Verna Euson (SXM)
Roosha Vanterpool-Euson (SXM)
Mercedes Thomas & Family
Many other family and friends too numerous to mention.
She was related to the: Niles, Euson, Jeffers, Isabbella, Hodge, Lake, Brooks, Froston, Gumbs, Richardson, Priest, Hazel, Hanson, Dollison, Radjouki, Hutchinson & Mulcare families.
The funeral arrangements for the late Florice Bernadette Niles will be announced in a subsequent announcement.
The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.
May Her Soul Rest in Peace
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Citizens of St. Maarten should immediately demand an investigation into why there is no blood bank on St. Maarten, why urgently needed blood was not immediately sought from other sources on the island (including radio broadcasts urging residents to go to the St. Maarten Medical Center), why medical authorities on Curacao refused to immediately transport blood to the clinic to save the lives of a mother and unborn child, how many deaths in St. Maarten were the result of a lack of available blood, and why citizens of St. Maarten are NOT afforded the same quality of medical care as their fellow citizens in Holland. All residents should DEMAND the immediate funding for blood banks throughout St. Maarten. A St. Maarten Bloodmobile (a mobile blood drive vehicle on a specially constructed and equipped bus) should be purchased and used to travel to many locations, making it easy for people to donate blood. The Bloodmobile should be named in honor of Mrs. Shaka Wilson.
It appears Shaka Wilson, a citizen of Eilandgebied Sint Maarten (Island Territory of St. Maarten), and her unborn baby died because St. Maarten has no blood bank, and the St. Maarten Medical Center was unable to get blood from other sources in time. This is 2010, not 1950, and the people on St. Martin still seem to be treated as "unworthy indigenous natives" not entitled to the quality of medical care afforded to citizens of Hollard, France or the entire European Union. There is absolutely no excuse for St. Maarten not to have a working blood bank!
According to the brilliant interview conducted by SMN News, "...But he <Dr. Michel Petit> was informed that the doctor in charge did not want to operate because the patient had severe HELLP syndrome and her platelets were very low. According to what I <Dr. Michel Petit> was told by Dr. Friday the patient had no coagulation and the risk of operating was rather high." The risk of operation may have been high, but only due to the lack of a blood transfusion (see below).
He said the hospital did not have the amount of blood needed and the doctor felt it was better for him to wait for blood which was to be sent from Curacao the following day. "The patient was very sick but the doctor had to take an immediate decision to assist the baby and mother."
On St. Maarten it's the decision that counts, there is no blood bank and other necessities here and doctors have to use their best judgment to save lives." Wait for the blood until the following day?
From the article: "He said when the first blood test was done the patient had a platelet count that was over 170,000 and when the second blood test was done a month ago it was 70,000. This shows that her platelet count dropped by 60% and the doctor did not take heed. Even though all of this happened the doctor who treated her when she was in the hospital did not see it fit to notify him."
The platelet count has been found to be moderately predictive of severity: under 50,000/mm3 is class I (severe), between 50,000 and 100,000 is class II (moderately severe) and >100,000 is class III (mild). This system is termed the Mississippi classification. (Martin JN, Blake PG, Lowry SL, Perry KG, Files JC, Morrison JC (1990)) "The outcome for mothers with HELLP syndrome is generally good. With treatment, maternal mortality is about 1 percent." Sibai BM, Ramadan MK, Usta I, Salama M, Mercer BM, Friedman SA (1993).
"Five to seven percent of all pregnant women in the United States develop preeclampsia and between two and 12 percent go on to suffer from HELLP Syndrome. Best estimates are that HELLP Syndrome occurs in one per 150 live births (about one half of one percent), with a maternal mortality rate of 3.50 percent. These numbers will vary with attention to the mothers care. If preeclampsia is diagnosed early and the baby is delivered, HELLP may not develop. The rate of HELLP and the mortality will then be lower than stated." -- Preeclampsia Foundation
Treatment for HELLP include blood transfusions (for severe anemia and low platelets), magnesium sulfate (to prevent seizures), antihypertensive medications (to reduce blood pressure), fetal monitoring (to check the health of the fetus), laboratory testing of liver, urine, and blood (for changes that may signal worsening of HELLP syndrome), medications, called corticosteroids, that may help mature the lungs of the fetus (lung immaturity is a major problem of premature babies) – all of which should be available to all patients on St. Maarten!
In clear language, with a blood transfusion, Shaka Wilson and her baby had a 97% to 99% chance of survival. So why not have a blood bank in St. Maarten? The cost? No need? No capability? No understanding of the urgency of blood in medical emergencies?
What are "blood banks" and what do they collect and store?
A blood bank is a cache or bank of blood or blood components, gathered as a result of blood donation, stored and preserved for later use in blood transfusions. Most hospital blood banks perform testing to determine the blood type of patients and to identify compatible blood products for blood transfusions, along with a battery of tests (e.g. disease) and treatments (e.g. leukocyte filtration) to ensure and enhance quality. "Whole blood" (WB) is the proper name for one defined product, specifically unseparated venous blood with an approved preservative added. Most blood for transfusion is collected as whole blood. Autologous donations are sometimes transfused without further modification, however whole blood is typically separated (via centrifugation) into its components, with Red Blood Cells (RBC) in solution being a commonly used product. Units of WB and RBC are both kept refrigerated at 1-6 C, with maximum permitted storage periods (shelf lives) of 35 and 42 days respectively.
The less-dense blood plasma is made into a variety of frozen components, and is labeled differently based on when it was frozen and what the intended use of the product is. If the plasma is frozen promptly and is intended for transfusion, it is typically labeled as fresh frozen plasma. If it is intended to be made into other products, it is typically labeled as recovered plasma or plasma for fractionation. Cryoprecipitate can be made from other plasma components. These components must be stored at -18C or colder, but are typically stored at -30C.
Blood banks have been around since 1915. By the mid-1930s, the Soviet Union had set up a system of at least sixty large blood centers and more than 500 subsidiary ones, all storing "canned" blood and shipping it to all corners of the country. An important breakthrough came in 1939-40 when Karl Landsteiner, Alex Wiener, Philip Levine, and R.E. Stetson discovered the Rh blood group system, which was found to be the cause of the majority of transfusion reactions up to that time. Three years later, the introduction of acid-citrate-dextrose (ACD) solution, which reduces the volume of anticoagulant, permitted transfusions of greater volumes of blood and allowed longer term storage.
Routine blood storage is limited to several weeks (5 for WB, 6 for RBC), and involves refrigeration but usually not freezing. Cryopreservation of red blood cells is done to store rare units, usually for up to three years. Very rare units may be kept even longer. The cells are incubated in a glycerol solution which acts as a cryoprotectant ("antifreeze") within the cells. The units are then placed in special sterile containers in a freezer at very cold temperatures.
Who needs blood?
The need for blood is great. Every day in the U.S., approximately 40,000 units of blood are required in hospitals and emergency treatment facilities for patients with cancer and other diseases, for organ transplant recipients, and to help save the lives of accident/trauma victims. In 2006, more than 30 million blood components were transfused. And with an aging population and advances in medical treatments and procedures requiring blood transfusions, the demand for blood continues to increase.
What are the criteria for blood donation?
Volunteer donors provide all blood used for transfusion in the United States. To be eligible to donate blood, a person must be in good health and generally must be at least 16 years of age (or in accordance with applicable state law). Minimum weight requirements may vary among facilities, but generally, donors must weigh at least 110 pounds. Most blood banks have no upper age limit. All donors must pass the physical and health history examinations given prior to donation. Individuals may be temporarily ineligible to donate due to mild illnesses (colds or flu), symptomatic allergies, hypertension, diabetes and anemia. The donor's body replenishes the fluid lost from donation in 24 hours. It may take up to two weeks to replace the lost red blood cells. Whole blood can be donated once every eight weeks (56 days). Two units of red blood cells can be donated at one time, using a process known as red cell apheresis. This type of donation can be made every 16 weeks.
Everyone should know what their blood type is, and your doctor should order a test and tell you for emergency situations. 39% of the general population has O positive blood, which are "universal donors" because anyone with another blood type can receive their blood. 31% have A positive blood. All others are between 9% and 1%.
It should be obvious that a blood bank is necessary. Hemorrhage is a medical emergency that is frequently encountered by physicians in emergency rooms, operating rooms, and intensive care units. Significant loss of intravascular volume may lead sequentially to hemodynamic instability, decreased tissue perfusion, cellular hypoxia, organ damage, and death. Hemorrhagic shock can be rapidly fatal – especially in car accidents when patients are not transported immediately to a medical care facility. The primary goals are to stop the bleeding and to restore circulating blood volume – through blood transfusion. In Afghanistan 98% of traumatic injury patients survive when they arrive at the U.S. hospital on the Bagram Air Base. Can the SMMC claim the same success without a blood bank?
With the 2010 hurricane season rapidly approaching and the probable high number of traumatic injuries from flying objects, blood supplies are urgently needed on St. Maarten. To delay the acquisition of everything needed to properly store large amounts of blood is to increase the chance of additional preventable deaths such as the case of Mrs. Shaka Wilson and Baby Wilson.
Dr. Claude Bordelon, M.D.
The cooperation protocol signed this week Wednesday by justice system representatives comprising of Police, Office of the Public Prosecutor, Court of Guardianship, Prison & Probation Department, to tackle the rise in youth criminality is a start. This form of cooperation is not only happening on Sint Maarten, but has been recognized as a necessity in the fight for the lives of young people. For example, several U.S. Virgin Island agencies have also just this month come together joining forces to fight against what they call the increasing problem of gangs in the U.S.V.I.
The group is made up of the U.S. Attorney's Office, the V.I. Police Department, Project Safe Neighbourhoods V.I. and the V.I. Department of Education. These are just some of the agencies who have come together to form the "V.I. Anti-Gang Committee."
By almost any measure, children in the U.S. Virgin Islands are worse off now than they were 10-years ago, according to "Kids Count," an annual report on the status of children in the U.S.V.I. The report draws a picture of the challenges and trends facing youths. In eight of the 12 general categories of the report, conditions are worse now than they were in 2009 and only better in two. For example, the percentage of children in single-parent households has risen from 35.6 per cent to almost 56 per cent – more than half the children in the U.S.V.I. live with only one parent.
The U.S.V.I. is just one Caribbean nation whose youth are in peril. One U.S. law enforcement officer who deals with gangs in the United States and who was recently in Barbados says that Barbadians are in denial when it comes to gangs and that they needed to accept there was indeed gang activity on the island.
The U.S. law enforcement official said lack of family support, low self-esteem, financial opportunity and peer pressure were some of the reasons young people were joining a gang. The policeman also cautioned parents to talk to their children, enrol them in wholesome activities, and monitor what they were watching on television.
Bermuda is another island suffering from gang violence within its community. The island has sought assistance from England and more than a dozen firearms officers from the former will arrive on the island shortly to help tackle the rising gang violence.
According to Bermuda Family Centre Director Peter Carey, the breakdown of core family values lies at the root of the gang violence that blights that island. He says that it will only get worse unless Bermudians are given the support and guidance they need in the home at a young age, adding that 10 per cent of the community could be in "crisis."
From his experience, he has found that young people are desperate to belong, be valued and have a purpose, and often fall into gang culture if their home life is inadequate. Carey is of the opinion that if nothing is done now, the community will raise a generation of children who will be unable to sustain a healthy society when they become adults.
Families in chronic chaos live below the normal values for social order. This results in crime and lawlessness which is clearly evident in certain parts of Jamaica as has been seen during the state of emergency this week where criminal elements have been defying law and order.
Carey says that the crisis in youth development did not happen overnight, but happened very slowly, adding that the association with gangs show that young people are desperate to belong and be valued and have a purpose.
For society to develop children need a sense of identity and a sense of worth and that comes from those around them, such as immediate family members. Carey adds that problems of youth that exist today are the result of not acting in the past. Family cultures do not get established in a couple of years, but build over generations. He says that there is unaddressed anger and trauma and it has decayed and got worse.
I do believe that Carey's analysis of Bermuda is very much in line with what is happening on our island. Considerable investments will have to be made in the post-10-10-10 era of country status; a policy plan backed by all stakeholders as the way forward will need to be formulated by our Minister of Public Health, Social Development & Labour. Our future ministry will need the human resources and tools to be able to tackle our societal problems, and this is going to be a considerable investment but one well worth it.
With 10-10-10 on the horizon and approaching as each day goes by, as a nation we have to reflect on our generation of young people and whether they will be able to sustain a healthy Sint Maarten society in the future. After all, they only seek to belong, be valued and have a purpose.
Roddy Heyliger
With interest, we have taken notice of the opportunity for stakeholders to have their input in the final drafting of the Constitution for Country St. Maarten.
It requires absolutely no debate to recognize, that one of the most important stakeholders in this process are our young people, since it is them, more than anyone else, who will actually have to live according to laws as formulated in the Constitution.
Therefore we agree with a very powerful statement made by Senator, drs. Rodolph Samuel, during the radio call-in program of Lloyd Richardson on Sunday May 23, 2010.
According to the Senator the Constitution is established only once in a lifetime, but will govern the lives of our young people for a number of generations to come.
Considering all the above-mentioned and other relevant arguments, we appeal to you to allow the NEW ERA foundation, which represents young people with its objectives to promote their general wellbeing, to assist with involving them in the final drafting of this most important legal document, especially with laws that will directly or indirectly affect them. The New Era foundation have already started with a program, amongst other programs, to mold and shape the lives of young people on St. Martin and will be pleased to establish a public-private partnership to ensure that Young People understand that they too should be a part of the
constitutional process.
Allowing for such would send out a most convincing message to our young people that their role in this historical process is not only appreciated, but is an absolute condition as well.
In addition, such would also offer our young people a most constructive and needed alternative to the many temptations within our society resulting in criminal behavior which in turn is having a most devastating impact on our society.
A constitution, which is not co-authored by young people and which does not clearly address their issues will never get their support, in spite of all good intentions of adult professionals, is most definitely doomed to failure, making it a waste of time.
We appeal to you to allow for our input. In addition we believe that you should not to be pressured to finalize this most important document.
Getting it right for our people for generations to come, is far more important than meeting and succumbing to the political dead-lines of others.
In conclusion we express our hope that you will give our young people not only residing on St. Martin but also those that reside abroad, since they are our country's greatest resource and the future of this country, the opportunity together with a delegation of our foundation to meet with your Government on this vital issue.
C. Jeffrey Richardson
P.R.O. New Era Foundation
During Saturday's manifestation on the 'Treaty of Concordia', one of the speakers, a well-known politician, known for her eloquent rhetorical abilities, told the crowd gathered that she need not sign any covenant with the St. Martin people.
Bravo.
We certainly did not demand of any politician to sign or not to sign our proposed document as sign of hard commitment to the people of St. Martin.
Whether any particular politician wants to sign or not, in and of itself is totally irrelevant.
What IS relevant, is that the St. Martin PEOPLE will be able to find out who signed and who did not sign.
Consequently, the St. Martin people will be able to draw their own conclusions based on whether politicians have indicated the willingness to COMMIT themselves in writing to the 'Strengthening & preserving of the St. Martin identity, oneness and traditional way of life' which is in keeping with the spirit of the Treaty of Concordia.
Nice words, promises and rhetoric which are not backed up by written commitments, are simply empty promises and solace those who want to be fooled ...again.
So, based on the free choice of the politicians to sign or not to sign, they be identified either as patriots or as traitors of the rights of St. Martin people.
For the record.
Long gone is the time of any colonial-like 'trust me on my nice face & looks' as proof or guarantee that our future as a people will be protected by our political leaders.
We live in a modern-day age, where we can not take any 'trust me on my nice looks & face' can be taken to the 'bank' or to the negotiating table with either the Dutch and/or the Dutch and/or with others.
What counts and what the politicians will be judged on in the time to come, is whether or not they placed their 'John Henry' on the covenant with the St. Martin people guaranteeing their unwavering commitment to 'Strengthen & preserve our St. Martin identity, our oneness & our traditional way of life' which is above and beyond the spirit of the Treaty of Concordia.
Time will tell.
--
Leopold James
President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia
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On April 20, 2010, I received an email form my good friend, and owner of the radio-station SOS 95.9 F.M., Mr. Billy D. HAMLET.
In this email, Mr. HAMLET notified me that he had put me down as a guest speaker during the manifestation on the Treaty of Concordia, to be held on Saturday, May 15, 2010 at the Waterfront in Marigot.
Although, I do not necessarily feel comfortably speaking publicly, my response was; 'Billy, anytime you invite me to speak in the interest of St. Martin people, I will consider such wish a command to which I will comply forthwith'.
And so ever since, I have been also hearing, on a daily basis the advertisement promoting this event and the names of those invited to speak including mine.
The result has been that, I have literally been 'bombarded' with compliments from my St. Martin people.
But, far more important that that to me, are the many sentiments shared with me by my St. Martin people with the urgent request to express these on their behalf.
In addition, I had the distinct honor and privilege to caucus with a large number of very outstanding St. Martiners, who gave me their input, support and blessing that, whatever I said that night, would be regarded as also speaking for them.
This has been a very humbling experience to me and I wish to thank therefore each and every St. Martiners for his/her support and trust to be their voice and I pledge to make a lasting impact that will go far above and beyond the usual nice rhetoric.
In ending, I hope and pray that the good Lord will put the right words in my mouth when I address you the St. Martin people on Saturday, May 15, 2010 at the Waterfront in Marigot.
Also I hereby wish to express my sincerest thanks to Mr. Billy D. HAMLET for having the courage to invite me, a non elected public-office holder to share the platform with those who have been duly elected in public office.
Love and respect,
Leopold James
On May, 5th 2010, an appeal was made to the people of Saint Martin to gather and support Mr Robert ROMNEY, Head of the Department of Education on the Northern side of the island.
Indeed, few brave Saint Martiners came out and showed their concern. I would like to thank them for taking such a bold stand in supporting the committee. We went through the streets of Marigot and were welcomed at the Collectivity Hall by Mrs Claire Javois Guion-Firmin with some of her colleagues and her staff. We discussed the matter and Mrs Guion-Firmin proposed that a motion be voted on the next Territorial Council Meeting to be held on Tuesday, May 11th.
Effectively, that motion was proposed to the council and voted unanimously by the councilors. In that motion, not only was asked the maintain of Mr Romney but also that the situation of bilinguism be considered seriously and officially in order to allow equal chances to all children studying here on French Saint Martin. It was also unanimously demanded that Saint Martin be given a fully organized department of Education with decision of power and more autonomy. This is known as a Vice Rectorat.
I personally, as a union leader, knew what was going to happen! On Friday, I received a call from Guadeloupe telling me that Mr Romney's position was open for candidacy as he won't be in Saint Martin from September 1st 2010!
My question is addressed to the ruling party UPP : Why have you been so supportive to President Sarkozy's party since nothing you ask for is granted to you ???? What is the purpose of us being represented at the National level since we cannot decide what we want for our island? Was Article 74 just a masquerade for the People of this country ? When are you going to stop the lip service that you give to the people? Are you really for we the Saint Martin people?
How longer will you, politicians, betray the people of this country? We have the issue with Mr Romney, we have the issue with the Hospital! How long will you accept that Saint Martiners be wiped out of the building of their country?
St Barths is continually giving us lessons on how to govern ! It seems that there is a policy for the rich and a policy for the poor! St Barths with 1 300 schoolchildren was given a Head of Department ! Saint Martin has 9 000 and Mr Romney was doing the job by himself !
Saint Martin is good to all who come to her, why not to us, her children?
I am appealing to you, the people to come out on Wednesday, May 19th to defend the right to justice, the right to respect, the right to work and live as first class citizens in our country! How long are we going to accept the humiliation and the disrespect ?
Up to this date, Mr Romney was never informed officially of his transfer to Guadeloupe! His work was never evaluated and more important, any civil servant when removed from his position without his agreement is considered having received a disciplinary sanction!
If Mr Romney was sanctioned,then , can the Recteur of Guadeloupe tell us what were his faults ?
SAINT MARTIN PEOPLE, IT IS TIME FOR US TO DEFEND OURSELVES ! WE NEED TO BE RESPECTED IN OUR COUNTRY !
Let us not forget that government is OURSELVES and not some alien POWER over US !
The ULTIMATE RULERS are the voters of this country!!!
Aline Choisy
Dear Hanae,
You did not only make your grandma, Aline CHOISY and keynote-speaker and historian Daniella JEFFRY proud of you.
You made ALL of us feel very proud of you.
Among all of those who attended that ceremony on Saturday May 1, you were THE 'star'... OUR St. Martin's bright star....
Hanae, please continue in the footsteps of your great ancestors, do your best at school, aim for the stars and never let anyone discourage you in achieving whatever YOU believe in.
You have it in you to lead this country into a bright future and we need bright, smart and proud leaders like you.
Love you.
On behalf of all proud St. Martiners,
Leopold JAMES, president SNBF/L'Esprit de Concordia
Jeffrey RICHARDSON, PR-Officer of the New Era Foundation
On Wednesday, April 28, 2010 the following article appeared in the Daily Herald; 'No Quorum for meeting on constitution and laws, which we recommend you read for yourselves.
Here is our reaction to what Island-council lady Sarah WESCOTT-WILLIAMS has reportedly stated in said article.
Not always have we agreed with the good Council-lady.
As a matter of fact, SELDOM have we agreed with the former leader of Government.
There was an exception however, when we not only agreed with Sarah, but SUPPORTED her in no uncertain terms as well.
That independent position we took at the time, earned us the 'chagrin' of the N.A.-Alliance, a party in which we have many good friends as well as family members as well.
However, we did offer the good lady our support, because it was about something larger than politics.
It was about her concern about certain issues still being 'outstanding' in the draft constitution for 'Country St. Maarten'
This concern had been expressed by the lady to the media on Tuesday, February 16, 2010.
After that, it had become 'conspicuously' quiet around this concern of the lady.
We did not 'buy into' the 'politically conventional' rumors that she was just 'playing politics'.
Not that we ruled such 'game' out, because we certainly do not believe that we live in 'Alice in Wonderland'.
No, it was about in spite of all odds perhaps, still giving her 'the benefit of the doubt'.
Lo and behold, in the Daily Herald of today again, the lady repeats that she; 'will not stand idly by while the constitution is rammed down the throats of the people' and that 'No one has the right to give us a deadline by which we have to get the constitution ready'
Great, bravo!
Again this time we FULLY agree with the council-lady SAYS and offer our support in that regards.
It is up to her to now 'activate' her rhetoric and she will be able to count on us the people.
And for the record again we say to the N.A. party-boss and followers.
Do not make that irreconcilable mistake to take us the St. Martin people for granted.
One Claude Wathey was enough !
The constitution should be about US the ST.MARTIN PEOPLE and should reflect US and OUR interests and we do not give one 'hoot' who wants to speed it up.
As far as we are concerned they who want to ram it down our throats are invited to go where there is 'eternal darkness'.
--
Leopold James
President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia
-------
'Find a way to correct the sell-out of the Antillean People by amending
the constitution...your last chance'.
First of all, it is my privilege to commend a number of persons whorecently had the intelligence, professional independence and courage to publicly question the decisions taken in the Hague during the discussions on the Kingdom Consensus Laws.
They did such in-spite of all the 'hoopla' about what was signed off to, or better said what was 'signed away' during those negotiations.
For speaking out publicly on this most important issue pertaining to our constitutional rights, Paul ROGERS Consensus Law, in the TODAY
of Thursday, April 22, 1010 Senator Reginald ZAANDAM Zaandam tells
it like it is, in the Daily Herald of Thursday, April 22, 2010 andMr. Eldrige VAN PUTTEN Constitutional Change in the Daily Herald of Wednesday, April 21, 2010 have done our community a very great service.
In particular the letter to the editor by Mr. VAN PUTTEN, we consider a 'classical' .
More than that.
It constitutes a cry of the people and a an outright historic indictment of the political leaders of St. Maarten and of the other
islands for in fact selling out sold out the dignity, the rights and autonomy of the Antilles, with the Dutch conveniently and opportunistically serving as collaborators in betraying the people of the Antilles, for their own neocolonial and commercial purposes.
Consequently, the following question should be answered by the political leaders when they return from the Netherlands and expect the people to come out and celebrate '10-10-10'.
What sane people celebrate betrayal ?
And what do we the *PEOPLE *of this island stand to gain from this '10-10-10' gimmick other than most certainly having to pay taxes 'through our noses' and probably lose our land and patrimony to the expected influx of Dutch consultants, technical-assistants and business people.
Do not forget, that since St. Maarten will be deemed 'not ready' on most counts, the functioning and operation of most departments and ministries will automatically be executed and/or controlled in the end by the Dutch Government.
So much for the 'increased' autonomy of country St. Maarten, come '10-10-10'
Clearly, negotiating with the Dutch, requires people who are fully aware, that one of their biggest 'assets' is that they are consumate merchants, formerly also known as piracy.
Also for the record.
In none of the many critical reports about St. Maarten,(*BAKHUIS-,POURIER reports* etc) was there ever an indication that the main cause for the many problems in the Antilles was the constitutional (Antillean-) system.
On the contrary.
Ours was one of the best and most stable in the entire Caribbean, reason why many are attracted to these island, never wanting to ever leave again !
*ALWAYS* the main cause of our socio-economic misery was *INCOMPETENCE & **CORRUPTION IN HIGH PLACES.*
And what have the Dutch done to 'remedy' that systemic problem ? Well, in a game of chess called constitutional talks, they gave the 'crumbs' (so-called*/ 'debt-relief' and other expired Sinterklaas 'candies') to the Antillean players only to capture the 'Queen' and consequently annex and recolonize the Antilles, including the potentially very, lucrative Saba -bank resource**s.
Check-mate !
So, consequently they DESTROYED the good constitutional system which only needed amendment, they BETRAYED the people, they MAINTAINED and finally they REWARDED the same crooks in high place.
Long live the Dutch pragmatism and the beginning of the real challenge
when '10-10-10' hits the'ground'.
But, be warned that this act of betrayal will evoke a curse by the spirit by our departed ancestors including the greats like dr. Da Costa GOMEZ.
Nevertheless, leaders of the 'Friendly island', your last chance might be to amend the constitution on all the islands to recognize and to maintain and to protect the rights of the Antilleans to come first.
Should you fail do do even that, 'Crappo smike yo' pipe.
In ending delegation-members, welcome back home, to the reality 'on
the ground'.
drs. Leopold JAMES,
Proud, native-indigenous St. Martiner, without apologies.-
Dear Judge VAN VEEN,
Your esteemed attention is kindly requested in the following matter,
The TODAY-newspaper on Tuesday, June 1, 2010 carried some very interesting information.
Case in point.
On page 3 of the TODAY-newspaper the following is reported' 'Court confirms that Americans do not need a work permit'.(See attachment)
Then, as if to 'send home' a message, in the same paper in its section 'Today Opinion & Commentary' the editor addresses more attention to this news-item under the heading 'Americans'.(See same attachment)
We will quote the last two segments of 'Americans';
'Because it is most unlikely that the island territory will take take any initiative in this direction of its own accord, it is up Americans who feel short-changed by incorrectly applied regulations to take action themselves.
And,...
' They have a solid court ruling to back up their positions, and the island territory will now have to find a way to come to terms with it.'
Even more interesting is the remark a native St. Martin blogger sent to me today, your Honor.
Quote;
'I hope someone will challenge the need for Sint Martiners getting a green card to work in the USA. As you know the basic and most important principle in a friendship treaty is that of RECIPROCITY . If the USA doesn't reciprocate than the Treaty is null and void. That should be a way of getting rid of that treaty because the USA will never accept it .'
In other words, if this so called 'Friendship Treaty' only favors ONE of the parties and NOT the other equally, then the question is; 'does not a court-verdict that does not take this into account commit an act of discrimination ' ?
Meanwhile, Judge VEEN the confidence of the public in general and of the St. Martin people in particular in the legal system, would be well served, if the court would be so kind as to give an informative lecture to the public at large on the matter in an appropriate setting.
After all, honorable Judge VEEN, justice should not only be for those who have the financial means and/or come from a culture in which people are more assertive and knowledgeable of their rights.
As you Judge VEEN, it is well known, that the natives of this country are always at the 'shortest end of the stick', simply because they have no one to defend them and because they have systematically been indoctrinated to be inferior and hospitable to 'others'.even if this is returned to them with scorn, disrespect and hostility.
As an intellectual I would like to believe that you clearly understand and respect the role that I have taken upon myself to play in the best interest of my people.
After all, I too was educated and intellectually 'molded' in the Netherlands.
With respect,
drs. Leopold JAMES
President St. Martin grass root nation building & unification movement and,
Proud native St. Martiners, without apologies.
I am a born Sint Maartener, residing on this island for many years and have experienced the evolution of what has made this island become what it is today. We have seen investors come and go, we have seen immigrants come and go,
We have seen politicians come and go and we have seen a lot of our own natives come and go. This island has contributed to one and all in many different ways. The immigrants have been able to come here and make a living in order to support their families in their countries of origin. The investor have been able to come and invest, reaping the benefits that this island has to offer. The rapid growth over the past decades placed Sint Maarteners at a disadvantage,
not having the vision to be able to see the opportunities that this island had to offer back in the seventies and eighties.
We saw our Sint Maarten families selling their properties due to this lack of vision, with no one warning them of the consequences that this would bring in the future. Government has contributed to this growth both positively and negatively.
The reality and fact, is that we have all contributed in creating the Sint Maarten that we now have. A reality that we cannot change, but we must embrace and improve on for the benefit of the generations to come. As a born Sint Maartener with roots dated back for many generations, I too have to face the realities of what Sint Maarten have become, a melting pot of many nationalities coexisting together.
Born Sint Maarteners, both French and Dutch, Antilleans and Aruban natives with family ties, Dutch European nationals, naturalized persons who came from other Caribbean islands and the rest of the world, integration of our Sint Maarteners/ Dutch Antilleans with other nationalities by way of marriage, are just some of the areas in what we are experiencing as this new Sint Maarten. In outlining all of this, it is imperative that we as Sint Maarteners lead, because the others are waiting for us to do so. In leading, one must have vision and be able to take charge in giving direction to a people. In the last years we have noticed that finally the Sint Maarteners are waking up and have begun their fight for better opportunities on this island. We have seen governments, by way of greedy politicians, malicious civil servants and Lt.Governors, block opportunities presented by our native Sint Maarteners. How can government at this time use procedures and bureaucracy to hamper these opportunities, when governments have given off most of the people's prime land to foreign investors. We are jeopardizing our people from growing, while we have given huge plots of government land for hardly nothing to Maho Resort, who are in turn only submitting plans for more property, while they are not able to develop what they already have, selling condo's and villas for millions of dollars while government collects cents on the square meter. The Port the Plaisance group now controls the famous Kim Sha beach, an area that we the people have been able to enjoy over the years, while they have not added any new investments to this island. We see this same group enjoying many privileges with high authorities in disguise with foundations doing worthy community causes. We see past governments granting additional property in long lease to the Isle Del Sol, famous Snoopy Island, while the only thing that they have done so far is build a marina and present dream plans of which they have no funds to invest. We see past governments granting the last parcel of prime government property in long lease at the entrance to pelican to a Mexican Group, who have developed and sold luxury condos, raising millions in revenues while paying small canon fees to government. We see the Mullet Bay Group not showing willingness to clean up their mess, while the rest of the island have complied and re-developed Sint Maarten since hurricane Luis. We see governments continue to facilitate those who already have, while those who have been asking are being rejected and turned down. I say to you politicians who can and are willing to make a difference, wake up. The elected power is in your hands and not in the hands of a Lt. Governor/ a few arrogant civil servants and technical assistants, who have been manipulating an authority that they do not have. Politicians wake up. If the system is not working in the benefit of the people who elected you to office, then do the responsible thing and present changes on both level of the Executive and Island Council to bring about these changes. We hear government owned companies such as GEBE and PJIAE boast of funds that they have in reserve, while half of the island still has overhead cabling and our main highway infrastructure from the airport is in dire need of improvement. For this it is fitting to applaud the contributions made by the Harbor Group of Companies. Changes are coming and have come to eradicate this mentality of greed and malicious selfishness that has infested this island and more specifically government authorities.
I would say to our government. Do not let that fear that has been created by the Dutch; by way of this Lt. Governor hamper you in your quest to serve the people of this island. This is the time to open these doors for the People so that they too will be able to enjoy what they have seen others enjoy on their island due to lack of proper representation. We will not apologize for being ambitious and we have begun our fight to eradicate Sint Maarten of those who have been blocking our growth as a People. Life has taught us that what we sow we shall reap. We cannot determine the fate of one, for it is the road that we must all walk and is determined by either the good or the bad that we do in life.
The Real Voice of the People
Gustavo L. Williams
With the exception of a few un-repenting 'die-hards' & 'party-cult-followers', St. Martin people are showing strong signs of an emerging sense of pride, intelligence and ability to distinguish between lip-service and real, genuine hard-core commitment.
Gone, therefore are the days that people would blindly entrust their very heart, soul, property and vote to politicians, who looked and talked oh so (much and) 'nice'.
Over the years, many politicians have developed that 'bs-skill' as their most potent and successful 'modus operandi' to be elected over and over again and to 'amass' wealth, property and forget about the people power once in public office.
Anyone who 'dared' even question them would run the risk being 'made an example', demonized, ridiculed and intimidated.
To prove their 'loyalty to party', certain followers would be more than willing to execute theses 'honorable' type of tasks.
That was how brain-washed and conditioned many people have been for generations.
Forget that their own leaders never really cared for them or their families and that they were simply taken for granted...
No more that.......
A paradigm-shit, a transformation, a mental revolution is in the psyche of many St. Martiners is rapidly replacing that mental slavery
It might not YET have risen to the point where they OPENLY question their leaders.
But, that should hardly be considered a 'comforting thought' to any political leader.....
this because it are the PRIVATE confessions that tell a whole DIFFERENT story.
While, yes, many might not like the MESSENGER, most certainly understand and fully agree with the MESSAGE !
St. Martin people of ALL possible, political and other persuasions feel totally DECEIVED and BETRAYED by ALL the present politicians.
These politicians out of 'one corner of their mouth', give great lip-service and TALK the St. Martin-talk.
But, when it comes to transforming all these beautiful expressions into COMMITMENT, they find all kinds of ridiculous EXCUSES not to commit themselves.
Excuses, like BLAMING 'Curacao' and the Europeans for our misery or, suddenly they have previous commitments to attend abroad.
Nevertheless, no matter how much the political leaders and their media-henchmen might want to portray us, fact of the matter is that many of the politicians OWN followers and family-members are seriously 'cooping' if they think they can continue to think that 'lip-service' is still an asset that can BUY the trust of the St. Martin People.
There is change in the air and soon the people will demand commitment for if politicians want their vote..
It is like asking for a loan from the bank.
You only get it, when you COMMIT your valuable assets to the one who will only then entrust you with the capital.you so desperately want.
So, soon the politicians will only be entrusted with what they desperately want which is your vote, only AFTER they have COMMITTED their signature as asset to a COVENANT with the people on issues of critical importance to the St. Martin people..
Have a nice weekend,
Leopold JAMES
President of the only, undisputed, loyal grass root St. Martin nation building & unification movement and still.....
Proud, native-indigenous st. Martiner without apologies and compromise.
The Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) is becoming a weapon of choice in the fight against crime.
The Cayman Islands has embarked on installing 300 CCTVs in locations across Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac within the next few years. The system has been designed based on current crime patterns and the topography of the islands.
The four types of cameras to be used in the Cayman Islands include fixed-angle, pan/tilt/zoom cameras, automatic license plate readers and speed cameras. The latter two are specifically aimed at vehicular traffic.
Where traffic is concerned, a police database containing the license plate numbers of stolen vehicles or wanted vehicles, in the case of one of the aforementioned, once a vehicle crosses a certain main road with an automated number plate reader camera, an alarm will automatically be triggered in the 911 Center and Police will be able to track the vehicle and thereby alerting police patrols to cut it off at another intersection and apprehend the persons inside.
In order to protect civil liberties, a code of practice will guide the usage of the CCTV until formal legislation has been drafted and enacted into law.
The cameras will be passively monitored and once Police are notified of an incident taking place, they can assist first responders in real-time by viewing the cameras in that specific area where the incident is taking place.
The CCTV is seen as a very important tool in the fight against crime. CCTVs do not have any friends or relatives to protect and don't have any faulty memories. It has been felt by experts that just the knowledge that the cameras are there watching, this should act as a deterrent for criminal activity.
The Manchester Chamber of Commerce of Jamaica embarked upon a CCTV Crime Initiative project to install the closed-circuit television cameras at the Manchester Police station. The cameras are manned by trained police personnel on a 24-hourrs per day basis.
The cameras' locations in the Manchester neighbourhood are known only to the operations team, which is able to scan a wide range and zoom in, magnifying suspect actions, objects and individuals who are being observed.
CCTV video surveillance has played a major role in society in various countries to fight and prevent local as well as international crime. I believe that the CCTV project that has been spearheaded by the Sint Maarten Chamber of Commerce will make a positive impact on the island in the fight against crime once a policy on its proper use and expansion has been drafted and the funds have been secured to execute the project. One is probably looking at a phased implementation over a period of time.
Perhaps the tourist district areas will be the first to be monitored by CCTV followed by residential districts where crime is prevalent. An investment into the latter should be made as soon as possible.
CCTV video systems have a proven track record in deterring crime, helping civilians feel much safer, provide the police with leads or evidence as well as improve the surroundings of a crime-stricken neighbourhood. The entire community will be looking forward to these being installed.
Roddy Heyliger
If you are over 25 and a St. Martiner, you probably remember Hurricane Luis in 1995. A Cat 4 storm, Luis is representative of what you should prepare for today. In 1995, sixty percent of the houses on the island were damaged or destroyed, and nearly one-fourth of the houses were made uninhabitable. In Grand Case Bay, 95% of the houses were damaged or destroyed as a result of high waves and strong winds. Damage was common in other towns, such as Marigot and Phillipsburg, where nearly 80% of the city was devastated by the storm. It also caused the Great Salt Pond to deluge several streets, sending them under water. Of the 1,500 boats sheltered in Simpson Bay Lagoon, nearly 1,300 or 87% of them were sunk or run aground. The storm left 7,000 homeless and resulted in $1.8 billion in total damages (1995 US dollars). The death toll was never confirmed, but severe.
This year the water temperature is much higher than normal, which has prompted predictions of a much more severe hurricane season. St. Martin has grown since Hurricane Luis, and in addition to the new buildings, the population has increased significantly. Unfortunately, a disproportionate of the people who have come here since 1995 can least afford the cost of hurricane preparation.
For this reason, I call on the leaders and activists of St. Martin, including the Honorable Persons Aline CHOISY, Daniella JEFFRY, Sarah WESCOTT-WILLIAMS, Leopold JAMES, Don HUGHES, Billy D. HAMLET, Jeffrey RICHARDSON, Roddy HEYLIGER, and others to organize and provide support for those less fortunate St. Martiners who may not be capable (financially) to prepare for the hurricane impacts. I also urge the fine people who belong to the St. Martin Rotary Clubs and other civic-minded organizations to plan and prepare hurricane preparation kits for families throughout St. Martin. Make this your "Project of the Week"!
As Mr. HEYLIGER wrote in a Letter to the Editor published here this past January 17th, "Disaster preparedness is not only the business of disaster preparedness and management offices. It's everybody's business, an individual responsibility to protect yourself, your family and property. The better prepared every individual and family are, the better prepared we are as a nation." I could not agree more!
http://smn-news.com/component/content/article/85-st-maarten/4426-11-hurricane-shelters-for-2010-hurricane-season.html.
In addition, I recommend readers print out this letter and this article of June 20th and share them with your neighbours, friends and family.
I have gone through at least ten major hurricanes. I have also flown to the sites of major hurricanes to offer my professional assistance (all at my own expense). From my experience, I can offer my insights. Most deaths from hurricanes are from drowning. Most other deaths are the result of loss of blood, shock, traumatic injuries, and dehydration. All of these deaths can be prevented with proper planning. That planning should start today, not tomorrow and not next week. There is no excuse for telling your family the store is sold out of an essential item, or it will take too long to order. By the time a tropical storm has formed, it is too late.
Medical
Anyone who takes prescription medications on a daily basis should have a one month supply of those medications. Many medications are not meant to be abruptly stopped, and there are negative adverse consequences when you suddenly stop taking a "maintenance medication". Check with your doctor. Ask him for a special authority to receive an extra month of medications in the event of an emergency such as a hurricane where you will be unable to receive these medications as you normally would. You should also discuss with him what he/she recommends is your daily requirement of water given your medical condition and foods you should avoid in emergency conditions. You will have to make decisions on what food to keep when there is no refrigeration available and all you have is kept in a box. Nutrition is extremely important, and we are all unique individuals.
Keep a copy of your medical records, including your prescriptions, blood type, known allergies (e.g. penicillin), and existing conditions in a water-tight freezer bag and put that in your "essential bag". Make an inventory of your possessions, including model number and serial number. If you have insurance and it covers hurricanes, consider taking photographs!
Everyone should know basic first aid and the first steps to take: clear the airway, stop the bleeding, and prevent shock. Hurricanes cause objects to fly through the air at incredible speeds. These objects cause blunt force trauma when they hit the human body. They also cut your skin. Buy and store in water-tight freezer bags a supply of bandages, alcohol, elastic bandages, and tapes, including duct tape. Every person should be able to clean and cover cuts to the skin. You should also be able to apply bandages with sufficient pressure to stop the bleeding. If possible, get "butterfly Band-Aids" ahead of time – they are great for closing open wounds. Clotting agents are also a new and important addition to every first aid kit. To prevent shock: "If pale, raise the tail; if red, raise the head."
Essential Bag
Often referred to as a "Go Kit", this can be as small as a tote bag or brief case. If possible, it should be waterproof. This should contain ONLY those items which really are essential.
Think of those items you want to survive if your home burned down. Photographs that cannot be replaced, legal papers, identification papers, and medical records are examples. With more homes being built on the side of mountains in St. Martin, the possibility that 6 inches of rain could cause mud slides is increased significantly. You do not have to live on the side of the mountain to be affected – the mud covers homes where it lands. As in the case with Hurricane Luis in Grande Case, water surges can wash ashore with such pressure as to completely destroy and wash out to sea entire homes and businesses. Your essential bag should contain those items you feel you must have if your entire home is destroyed. Consider if the roads are destroyed and fires break out, your home could burn down. Don't think about only the actual hurricane, but the weeks and possibly months that will follow major destruction. All items should go into water-tight gallon (or larger) freezer bags!
Disaster Bag
I am fortunate in that I can afford a hard suitcase that is waterproof. If not, I would buy a hard suitcase and place all my items in "space bags" (designed as both waterproof and air tight where you can suck the air out of the bag and its contents) or waterproof gallon size heavy duty freezer bags found at Grande Marche and Match supermarkets. In my disaster bag I keep 7 days of underwear and socks, shirts, shorts, jeans, work boots, shaving kit, flashlights, first aid kit, food supplies, and other non-essential items. When a hurricane strikes and the call goes out for volunteer medical professionals, I take only my disaster bag. Limit: one suitcase and one personal bag. Total weight cannot exceed 50 pounds.
Coordination
As good Christians, we are taught to look after and care for everyone, not just ourselves. You should hold meetings with your neighbours to coordinate preparation and what everyone will do when a major hurricane will arrive. Know where all the local shelters are and know who plans to stay home and who plans to go to the shelters. If the roads are destroyed, it may be longer than a month before people are able to return to the site of their homes. If you go to a shelter and know someone remained in their home, and you learn the homes were destroyed, you are in a better position to provide credible information on the probable whereabouts of your neighbours.
You should get contact information and provide contact information of family members to be notified in the event of serious injuries or death. Often only family members are in a position to offer life-saving organs after traumatic injuries, and everyone should know how to contact these family members. It goes without saying that this information is also vital in the event of deaths.
I highly recommend gas grills, generators, highly absorbent cloths, blood clotting bandages and other items generally not affordable by non-affluent St. Martiners. However, by pooling resources and planning, you can buy these items for communal use. Propane comes in small canisters and the gas grills that use them are not very expensive. Generators come in smaller sizes and can offer the benefits of electricity, even for very limited times (but remember you will need to store gasoline to run them – safely). Highly absorbent cloths are now available on the Internet and are not the expensive. They are very light weight, but also extremely effective in removing water from the inside of your home. Made by HemCon Medical Technologies, KytoStat is a convenient, effective first response to control persistent bleeding. In some cases, KytoStat may be the only first aid needed. They are available on the Internet for use by the public. Other items everyone should have include a 50 foot nylon cord (great for a clothes line), duct tape, folding shovel (to bury the toilet paper), plenty of toilet paper in water-proof bags, work gloves for debris removal, emergency whistle, multi-function knife, plenty of cigarette lighters, water purification tablets, a month of pet food, thermal blankets, 2 gallon water bags to fill when water trucks arrive, vinyl gloves (for first aid and dish washing), portable AM/FM radio, plenty of batteries, CD player and CD's (great for psychological needs), two flashlights per person, and water – at least one gallon per person per day (twice that if the temperature is hot). The safest and most reliable emergency supply of water is commercially bottled water. Keep bottled water in its original container and do not open it until you need to use it. I recommend the largest water containers available at Grand Marche and Match.
Groups such as the Rotary can also raise money for these items and coordinate distribution before the hurricane arrives. If your local group recognizes you cannot share the cost, please be proactive and approach civic groups and/or the government.
Additional Reading
http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/HAW2/english/prepare/supply_kit.shtml
http://www.fema.gov/plan/index.shtm
http://www.hurricane.com/hurricane-preparation.php
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/weather/hurricane/sfl-hc-beforeprep,0,6908278.storygallery
http://firstaid.about.com/od/emergencypreparation/bb/06_hurricane.htm
As the saying goes, plan for the worst and pray for the best.
Best of luck to every reader, your family, friends and neighbours.
Dr. Claude Bordelon, M.D.
Re; Under the guise of giving more information, Government is involved in a frantic war to 'win the hearts and souls' of St. Martiners for the Anti-St. Maarten Constitution
Our commentary;
While 'frantically' promoted by the St. Maarten Government in a sort of 'last-ditch' effort to address the growing skepticism and resentment against the real content of '10-10-10' and the so called draft- St. Maarten constitution, listening to leader of Government, Mr. William MARLIN on Sunday, last, June 27 on Lloyd RICHARDSON's 'show', the reality became very clear and in fact only confirmed what many now have come to realize for some time now.
All the nice talk and rhetoric really appears to have nothing to do with 'informing' the people, let alone involving the people, but with quite some-thing else.
Fact of the matter is, if the politicians were so sure as they pretend to be, and if everything was on 'track' and that indeed there was 'no stopping us now', knowing their arrogance, they would not be wasting their time so called 'informing' the people.
In reality, probably they know something they are not telling the people.
Something very 'ominous' come '10-10-10'.
And because, they know that this 'ominous thing' could have very serious, and explosive social consequences, once the new status has gone into effect, they will need some 'cover'.
Like an 'insurance', to cover their behinds, when 'all hell broke loose'.
Therefore, we are convinced that what they now desperately need is the BLESSING from the people in order to justify ramming the constitution through the process.
Mind you, a constitution for some 'Alice in Wonderland' Country called 'St. Maarten', of which the leaders and all their smart, and well-behaved 'technocrats' admit that they have no clue as to what and who a St. Maartener is.
Wattating !
We have said it many times before and repeat it again.
Unless any so called constitution for Country St. Maarten contains at least the following provisions, we are not interested in more information.
1. Acknowledge the history, the identity, the emancipation, of the native-indigenous St. Martin people,(WE know who they are)
2. Protect the oneness of ALL St. Martiners, North and South, as well as our traditional way of life, in keeping with and which goes above the Treaty of Concordia,
3. Protect the St. Martiners. so that regardless their numbers, they will never be eradicated.
4. Maintain the protection of the rights of Antilleans to come first on all the islands of the Antilles, to travel freely and work and reside on these islands without any restrictions as it is now.
As long as Government is not willing to consider these minimal recommendations, they should not watse our time talking nonsense of 'informing' the people.
In that case, the politicians should show that they have 'balls' and simply continue pushing THEIR constitution which is simply a declaration of loyalty to the Dutch nationality and an official declaration of betrayal of the St. Martin people and their identity
Definitely the politicians have the power to sign off on their Constitution, but so do we have the power to withhold our blessing and to invoke the wrath of our ancestors on those involved in this act of betrayal.
In ending, for the record once more.
If you visit our premises as friend, as fellow St. Martiner, by all means we welcome you.
However, any messenger of the '10-10-10-constitution', is most unwelcome, persona non-grata and comes at his/her own risk.
Leopold JAMES
And still,
Proud, native-indigenous St. Martiner, without apologies and compromise.
Oops, Wednesday, June 23, 2010 was supposed to the the 10th anniversary of the, 2000 constitutional referendum.
Where were the happy celebrations held again ?
Even by the politicians who themselves had back then conspired together to deceive the people through that so-called referendum, which was based on betrayal, manipulation, discrimination and such more ?
Why are the politicians surprised that there is not a bit of public interest, enthusiasm, for this '10-10-10' carnival ?
When are they going to get 'it' ?
Please, no, neen, we do not want it, no matter how much you try to indoctrinate us under the disguise of giving 'more information'.
We are not interested in more of your 'information' about a document that does not recognize us as St. Martin people, our ancestral-identity or rights.
No, we do not want such more 'information', we know enough !
You politicians have proven to be a bunch of cowards, and traitors of our ancestral struggles, history, rights.
Through your betrayal, you have 'molested' the spirit of our departed ancestors, whose blood, sweat and tears fed you and laid the foundation for this country.
Now, you have turned your backs on them.
What gratitude and pride.
We knew that from the onset it was NOT about St. Martin people
You have abused the trust of the people, only to deceive them and to sell out the birth-rights of their future generations.
It was and still is all about more power and nice positions for the POLITICIANS and to secure the 'International Human' rights for immigrants, many of whom flood the island illegally and to get naturalized and outnumber the natives.
You politicians simply chose to ignore the concerns, the cries, the interests the rights of we the St. Martin people.
So, please save us more of your 'information'-session in a futile attempt to 'convince' us.
Fact of the matter is that the more we hear you talk, the less we trust you.
Let us be very clear.
If you want to visit our homes as friends, or as fellow St. Martiners you are welcome.
But, please do NOT come as AGENTS of the betrayal under the guise of giving us more 'information'.
As such you are NOT welcome; in that case you are persona non-grata and enter our premises 'at your own risk'.
You made up your own Dutch colonial colonial bed, now sleep in it by yourself.
Sleep tight,
Leopold JAMES,
and still...
proud native-indigenous St. Martiner without apologies and compromise.
We need to review our plans to address oil spills; the recent fuel spill in the Lagoon of at least 500 litres of diesel fuel and past spills, demonstrates that we need something comprehensive in place to deal with those types of spills as well as any major spills that would happen off our coast.
According to Cayman Islands Department of Environment's Deputy Director for Operations Scott Slayburgh, gasoline and diesel are high in toxicity as they react with oxygen. Although they dissipate relatively quickly, while they are in the water they can do a lot of damage. Any life form, from a fish or microscopic organism that lingers in it may die or suffer a multitude of effects from exposure.
Our island economy is dependent on tourism which is also very much dependent on the beaches and inland water ways (Oyster Pond, Simpson Bay Lagoon, and Mullet Bay Pond) as well – our environment. Our environment plays a key role in our nation's economic success as well as the quality of life of our people.
One of the priority areas of our national parliament come post-10-10-10 should be to set up a Permanent Environmental Committee to assess our nation's readiness for an oil spill. The environmental catastrophe unfolding in the Gulf of Mexico at this time is a wake up call for all Caribbean nations who do not have an oil spill contingency plan already in place along with the necessary equipment; and regular trainings for responders.
Many Caribbean nations if not all, are party to conventions that require it to have oil spill cleanup capability. The "International Convention on Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Cooperation 1990," obligates countries to have a reasonable ability to respond to marine oil spills, and those islands that are prepared, they will be able to minimise damage from an oil spill. Under international conventions, there are also provisions for governments to be reimbursed and payments not only for the oil clean up, but for private business losses and environmental restoration.
The Gulf oil spill has gotten the attention of a number of government agencies in the region and as far as Bermuda. Dr. Karl Aiken, senior lecturer in the University of the West Indies' Life Sciences Department in Jamaica, is of the opinion that should the oil reach Jamaica it could have disastrous effects on Jamaica's already depleted fish stock.
Aiken, a marine specialist says through a network of loops and streams, the oil may wend its way along the US Eastern seaboard before reaching Bermuda, but first it would have to cross the Florida Keys getting caught into the Gulf Stream. A feeder current would then take it from Bermuda, towards the Bahamas, and possibly, to Jamaica through the passage separating Cuba and Haiti.
Bermuda has already started to mobilise an Emergency Task Force comprising of persons from the Institute of Ocean Science, Conservation Services, Marine & Ports and the Department of Environmental Protection, to discuss Bermuda's response.
Bermuda's Environmental Protection Director Fred Ming has already travelled to Louisiana and met with scientists. It was concluded that the oil may reach Bermuda in some form – tar balls. One model had it heading towards Bermuda by early September.
Closer to us, Mark Walters, Head of the US Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency, agrees with an assessment of the US National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) that the Gulf oil slick won't impact the US Virgin Islands because of the way the ocean currents go. This is also good news for us as well and a reassurance since Sint Maarten is only approximately 120 miles from the USVI territories.
The Gulf oil spill is threatening not only marine life, but the livelihood of thousands of people along the Gulf coast states. This is a turning point for Caribbean nations including Sint Maarten. In a post-country status Sint Maarten, the issue of the environment needs to be one of the top issues to be dealt with by our parliament and council of ministers.
"Treat the Earth well, it was not given to you by your parents, it was loaned to you by your children. We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children." Native American Indian quote
Roddy Heyliger
As General Vice president of the United Federation of the Windward Antilles "Mr. Irwin Jack", representing the workers of the Windward Islands, primarily Statians as being allotted to me by the board of the UFA, I will like to express my concerns with regards to the functioning of the Federal Labor Office and the deceitfulness of Mr. Kenneth Lopes.
For many years now, Mr. Kenneth Lopes has served in the capacity as, head of the Federal Labor Department based in St. Maarten, serving St. Maarten, Saba and Statia.
Mr. Lopes also serves as Acting Government Mediator for said islands.
In his capacity of Head of the Federal Labor Department, it is his role and responsibility to ensure both parties, Employer and Employees, stay within the parameters of the Labor Laws.
In many instances, when an Employer violates the Labor Laws, the Employee is forced to seek legal remedy, independent of the Federal Labor Department. As Head of the Department, Mr. Kenneth Lopes should utilize his office, to bring about remedy for Employees, taking control of all legal matters of interest to the case. When a decision is made by the Federal Labor Department Office, that an Employer is in breach of the Labor Law, it is necessary and correct, that Mr. Lopes be consistent in his approach and follow-up, as deemed necessary, as in the Granny case, giving all Employees the same protection, rather than be negligent in his obligations.
The people in the communities of St. Maarten, Saba and Statia, are exposed to an unstable state of affairs, with regards to their Labor interests.
The purpose of the Dismissal Committee is a good one.
However, when recommendations are forwarded by said Committee to the Head of the Federal Labor Department Office, it is treated like an exercise in futility by Mr. Kenneth Lopes. Habitually, recommendations made by the Dismissal Committee, favoring the Employees are ignored, indicating a blatant prejudice in favor of the Employer. As a consequence, the people's interest is left in a very vulnerable state, exposing them to unjustified economic hardships.
Our system with regards to the Head of the Federal Labor Department is in need of an overhaul. It is seriously flawed when one person can sit in a position of this kind, making decisions of such magnitude, which can bring about havoc in the lives of many families. None of us should underestimate human weakness. No one person should be in a position, to make decisions, which can be so destructive in the lives of many families. At a minimum, at least three persons should be in such a position. This will help to bring about fair play and dignity, to the Office of Federal Labor Department.
Recently on Statia, Mr. Kenneth Lopes, granted permission of dismissal to the Gin House and Medical School, that was quite injurious to many families. These dismissals were executed, with no recommendations from the Dismissal Committee. What seems rather questionable is the basis that motivated these decisions and why the Dismissal Committee was not considered germane in making its usual recommendations after completion of investigations.
Mr. Kenneth Lopes role and responsibilities as Head of the Federal Labor Department and as Acting Mediator, is seriously found wanting. As a matter of fact, he has single handedly sewed much distrust on the islands of St. Maarten, Saba and Statia, that his presence for mediations is met with significant disapproval. This is generated as a result of his history, of not helping to find solutions, in his areas of responsibility.
What is therefore necessary is for the Federal Government, to investigate the Labor crisis on these islands and give us a fully fledged Labor Mediator.
Such will contribute in a meaningful way, the diffusing of the present Labor Crisis throughout our islands.
This has been a request of the United Federation of the Windward Antilles and other Labor unions for many years and even in recently.
Failure to recognize this urgency can have far reaching consequences.
People must not be placed in a hopeless situation.
Through this media we are once more urging the now appointed Minister of Labor, Mr. Elvis Tjin Asjoe to step up to the plate vigorously and deal with these pressing dilemmas.
From: The General Vice President of the UFA
Mr. Irwin Jack
At present, there are 'those' who have just initiated a political campaign and conspiracy against me, Leopold JAMES under some guise of 'informing' the people on using their daily 'platform'.
As such, we can look forward to them forming a political 'tag-team', to demonize the messenger called Leopold JAMES, because he is making his people, 'too smart for comfort'.
So, the 'tag-team' is expressing resentment about him so-called daring to have insulted a politician.
Not any politician of course, but THEIR 'political idol' .
Never mind that this particular 'idol' talks, oh so nice, but is not willing to respect, nor to honor St. Martin people with real commitments to fighting for their causes.
To the 'tag-team', I say welcome and 'make my day'.
Just remember, that I have never been in it for some 'show' or for a 'little money', but as a commitment towards my St. Martin people.
Just check my record, which you both are very familiar with.
Also, that same record will show that I have never made it my business to 'throw stones and hide my hand'.
In 1986 for instance, still a young man, I bought my own television time and openly and directly addressed Mr. WATHEY and gave him a piece of my mind.
For the record, he was at that time one of the most powerful men in the region and at the top of his power.
There were three persons, I then told of my plans to go on tv.
One was none other than one of the 'tag-team'-members, Mr. Julian ROLLOCKS.
That was some 35 years ago.
So I would not know how today to 'throw a stone and hide my hand' even if it it was related to Mr. ROLLOCKS himself.
To put it in plain language.
If the 'tag-team' wants to try to do 'damage-control' for their political party, by going after me, by all means, 'be my guest'.
I am ready, able and most definitely willing to comply.
Just let the game start.......
Those Chicken leg & Johnny cakes days are over.
people want to know whether the politicians, ALL politicians are willing to commit themselves to protecting St. Martin people, or intend to continue with more of the same 'smile-& lip-service'.
it is about a choice THEY have to make.
NO-ONE is forcing them, and they and they full well know that as well. They can fool some of the people some of the time, but most definitely not all of the people all of the time.
Leopold JAMES
proud, native-indigenous St. Martiner without apologies and compromise!
A public lecture given by the Department for Development Cooperation in the Netherlands Antilles, and the United Nations Development Program, in collaboration with the University of St. Martin (USM) for Tuesday, June 8 at USM from 6.00pm – 8.30pm, is about achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
The MDG goes back to September 2000 when 147 heads of State and Government, together with 42 ministers and heads of delegations, gathered at the General Assembly of the United Nations to explore ways of pooling their combined will and efforts to revitalize international cooperation on behalf of the less developed countries and, in particular, to mount a frontal assault on extreme poverty.
On that occasion they identified goals for their efforts to combat poverty and hunger, reverse environmental degradation, achieve improvements in the fields of education and health, and promote gender equality. Because of the lack of development, the formation of a partnership to enrich and reinvigorate international cooperation was considered as one of the eight MDGs.
At the moment, there are five years left until the 2015 deadline to achieve the MDG. The United Nations (UN) Secretary General (SecGen) has called for the adoption of a global action agenda for accelerating progress towards the MDG, when world leaders meet at a UN Summit in New York in September.
The UN SecGen says that if nations around the world fail to meet the MDG, the result will be a multiplication in global instability, violence, epidemic diseases, environmental degradation and runaway population growth.
A number of countries have achieved major successes in combating extreme poverty and hunger, improving school enrolment and child health, expanding access to clean water, strengthening control of malaria, tuberculosis and neglected tropical diseases, and providing increased access to HIV treatment. These successes have taken place in some of the poorest countries, demonstrating that MDG are achievable.
According to the UN SecGen, progress has been uneven and without additional efforts, several goals are likely to be missed in many countries. The challenges are most severe in the least developed countries, land-locked developing countries, some small island developing states, those vulnerable to natural hazards, and countries in or emerging from conflict.
Based on 10-years of global effort to achieve MDGs, a preliminary report identifies a number of key lessons learnt. While economic growth is necessary, it is not sufficient for progress. The growth process must be inclusive and equitable to maximize poverty reduction and progress on other MDGs.
The report says that forward looking macroeconomic policies to support broad-based stable growth, e.g. by sustaining public investment strategies and universal social protection, for achievement of the MDGs.
The USM lecture comes at a time as another milestone nears. As part of the follow-up process, the General Assembly reviewed in September 2005 the state of affairs leading up to 2015. This September 2010 another review will take place just five years before the 2015 deadline.
Financing MDGs starts at home. As Sint Maarten heads towards country status, in the post 10-10-10 era, the nation will also be responsible for achieving the MDGs. In our national planning and development, we will need to take stock of where we are at when it comes to the eight MDGs.
As a nation, we will have to carry on where the Netherlands Antilles left off. Our national leaders will have to make a renewed commitment to build on our own achievements so far and to bridge the gaps so we can deliver on our shared responsibility to build a better Sint Maarten for generations to come and that would be part of keeping the promise.
Roddy Heyliger
Tomorrow evening, Mr. Jeffrey RICHARDSON, will be a 'walk-in' guest in the program 'In the backyard with the young professionals'.
He will be talking about a most exciting program many St. Martiners having been looking out for a very long time.
You wouldn't want to miss it.
It is historical and the beginning of an new era for the entire island.
Make sure to invite all your friend and family m,embers to join Jeffrey and listen to what he will share with you.
Radio-program; 'In the backyard with the young professionals', hosted by Christopher EMMANUEL and Kendall DUPERSOY.
Radio-station; PJD-2, 1300 a.m.(www.sxmradio.com)
Time; From 5 to 6 p.m. local SXM time
Leopold JAMES
--
Leopold James
President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia
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Although there were many skeptics and 'obstructionists' who consistently tried to undermine the message of the St. Martin grass root nation building & unification movement, there is an unmistakably rising tide of ancestral pride and confidence among the natives of this island.
Finally, the tireless work of this movement is starting to have its effect on the awareness of the natives of this island, whose very existence has come to the 'brink of their existence' largely through neglect, betrayal, lack of vision and courage on the part of their political leaders.
After Monday's interview of Leopold JAMES the movement's leader on the very popular radio-station SOS 95.9 F.M.of Mr. Billy D, the telephone in the studio kept ringing off the hook.
People called in to have Leopold JAMES, come back and share even more of his vision on the empowerment of the St. Martin people.
Especially the people are extremely fascinated and inspired by his initiative to create a cultural native-indigenous St. Martin ID-card which will give very pragmatic and effective interpretation to what it means to be a ntive-indigenous St. Martiner.
His proposal that the movement is planning to issue the very first cultural native-indigenous ID to the natives of the island, has taken the people by storm with it being the talk of town among the people of this island.
The response is going beyond expectation of many and it is clear that this initiative has tapped into a very profound desire of St. Martin people to be recognized as the natives of this island, in addition from being DUTCH and/or FRENCH citizens of the island.
For too long many native St. Martiners have felt, that they have become a minority in their own land, mainly because of the massive naturalization of thousands of immigrants, changing the way of life of native St. Martiners and leaving them feel under-represented and politically not important.
Now for the first time, St. Martiners have something to call their own, to rally around and to display as well in terms of identifying their heritage on this island.
A ceremony is planned in celebration of the issuing of the first symbolic cultural passports to family-members of deceased native St. Martiners, who have made their contribution to the island, while they were still alive.
It is the intention of this grass root movement to maintain a very positive and constructive relationship with the Collectivity as well as with the Island-government of the island.
After all, most politicians are native St. Martiners and one day themselves will also be able to benefit from the privelege this ID can bestow them and their families with as well.
With the existence of a document identifying the native St. Martiners the next step becomes closer.
That is to be able for this group to claim its historically moral privileges on the island.
Many elderly St. Martiners would be more than happy that they will not have to wait in line anywhere on the entire island, or that they will be able to live anywhere on the island and benefit from any social privilege ANYWHERE on the ENTIRE island.
In addition, many St.Martiners would be happy that they will be able to get a drivers-license anywhere on the island and to reside anywhere on the island.
These and many, many more privileges is what any sensible 'status'; should mean for the natives of this island and that is what we stand for, without apologies !
It is clear that the ancestors of this group of people, who can trace their roots to 'St. Martin's Traditional Period', lived for over 360 years as one people on the island with free movement and sharing of all natural and material and immateria resources.
Consequently, this way of life, for which the Treaty of Concordia of 1648 forms the legal basis, has established common law,legally binding which is recognized as in most countries including France and the Netherlands.
During those hundreds of years, neither the Dutch, nor the French colonial powers objected to that unified way of life.
Therefore, under no circumstances can they now legally and/or morally 'out of the clear blue' implement and consequently take away this common law from the people of the land.
That means that whatever national laws there are restricting free movement and the sharing of resources on the island, they can only be leveled against foreigners or non-St. Martiners.
Having an cultural native-indigenous ID will now create an enormous incentive for all St. Martiners to sign up for such.
Meanwhile others who have obtained the French and/or the Dutch rights will maintain those nationalities and therefore have nothing to fear or protest against.
The only difference is that the St. Martiners, who have been marginalized for decades and suffered humiliation and exclusion and the like in their own country, will now have another 'safety-net' which will allow them once more to live the life their ancestors did for decades until the Landmark Year of 1963 as historian, Mrs. Daniella JEFFRY decribed in one of her books 1963 A Landmark Year in Saint Martin'...a must read.
Meanwhile, Leopold JAMES has been invited again by Mr. Billy D HAMLET to be on his program on Monday, April 19, 2010 from 9 to 10 a.m.
--
Leopold James
President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia
-------
While the expected delay of '10-10-10' may frustrate many, if not most politicians, it certainly does not result in any 'popular uprising'- or 'revolt' withing our community.
We daresay, that there will be not even a 'ripple' of popular-protest against such possible delay
On the contrary, many citizens have uttered a deep sigh of relief at the 'Divine intervention' which completely shows up arrogant statements like 'etched in stone' and 'sealed and delivered...'.
Now, whether the good lady genuinely meant it or not, to us is irrelevant at this point.
While most of the time, we have been critical of the council-lady in the past, based on principles, this time around, we reserve the rights to credit her.
To be very clear.
We do such without apologies to whomever may feel offended.
The reason we credit Council-lady Sarah WESCOTT-WILLIAMS this time, is because of her public statement indicating that the rights of native-indigenous St. Martiners should be guaranteed in the constitution.
It is what we, as grass root St. Martin movement, have always demanded.
Therefore, not commending the lady for that, would have meant that we were partisan and that is what we always denounced, when it comes to defending what is good for the St. Martin people.
Even if the lady, made these statements based on 'opportunistic' reasons, matters not to us, for the simple- and logical reason that William MARLIN or Gracita ARRINDELL or ANY other politicians could have done that as well (for their own reason); they did NOT.
So, end of that 'story' now.
Now for the record...for the 'umpteenth' time.
Our grass root st. Martin movement was never perse for-or against any new constitutional change in the Antilles.
What we were oppose against, and very much so, was to any change that did not take into consideration the interest of the various native Antillean people on their respective islands.
In other words, everyone would remember our fundamental question to the politicians, which was NEVER answered.
WHOM is the new status supposed to benefit first and foremost ?????
As far as we are concerned, once the legitimate and historical rights of the Antilleans and therefore St. Martiners on St. Martin in our case, have been fully recognized, in the constitution of ANY new status, we will support such.
Therefore it is up to the politicians to follow the call of Sarah WESCOT-WILLIAMS to start the process of amending the constitution to include OUTSTANDING ISSUES.
Rest assured that in the days, weeks and months ahead our grass root movement will be very active in putting forth a number of these OUTSTANDING ISSUES.
Meanwhile, we caution the political leaders not to allow for arrogance to push them to continue championing this unfinished version of a so called constitution, which denies the very existence of the people whose name the country carries.
As it now stands, this socalled constitution, defacto it is a formal 'declaration of treason/ genocide' on the people of St. Martin and on Antilleans in general.
As such is a crime against our humanity, which can be challenged on any forum, including the UN.
So while, it appears that '10-10-10' is off the table, a real and democratic country St. Maarten is very much possible and feasible.
One that is not only St. Maarten 'in name', but to its 'constitutional core' as well.
Leopold JAMES
President SNBF/Association L'Esprit de Concordia
Proud native-indigenous St. Martinesr without apologies
Dear Madam State-secretary,
Although it came as no surprise to us that the Dutch Government of which you are part, fell on Saturday last, February 20, 2010, we also expect you will remain in 'demissionary' capacity in office.
Therefore, we assume that you still will continue to function as Minister of Kingdom and Internal Affairs very much involved with the constitutional changes taking place within the Kingdom, as they relate to the Netherlands-Antilles.
In this regards, we kindly, but urgently request your attention for statements made to the media made Mrs. Sarah WESCOT-WILLIAMS, Island council lady on St. Maarten and leader of the DP-party.
We hereby for your kind perusal, attach these statements in this mail.
However, we hereby quote a very important concern expressed by Mrs.WESCOT-WILLIAMS in the attached news paper clipping.
Quote; Outstanding issues related to the constitution are safeguarding the rights of the indigenous St. Maarteners (locals) to guarantee they won't be marginialised, ......
For the record, Mrs. BIJLEVEDT-SCHOUTEN.
As St. Martin's most indisputable grass roots, non-partisan, nation building movement, we inform you that we share the same concern as expressed on this outstanding issue as Mrs.WESCOTT-WILLIAMS.
In addition, we demand that the draft constitution be amended to include such protective provision and others in general that recognize and promote the interests of the PEOPLE of the land.
After all, increasingly the interest of many illegal immigrants are being promoted at the expense of the very existence of the Antilleans residing on the island.
This uin-balanced practice is resulting in increasing social unease within or community
As it stands now and explained at every forum by our politicians, achieving 'country status/'10-10-10' for St. Maarten is exclusively about empowering politicians.
It is absolutely NOT about the PEOPLE and most certainly NOT about St. Martin and other Antillean people.
If the rights of the native St. Martin People and other Antillean people are not firmly acknowledged and protected in the constitution, that document will mean nothing other that the formal declaration of treason and genocide on these people.
Needless to emphasize that such will not reflect in a positive manner on the Dutch Government, whose international credibility already is under question, based on the fall of your government over its commitment to the people in URUZQAN in AFGHANISTAN.
In addition, in the event this anti-St.Martin/Antntillean constitution is rammed down our throats, there will of course be ramifications.
Therefore, in ending we urge your cooperation in recognizing the moral appeal of Council lady, Mrs. WESCOTT-WILLIAMS in making the necessary amendments to the draft constitutions for the so-called country St. Maarten.
Technically-, legally nor otherwise, there is absolutely no legitimate reason not to heed this request and in so doing guaranteeing that the new status is NOT only about empowering politicians, but more-so, about the empowering the PEOPLE of the land.
Looking forward to your expedient and understanding response.
Copies to all relevant stake holders.
drs. Leopold JAMES,
President SNBF/Association L'Esprit de Concordia
Proud, native-indigenous St. Martiner, without apologies.
It takes a village to raise a kid.....
Fighting crime is everybody's business....
These, and other similar phrases essentially emphasize the same message.
No-one has the only answer, or the one-and-only 'magic bullet' to resolve all forms of crime.
Consequently, with the rising level of violent crimes on the island, we also witness an increase in the initiatives intended to contribute towards fighting violent in general and violent juvenile crime in particular.
These range from from increasing the effectiveness of the police force, to establishment of the Unified Crime Task Force, school initiatives, community councils and neighborhood activities etc. etc.
We too have on February 2, 2010 recently added our contribution, to this 'mix'. (see attachment)
In this letter we stressed on the importance of going beyond repressive measures alone.
To this end, we pointed out that it is critical to understand the nature of the 'forces' which drive our youngsters ultimately into the dark world of violent crime.
One way to achieve the objective of understanding the mindset of our youngsters is to conduct an island-wide (anonymous) survey among ALL youngsters.
We proposed that a mixed committee be put in place by the authorities of both sides of the island in order to formulate such a questionnaire.
This committee we suggested, should consist of among others psychologists, sociologists, educators, legal specialists, prison officials, police officers, ex-convicts etc from BOTH sides of the island.
However, to date we have not (yet) received any reactions from those in authorities.
We therefore at this time want to appeal on others such as the USM, the Lions- or Kiwani or Rotary organizations to look into this initiative in order to get a better understanding of what are the pressures and challenges our youngsters are confronted with on a daily basis.
We would like to believe, that it is only fair to the youth that we should LISTEN to them, instead of labeling them and preparing a 'medicinal cure' for them without even asking them to assess their own 'diagnosis'.
Imagine your doctor or specialist, prescribing a regimen of medicine or treatment for you, without haven't even LISTENED to your own complaints !
In the event no-one deems it necessary to respond or to take up our proposal, our organization might have no other choice than to take the initiative for such a survey.
Again, it is our contention, that if we really want to effectively combat juvenile criminality, it is a precondition that we we find out from the young people themselves what are the relevant motivating factors thus the main sources and root causes of the manifesting symptoms that cause society so much harm.
Fighting crime without understanding the cause is a symptomatic and 'blind' approach.
Even if well-intended, it is non-scientific and at best comparable to 'trying to hit a moving a target in the dark, with blind folds on' and thus not too productive to say the least.
Leopold JAMES
To his great surprise, Leopold JAMES was honored along with Frits PANTOPHLET and the Philipsburg Community and Culture Centre with a donation by the president, Dayal ALWANI of the local St. Maarten Indian Merchants Association (IMA) on Tuesday, January 26, 2010 on the occasion of India Republic Day
Although Mr. JAMES had been invited to attend this very important functions, due to other engagements he was not able to attend.
Nevertheless, after learning via the Daily Herald of Thursday, January 28, 2010 that he had been one of three recipients of a donation by the IMA, Mr. JAMES this morning contacted Mr. ALWANI, president of the IMA.
While expressing his thanks and appreciation to Mr. ALWANI for the donation, Mr. JAMES also asked the reason why he merited this public donation.
The answer was clear.
For doing the work under very difficult circumstances of promoting integration within the St. Martin community in general.
Although there have been those in the media, including the well knows 'Free adviser', who have done everything possible over the years, to belittle the work Mr. JAMES has been doing for decades, there is an undeniable and growing awareness within the entire community for his message.
Native-indigenous St. Martin people are absolutely essential in assuming the critical and bonding role as the most appropriate foundation for all sustainable developments on the island.
These include besides all socio-economical developments also constitutional development, nation building and the eventually unification of the island.
As such there is more movement more suited to play this liaison role on the entire island than that grass root nation building movement, initiated and led by Mr. JAMES.
Mr. JAMES also thanked the IMA for having the courage, wisdom and vision to see through all the negative rhetoric about the intentions of Mr. JAMES and to realize that he might be the most unique person to be given the opportunity by Governments, NGO's and others to lead the process of nation building.
That process can result in a balance being reached and maintained between preserving the native-indigenous St. Martin heritage and people in dynamic harmony with all the cultural diverse communities on the island.
In ending his telephone call to Mr. ALWANI, this morning, Mr.Leopold JAMES pledged his continued support as a bridge between the Indian Community and others on the one hand and the native St. Martin community on the island on the other hand.
This obviously is an opportunity that should not be lost, nor taken for granted.
meanwhile, in a separate mail to Council lady,Sarah WESCOTT-WILLIAMS, this morning, Mr. JAMES also thanked her for accepting the donation on his behlaf during the ceremony of the India Republic Day 2010.
Leopold JAMES
Without a doubt we are deeply saddened by what has happened to our brethren in Haiti. Last week Tuesday, a 7.0 magnitude devastating earthquake rocked the country.
Haiti is a nation that is part of our wider regional community of nations, and the damage along with human suffering currently taking place is very distressing. We empathize with our fellow St. Maarteners who hail from Haiti.
The quake was felt in the Dominican Republic, Eastern Cuba and the Eastern part of Jamaica.
A tsunami watch was issued by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre for Haiti, Cuba, Dominican Republic and The Bahamas. This watch was later cancelled, but in the message issued, it did state that the possibility of a local tsunami could affect coasts located usually no more than a hundred kilometres from the earthquake epicentre and that authorities for the region near the epicentre should be aware of this possibility.
The message also noted that areas further from the epicentre could experience small sea level changes and strong or unusual coastal currents.
The earthquake has left widespread loss of life and injury to thousands as well as massive destruction of property and infrastructure. It is also an eye opener and time for us as nations in the Caribbean to reflect on our preparedness for an earthquake or a tsunami.
An official from the National Earthquake Information Center in the U.S. Dale Grant, says that the Caribbean is actually a seismically active area and that smaller quakes do happen frequently in the region, however the Haiti earthquake was the first large quake in over 25-years.
The quake according to University of Texas representative Paul Mann occurred along a vertical fault line that runs from Jamaica to the southern part of the island of Hispanola.
The U.S. Geological Survey reported last week that there were over 80 earthquakes measuring 2.4 to 7.0 in the Caribbean region with the majority taking place in the area of Hispanola and Puerto Rico.
Earthquakes are unlike hurricanes which has a season from June to November. The former can occur at any time. Where tsunamis are concerned, persons should be aware of the fact that earthquakes of a specific magnitude could generate a tsunami. It has been documented in the past that several Caribbean islands have experienced a tsunami.
Disaster preparedness is not only the business of disaster preparedness and management offices. It's everybody's business, an individual responsibility to protect yourself, your family and property. The better prepared every individual and family are, the better prepared we are as a nation.
A study should be carried out if one hasn't been done already, of our nation's vulnerability to earthquakes and a tsunami. Everybody, including the business community should recognize the gravity of the situation and how critical it is to have an earthquake/tsunami plan in place.
Just like how we prepare for a hurricane every season by checking our hurricane family plan and disaster plan, the same can be said for earthquakes and tsunamis. The more we plan the better we are prepared for the worse case scenario.
Roddy Heyliger
Now it is that the Methodist Church was given a Building permit and not a building stop. If the Church had gotten a building permit, why would a building stop have to be issued? The Methodist Church did not have a building permit for Belvedere. What the Methodist Church did have was a liaison of the Church, a National Alliance member who expected to do what he wanted, and the taxpayers must now bear the brunt. A NAF 500.000 (half a million guilders) brunt. Not because the Public Works department is in disarray should Commissioner Frans Richardson blatantly lie, and who is caught in the middle? The Methodist Church.
When the Seventh day Adventist want to build a school and the Catholic Church wants to build another church in Cole Bay, or the Muslims a new mosque they too should disobey the law and have government correct their mistake. Where in the world, say where could something like this happen.
How come Commissioner Frans Richardson did not blame the DP government for this one? You know why, because when the Church is built, he and his colleagues will want to say the NA built the church. Wrong, it's the taxpayers (Methodists, Catholics, Pentecostals, Seventh Day Adventists, and all others) who built the church as well as the civil servants who are now again been blamed. THE METHODIST CHURCH DID NOT HAVE A BUILDING PERMIT FOR BELVEDERE!!!!!! IT'S A LIE. COMMISSIONER FRANS RICHARDSON, IT'S A LIE!!!!!! If you know they have a building permit, show it.
Good Governance, Mr. Lt. Governor, remember, Good Governance. How come this was not sent up for annulment. So Theo Heyliger is being indirectly blamed for this too. He is in charge of the building permits and inspection. Theo, stand up like a man and defend your workers, especially now that you are looking for their vote. Otherwise, its UP, UP and AWAY.
The government doesn't have money to pay civil servants their retroactive, the government is blaming civil servants for leaking information to the press, but get the island secretary to write the letter telling us this.
Yet, the same government lies through its teeth about , all things, a church. But we wonder, why we can't move ahead, why people in Holland think so low of us, why 10-10-10 seems to be moving further and further away. When you bring the heat of the Christian community on you, you better run for cover. And Daily Herald, do some more research, before you publish these flimsy stories. Either have good sources or none at all.
Now, com' tell me!
It certainly is a privilege to me, that an opinion or statement coming from an insignificant 'character' like myself has got 'under your esteemed skin'.
Notwithstanding the fact that you are now in charge of all the three seats in the parliament of the Netherlands-Antilles for St. Maarten....,
Notwithstanding that you on Sunday, February 28, last a a great 'bash' in which you celebrated your landslide victory over the DP-party during the last Federal elections....,
Notwithstanding the fact that you have always neglected, and continue to neglect 'silly' people like me......,
Notwithstanding that you know it all.
Still, and still again, without the slightest of intention thereto, 'little me' managed to overshadow all of that great joy of you finally becoming the most powerful political party on the 'Friendly island'.
Wattating !
Certainly you know exactly what I am talking or rather writing about, because we live in a very small little 'village' with 'country-ambitions'.
It is about the fact that there are 'those' in your party, who are very upset, to say the least, with the fact that I commended and expressed support for Mrs. Sarah WESCOT WILLIAMS, Island council lady and DP-leader for recently having publicly stated that as one of the 'outstanding issues', the rights of indigenous St. Martiners still needed to be guaranteed in the new constitution for 'Country' St. Maarten to protect them against being marginalized.
While, I did not know, that as a president of an INDEPENDENT, NON-PARTISAN, GRASS-ROOT St. Martin movement, my statements had to be 'vetted' by the NA or by any other party for that matter, let me inform you that I reserve the rights to commend and support ANY politician of ANY party, who makes any statement in favor of the native St. Martin people, without the slightest of any apologies to ANY politician !
If those within the NA, or within any other party feels offended that I made use of my democratic right to commend Sarah WESCOT-WILLIAMS for speaking out on behalf of St. Martin people, then that begs a number of questions.
For one, those politicians should tell the St. Martin people, why they disagree or oppose having the protection of the rights of the native-indigenous people anchored in the constitution.
And if they feel that the DP is 'playing politics', which by the way is hardly any surprise to even a kid, why has the NA itself NEVER EVER publicly stated what Sarah proposed, that the rights of native-indigenous St. Martiners should be protected in 'Country' St. Maarten ?
In ending, I say to my many good friends in the NA-party, that I will be the very first to also commend, support and even endorse the NA, the day that party goes further that Sarah.
How you wonder ?
Simple.
Just stop complaining, but 'beat Sarah to the punch' and have the protection of the rights of the native-indigenous St. Martiners formulated in the constitution, so that minority or not, they will always be the host and protected in their own home-land.
That provision in the constitution will finally render your so-called country 'St. Maarten', really more that just a name or a 'jingle', but truly St. Martin to the 'core.and soul'
If you can possibly humble yourself to just ask us, we are able, willing and ready to help you, because such really requires vision and genuine passion to be adequately formulated.
Have a great day.
Leopold JAMES,
President SNBF/L'Esprit de Concordia
A proud, native-indigenous St. Martiners...without apologies !
--
Leopold James
President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia
For many, many years the St. Martin grass root nation building and unification movement was the 'lone voice' speaking out against the marginalization of and fighting for the rights of native-indigenous St. Martiners to be first in their own and only home-land, St. Martin.
Back then, few understood the importance of the movement's warnings, messages and solutions.
These were therefore ignored at best, and its president Leopold JAMES oftentimes ridiculed, demonized and called 'inciter' of hatred against foreigners, for standing up for his fellow native St. Martin people.
Especially the editor of the TODAY-newspaper, Hilbert HAAR, on many occasions in its editorials, went to the extreme, slandering the reputation of Leopold JAMES as well as his genuine intentions.
This was a clear attempt to prevent the St. Martin people from paying attention to the message Mr. JAMES tried to get across to the people and citizens of the island.
Obviously, those actions of sabotage by Mr. HAAR have proven futile.
Amazing it is therefore, to now witness an incredible reversal and paradigm-shift, in the growing awareness of native St. Martiners.
Finally, after years of 'slumbering' and being deceived, they are catching on to the message of the grass root St. Martin nation and unification movement, headed by Leopold JAMES.
A clear indication are the many callers who call in to radio talk shows of Billy D. HAMLET, Chris EMMANUEL and others expressing concern that if the native-St. Martiners are not identified and acknowledged, they will never be able to continue to live in the spirit of the Treaty of Concordia, which has been the legal document for the free movement of the native St. Martin people since 1648.
In addition, St. Martiners are also realizing that this treaty was never meant for immigrant and foreigners and that consequently, certain laws preventing the free movement etc, should only be applied to non-St. Martiners.
This is becoming absolutely critical now that increasingly, the government-administrations on French- and the Dutch Government are now so called bringing about 'regulations' in various areas of our society, to counter act the effects of the one time coveted 'laissez-fair' attitude.
If not properly and timely dealt with these new 'divisive colonial' policies, will most definitely 'dismantle' and 'dismember' the unique oneness of all native-indigenous St. Martiners and bring an end to the way they lived peacefully for hundreds of years.
The new 'regulations' will force St. Martiners to choose to be either 'French' or 'Dutch, thereby surrendering their privilege of having succession land, homes, work on both sides of the island, de facto rendering us foreigners to one-another.
The issue with the drivers-license, which prohibits 'French' St. Martiners who can not prove residence on Dutch St. Maarten the possibility to renew their license on 'Dutch' St. Maarten, is a case in point of the process of the conspiracy to destroy our way of life and subsequently, our very existence as one people.
This type of measures have never before been implemented in the entire existence of our history as native St. Martin people.
To a large extent it is caused by the many forms of abuse by illegal immigrants, resulting in these 'across the board' measures affecting us as natives as well.
Therefore, there is a strong movement afoot to have all St. Martiners identified in order that they can qualify for exceptions and ancestral privileges in keeping with the spirit of the Treaty of Concordia from 1648.
On Monday, April 12, 2010, Mr. Leopold JAMES has been invited for Monday, April 12, 2010 to be guest on radio SOS 95.9 F.M. to share the view of his grass root movement movement on the solutions to this and many other related problems for St. Martiners.
Clearly, this interview is a very timely one, because most people now believe that the grass root St. Martin nation building and unification movement is the only effective salvation for the St. Martin people from total extinction
--
Leopold James
President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia
When the island had all the time to regulate its development including the mass influx of people from elsewhere and the rights of its own people, the leaders of this country proudly applied the 'laissez fair' mentality as its 'modus operandi' for growth.
And grew it did, but how.
It simply 'exploded' uncontrolled over-construction, population, child-births, imported lawlessness, under-ground economies, so-called religions and so-called churches, the list goes on and on and on.
Now finally, again in a 'knee jerk reaction', the authorities in setting up a new policy regarding the renewing of the drivers-licenses for persons residing on the 'French'-side, have resorted to an rather 'extreme' measure in an attempt to bring what they term, 'regulation' in this matter.
Extreme, because it not only directly affects the drivers-license situation on the island, but it has far and far more serious implications to the entire traditional way of life of native St. Martiners as well as to their very existence as a people.
It should not be under-estimated that these type of 'regulations', which do not take into consideration, what former senator Marcel GUMBS always rightfully defended in Parliament, as 'St. Martin's reality and specificity' into account, are leading us down a very, dangerous and slippery path towards being divided as a St. Martin people and eventually towards our complete elimination, following the Arawaks and Caribs before us.
This 'reality/specificity' of St. Martin, is characterized among many others by our oneness as a people, our shared history, emancipation, norms and values, our ancestral mutual reliance on each other after the Dutch and French colonialists left us to fend for ourselves after 1848 are there-about
As a consequence, this gradual process of 'dismantling' our oneness, freedom of movement etc, will result in transforming or 'degrading' our blood-links and one-ness as a people into us in fact becoming foreigners not only to one another, but to 'ourselves' as well.
This because many native St. Martiners, are bi-national, have succession land on both siides, have homes on both sides, visit schools and work and live on the 'other or both sides' etc, that this insane process is bound to have a very schizophrenic impact on us as individual as well.
Our movement has always warned that of the scenario to dismantle our oneness as a people and therefore tried to identified us as a native people, who must be exempt from regulations that can apply to others, who come to the island and for whom the island indeed consist of two countries for which they actually need papers to access.
But that should NEVER ever apply to the natives of this country.
On the contrary.
Benefiting from what both sides have to offer should be our privilege, period !
It is the reward or our restitution for which our ancestors shed blood, sweat and tears and were abandoned to survive on their own, during the period our colonial oppressors, no longer had interest in our island....back then.
If others have problems with that, they should feel free to leave.
Our problem with both separate statuses for the each side of island and its one people, has always been based as well on our political leaders not taking our oneness as a people into consideration.
This is a fundamental lack in our so called constitution, which must be addressed as an outstanding issue, before being adopted, because if not it will create huge problem for St. Martin people, including the current politicians in the future.
It is becoming very clear that although of course the politicians have a role to play, theirs is limited to their 'national/colonial' territories/competencies.
This is not the case with the natives of the people and with their grass root movement.
As such our grass root St. Martin movement can move freely all across the island and thus serve as the bridge, foundation facilitator for the only logical future status for the island.
This is the status of ONE unified and sovereign St. Martin, with strong and mutually rewarding ties to France and the Netherlands.
There simply is no other logical way out of this dilemma not only for native St. Martiners, but even worse for other residents.
No longer, can the present idiotic and colonial divisive situation on one 'island-mass', with open borders be effective used to govern and develop this island based on two different colonial administrations.
It is totally untenable.
We therefore invite St. Martiners to realize that by becoming part of our grass root movement, they can be better represented as a people and have their rights championed so that they can eventually take the entire island to the next level and survive the looming 'onslaught' on their very existence..
--
Leopold James
President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia
-----
While Government seems to be oh so preoccupied with securing its coveted country status come '10-10-10', the issues affecting ,and at times plaguing the people seem not to be of any concerns whatsoever for those in charge.
A simple point in case.
Since about two weeks, a container for garbage along the Windsor-road, in Cole-bay, has been mysteriously removed by unknown persons.
This garbage receptacle, has been in use for many years, not only by the residents in its direct vicinity, but also by hordes of passers by living in the Cay-bay area known for its many illegal residents.
Already, even when the garbage receptacle was in place, it was still a major challenge to get everyone throw their garbage in, and not besides it.
So imagine the open invitation now created by the bin been removed for people to simply dump everything just openly on the ground.
On various occasions, I have called on the relevant authorities to inform them of the very unhygienic situation and asked for a solution,without any response.
I guess we will have to wait, because Government's highest priority seem to be '10-10-10'.
Meanwhile, the place is becoming rundown, the rats becoming obese and openly terrorize the neighborhood, as if they own the place.
But then again, why should the Government concern itself about these not so upscale neighborhoods, where no commissioners reside ?
Maybe, if the people start dumping their garbage middle in the road and pile it up to the extent that traffic can not pass, maybe they will get the message.
Perhaps we might be better off if the rats were in charge of Government come '10-10-10'.
--
Leopold James
President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia
-------
Food safety and security is essential for an island nation like ours that is solely dependent at this time on tourism. When businesses or persons within a business take it upon themselves to change the food safety & hygiene rules of the game by not adhering to common practice where food safety is concerned, peoples lives are put at risk, and this is a very serious offence in negligent behaviour.
Businesses that sell food and those that serve food in restaurants and eateries have a very serious obligation towards their customers. What is being sold and served must meet the food safety requirements of the land. Food safety is a shared responsibility.
Over the years, Sint Maarten has built a vibrant dining scene with diverse food offerings. Our local restaurants have garnered international recognition. We are well known in the travel trade for our exquisite cuisine. Despite our size and limited domestic market, we are able to produce award-winning restaurants.
When businesses are cited for breaking food safety regulations, the business in the end will be the one that will loose as customers take their business elsewhere. The public places its confidence in the food sector that they will get quality in return.
Businesses must demonstrate their ability to adhere to all aspects of good food hygiene practices and to establish that its food safety system is working well. Besides maintaining high food safety standards, businesses should also educate the public on food safety.
Food poisoning is a common, usually mild, but sometimes deadly illness. Typical symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping, and diarrhea that occur suddenly (within 48 hours) after consuming a contaminated food or drink.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the US estimates that in the United States, food poisoning causes about 76 million illnesses, 325,000 hospitalizations, and up to 5000 deaths each year.
Our health inspectors must be commended for a job well done in carrying out their inspections. Their role is to prevent any large scale food safety crisis that could have a negative influence on tourism and travel to the island.
Every shopper should educate themselves about food safety practices when shopping for food. Micro-organisms can contaminate food in damaged packaging; toxins found in mouldy food can cause health problems; and expired food may compromise food safety and quality.
When you go to your neighbourhood supermarket or grocer, and you select with care, the risk of food poisoning is reduced.
Here are some tips to remember when you go shopping: do not buy chilled or frozen food that is displayed at room temperature; select frozen food stored below the load line of the freezing unit to avoid temperature abuse; do not choose canned food that is badly dented or bloated; examine packaged food carefully; when buying meat, make sure it does not appear stale or have off odours.
Ensure that there is no excessive moisture on the surface of meat or poultry. It shows that the food items have not been handled properly. Head for home once you have purchased meat as this cannot be left un-refrigerated for long.
When buying seafood, make sure that it is properly refrigerated or iced and when buying diary products, make sure that the packaging of the diary product is intact, and always check for the expiry date.
All businesses that are involved in preparing raw food ingredients such as cutting of vegetables or slicing meat, cooking, and packaging the food for delivery to third parties, should have proper training in food safety and food handling – Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) food safety and management system.
An entrepreneur in the food business, serving/selling good quality food is one half of the story, and to deliver food that is safe to be consumed is the other half. It's a social responsibility towards the community that a business operates in conducts its sale of products and produce in a safe manner.
Families must feel confident in the safety of foods they are buying – be it domestic foods or foods imported from other countries. The threat of unsafe foods is always looming, and while it is a problem that can certainly be improved, it can be solved.
All stakeholders must work together to keep our population healthy, safe, and well-protected from harm.
Roddy Heyliger
Mr. Sydney de WEEVER,
Inspector Radio Communication / NIB of
Bureau Telecommunication and Post, section Windward-islands.
Mr. Don HUGHES
General manager PJD-2
Dear gentlemen,
Being a professional educator, long term and consummate social-activist, president of a native St. Martin grass-root movement and conscious citizen of this island, I have made it my duty to be a frequent listener to the radio-program 'In the back yard with the young professionals' as well as to practically all other talk shows on the island in the English language.
To those talk-shows in other languages, e.g. Spanish and Haitian-Creole, unfortunately I do not follow, for the simple reason that I have absolutely no clue what they are saying/preaching or possibly even swearing or inciting for that matter.
By the way.
I wonder if the relevant communication authorities and radio-station owners themselves have any clue and can therefore evaluate the contents of these programs which are conducted in 'foreign tongues'.
That this lack of proficiency to understand these 'foreign tongues' can create a very unfair evaluation of the content of these programs, is self-explanatory and is a very interesting topic for future discussion for sure.
In other words, is their a 'level paying field', when it comes to the criteria applied to sanction certain programs ?
After all, all programs should be treated 'equally under the law', I would like to believe, if we are supposed to live in a state of law !
Therefore, allow me at this time, to request your explanation of the reason(s) why the program 'In the backyard....' is no longer on the air and what is expected to happen with the program in the future.
In addition, gentlemen, I am extremely concerned, that at a time when we as a people are facing the most crucial 'cross-roads' and challenges in our modern history, our own St. Martin and Antillean people are absolutely not being offered enough opportunities to express their views on all these matters in the media in general.
This once more justifies the question; '10-10-10' for WHOM ?????
Being exposed to the grass root St. Martin people on a daily basis, I am extremely worried that this lack of freedom of expression is resulting in many of our people developing a sense of being deliberately excluded in their own home.
At the same time, one can not tune in to any radio- or television station, without hearing lots of heated discussions going on in languages foreign- and who knows, possibly even hostile to us.
If ever there was a time to guarantee that there was the unrestricted possibility for the people of this island, as well as other Antillean residents to have first preference to be on every program on a daily basis in order to express their concerns and ideas pertaining to THEIR constitutional future, it is now !
In ending, I would appreciate meeting with you gentlemen and other stakeholders in order to discuss this matter in a very frank and professional manner.
Do not under-estimate that come '10-10-10' we will be exposed to language on radio- and television that would make us 'blush' and turn even blacker that most of us already are, simply because the Dutch tend to enjoy being extremely 'foul-language explicit' and confrontational and then what will we do ?
Remove those shows off the air ?
In that case, better be prepared to pay exorbitant hight legal damages !!!
Looking forward to your kind reponse.
With respect,
--
Leopold James
President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia
Dear Super intendant Charles Seaton,
You have proven to be a wise 'father-figure' in coming to a very difficult, but ultimately wise decision in rejecting the offer by Government to build a church for your Methodist congregation.
With that decision you have set a great example for others to follow and to learn from and for that you deserve maximum praise.
History and education in general teaches us that there are certain 'genies', which need not to be tampered with in the best interest of humanity.
One such well documented 'genie' is the 'lumping together' as one body of Church and State.
We will not explain the obvious and logical reasons for staying far away from that 'hybrid'- and very 'radio-active' institution, but suffice with recommending the uninitiated to read all relevant textbooks and even the contemporary news on the matter.
Therefore, this 'genie' is best kept tightly 'sealed' in the proverbial bottle, because if ever 'leaked out' of its controlled setting, this monster can wreak terrible havoc in the form of religious war, which are the worst ones known to mankind.
The best 'seal' for the proverbial bottle for this monster ?
Respect the universal principal of 'SEPARATION OF CHURCH AND STATE'.
For the record, this does NOT mean no cooperation or contact between the two.
It means try to maintain the Church as the Church and the State as the State as much as possible.
For example;
No state should get in the business of building churches and no religion should be the authority in charge of setting up and running a police force.
In spite of the fact that certain members of the Methodist church publicly tried to construe my message and concern expressed in this matter as being inciting hatred and being against God, you Super-indendant Seaton, have understood my real concern, for which I am grateful to you.
Not only that.
Finally after a very long time, I once more feel proud of the Methodist Church and might once again become a active member if welcome.
In addition, Mr. Seaton.
Clearly, with all the probably good intentions of many members of the Methodist Church among them a number of Commissioners, there is a clear need for them to be truly educated in the fundamental meaning of 'Separation of Church and State'.
Perhaps, you can take the initiative, to host oecominical meetings in which leaders of other denominations come together and educate their followers and all other citizens of the island of the true meaning of 'Separation of Church and State'.
Also, we have to be very, very cautious, labeling others who have a different religion, or none at all as anti-God, because no-one should claim to have God in 'their pocket'.
Such mentality exhibits a sense of self-righteousness which contributes significantly towards religiosn intolerance and worse.
indisputable fact of the matter is that it is NOT up to any man or woman to decide who will go where after our physical existence.
Therefore, instead of predicting and preaching who will go to heaven and who to heel and where not, one might be well advised to make sure that one gets to the best possible place if any, after life and telegraph back to the living where they are.
Instead, ones true conviction becomes more evident and credible by one's acts and actions of love, compassion and tolerance as opposed to knowing all biblical verses by heart.
In ending Super-intendant, please accept my words of sincerity and may the good Lord continue to bless you, the Methodist church and all other religions and similar teachings.
--
Leopold James
President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia
-------
This is to 'compliment' Mr. Jan-Peter BALKANENDE and all those Dutch ministers and parliamentarians, who against the growing public sentiments and fears of the St. Maarten people, have decided to declare the 'Antillean dossier' including the ill-fated constitutional changes 'non-controversial'.
Never mind that there is a growing momentum on the island to have a number of 'outstanding issues' placed in the draft-constitution of 'Country St. Maarten'.
To make matters even worse, even supporters of '10-10-10' are becoming extremely worried about the very ominous consequences of statements made by members of the ruling St. Maarten Government that in 'Country St. Maarten' there will be no (more) separation of 'State and Church', which has opened a 'Pandora box' for religious violence on the island, which can easily spread to mainland Holland.
Also outstanding in the draft-constitution is the recognition of the very existence of the native-indigenous people of this island, their emancipation, their rights to self-determination and their moral and ancestral rights to survive the looming threats of genocide by substitution under the immigration explosion on the island.
Obviously, those Dutch politicians who believe that these justified and growing fears of the people of this island are 'non-controversial' agree with giving even more priority to empowering the POLITICIANS on the island at the expense of the PEOPLE of the island.
This type of attitude of the Dutch politicians is what 'feeds' the call in the Netherlands for populist leaders as Geert WILDERS.
Hopefully, in time the people of our island would therefore find more understanding for their dilemma from the likes of Geert WILDERS, whose clear non-politically correct approach gains him the respect and support of many native Dutch and other residents in and even outside of the Netherlands.
Could therefore the time has come to give up on those politicians in Holland who sold us out and to instead invite Geert WILDERS to the 'Friendly island' in order to inspire us with a 'pep-talk' and to possibly establish a 'strategic alliance' with the PVV ?
After all, the PVV is in favor of having the native Dutch (autochtonen) take back control of their country Holland and he is very successful in the process.
Right here on the 'Friendly island' the natives are also trying to survive in their own native home-land and are being abandoned and betrayed by both their own local politicians as well by the Dutch 'non-controversialists'.
Obviously, such a visit by Geert WILDERS could well be a most welcome and tremendous boost and inspiration for our St. Martin grass root movement to be 'first at home'.
Crazy idea ?
Maybe for some, but not for those whose timeless pleas and efforts on the other politicians have only resulted in betrayal and being left up to be marginalized and become victims of genocide.
When ones very existence is at stake, there can be no price to hight to pay to prevent such.
--
Leopold James
President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia
-------
Take your concern about rights of indigenous St. Martiners to the Island-council.
Dear Council lady, Mrs. Sarah WESCOT-WILLIAMS,
With great interest, the people of this island took notice of statements of concerns recently made by you about issues which are still 'outstanding' in the draft constitution for 'country' St. Maarten.
One such concern you expressed (See the Daily Herald of Wednesday, February 17, 2010) was the 'safeguarding of the rights of the indigenous St. Maarteners (locals)
As we have stated in a number of releases related to these statements, not only do we agree with you, but support you in making sure that the rights of the indigenous St. Martin people are protected in order to guard them against marginalization.
Although there are those who are of the opinion, that you made these remarks because you are now in the opposition, true or not, we nevertheless appreciate you for expressing that concern which those who were in opposition never did as at that time as well.
In addition, what is more important to us than such back- and-forth 'blame-game', is the fact that this statements made by you are recorded and consequently and have taken on a 'life of its own'.
Even far more that that, your statements about the rights of the indigenous St. Martin people have 'touched off' a level of hope and expectation among the St. Martin people, which will not be put to rest until you actually prove that you meant what is recorded as your concern.
We therefore make use of this opportunity to urgently request of you as leader of the DP-party to call for an official meeting of the Island-council to debate this, the single-most important issue for the St. Martin people, that of their very SURVIVAL as a people in their own land, now heralded to be Country St.Maarten.
Thus far, this concept is only St. Maarten in name, but not for 'real', since its constitution does not even care to recognize the native-indigenous St. Martin peole, let alone cares to PROTECT them !
If this is not treason or betrayal, then what is ?
It should not be under-estimated that not having the existence, the rights and privileges of the natives of this island properly formulated in the island's first constitution, will not only hang as a eternal 'curse' over those who betrayed our heritage, but sooner or later they all will be brought before the people's tribunal.
Meanwhile, every member in the Island-council will be held accountable for remaining silent on this matter of life and death for the people of this island.
Also, even if the Dutch Government would support any new constitutional change that does not care to acknowledge, respect the existence and the rights of the people this island, certainly we as a grass root people's movement will never accept such document of betrayal and will do whatever it takes to protect our rights as indigenous people.
Looking forward to your expedient response,
With respect,
Copies to all relevant Authorities within the Dutch Kingdom, Caricom, the UN etc. etc.
Leopold JAMES
President SNBF/Association L'Esprit de Concordia and
native-indigenous St. martiner with pride and without apologies.
This letter is in response to comments made by Commissioner Heyliger regarding the beach replenishment news article that appeared in the Daily Herald on Wednesday March 3, 2010.
In my email to Commissioner Heyliger I explained to him that on Tuesday morning, several trucks were seen hauling sand on the Belair Beach. At first I thought the trucks were stealing sand, so I placed a call at 7;30am to one of the ROB Inspectors.
The Inspector rushed to the scene and found out that the sand was being trucked to the beach for beach replenishment. The Inspector called me back and explained this to me, when I asked who is in charge of overseeing the project, he responded he did not know, he was not informed as to this beach replenishment.
Later on in the day I spoke to several key employees at the ROB/VROM office and they too confirmed that their departments were not aware that the Belair beach replenishment was started.
Commissioner Heyliger, no where in my email addressed to you did I state that Sint Maarten PRIDE foundation is against the Belair Beach replenishment.
My concerns are that this project started without notifying the General Public, there was no notice placed in the local media.
A sign should have been placed at the entrance to the beach notifying beach goers of the danger of truckers and backhoes on the beach.
The environmental groups should have been notified and consulted, the groups can offer advice on how to best carry out this project without disturbing nature and wildlife.
We have three qualified environmental specialists on the island trained and educated in environmental science and (marine) management, Mr. Rueben Thompson, Mr. Etienne Lake and Mr. Tadzio Bervoets.
Anyone one of these three gentlemen could have been approached to advise on the Belair Beach replenishment.
Another concern is that your office seemingly bypassed the department of ROB and VROM, a ROB Inspector should be placed to supervise the replenishment work on the beach,what is happening is that independent truckers and heavy equipment are doing whatever and there is no supervision from the department of public works and environment.
The fact that Susan Heller from Belair Beach Hotel knew about the beach replenishment work does not impress The Sint Maarten PRIDE foundation, the beach does not belong to the hotel.
All beaches are public and as such the General Public should have been notified via the media.
While a hotel is located on a beach and offer ocean front to it's visitors, we have for too long allowed hotels to make offhanded ownership remarks and claims which later result in blocking beach access as is the case with the Divi Hotel.
This case is a simple one, Sint Maarten PRIDE foundation questions the manner in which the Belair beach replenishment work is being carried out, would it have been so difficult to inform the General Public and seek advice from the environmental groups?
Jadira Veen
Sint Maarten PRIDE foundation
Member of Parliament George Pantophlet says that he is not satisfied with the efforts made by government in looking for other alternatives to cover the Budget deficit instead of increasing the Turn over Tax from 3 to 5%. Sitting down 1 day with all the stakeholders would have been the responsible thing to do. Facts are that the stakeholders were not consulted as is being noticed by their complaints appearing in the media. Also more clarity is still needed as to why the 77 million guilders that remains from the 182 million guilders deposited on the Central Bank by the Dutch government for payment arrears cannot be used to reduce the Budget deficit. The purpose for this debt relief was to give the inhabitants of St. Maarten a good starting position. And beginning the year 2011 with tax increases is not what the people had in mind. The Member of Parliament wants to know what happened to dividends from government owned companies such as the Harbor, the Juliana International Airport and Gebe N.V and Telem. If agreements were signed between government and these companies indicating why they are not paying dividends then this should explained to the people of St. Maarten with solid facts. After all these are companies owned by the people of St. Maarten. There are statements circulating that the harbor and the airport are sitting on millions of guilders. If accessing these funds will have negative financial consequences on these government owned companies this too should be proven. If not dividends should be paid. Government should not be looking for the easy way out. Happy New Year from the government of St. Maarten.
Member of Parliament George Pantophlet
Although-, the Christmas season is normally a very festive one-, and is currently right upon us-, there is a very 'uncanny' feeling sitting like a 'cloud of malediction' on the 'Friendly island'.
Too a large extent-, it has to do with a complete distrust of Government-, law-enforcement- and the justice system in 'Country St. Maarten'-, just a few months after the long heralded '10-10-10'.
Many people seem to believe that there is a kind of 'conspiracy of sorts' involving the earlier mentioned institutions supported by certain sections within the media.
There is however-, a very clear difference in terms of who in the media world seems to be concerned about the rule of law-, and about right of the people of the island to know what is going on in their country.
In that regards-, we must admit-, that kudos are most definitely in place for the TODAY-newspaper-, and the smn-news.com website.
By reading the these outlets-, and in particular the many blogs in the smn-news.com site-, one can realize that there is a very strong scary perception growing among many residents on the island-, as well as skepticism of the relevant institutions.
A very good case in point.
The recent scandals involving Minister Maria BUNCAMPER-MOLANUS and her husband-, as well as drug smugglers (See attachment TODAY, December 16, 2010, Suspected drug smugglers about to escape justice)) seem to confirm a long held belief that the law-enforcement-, the justice-system-, are being held hostage' and controlled (?) by corrupt Government officials-, as well as by organized criminals.
That this perception is serious-, is more than an understatement.
The fact that institutions like the Governor's-office-, the Prosecutors-office-, the office of the OMBUDSMAN-, and of the president of Parliament-, the Prime-minister are simply not speaking out on the apparently-, very blatant case of corruption by minister Maria BUNCAMPER-MOLANUS, is only fueling the speculation that there are all 'linked together' one way or the other.
In other words.
One can not escape the impression that-, they all seem to have something on each other-, and therefore will sacrifice justice simply to 'save each other's hide'.
In the meantime-, the country is being held hostage.
Worse yet.
Many juveniles-, are becoming even more frustrated because they are oftentimes picked up for the tiniest of infractions-, or even without hard evidence.
On the other hand-, with so much evidence being made public on the internet for all to see and read about the BUNCAMPERS-, they are still walking around maintaining their 'honorable'- titles-, salaries and perks.
It seems that now St. Maarten has officially become the latest 'BANANA-REPUBLIC' in the world-, and within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Although the Dutch Government for understandable reasons-, might not (yet) want to 'intervene'-, the US-government might not be so pleased with having such an 'open 'haven for crime and terrorism', smack in its own back-yard.
Still-, we will give St. Maarten some time to regain the confidence of the people-, by making sure that lady Justice remains 'blind' as to whoever might have perpetrated any crime.
However-, it has been done before-, and can be done again.
Bring down the 'Higher supervision hatchet' on the island-, if those n charge fail to guarantee justice..
Drs. Leopold JAMES
President SNBF/ Association L' Esprit de Concordia
Dear editor it is sad to see what StMaarten has become. I taught that our new country will be in a mode to practice good governance leading with example of how people should have respect for the rule of law. My question is to the parliament of country StMaarten. Do you all have confidence in minister Maria Buncamper Molanus? If you do after all allegations that are brought against her let the people of StMaarten know. And if you do not have confidence in her, then apply your power giving to parliament according to the constitution which state in chapter 3: THE GOVERNMENT AND THE MINISTER PLENIPOTENTIARY. Paragraph 2 until 4 which read as follows.
2. If a minister no longer enjoys the confidence of the Parliament, he or she shall surrender his or her office.
3. More detailed rules concerning paragraph 2 of this article may be imposed under national ordinance.
4. The Parliament may not approve such a draft national ordinance and may not decide
upon a reading of such a draft except with the approval of two thirds of the votes of the
sitting members.
Let me go further StMaarten Constitution chapter 3 article 32, paragraph
3. The ministers are answerable to the Parliament.
In legal term the constitution did not say guilty of any wrong doing, it said straight forward enjoys confidence, that is having to do with your past presence and relations to circumstances you are involve with consistently.
Then an investigation should be done and after proven not guilty then you have rights to return to your job. Minister of Justice Roland Duncan task is to make sure the constitution of country StMaarten is uphold and enforce to every person living in StMaarten.
Another failure of position is the ombudsman, I will let the constitution defend it self.
Chapter 5, article 78 paragraph 2.
§ 3. Ombudsman
2. The Ombudsman shall undertake investigations, if requested to do so or on (his or her own initiative), into the conduct of administrative bodies of the Country and of other
administrative bodies designated by national ordinance.
Up to now the ombudsman has not do nothing. Are these people competent for the job or do they have the courage to protect justice. Ladies and gentlemen of StMaarten our government protects corruption, do you know you can email or inform the Kingdom parliament if StMaarten parliament is not functioning proper or they fail to do their job.
Log on to http://www.houseofrepresentatives.nl/ click on contact via email and let your concerns be registered.
The people of StMaarten are the last line of defense for country StMaarten when our government protects corruption.
Yours sincerely
Paul Rogers
Evil acts can be given an aura of moral legitimacy by noble-sounding socialistic expressions such as spreading the wealth, income redistribution or caring for the less fortunate. Let's think about socialism. Imagine there's an elderly widow down the street from you. She has neither the strength to mow her lawn nor enough money to hire someone to do it. Here's my question to you, and I'm almost afraid for the answer: Would you support a government mandate that forces one of your neighbors to mow the lady's lawn each week? If he failed to follow the government orders, would you approve of some kind of punishment ranging from house arrest and fines to imprisonment? I'm hoping that the average St. Maartener would condemn such a government mandate because it would be a form of slavery, the forcible use of one person to serve the purposes of another. Would there be the same condemnation if instead of the government forcing your neighbor to physically mow the widow's lawn, the government forced him to give the lady $40 of his weekly earnings? That way the widow could hire someone to mow her lawn. I'd say that there is little difference between the mandates. While the mandate's mechanism differs, it is nonetheless the forcible use of one person to serve the purposes of another. Probably most St. Maartener would have a clearer conscience if all the neighbors were forced to put money in a government pot and a government agency would send the widow a weekly sum of $40 to hire someone to mow her lawn. This mechanism makes the victim invisible, but it still boils down to one person being forcibly used to serve the purposes of another. Putting the money into a government pot makes palatable acts that would otherwise be deemed morally offensive. This is why socialism is evil. It employs evil means, coercion or taking the property of one person, to accomplish good ends, helping one's fellow man. Helping one's fellow man in need, by reaching into one's own pockets, is a laudable and praiseworthy goal. Doing the same through coercion and reaching into another's pockets has no redeeming features and is worthy of condemnation. Some people might contend that we are a democracy where the majority agrees to the forcible use of one person for the good of another. But does a majority consensus confer morality to an act that would otherwise be deemed as immoral? In other words, if a majority of the widow's neighbors voted to force one neighbor to mow her law, would that make it moral? I don't believe any moral case can be made for the forcible use of one person to serve the purposes of another. But that conclusion is not nearly as important as the fact that so many of my fellow St. Maarteners give wide support to using people. I would like to think it is because they haven't considered that more than two thirds of our budget represents St. Maarteners using one another. Of course, they might consider it compensatory justice. For example, one St. Maartener might think. Most civil servants are paid more than work performed so I'm going to get government to use someone else to serve my needs by paying for all of my children's education including college. The bottom line is that we are becoming a nation of thieves. Have the slave masters moved off the plantation and into the Administration Building?
Peter Gunn
Climate change is an issue not heard of much on the island, but regionally and internationally, it has the attention of many policy-makers. The matter is of such importance that should be brought to the level of Kingdom policy makers. Climate change is an issue that is already impacting small island nation states and their quality of life for their citizens.
Barbados Prime Minister (PM) Freundel Stuart, has called for a coordinated approach among regional governments to scale back the negative impact of climate change on their respective economies. This challenge was issued while Hon. PM Stuart addressed a joint British and Australian High Commissions conference under the theme: "Climate Change in the Caribbean: Equipping Policy Makers to Combat the Threat.
Aruba's Prime Minister Mike Eman has invited the Prime Ministers of Curacao and Sint Maarten for a summit early December. Both leaders have agreed to meet with their Aruban colleague in an effort to come to a constructive cooperation in the Kingdom together with Holland.
Eman said that the trans-Atlantic relationship between the European and Caribbean parts of the Kingdom offered many possibilities and now was the time to give content to this potential, and to make it the objective of the three Caribbean leaders to cooperate within the Kingdom in order to achieve concrete results in improving the quality of life for all partners.
In the coming weeks the countries will decide on the agenda points. As a community, we hope that climate change will be an agenda point. The three Caribbean parts of the Dutch Kingdom are at risks of climate change just like the rest of the Caribbean region.
Some island nations in the Caribbean according to a study, "The Economics of Climate Change Adaptation in the Caribbean," carried out by the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility stood to loose six per cent of their Gross Domestic Product (GDP) annually from wind, storm surge and inland flooding. Researchers have further warned that in a worst case scenario, climate change has the potential to increase these expected losses by a further one to three per cent of GDP, by 2030.
The study launched in February involved eight pilot nations and countries, Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Dominica, Jamaica, and St. Lucia, and was supported by Caribbean Risk Managers, the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre, and the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean and others.
The study is said to be of immense value to not only Caribbean policy-makers, but also the business sector, in their efforts to develop and implement sound adaptation strategies and plans.
Barbados has carried out its own study, "The Impact of Climate Change on the Barbadian Economy and the Consequences of Doing Nothing."
Policy makers and technocrats have been asked to integrate climate change considerations into development planning, program budgeting, with a view to reducing the negative impacts associated with this phenomenon.
Depending on a country's characteristics, the preliminary results suggest that risk mitigation initiatives can cost-effectively avert up to 90 per cent of the expected loss in 2030 under a high climate change scenario.
The best approach for each country is determined specifically by its topography, exposure to hurricanes, and value and vulnerability of assets.
Besides using the opportunity of the summit of the three prime ministers of the Dutch Caribbean to bring the climate change issue up to a Kingdom level for discussion, on the local scene, a climate change parliamentary select committee should be established as well which would allow policy-makers to start looking at the issue and at the same time engaging stakeholders on the matter in order to develop a plan of action as a nation on how to deal with climate change.
Roddy Heyliger
Well, T.O., as he over the past has called himself, has launched his light-green UP party with the support of his fellow Wathey family and others who slyly hide in the background, as expected. The Watheys are however his prime supporters, we also see several individuals on this party's board including a lady of Chinese origin. An outright victory for T.O. would mean that the Watheys can once again continue to plunder our already, by them, plundered island, unabated, after 10-10-10. The Watheys have already plundered the local financial institutions through extremely high mortgages (more than US $. 20,000,000.00 worth) over the last ten years (I have the evidence to prove that) on sometimes very small parcels of overpriced real estate, are to their necks in debt and liabilities stemming from these huge mortgages as well as my paternity law suit, only to satisfy their lavish lifestyles and egos when a poor local man/woman can't even dream about getting a simple loan from their crony bank. Expensive mansions and fancy cars are the norms of the day for these, some bloodless Watheys, while their businesses tether on the brink of bankruptcy, they continue to collect large rental fees from real estate my father and grandfather left behind throughout the island such as the Governor's Residence, Cyrus W. Wathey Square, the block east of the Court House, Point Blanche, Emmaplein, Frontstreet, Simpsonsbay and other locations. Their legal advisors seem to be telling the Watheys to continue fighting me in court in order for them to be able to buy time. What they are not telling them is that they will eventually have to comply with the court's rulings or risk losing everything they own on the auction block if they don't have my share in the estates of Norman C. Wathey, my father, as well as Cyrus W. Wathey, my grandfather, put aside. They must replace my legitimate portion and it goes back to the date of their passings. Contrary to those who think different, the justice system does provide recourse but one must have a very strong case. I wow to follow the Watheys to their graves even to their last off-spring if they don't provide me with what is rightfully mine. Those measures have already been safeguarded. Despite this all T.O. is hell-bent on asking you the voter to vote him into office so that he can continue to get his kick-backs and to try to rescue the Watheys from their imminent liability towards me. The Watheys have failed in every business venture they have undertaking, from Candy Store to Telecommunications to recently a Gas Station in Simpsonsbay which had to close its doors because they couldn't pay their supplier. I remain baffled why Holland has not yet come in to clean house before 10-10-10 or does the Dutch along with the local politician intend to continue with the same old mess in house St. Maarten? This must be done if St. Maarten is to continue in a democratic society with a tab on intended corruption and kick backs in this tiny yet controllable community. Some of UP's main supporters have already shown their feathers which has resulted in some of them being sent to jail for various serious crimes. T.O.'s political party is the only party thus far that has associated itself with these ex-cons. You know who they are, the ones in the background waiting like sharks for a T.O. victory to control our island. Like someone mentioned on the internet, eat them, drink them, take their money and gifts, but never spend your vote on their lousy green T-party. Accept no more promises. T.O. will eventually tax you for whatever he gives you during this campaign. The voters have lost their confidence in T.O. when he unceremoniously departed from Sarah and the DP party. He failed to defend and protect the party the Watheys claim Claude Wathey, his grandfather by mother side, founded. The Labegas will disagree, claiming it was Clemente Labega who founded the DP. The Wathey were always rustlers and so they remain to this day. Some have even gone as far as branding him, T.O., as a deserter and a traitor. Lady Gracita ("for government you can trust and or believe in") you never know, noticeably enough did not show up to the party's launching ceremony, simply because she didn't collect as yet, she joined later on; she should have never associated herself with these people. This is the same thing she always stood against over the past but like they say in politics "politicians make strange bed fellows". Everyone of the major Watheys are heavily into the bank they are affiliated or associated with, through these huge overvalued mortgages, at the expense of those who work hard to save their hard earned money in this bank. That's the way they thrive, their modus operandi is: You kill yourselves working for it, you put it in their bank, this bank "lends" it to them in huge amounts, they live big, pay back when they can, if they want. We are headed in the wrong direction where only one family will eventually benefit. This is one important factor someone should be bringing to the attention of you, the voter. I am the one doing just that. Withdraw your money from their crony bank before 10-10-10 and put it in a local foreign bank to protect your sovereignty. You can quicker/easier get a loan from them anyhow. This will equalize the playing field once and for all, a "broke" Wathey would be a better Wathey for this island, they are simply too greedy for power over people, they must be stopped, now is the time to stop them in their tracks. Live in hope, depending on T.O. and his green machine, die slowly in despair. The day will come when T.O. himself will not only abandon the former Watheys DP party but abandon the Watheys themselves for his retreat in Florida. The writing is on the wall! The voter will eventually say, see, Leo was right, T.O. himself is in fact politically dead. He is definitely not for the people as he professes. He is most of the time hiding away from the people who put him in government in the first place. Spend your vote wisely this time; make a decisive decision for once in your lives, do like I did, stand UP against T.O. & the Wathey Empire. A poor man yes can lose his only home; his badly, by T.O's bad roads already damaged, vehicle or his meager paying job, the Watheys can't, they are propped up by this bank and other financial institutions which they represent such as insurance companies as well as a bank on French Saint Martin. Yes, they can always get a second or a third mortgage on their jacked up real estate. You the poor man can't sell a gas station or a piece of real estate or a restaurant to save your buts if it called for that, they yes can, they own these things. After reading this, you yourselves will decide to boycott their businesses. You must think about yourselves first for once in your lives, seriously smell the coffee, wakeup my good friends. Vote DOWN the Wathey's Empire, UP with the voters Empire! The power lies with you, not them. You the people of St. Maarten overwhelmingly supported me in my one man battle against the Watheys for me to be legally eligible for what is mine; you even made a song against the injustice of the Watheys. I beg of you, to continue your support for me in this more crucial matter that has affected you, the voter, all of your lives. Their Empire is already crumbling! Their liability toward me is steadily increasing as they lose every court battle they pay high profile lawyers to fight me. By the way, dear voters, please tell me why does T.O. need a whole new political party to fulfill his many long overdue broken promises, he could have easily rejoined with the DP or run on the NA's list; why spend so much money in these hard times? I can't see any better reason for his move other than his own interest first, the Watheys ultimately! I trust that you will continue your support for me and do good for you, yourselves.
Yours truly,
Norman Chester Wathey II (One of YOU)
Have you noticed any public jubilation-, any car-rallies or any other expressions of 'festivity' after you collectively signed the most anti-St. Martin document in history, which you cynically call the draft Constitution' for country 'St. Maarten' ?
Isn't it ironic at best, that you have used the name 'St. Maarten' for this document, but have not been able- and/or willing to define the St. Martiner ?
Shame on you. Shame.
History will prove that you made an historical blunder of major proportions.
Living in denial of one's own ancestral heritage- and cultural identity is one of the most fundamental- and evil forms of betrayal anyone can perpetrate against one's own people.
It is a crime against the St. Martin humanity-, and it will exact a prize from every single perpetrator.
While you might have celebrated this so-called milestone among your own 'elite-group', on 'ground-zero', I can assure you, with the exception of one or two party 'die-hard-, cult' followers, it is not 'going down well' to say the least.
As I have stated before, all the external 'hurdles' you faced up till this point, will fade completely into oblivion, in comparison with the type of visible- and invisible reactions your betrayal of the St. Martin people has evoked.
I urge you to please, repent-, humble yourselves and take heed of the seriousness of the situation, because its consequences can be devastating beyond words.
And while we too, as grass roots movement feel totally betrayed by each of you, as a responsible organization, we will try to refrain from 'oiling the cindering fire' in people's hearts-, souls-, and minds.
As such, we are prepared to meet with you-, in order to make our contribution towards making the best out of this very tense situation, still trying to achieve for our St. Martin people what has been left undone.
However-, let it also be recorded here, that we also look forward to especially William MARLIN, ceasing his arrogant behavior, because not everyone, is willing to be intimidated by him like most of his followers are.
In addition, Government can pass whatever laws it wants, but that doesn't not mean that we will 'role over and play dead', and allow the sacrifices made by our St. Martin ancestors, to have been in vain, because of traitors in Government.
Like every people, we too will reserve the universal right to defend ourselves as endangered people from persecution-, alienation- and elimination..... by all means necessary.
On the other hand, God forbid the day, we too decide to leave it solelyup to you to deal with the pent-up anger and disillusionment you have caused the St. Martin people.
The choice is yours
Your own St. Martin ancestors, must now have become restless- and agitated, to understand that after having shed blood-, sweat-, and tears for you to have become rulers on this island, that you can now simply state in public...I knoweth thee not !
It is paramount to a sin.
Shame on you.
drs. Leopold JAMES
President grass roots St. Martin people's nation building movement and-, even prouder- than ever, native-indigenous St. Martiner, without apologies and without compromising and without selling out.
Cruise line officials have St. Thomas under a form of higher supervision where cruise onshore excursions are concerned after a 14-year-old cruise ship passenger aboard one of Carnival ships was killed after shots were fired at a funeral session at Coki Point by a local resident. A tour bus was passing a funeral that was in session at Coki Point, when shots rang out on July 11.
Updates have to be provided on a weekly basis to the Florida Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) with respect to visitor safety and security. These updates will continue for at least a month. During that period, shore excursion groups from the cruise lines will be scouting around checking things out after the incident.
Cruise officials are actively monitoring how quickly the St. Thomas government responds to the variety of concerns that the cruise lines have expressed to them.
This brings into perspective the number of armed robberies that have taken place on Front Street so far for this year. The last one was July 11 – the same day a 14-year old cruise passenger was killed in St. Thomas – when four men raided a jewellery store minutes before 10.00am.
Two store employees were sprayed with pepper-spray. The four culprits left the store on foot heading up-town. Permanent police patrol presence should be considered for different parts of the island as a new measure in combating crime. We shouldn't wait for something devastating to happen before taking pro-active measures.
The FCCA is waiting to receive a timeline as to the implementation of the St. Thomas Police Department's action plan leading to an accelerated clean-up of the Coki Point tourist attraction/activity area.
The St. Thomas Police Department safety and security plan for the cruise ships entails basically flooding the streets – violence prone areas, tourist attractions and community events – with police officers.
There will also be increased mobile patrols, upgraded surveillance cameras with 24-hour monitoring and intelligence gathering. Targeted policing entails investigating known associates of high-profile criminals and their behind-the-scene links.
Abandoned vehicles and overgrown bushes in the Coki area will be dealt with in order to ensure that the area is safe and the aforementioned does not become a hiding place for persons with criminal intent.
Visitors will be monitored and the cruise lines will be notified when events, such as funeral are held. It has become commonplace of recent to have officers present for funerals; however, they were not aware of the Coki Point cemetery funeral on July 11 as they were not notified.
Much effort has been placed in fighting crime in the past, however policing objectives and strategies of challenging crime and criminal behaviour at all levels, maintaining public order, and safe guarding the security of the nation needs to be beefed up in order to generate public confidence and safety.
Increased pro-active measures are needed before we end up with a situation similar to St. Thomas. The Sint Maarten community expects such an approach rather than a reactive approach.
Roddy Heyliger
For your best will, we care to inform you that the 'mood' of St. Martiners is extremely 'unfriendly' to say the least.
The main reason is that, successive governments have abandoned-, and sold them out completely.
Now that the date for the new election has been set, the most critical question you have to answer is;
How do you plan to give back St. Maarten to the St. Martiners, now that you have taken care of everybody else to the point of our exclusion-, and threatening extinction as a people..
So, in your own interest, be advised not make a mistake to come talking about anything else and certainly NOT about your betrayal of the people packaged as '10-10-10' and your constitution which excludes us the St. Martin people completely.
Rest assured, that it will not be business as usual-, and all those considering to run, better take heed of the 'mood' on the 'Friendly island'.
It is time, that charity starts at home for we the natives of this island.
Hopefully, corporate sponsors will also take heed that funding political parties that do not 'get the message' of the changing mood in the community and of the growing distrust in the established political parties, is like throwing their hard-earned monies 'down the drain'.
Of course, they are free to do so, but that will not be able to stop the inevitable change, which will manifest itself one way or the other nevertheless.
No-one has to take our words for the 'gospel-truth' naturally, just talk to real people, living on 'ground-zero' on the 'Friendly island'
Leopold JAMES,
President grass roots St. Martin nation building movement and still,
Proud native-indigenous St. Martiner without apologies for defending rights of St. Martin people..
Mr. Editor, please allow me some space to address the not-so-progressive behavior of the present government. It is since the NA/Heyliger executive council took office, the finance portfolio had become most controversial. Is it true that they are cleaning the mess left behind by the previous executive council, or is it that the present executive council lacks vision?
Finance seems to be the most controversial issue for several months since the present government took office last year. Whose fault? Not the DP. I mean; blunder after blunder. This is the same government that could not have submitted a budget on time, they could not have balanced it, and then the people woke up one morning only to read a headline that goes "St. Maarten submits request for Turn-over tax increase". It was the DP who shouted and screamed "bad idea!" joining the chorus of many disgruntled person within our community including business owners. Only later to hear the leader then proudly says St. Maarten withdraws turn over tax request. There were other options, but they find a TOT increase was most fitting. But mind you, the turn-over tax increase is the language this government speaks again!
In their usual excuse to their blunders, they claim to say they are cleaning the mess of the previous executive council. So, I took the time to return some pages back to 2009 and it was the CFT in its preliminary advice to the former Commissioner of Finance, stating that the overall quality and figures that were presented in the 2009 budget, presented by the DP, are to their satisfaction so, I am not convinced that the present government inherited a mess. The present coalition government simply lacks vision.
After all, the government now opens a new door for more controversial headlines with the latest! Change of tax system without the calendar year finishing and doubling the turn-over tax. Together, we are indeed moving forward! Forward to where?
Let me quote from an article that has been written by the NA; "True "Country above Self" puts people above party politics and personal gain. It is about working together for St. Maarten. It is about building people up, not tearing people down." They are contradicting their very own statement. It's either they are looking to close businesses or to drive up the cost of living. Are they ringing such an alarm? I think the government tax talk is about making the rich richer and the poor poorer.
This is the government whose supporters are proudly proclaiming; the NA have done so much in one year, but how much of these projects were initiated by the NA? And those that were NA-initiated projects; how well were they done? It's a political year and this government seems to be rushing to score political points whether it's good or bad. Their approach is simply not in the interest, nor the progress of the soon-to-be country. It is more about "doing" to get political mileage, but you know; all in all we can see who really posturing for the next election! And when that time comes again they must be held accountable for their approach as anything sealed for Country St. Maarten will govern us people for several generations.
Exactly, what the present government intends to do with the business community and the economy of St. Maarten remains a big question. However, I wish to advise the NA to take a read in the book of economics, written by the DP and read it. Apparently, they are lagging behind BIG time.
Mario A. Gumbs
My dear friend,- and soul brother Greg,
Please allow for me to bring the following under your kind attention.
Over the years, you have been a very powerful-, trustworthy-, and dependable voice of-, and for the native St. Martin people on this island.
As such you have not forgotten-, nor betrayed your own deep-, ancestral roots in this community.
In addition, as a 'roving ambassador' you travel all over the globe meeting-, and maintaining contact with many St. Martiners living in the diaspora.
In contrast to your commitment to our St. Martin people- and our heritage, it appears that a number of call-in radio programs
have given up on being a platform allowing for the native St. Martin voices to express their concerns about the fate of their island-nation.
Some of these programs have been actually transformed into surrealistic sort of 'bill-boards' promoting queen- & pageant shows-, and all kinds of relatively irrelevant 'international' issues, deliberately- and systematically refusing to deal with the issues of immediate- and critical concerns to the very existence of grass roots St. Martin people.
This systematic denial of the facts 'on the ground', clearly constitutes a contributing factor towards the 'fueling' of many of our social problems, not in the last place of crime- and youth delinquency.
Against the backdrop of the constitutional developments, such as the draft constitution for Country St. Maarten which denies our St. Martin identity, there is an escalating 'backlash' originating from grass roots St. Martiners.
Many expect this social discontent to have the potential to end up into a level of uncontrollable social violence the island has never known before.
However, it can not be denied as well, that there is a growing number of responsible-, proud-, concerned-, and very conscious St. Martiners who are publicly expressing the sentiments of many, if not all St. Martiners.
In addition, they clearly are the 'peacemakers' and the 'architects' of the St. Martin 'social solution'.
Allow me therefore to humbly recommend that you dedicate a number of installments to this development, where the politicians are going into one directions, while the grass roots St. Martin people are refusing to follow suite.
These 'peacemakers' and 'architects' are people with deep ancestral roots all across the island and who therefore hold the 'key' of the 'Friendly island' to the 'way forward' making it a 'paradise' for all.
Some of these people are; Miguel ARRINDELL, Kenneth COOK, Theophilus PRIEST, Julien PETTY, Daniella JEFFRY, Aline CHOISIE, Max CHOISIE, Jeffrey RICHARDSON, 'Baige'RICHARDSON.
Meanwhile I, Leopold JAMES, your humble servant will always be at the service of my St. Martin people.
Thank you so much brother Greg and continue being a very strong advocate for our St. Martin people.
If 'charity does not start at home' for us native St. Martiners right here in our own ancestral home-land, there will NEVER be peace-, safety-, prosperity, let alone any sustainable development-, nor any meaningful 'Country' St. Maarten.
Greg, the people need you more than ever !
With respect,
Leopold JAMES
DP President Mike Ferrier was on a popular talk show on Sunday last encouraging a bi-partisan approach when it comes to St. Maarten attaining Country Status. This, as according to him because the DP finds itself between the proverbial rock and a hard place in that when they are critical of what the present Government is doing, according to Ferrier, the DP is told that they are whining because they are not in power and that they are not being supportive of the government's efforts to get St. Maarten to the new status. However after reading the reported comments and proposals coming from appointed Finance Commissioner Xavier Blackman regarding plans to shift to indirect taxes by 10-10-10, the DEMOCRATIC PARTY can only shake its head in disbelief and wonder how a sitting government can with a straight face declare that ¾ into the present fiscal year and ten days into a particular month (October) they will CHANGE the tax system of St. Maarten? Does Mr. Blackman realize the chaos and the expenses that will be created for both Government as well as the Private sector? Switching systems in the middle of a year, in the middle of a month will be a nightmare! For profit tax: close off a running book year, prepare financial statements, file tax returns under the old system as per October 9th, 2010 and then do it again as of December 31, 2010 for the period starting with 10-10-10. For payroll: close off old payroll system nine days into the month, start up new system effective the next day, IF new payroll soft ware is available by then. In short, chaos! It is obvious that because of the DP's insistence that the government inform the people about the fiscal system they plan for Country St. Maarten, that the Commissioner of Finance now haphazardly threw out this not very well thought out plan.
Increasing the TOT (doubling it) will without a doubt (just as in 1997 when TOT was first introduced), cause a next wave of businesses with a relatively low gross profit margin to close or contemplate (again) moving to the French side. Car dealerships , building/construction supply wholesalers, construction companies, food wholesalers, etc., all work with relatively small gross profit margins. As a consequence, doubling the TOT will yield substantially less than double the present revenues. In addition consumers, to escape the higher TOT, will undoubtedly purchase more on-line and definitely look to get high ticket items such as vehicles, maybe even fridges, stoves and furniture through the internet and have them shipped to St. Maarten.
Low income individuals (people making less than approximately NAF. 20,000 per year) will suffer, as the prices of basic necessities will increase, while they will not benefit from cutting the wage/income tax by 50%, as right now they DO NOT PAY WAGE TAX. But they WILL pay higher prices because of the TOT increase! Commissioner Blackman and William Marlin's NA led government, supported by Louie Laveist and Theo Heyliger, will make life on St. Maarten more difficult come 10-10-10! The DP cannot and will not support that.
Michael Ferrier DP Party
Not that it is up to us to tell you- or to even advise you corporate sponsor to continue supporting those political parties, many of you have done for many years.
Certain, you are completely free to allocate your hard-earned money to those parties and politicians, who have taken such for granted, and have already made plans, that they will again, be recipients of your money for their political campaigns.
Traditionally, it has been the parties, and politicians, who have in fact sold out the people's patrimony who have been the ones to receive millions of campaign funds from often times bonafide business people.
But then again, we acknowledge that it is completely up to you, corporate sponsors, to continue with that tradition, should you so desire.
However, it is also up to you to take serious note of an un-mistakenly fundamental change in the air.
A 'mental' revolution within our society.
These inevitable changes are grounded in the fact that, the people have lost every bit of trust and confidence in the 'old guard'-politicians, be they DP- , NA politicians or Theo Heyliger of the UPP party.
Increasingly, more people are realizing that these soon to be 'has been' powerhouse parties, are all fundamentally the same; they are a political 'hybrid'.
Do not be fooled.
Whatever can be said about anyone of these parties, fundamentally can be said about all of them.
The fact alone that both Sarah WESCOT-WILLIAMS and William MARLIN , recently publicly admitted that, despite all their efforts, pertaining to the constitutional changes, they are completely unable to inspire, motivate enthusiasm in the people.
This inability signifies nothing less than a public denouncement and a very clear vote of non-confidence in how the current politicains are leading this country.
For that reason of course, they have denied allowing the people of St. Maarten, the right to ratify the final draft on the negotitaions with the Dutch Government.
If they though that there was still any trust and confidence in them, wouldn't they have allowed for a public ratification, like in Curacao and soon in Bonaire ?
Now, that elections for an expanded Island-council, are expected to be called, there are those politicians, who are already bragging how they have their campaign-funds firmly 'locked in' to be able to buy the votes of the people which has been their 'entrance-ticket' into their coveted arena of Government.
This attitude of taking you sponsors for granted, shows a deeply rooted dis-respect for your intelligence.
Worse yet.
It shows that these 'old guard' politicians also have absolutely no respect for the value of your finances, for which most of you sponsors, had to make very hard sacrifices to come by.
It will now be up to you sponsors, to make up your minds whether you want to continue being 'black-mailed' by the 'old guard' politicians to sacrifice your hard-earned moneys for any lazy, greedy,self-centered, lavishly-living politicians.
Or, it is up to you corporate sponsors, to finally choose to assist the new political grass roots agents of change for a social-just, stable and sustainable development.
While the choice will be yours, so will be the consequences most naturally.
Of course, we would welcome you forging a partnership with any potentially newly emerging young political movement, who are in fact not only in touch with the reality of change, but who de facto are the 'agents' of the inevitable changes to come.
In that case, by being part of the solution, you will have secured your own financial-, social- and mental investment and can expect an enduring return of these investments.
Being St. Martin's foremost influential grass roots movement, you can always count on our contribution, towards a socio-economic partnership as basis for a stable, safe and productive investment and quality-of-life environment.
As such, we can provide you with those who are the agents of change, and who simply wish to 'line their pockets' with your money to stay in office as well identify genuine agents of the inevitable change.
The choice is yours.
Leopold JAMES
President grass roots St. Martin nation building- & unification movement.
And still,
Native-indigenous St. Martinesr without apologies and compromise.
From the local St. Maarten media, we have learned that there will be a plenary meeting in the First Chamber of Parliament on Tuesday, July 6, 2010.
During that session, as we understand, will be handled, the 10 Kingdom Consensus Laws, including the amendment to the Charter.
Present at this meeting will also be a delegation from St. Maarten, among others.
Based on recent developments, such as among others, the current 'political correct' thinking in The Hague, we have no illusions whatsoever, that the issues to be deliberated upon, will once more be accepted by the Dutch Government.
Never mind, that it has become over-evident, that the constitutional process has long gone 'full speed ahead' of the St. Martin people, who have completely lost every bit of interest in that process
Worse yet.
Not only is the so-called 'constitution' for 'Country' St. Maarten, only St. Maarten in 'name', but in terms of its contents, its obvious intent and implication, it is anti-St. Martin people to the max.
In other words, in 'real life' this document is nothing but the official declaration of non-existence and betrayal of the St. Martin people.
This so called 'constitution' clearly manifests a typical and misplaced sense of pride in the Dutch 'nationality' as the utmost important 'parameter', at the expense of the acknowledgment of-, and pride in our own St. Martin heritage and cultural-identity.
It does not even mention the term 'St. Martiner' as a 'foot-note', next to the referral to DUTCH citizen or passport holders..
For the record.
During the history of the island, the ONLY human-factor that remained constant, and became characteristic for the island was the cultural-identity of the people who in fact never abandoned the island.
The nationalities governing the island, changed as often as the many colonial powers did, which is the fundamental reason for the sense of inferiority of many of our people, INCLUDING our so-called leaders !
They prefer being a 'copy-cat' Dutch national or an 'allochtonous' Dutch citizen, than a proud St. Martiner, culturally speaking.
And it is exactly this inferiority that has now been 'elevated' as the core parameter in this so-called 'constitution' ;the so coveted DUTCH nationality.
Nevertheless, we have come to realize that as a people, we have been betrayed and our rights as St. Martiners and as Antilleans taken away and sacrificed in order for the politicians, including the Dutch to meet their heralded '10-10-10' deadline.
We acknowledge that we will never be able to prevent our politicians, with the collaboration of the Dutch Government, from ramming this anti-St. Martin document down our throats.
As matter of fact we expect such to take place without any delay.
However, while wishing all politicians success in the process, for the record we also wish to impart upon you the following.
Enforcing this anti-St. Maarten document on 'ground-zero', will evoke the immediate wrath of the spirits of our departed ancestors, whose blood, sweat and tears have been betrayed by the politicians of the island aided and abtetted by others as well.
While there might be certain politicians who denounce Mr. Geert Wilders, of the PVV, we certainly do not.
Quite to he contrary, because we clearly understand the underlying root-causes for his party
Clearly, the million plus Dutch who voted for him, did such with a passion and for a reason, with which we agree.
It is only a matter of time, before the native St. Martin people also choose their own 'Geert WILDERS' to send out a very clear message.
Under no circumstances should the rights of natives of any country be sacrificed on the alter of equal rights for all national citizens.
After all, very country has a history and so does our country.
Consequently, without recognizing the natives as the host population with certain rights and privileges, which allows them to serve as foundation for a harmonious and sustainable development and for inclusion of others, there will never be genuine peace.
Therefore, forcing this constitution down the throats of the people, is like forcing a woman to become a man's bride, regardless whether or not her feelings are taken into account.
See how long that marriage will last.
For sure such a 'bully' husband better keep his eyes open when sleeping, especially with his back turned to the wife whose 'love' he 'bought'.
Long live '10-10-10'...
No, no not the arrival of the 'constitutional train', but of the the 'calender date' to be precise.
drs. Leopold JAMES
President SNBF/ L'Esprit de Concordia and still...
Proud, native-indigenous St. Martiner, without apologies and compromise.
Although, I might not be a native of St. Maarten, I have lived here too long not to love it as if it were my own native-country.
But even more than that I also understand the deep concerns and fears of marginalization of the native St. Martiners so passionately and consistently expressed by Mr. Leopold James.
While to certain people he might come across as being anti-foreigners, I have never understood his positions and defense of his people as being offensive to me.
As a matter of fact, in my opinion he is doing what the leaders of this island have miserably failed to do in the first place.
On September 17, 2010, the island will once more have elections.
This time for an expanded Island-council which will on 10-10-10 automatically be transformed into the Parliament for country St. Maarten.
This Parliament will then have to elect ministers to run the daily affairs of the new country.
It is very clear that the Netherlands will not make it easy for country St. Maarten and therefore, the level of competency of the ministers must be of a very high level.
More than ever, it might be necessary to appoint proven professionals, with a very independent mind in office who can deal on an equal basis with the Dutch.
Even-though many have labeled him a radical, I am convinced that he should seriously be considered for a ministerial post in any cabinet.
The reason is simple.
All the issues related to the St. Martin identity and the role of the St. Maarten people will not go away any time soon.
As a matter of fact, systematic denial of the importance of these issues will sooner or later result in social implications with far-reaching consequences.
Similarly, ignoring the important role Mr. James can play in Government will only feed more radical elements in our society.
We have already seen a new generation of more impatient, if you will more extreme voices like Mr. Miguel Arrindell.
By reading many of the publications of Leopold James over the years, I have come to one conclusion.
Like him or not.
There is no-one who has impressed me more by his deep passion and understanding for the many social issues on the island.
The man has published more positions papers with solutions than anyone in government that I know of.
Because in my opinion it will be imperative for country St. Maarten to have a ministry dedicated to social- and cultural integration, I believe there is no one with a more impressive and proven track-record of concerns and involvement than Leopold James.
Considering the very deep cultural divisions within our community and their growing mutual resentment, addressing this will be of paramount importance to prevent the new country form falling into an abyss of violence.
While I cannot speak for Mr. James, I do hope that all political parties realize that they better find a way to make use of this man's endless energy and not think that he will not be a stakeholder, however you turn or twist it.
Time to get real now for country St. Maarten.
G.Hassell
Once again, our lil Saint Martin has been attracting all eyes on its situation of crime and insecurity. How long are we planning to cover our heads and just let things happen? This situation is becoming a normal and customary state of living on the "Friendly" island!
There isn't one day that we don't read in the papers or on the Net of some robbery, rape or killing! How long are we going to close our eyes, mouths and let it happen?
Yes, I know that many would say it's the foreigners and so on..... I will not blame them directly. I am blaming the governments for the past years, who have accepted the genocide of our people without having any vision at long term of what would become of this lil piece of rock!
I am talking about the North Side primarily but the South side is making the same mistakes today which will lead We the People to run away in another man's country in order to raise our children and grandchildren far from this fear of being killed!
What are the governments waiting for to realize that when one can say "There is nothing such as a Saint martiner..."they open the doors to hell for "WE" the people who KNOW that we are Saint martiners!
When the people of a country are put in minority, this is what happens! When a people's identity is not acknowledged this is what happens! The Saint Martin man has no more say in his country! Everyone else from all over the world can do what they want in SXM and get away with it !
One has to be blind or foolish not to see that the genocide was spreading over the past years! When as saint martiner, Yes I am, I remember how this country was, I can be brave enough to say that the Master plan was set to destroy us, both North and South!
When the Colonial powers unite to carry out their plans they use the weakest links of the People to make it happen! This is what took place for the French side in 1977. This is what is happening on the South Side today! They make you believe that you will be more independent, that you will be able to carry out your business.... They will pat you on your back, offer you lots of empty promises.... But trust me, when you know the history of those countries, you come to realize that you are put into a bottomless trap! They never set you free! I am of those who believe that Freedom is taken not given to you!
"Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed"as said by Dr Martin Luther King.
Over the years, I have been repeatedly saying that a country which loses its culture and its identity is doomed and bound to crumble down! That is what is happening today! So many bars, whore houses, more and more night life...... and next to that churches popping up like mushrooms! On every street corner there is a bar bursting your ears with music, cars running around with loud and obscene music popping out..... Nobody cares! It's a normal thing!
The saddest part is that our grandchildren are now growing up thinking : "Hey, this is the way to live!" So they also kill, rape, sell drugs, take drugs, rob and prostitute themselves because..... It's a normal thing! They are no longer afraid to neither kill nor die as we were when we were kids, running away as soon we saw the gendarmes! They are not scared of the police or the gendarmes!!! They are better equipped than the law enforcers!
I am convinced that it is time now for the People of this country in its entirety to stand up and challenge their governments on the manner they plan to take Saint Martin out of this disaster! Do they really believe that Tourists will come to our shores with such publicity?
What is the future they are planning to offer the younger generations of SAINT MARTINERS?
When are they going to tackle the issue of education for the school drop outs? It is very nice to create youth councils with brilliant boys and girls but what about those who didn't make it in school? Those are the ones on the loose breaking laws!
How long will the gates to Saint Martin be opened to all criminals and bandits from the entire world?
How long are we going to accept open handedly all those who leave their countries to come here where the job market is completely barren?
I can recall hearing "Saint Martin is a melting pot...." Well, the pot has melted and the "mix up all- in- one soup" that was cooking in it, is overflowing on our streets through crime and delinquency!
Are we going to sit back and accept that we go from the "Friendly Island" to the "Deadly Island" of The Caribbean?
Aline CHOISY
A proud, bold and brave Saint Martiner.
Dear Mr. Editor,
The Ministerial seats have all been allocated and the Minister of VROMI/ Infrastructure Mr. Heyliger spoke very well on Oral Gibbes the other day, but I have a few questions/observations. He claimed throughout the campaign that he was for the youths of Sint Maarten. The YOUTHS has the attention of THEO! Mr. Editor then why did he give up the Ministry that predominantly catered to the Youths. He gave the youths of Sint Maarten a "smack in the face" when he chose the money making companies/ministry over them. All of the government owned companies fall under him now what does that tell you. I guess it was about the money, power and control as indicated on that tape that is now removed from SXMtube.
Minister Heyliger is truly a chameleon and all that is stands for;
MP Rhoda Arrindell was lured to the UPparty knowing full well she does not get along with Josian Fleming. It's to the point where they don't even speak at this time and yes even as party members. Haven't he learned, to never get between the rath of women? Did he forget what happened to Rhoda after twenty years of service at USM? Then again does he even care? How will MP Arrindell feel to be marginalized once again by her rival? I guess she will use her SHERIFF badge to find her way around this show down.
MPArrindell WAKE UP! Do you know that in your own camp it is rumored that your term will be short lived. As the position is for Josian. You made a bad move when you gave up your Parliament seat. You gave up your right to bargain. To tell you truth I would vote for you again because I would choose you any day over Josian, a woman that promotes immoral behavior.
This is a sad sad situation and a lot of people will get hurt. But the Minister will continue as usual to laugh too the bank.
J. P. van Hennegen
Royal Caribbean Lines (RCL) Vice President (VP) of Government Relations Michael Ronan told a St. Thomas Chamber of Commerce gathering that even venerable cruise ship destinations can get stale if they don't freshen their product. "Don't take anything for granted," warned Michael Ronan.
Ronan pointed out to the St. Thomas business owners that one of the things lacking in St. Thomas is the need for some sort of water transportation (taxi). He said that vessels buzzing about Charlotte Amalie harbor taking passengers from one destination to another would add a whole new element to the island while reducing pressure on infrastructure.
RCL VP of Government Relations Ronan indicated that Sint Maarten was the USVI's stiffest competition in the region, and already has three drop-off points in their harbor (Port of Sint Maarten), which brings customers to three different business areas (Bobby's Marina, Capt. Hodge Wharf and Sea Palace Pier) to shop and eat. "It's a no-brainer," he said.
Ronan also said St. Thomas Main Street needs to be "pedestrianized," something that has been done in many major shopping areas elsewhere. "In other areas of the world this has been done successfully ... allowing people to move freely, thus maximizing their enjoyment," he said. Again, the investments made in Philipsburg (Front Street and Back Street) over the years are testament to the vision provided by past Commissioner of Port Affairs Theo Heyliger in making Philipsburg an attractive shopping area for cruise passengers and stay-over tourists.
St. Thomas business people agreed with the point of view of Ronan and acknowledged that the chamber's membership has been unsuccessfully able to move forward in redeveloping the Port of St. Thomas. Ronan recommended to them that they should open a regular dialogue with the cruise ship industry, also acknowledging the role of government in the process as well.
Ronan added that he couldn't help but point out several other ominous signs that could point to trouble for St. Thomas and St. John. He spoke of Atlantis Submarine leaving, as well as another sailing shore excursion moving elsewhere. Sint Maarten as a preferred cruise destination has to look at what additional excursions can be offered and here comes into play entrepreneurship.
RCL VP of Government Relations Michael Ronan said it was up to the business people to rework how they operate in order to function in the new realities, which include economic downturns, new competition in the market and new ships that can take passengers farther faster.
An interesting cruise industry trend that is currently taking place is Europeans avoiding U.S. territories because of complicated visa requirements. Here is an opportunity for our island nation to explore becoming a homeport for cruise lines in the Northeastern Caribbean based on the aforementioned trend.
We already have direct air-links with Europe and according to figures released by the European Cruise Council, 4.9 million European residents booked a cruise holiday in 2009, a rise of 50 per cent in five years and representing nearly 30 per cent of the world's cruise passengers. Our harbour officials have already had the experience of home porting of small cruise vessels with less than 300 passengers, and without a doubt they will explore the feasibility of the aforementioned – home porting of larger cruise vessels.
Another cruise industry trend that RCL rep Michael Ronan informed St. Thomas Chamber of Commerce members is a new law being considered that would require ships cruising the U.S. East Coast and the U.S. overseas territories to use lower sulphur, higher cost fuel and the U.S. Virgin Islands would be wise to consider in its long-term planning. Here again we need to be innovative as a premiere cruise destination and look at how this would impact our industry.
Sint Maarten has always been heralded as a port of example for the region. The year 2010 so far has been a very important year for the nation. Within days we will be heralding in country Sint Maarten and by year end the island could accommodate 1.5 million cruise passengers barring any disruption caused by weather.
Sint Maarten as a country, as a premiere cruise destination has a bright future ahead. We need to continue to be innovative in our thinking and plan ahead of the competition in order to remain at the top as we have been successfully able to do over the years.
Roddy Heyliger
Now that the Island-council elections of Friday, September 17, 2010 elections are over, it has also become extremely evident that there is a great uneasiness-, and barely controlled anxiety among the population of the island.
That our grassroots St. Martin movement is not the only one which very concerned about the future of St. Maarten-, and by extension of St. Martin as well-, is evidenced by 'others' expressing similar views.
Mr. Jeffrey RICHARDSON leader of the CPA-, for instance expressed this in an interview with Lloyd RICHARDSON, on Wednesday, September 22, 2010.
Unfortunately-, and as usual St. Maarten's 'most popular' talk-show host-, lacks either the intellectual ability to really understand the the depth of the appeal Jeffrey was making to all the leaders of the country-, or most probably-, he lacks the willingness to depart from his deliberately-, simplistic tactic to 'dilute'- and 'erode' messages he does not like.
Whatever the case may be-, it will be up to the management of radio-stations to decide whether or not-, they are going to demand a higher quality- and standard from their hosts in order to contribute to educating the citizens on island in understanding- and dealing with the most serious of issues in its recent history.
Fortunately-, there are others who have expressed concern and need for a 'concerted' effort in order to move this island forward.
(See attachments of Kingdom Intervention by the Daily Herald, Julian ROLLOCKS, DP Secretary general and Duncan VAN HEYNINGEN)
We too, agree that while the election is over, the real challenges have just begun....
In our opinion-, there is only one logical premise to start dealing with these challenges-, and to avert the reality of external intervention.
It is based on understanding the real significance of most fundamental reality- and specificity of this island.
; 'St. Martin- One island- One People- One Destiny.
In other words, regardless of 'frontiers'-, and of one 'side' being 'Dutch'- and the other being 'French'- , its native people share one- and the same past-, presence- and future-, and that whatever effects one 'side' of the island-, will also effect the other 'side'.
And while we agree with the slogan that we need 'all hands on deck', we better do such in a structured manner.
Looking at both 'sides' of the island-, there are no other citizens or nationals-, that bind-, connect-, and unite the island's past, presence and future like its native-, indigenous St. Martin people.
These people are linked by blood-, shared property-, norms- and values and are ancestrally rooted in the history-, and in the emancipatory development of this country like no others.
Consequently-, even far more than the colonial authorities-, they have been the 'most constant human factor' to date on the island.
This is not said to divide the residents as some always try to make belief.
Rather-, it is intended to point out to St. Martiners, that they have a more special role- and responsibility than any other citizens to take the initiative to appeal to all political leaders to urgently come together in an emergency session of sorts, because the country is at a very dangerous cross-roads that will affect all on 'both sides' of the island and its people, who have nowhere else to go.
As the grassroots representative of all St. Martiners on the island as well as abroad-, we therefore hereby make ourselves available along with others-, recommend all the political leaders to set a date- and venue for such a meeting.
As far as we are concerned the main objective should be very clear.
It will be to formulate the 'St. Maarten/ St. Martin- agenda', which will be a preparatory phase towards the ultimate unification of the island, into one sovereign entity.
This is the only logical status for the island that will comply with us being bound by one common destiny as one People.
Since time is of the essence-, we look forward for this contact to be made before November 11, 2010 'St. Maarten/St. Martin-Day'
Should you politicians fail to take your responsibility to the next level, do not be surprised to see others willing to intervene and taking us seriously into consideration as the people's stakeholder.
The choice is yours.
Until 11-11-2010 that is.
drs. Leopold JAMES
President grassroots St.Martin nation building- and unification movement.
And yes, that one...
Proud-, native indigenous St. Martiners, no apologies to make there.
--
The historic September 17 elections for Country Sint Maarten have come and gone. The political reality today is that the nation will have its first coalition government or partnership government to lead Country Sint Maarten during the first four-year governing term. The National Alliance (NA) obtained seven seats, the newcomer United Peoples (UP) party obtained six seats and the Democratic Party (DP) two seats for a total of 15 seats.
The process to form a coalition government has already begun. The coalition agreement that will result out of these discussions will contain the ideas and vision of both partners with respect to the first four-year governing period and will be a historic document in Sint Maarten politics, as the first Country Sint Maarten coalition agreement.
Although there are differences between the three parties that have been elected to the Island Council/Parliament of Country Sint Maarten, there is also common ground.
The negotiation process to reach an agreement must be based on the realities of the election result. No party should make unrealistic demands, because the election figures speak for themselves. The basis of any negotiation to form a new government should be on the national interests of the people and putting together the best governing program with visions of a Sint Maarten better in every way.
Two political parties working together do not necessarily mean that the visions of the parties will be compromised by working together. They are strengthened and enhanced to the benefit of the nation.
A combination of parties' best ideas, attitudes and vision can produce a governing programme that is more forward looking and comprehensive than the individual party manifestos/programs. The combination of ideas will help to create a much stronger Sint Maarten society to the benefit of the entire nation.
Both parties have set out on a journey with some policies in common and a shared desire to work together in the national interests. This should lead to a governing programme based on a progressive coalition that is inspired by creating a stronger cohesive Sint Maarten society.
Roddy Heyliger
On the eve of this historical moment in our constitutional and political development as a nation, over 19,000 voters will have an opportunity to go to the polls to vote for 15-Island Council members who will serve as our nation's first members of parliament in Country Sint Maarten.
A lot is at stake. The two to 3000 voters, who do not exercise their right to vote, should do so in this election. This is a historic election and your support is needed now more than ever. We are looking up at a more prosperous future for our island nation. Parties vying for the voter's support once they receive that support must act in the interests of a better future for all.
Policies, programs and projects must not lead to bigger problems in the longer term, as that would be a betrayal of the prospects and prosperity of future generations.
The additional responsibilities that our island nation will have on October 10, 2010, are an opportunity for us to move forward and up. We will have all the responsibilities to act on behalf of the nation and deal with the issues that directly impact our people's daily lives. The Government elected will be able to bring about change like no other Government has done in the past.
With the new responsibilities as country, there are also obligations and the right of the people to hold directly responsible those elected to Parliament for any failures that take place during the first four-year governing term of Country Sint Maarten.
Governing our island nation post October 10, means committing us to continuing to build-up a modern Sint Maarten equipped to face the challenges of the 21st century. Every nation faces complications, but during times of distress, only then comes to life the creativity of a nation to work hand-in-hand with stakeholders to take decisive action. Government will need to act early and ahead of the curve – anticipating events, rather than simply reacting to them.
The first four-year term will be about building up a stronger, fairer and more secure nation to see the country up through challenges and helping working families, pensioners, the unemployed and the youth with the pressures they face. Country Sint Maarten calls for a new way of thinking, a new approach, thinking outside the box in order to deal with the challenges being confronted by the common man on a daily basis.
Country Sint Maarten has to prepare for the challenges of the future. Various nations around the world face long-term challenges which include climate change, the ageing of the population, and long-term food and water supply. There are many issues that require the attention of legislators and it's up to parliamentarians to be ready to take on these issues.
On Friday, September 17 is D-Day, decision day. Let us as a nation go to the polls in a quiet and peaceful manner as has traditionally been he case and vote confidently for the party of your choice.
Roddy Heyliger
Fellow St. Martiner of every single race-, creed-, age-, gender- and nationality living on St. Maarten/Saint Martin or anywhere on earth.
Greetings of hope to you,
After having heard your cries of been denied and rejected for your ancestral-identity and rights, finally starting Monday, October 11, 2010, the much anticipated cultural St. Martin ID-card will be ready for being issued to applicants.
It has been a long time in the making-, and comes at a time, when its need is becoming extremely evident to most of you.
Example of that need-, is the great initiative taken on FACE-BOOK, by a young St. Martiner living in Belgium, drs. Mark WILLIAMS, to have all native indigenous St. Martiners living abroad-, being afforded the right to participate in elections held on the island.
This concept of the cultural St. Martin ID-card was taken to the next level when on Friday, July 23, 2010, the first symbolic cultural St. Martin ID-card was presented to Mr. Gregory ARRINDELL, host of 'It is about time' and Roving Ambassador of CACCI, operating out of New York.
The next recipient of our symbolic cultural St. Martin ID-card-, was the newly appointed Assistant US-Attorney, Mr. Martin BELL, whose father Mr.Chester BELL, is a 'son of the soil' and member of a very respected-, traditional St. Martin family with many lawyers-, and medical doctors in their midst.
The issuing of these symbolic ID-cards, had been long in the planning by the only grass roots St. Martin nation building movement headed by drs. Leopold JAMES.
It was yet another planned phase in the previously ongoing debate- and process of identifying the St. Martiner.
After for decades-, having encouraged public debate and Government's interest in this issue, the movement decided that the time had come to put a end to the debate in order to move on to the next level.
Unfortunately-, the Island-Government of St. Maarten led by Commissioner William MARLIN, missed a wonderful opportunity to give real-, and meaningful content to the process of constitutional development-, as well as formulating the island's first constitution. The entire St. Maarten Island-council failed miserably by in fact denying the existence of the very people (St.Martiners) after whom the so-called new country is now called.
Clearly-, this is a blunder of historical proportions-, and a total betrayal of all dead- living and yet unborn St. Martiners
Nevertheless- we praise the Lord, for a recent initiative which has been started in Belgium, using FACE-BOOK by a young, professional St. Martiner, drs.Mark WILLIAMS.
This global initiative has-, in fact emphasized even more the need for an ID-card for St. Martiners in order to be able to identify our follow St. Martiners, wherever they reside in theworld.
Also, the enormous interest as reported by CACCI's Roving Ambassador Mr. Gregory ARRINDELL for this ID-card, among St. Martiners in New York-, and around the world, will soon be honored.
For the record.
This particular cultural St. Martin ID-card is not a legal document-, and therefore does not infringe on the rights as derived from holders of the Dutch- or French or any other nationality.
It is a document to allow for people 'rooted' in the Traditional Period(1848-1963) on the island, to be able to demonstrate their cultural-ancestral St. Martin identity- and heritage.
Consequently-, and finally these people will have a proof to identify themselves as St. Martiners-.
In addition-, they will be able to build strong mutual ties with each other based on their common ancestral heritage-, and ancestral links to the island.
We also foresee an tremendous trend among St. Martin young people in particular to trace their roots- by means of genealogical research-, as well as even more work for St. Martiners like Mathias VOGES, Wilhelm PATRICK, Camille BALY, Daniella JEFFREY and others.
In other words-, we anticipate an enormous revival of our native St. Martin heritage- and with that for our ancestral civic human rights and rights as native people and host-population.
The term St. Martiner is not about St. Martin/St. Maarten being some-one's place of birth, but about the card-holders having ancestral ties to the island from the Landmark Tear 1963 or before.
Our nation building organization will also present certain persons, who are not ancestrally linked to the island, with special 'honorary' ID-cards with the same rights- and privileges as native St. Martiners.
There are many persons-, who have made a significant contribution towards the development of the people of this island- and who will be granted the respect of been honored with a cultural St. Martin ID-card..
Many hail from the Far-east-, Europe, the US- and especially from our own Caribbean region.
One of the great assets of this ID-card is that there are thousands- upon thousands of persons all around the world, with ancestral links to this island.
It therefore needs no further emphasizing-, that having such a 'network'- /data-base consisting of St. Martiners-, will serve as a very powerful- and extremely effective means to promote the common interests of these St. Martiners and to negotiate whatever benefits.
In that context-, the initiative taken by drs. Mark WILLIAMS to use the internet to promote the rights for indigenous St. Martiners living outside of the island,(in the diaspora) to vote in certain elections.
Making the identification of these persons now possible, will allow for the very first time in our history, St. Martiners living ANYWHERE in the world, to participate in- and to influence developments taking place in their ancestral home-land St. Maarten/St. Martin.
Consequently- and effectively an end would be in the make, of certain expats taking advantage of St.Martiners being a minority in their own land.
In addition-, such a powerful 'native-indigenous St.Martin constituency' will change the island's politics fundamentally, because politicians will now have to seriously consider us.
Having been part of the process-, before he entered into politics can contribute significantly to Mr. Jeffrey RICHARDSON, leader of the CPA to give real content to his party's main objective-, and vying for strong support from the St. Martin voters in the Friday, September 17
election.
The party's platform is focused on 'Preserving- and strengthening the traditional St. Martin way of life-, its people-, in the spirit of the Concordia Treaty'
This will allow to develop a most powerful foundation for harmonious integration-, and inclusion of others with added value.
The office will start taking applications for the ID- starting on Sunday '10-10-10'.(between 10 a.m. and 12.00 p.m.)
Applicants are advised to take along copies of relevant documents, such as birth-certificates to the office located at the Windsor-lane # 3, Cole-Bay, tel 54 43512.
Once approved-, applicants will be directed to the company which will take the ID-pictures and make the ID-card, which will have a code.
Negotiations are presently taking place with various entities, in order to determine the benefits for the ID-card holders.
Applicants living abroad can contact us via
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.
Mr. Jeffrey RICHARDSON of the CPA has committed himself once elected, to sit with all stakeholders work towards a joint private-public partnership, in order to promote this project.
The reason for this joint venture between the CPA and the grassroots St. Martin nation building movement is clear.
Both subscribe the the same philosophy in terms of developing the island.
It is to preserve- and strengthen the identity and the traditional way of life of the native St. Martiner in the spirit of the Treaty of Concordia in order to form a strong foundation for inclusion of others in the process of St. Martin nation building- and unification.
It should not go unnoticed-, that with the exception of the CPA, ALL the other parties-, insulted and betrayed the St. Martin people, by refusing to recognize them in the constitution for 'country' St. Maarten.
Therefore-, left up to the leaders- and candidates of the DP, NA and UP parties, St. Mrtiners do not exist-, let alone that those with roots to the island-, who think that the exist and who happen to live on the French-side and/or elsewhere-, would never be afforded that sacred right.
At the same time these politicians bend backwards to reward non added-value, illegal immigrants with the most powerful rights, such as the right to vote and be voted for.
Persons, not of St. Martin heritage, but whose love for the island and its people can be demonstrated-, are emphatically invited to apply for an 'honorary' cultural St. Martin ID-card as well, because we embrace them as integral part of the St. Martin nation.
Copies to
CARICOM
CACCI
UN
For more information;
drs. Leopold JAMES, 54 43512/ 5204325
Jeffrey RICHARDSON, 5221574 / 5860043
Dear editor,
You are kindly requested to publish this letter for me.
This is to inform the people of St. Maarten that the poll published in the Today newspaper of Friday, September 2010 is a fraudulent one.
It was paid for by Theo Heyliger, backed by Richards Gibson, Ansari and other corporate sponsors.
From very reliable inside sources, I have learned that it has been completely manipulated and prepared in such a manner that mainly UP supporters were in on it.
I have this information from very good sources within the today company and from certain UP members who were part of this scheme.
It is done mainly in order to discourage people from voting for Jeffrey Richardson's CPA party which has been receiving growing support among St. Martin voters and others as well.
That is the reason, that Hilbert only focused all his negative progaganda against the brand new CPA, which is the smallest party, with no money, but with a very appealing message to people.
He did this instead of going after the two very large parties, the NA and the DP.
This alone, raises a red flag in terms of the anti CPA conspiracy executed by Hilbert Haar of the Today newspaper which is own and complete controlled by Richard Gibson.
In fact, this means that the big foreign business are not afraid of the DP and the NA, because they in fact are just like the UP and are not there to empower and protect the native St. Martin people.
This role has been championed by the CPA and many St. Martiners find it a very appealing message.
The Today newspaper also has been getting the feedback that even DP, NA and UP candidates are very sympathetic to the message of the CPA and are telling many of their supporters, to also cast votes for the CPA.
The so called poll by the Today lacks so much credibility that even Greg Richardson the # 3 of the UP this afternoon confessed to Wendell Moore, that he himself does not attach too much attention to it.
Mr. Haar in his hatred for Leopold James, who he blames as being the brain behind CPA, as if that is any concern to people, might have gone too far this time, when he mentioned that indigenous St. Martiners themselves do not care about being marginalized.
This is the biggest insult to any St. Martiner, on either the DP, Na or CPA party and can well backfire into the CPA getting even more sympathy-votes to send a message to all those who have no regards for native St. Martin people.
Our source also tells us that if the DP had paid more than the UP for setting up this deception, the outcome of the Today newspaper would have been quite different.
looking forward to this letter being published in order to bring balance in this matter.
Albert Martin
From the 'beginning' St. Maarten politicians/Government have been accusing 'Curacao' of 'bullying'- and 'ignoring the needs of smaller islands.
True or not, the politicians have used-, and abused this perception as a very potent factors for their motivation to separate 'St. Maarten' from 'Curacao'.
In the past-, I have publicly informed our so-called leaders, that our own St. Maarten Government-, in fact has always been exactly the same to us native-SXM'ers.
In addition, I predicted that their action one day might serve as an equally powerful motivation for us SXM'ers to do the same on the island by seeking a kind of 'intra-island' separate status.
This is now in fact taking place as a 'Starting charity must start at home' for St. Martiners -drive.
This makes anyone accusing that movement as 'divisive', while agreeing with- and promoting the separate-status drive for St. Maarten hypocritical to say the least.
In addition, anyone accusing the CPA of not having 'experience' to run Government, once elected in office-, should AGAIN realize that our own Government is setting an example to be followed.
After all 'Country' St. Maarten lacks lots of expertise in most areas and therefore has to establish various SLA's (=Service Levels Agreements) with either Curacao, Holland etc.
Similarly the CPA is in the process of establishing similar =MOU's with 'strategic alliances' with experts in various areas.
The above-mentioned- and other factors therefore contribute SIGNIFICANTLY to the CPA being, not only a very interesting outsider, but a contender that can create an enormous upset during the upcoming elections.
Many professionals-, and organizations representing all nationalities are already pledging to assist the CPA with their expertise.
Their motivation is clear and logical.
Finally, they too realize that unless 'Charity starts at home for St. Martiners', there will never be any social-, political-, and economical stability on the island and crime will rise to an even higher level.
We as a St. Martin grass roots movement applaud such efforts of coming together- finding common grounds and arriving at a 'win-win' solution.
It is the only way to build a truly harmonious-, multi-ethnic-, and fair society, which will reduce the 'gap' between the 'haves and the have nots' and subsequently of crime in general.
We are ready for such partnership.
What about you ?
Leopold JAMES,
And still native-indigenous St. Martiners without apologies- but with an 'open mind' for a 'win-win'- solution.
We all know that the days of the present administration are counted. Daniel Gibbs followed by Marthe Ogundele and even by Alain Richardson have given hope to hundreds of St-Martiners that there is a better world after Louis-Constant Fleming and his two devout followers; President Frantz Gumbs et director general , Pascal Averne.
We all feel it. There is a revolution of ideas and of ways and this revolution belongs to a new generation that cannot further accept to live on the crumbs they are handed out by the senator and his president.
It is no longer a political question but rather a profound social movement where the overwhelming majority of St-Martiners will prevail over political and economical repression carried out by the senator, his president and their very sly director general.
On one hand the senator's faith will most likely be decided by one of the many judicial proceedings that are now impending against him both personally and as a public official. On the other hand, Pascal Averne's and Frantz Gumbs' faith will take different directions even though the senator must absolutely keep them in power in order to maintain his stronghold on our collectivity.
What is already known by many in the collectivity is that the director general is desperately seeking to abandon the ship that he has himself caused to sink. He has already applied for a position at the Semsamar, for a position with the French "Ministère de l'outre-mer" and is evaluating all possible options to return to his native Guadeloupe. As the smartest of the desperate trio, he knows that Mr Gibbs' call for "new governance" has struck a chord with St-Martiners and that he must leave before it comes to be and exposes his personal and very large contribution to the poor state of our economy and of our public administration.
As for Frantz Gumbs, even if he will never be able to repair the damages caused by his own personal actions towards our people, he does remain the sorriest of the three horsemen of our collective apocalypse. For while he does not have the intellectual or public capacities to function without the orders from above and the technical support from below he does insist to hold on to power for as long as he can whether or not he destroys our island in the process.
On the island, it is being said that for many months now that Frantz Gumbs no longer enjoys his own family's political support. Last spring we heard that he had submitted his resignation to the senator who refused to accept it (By what right? Nobody knows). Notwithstanding the rumors, what is absolutely clear to all, is that today, Frantz Gumbs is an isolated man who is drunk with the power to which he is desperately holding on to.
Frantz's family is right, it is time for him to take advantage of his possibility to reenter the school system before the end of August deadline and for him to quit the political life with the basic honors of having been our collectivity's first legitimate president. His departure could therefore be achieved with his family's respect in hand and with a minimum of dignity. Never will that option be again available to him once his role in the past three years' administration is thoroughly exposed.
Imagine that if over that three year period, Frantz Gumbs has had such dismal results even though he was fully protected by the wealth and protection dished out by the one and by the cunning and self interested management used by the other, how long will he survive as sole member of the former trio? With no longer anyone to think and act in his stead, he is committing public suicide... but not before dragging us down with him!
There is no question that a fundamental movement has taken roots on Saint-Martin with a thirst for transparency, honesty and integrity. On the upcoming political judgment day, this movement will not forgive the president's poor record and delusional « power trip ».
It is regrettable, in a sadly pathetic way, that Frantz Gumbs will have chosen power over his family, power over his academic and professional life and power over our collective wellbeing.
Frantz wake up before it is too late, you have no political future in SXM...at least quit and gives us, Saint-Martiners, a chance to a better future!
Aline Brooks
Dear Mr. PAUL,
With great attention I listened to you as guest, along with Mr. Eldrige van Putten this Thursday morning, July 1, 2010, on Talking Point hosted by Mr. Billy D. HAMLET.
And while, perhaps in your mind, you might have sounded kind of 'smart', you were still not yet 'smart' enough to impress, nor fool any conscious St. Martiner.
The many calls that came in and did not manage to come from real and proud St. Martiners are testament to that failure of yours.
So, quite to the extreme contrary, your inflated 'smartness' simply got the best of you and exposed your real 'agenda'.
In other words, despite your nice, but very transparent 'sales-man pitch' about your 'love' for St. Martin, as many expected, you waited until the end of the program to throw in, what you thought would be a 'smart-monkey-wrench' for we simple souls, St. Martiners.
Clearly, starting off the program with all your 'bla-bla-bla-I-love- St.-Martin-oh-sooooo-much' was simply intended to 'mask' your real intention, your biggest dream and the real message to the listeners you came to deliver.
I, Lloyd PAUL, born in Dominica and sent as 'gift' from 'heaven' has come to remove the 'Caucasian-colonial-yoke' off your shoulders as and now I am poised to become new colonial 'Massah'.
Glory Hallelujah, Amen !
However, before you even get started and get carried away brother man, let me say right 'off the bat', what is one of the 'evils' plaguing the 'Friendly-island'.
It is that there are 'those', who feel they have some kind of 'International Human Right' or 'divine calling' to walk ahead of the St. Martin natives and to boldly assume the role of host, condescendingly 'talking down' to the natives of this island as if they were the guests.
To that extent some of these 'come heres' use a very effective tactic.
Marry into a traditional native-St. Martin family and make children.
That now gives them the feeling of being host like us.
Consequently, some of these neo-colonial masters disguised as our 'Caribbean brothers and sisters' feel empowered to 'crash ' St. Martin family's 'emergency- sessions' and to super-impose themselves on us.
In the process, they forget that despite how much taxes they pay here (which they better do) and how much they 'love' St. Martin (which they better do) and how much they contribute to St. Martin, (which they better do), that they are still the 'guest'.
It is time that these 'power-hungry' guests realize that, while they definitely have a role to play, such certainly is NOT to intervene in a most sensitive process, in which we St. Martiners are very busy reclaiming our rights as hosts, without outside interference and/or intervention.
If these naturalized immigrants, who married St. Martiners REALLY did that out of love and respect, they would not go before their other half publicly on sensitive issues of 'survival' for St. Martiners as a people.
They would know their place and have basic manners.
Nothing wrong with having your own views on these very delicate issues and expressing them privately.
But at this very crucial time in our vulnerable existence, please respect our emancipation and our rights to self determination as a people and simply wait on your turn.
If despite all of this, you still feel some 'urgent calling' to give your opinion, please, please speak to us on these matters via your St. Martin spouses and do not engage in any direct and argument on the matter in public with us.
that is un-acceptable behavior.
WE , St. Martiners, can do so, not you !
And even your native St. Martin spouse refuses to publicly express herself, that is her prerogative; it does not give you the right to forget your place.
One of your former leaders and a friend of mine, the late Rosie DOUGLAS once had a good friend of his of the Labor Party from Great Britain on the stage with him hugging him on the stage during a political campaign in Dominica.
While hugging this White, British politician on the stage Rosie told his Dominican audience the following (para-phrasing here).
My people, this man is a very good friend of mine and I love him dearly, but I tell you as Dominican never to trust him completely......
In ending Mr. 'Wise Man'.
Pertaining to your final statement during the interview in which you informed us of your political ambitions, we care to respond as follows.
We respect that right and do not necessarily contest it whatsoever.
However, we have a serious issue with those people who proclaim their 'love' for this island and who join the 'Love St. Maarten' Foundation, in fact as a convenient and opportune 'stepping stone' for their real political agenda, which appears to be to take over this island as 'neo-colonialists', even if they look exactly like us.
The 'good news' however is, that better than we ourselves would have ever been able to accomplish, you manage to open the eyes of thousands a St. Martiners as to those among us disguised as 'lovers' of St. Martin.
Success with your political career, which we will be closely monitoring.
Leopold JAMES,
Proud, native-indigenous St. Martiner without apologies and promoter of St. Martiners first on ST. martin, all others after......
...
Dear editor;
The calm of our government and our parliament leaves much more questions than answer surrounding Minister Maria Buncamper Molanus ordeal.
I recall all politicians were eager to ask the people of StMaarten for our vote with the intention of representing us in our government.
Now that we need representation to clarify these very serious allegations of corruption, it appears that the entire government and parliament has caught amnesia.
Correct me if I am wrong, every government land that is sold must be register in the cadastre, then it must go through a notary, then the executive council and the governor at that time must ad their signature for approval for the process to take place. It appears that all of our legal process has fail or I will say intentionally fail the accord of good governance. This act of silence give 2 negative atmosphere to country StMaarten, one it can be seen as incompetence or willful corruption. How ever you turn it, it is negative. I believe it is willful corruption, and if I am wrong then I challenge the Minister of Justice Roland Duncan to do his job in the right manner. I also call on the president of parliament of Country StMaarten Drs Gracita Arrindell to use her constitutional power and make inquiries to see if any fowl play was done. Remember Drs Gracita Arrindell the ministers is answerable to parliament. I am calling on all the new parliamentarians, like Mr.' Laville, Mrs., Meyers, Mr. pastor James Dr. Richardson to be counted as new blood in making real change for StMaarten. Remember your first honor is to serve the people of StMaarten before any political party. I also expect Prime Minister Wescott to take the high moral road and ask the minister Buncamper Molanus to step aside and be temporary replace until clarity is giving on this matter. It will be wise also if the new ombudsman or Lady Mrs. Nilda Lynch brings the people of StMaarten information on what is taking place on StMaarten. Furthermore if our new government does not know how to handle this matter, then Minister Roland Duncan and Prime Minister should ask help from the Kingdom government to assist in this matter. Because transparency will prove you are following the norm of good governance and will give the people of StMaarten confidence in their government. I do know one thing for sure if any other Member of Parliament or ministers in government is involve now is the time to clear yourself, for intentionally obstructing justice is punishable by law.
This is the calm before the storm, if the parliament of StMaarten does not defend the people's interest, they to will feel the vengeance of the people of StMaarten for willfully blindness and obstruction of justice. The people of StMaarten must use all means necessary to restore trust and respect for the rule of law, and all though I do not like to bring in Holland to solve our problem, I believe more than ever now is the time to bring in the second chamber of the Kingdom parliament. Our government was very vocal in instituting turn over tax on us, but now that they have to clean up their mess, it appears they have caught amnesia. Something got to give, some people must be punished or else we will be label a banana republic. Let me make my self crystal clear no person in government is above the law. Let our courts system function proper and render justice on the evidence that is presented. We need to take our country out of the hand of corrupt politicians, if they are not guilty go back to your position but if your guilty let prison be your house of worship.
Yours truly,
Miguel Arrindell
Government is coming at us with a budget, throwing numbers and blames, left and right and a few low blows. We will never know the truth behind the numbers, because none of us will see detailed information. So I figured I would throw a few numbers back at them and maybe some of mine may make sense and they may try working with them. By us, I mean the mass that will ultimately pay the burden of the taxes. It's interesting to read that the president of the Chamber of Commerce reports that business can live with the additional TOT for a year. Was there a referendum that showed that opinion as the prevailing one?
Here are a few ideas that may make some sense. And they can all be improved upon to make more sense and be implemented. You don't have to burden the mass with additional taxes. Look for other ways to balance your budget. To do this, you cannot look ONLY at 2011. What happens after 2011? Will you miraculously be able to balance future budgets?
A novel way to deal with the budget is by borrowing the 2011 short fall from the taxpayers, Problem is, before we lend you the money, you MUST show us a decent projection of income and expenses. You must prove that there is really a way out of this financial crisis. If you can do that, then you can come up with a crisis tax.
That crisis tax can be 5% of gross salary from the workers and 2.5% of sales from the business, That can be for a 3-year period, IF the situation requires it. After that 3-year period, you pay it back over a 4-year period with a 5% interest to offset possible devaluation. The worker, who paid Fls. 3000 over the 3-year period, would get Fls. 3,150 in tax reductions over a 4-year period.
Additionally, change the Turn Over Tax to a Consumption Tax. I believe that government could raise more money and the mass will not be burdened as it is now.
Let me try to explain Importer buys an item for $100 He sells it to reseller for $140 plus 5% sales tax. ($7 sales tax goes to government) Reseller sells it to consumer for $200 plus 5% tax (of that $10, $7 stays with reseller for what he already paid to government and remaining $3 goes to government) In this case, reseller does not have to raise his prices to the consumer and the consumer ultimately pays the tax. All services that are now subjected to TOT would be subjected to the 5% consumption tax.
Clifton R. Wilson
Without the slightest of any doubt.
If it were up the the majority of the public-, the days of minister Maria BUNCAMPER-MOLANUS woudl have long been numbered.
The woman does not enjoy an once of sympathy-, nor respect to put it plainly.
She comes across to most people-, as a greedy-, power-struck politician-, disguised with a very pretty face.
A face effectively used to lure-, simplistic voters-, mostly of Haitian background to vote for her-, and to carry large posters on their buses-, which according to reports she owns anyhow.
Considering herself as not just another politician-, she 'elevated' herself to another 'class'.
Consequently-, the lady effectively capitalized on her photogenic 'pose'- to transform herself into some 'Santa Maria'-, or 'Tia Maria' of sorts.
However-, even within her own DP party-, the lady is very much disliked-, and even reviled.
Some referred to her a the 'cancer eating the DP-party from inside out'.
So the question is
despite all the above-, and much more-, why isn't 'Tia Maria' history ?
Why isn't she yet walking around in handcuffs ?
Many who have not even come close to what she has done to the country-, would have long time be thrown in jail-, and possibly even have been found guilt before their trial.
The answer is very simple.
'Tia Maria' could have only told those who asked her to resign-, that she would only do that AFTER her party-leader-, and Prime-minister Sarah WESCOT-WILLIAMS would do so first.
Catch on ?
Of course.
'Tia Maria' has the Grime-minister by her *****-,meaning hostage.
Her thinking is that of organized criminals.
I will not go down by myself.
If I am forced-, I will take down 'the whole gang' along with me.
Meanwhile-, the public whom they have sworn to serve-, is being used as a rag-doll.
In addition-, democracy-, and justice are been completely made mockery of.
To make the conspiracy more compelling-, and complex-, is the very unclear role of the entire parliament of 'Country St. Maarten'.
Especially of Justice Minister Mr. Roland DUNCAN-, the Governor, drs. Eugene HOLIDAY-, president of parliament-, drs. Gracita ARRINDELL-, and Ombudsman-, dr. Nilda LYNCH-ARDUYN.
Thus-far-, they have simply left the public in the cold-, while collecting their huge salaries.
However-, we will give them sufficient time to respond-, and work towards a complete investigation of this long-lease saga of Minister Maria BUNCAMPER-MOLANUS.
In the meantime-, we advise the authorities not to believe-, that they will be allowed to run this country as their little 'plantation', because they might live to regret such.
--
Drs. Leopold JAMES
President SNBF/ Association L' Esprit de Concordia
Honorable president of Parliament of Country St. Maarten, drs. Gracita ARRINDELL
After hearing the out-pour of heart-wrenching cries of the people-, with a sense of the highest urgency-, our St. Martin grassroots movement-, hereby makes a demand on you-, to immediately open a parliamentary investigation on all the circumstances surrounding the reported sale of Government long-lease land-, by minister Maria BUNCAMPER-MOLANUS-, and her husband-, Mr. BUNCAMPER.
I can assure you-, that under the current-, very stressful social atmosphere-, to think that this particular act of greed-, and show of power-, will be 'business as usual'-, might turn out to be a very grave under-estimation-, with potentially very serious-, and uncontrollable social consequences.
It is absolutely unimaginable-, that Government-, on the one hand-, can even consider taxing the public more-, for its own mis-management-, corruption-, lies-, and deceptions-, while on the other hand-, members of the same Government are using their office-, to enrich themselves-, their families-, as well as their cronies.
Leopold James
How is tolerance defined today? • Can tolerance and truth co-exist? • What is the effect of tolerance? • What does the Bible say about tolerance?We are living in a time of hyper-tolerance. The world teaches that not only is it good to tolerate adultery, abortion, divorce, fornication, homosexuality, sorcery, idolatry, and dishonesty, it is often considered morally courageous. Since the world is Satan's kingdom, it only makes sense that he would convince people they should tolerate what God does not. What does not make sense is that Christians are adopting this idea of tolerance. Not too long ago, the verse most believers knew and quoted was, For God so loved the world.... Today, the verse most believers know is, judge not lest you be judged. Not too long ago believers knew where to find John 3:16 and the context in which it was written. Today, believers who quote judge not lest you be judged don't have a clue where it can be found nor the context in which it was written. Not only is it ignorant to quote this verse out of context, it also proves a believer can be motivated to please the world by adopting and even promoting this idea of tolerance.
Definitions
"Tolerance" is defined as, "the capacity for or practice of recognizing and respecting the opinions, practices, or behavior of others" In other words, if you have the ability to respect others' opinions, practices or habits, and behavior, you are by definition tolerant. And such tolerance, as it has been defined and traditionally understood, is a virtue. But that is not how tolerance is taught and understood today. By adding the word "sin" to the definition, today's tolerance has become something which is detrimental rather than helpful. It is not simply the opinions of others on politics, for example, which we are supposed to tolerate, but their opinions on what is or is not sin. Tolerance isn't limited to someone's habit of, say, nail biting but applies to their sinful habits as well. Today, it is not only good to respect different behavior but sinful behavior as well. This identifies the foundational problem with this new understanding of tolerance. It puts the power to determine right or wrong in the hands of people rather than God, when, in fact, it is God who decides what is right and wrong (Deuteronomy 5:32).
Truth
Acceptance, belief, and practice of today's view of tolerance require a rejection of truth. Truth is the way things actually are. To violate the way things are is disastrous. For example, if it's true that jumping off a high Tower will kill you, then it can't be true that jumping off a high tower will not kill you. Therefore, it is disastrous to tolerate jumping off of a high Tower. God said there are certain rules and standards which are true for everyone. If there are no rules or standards which apply without exception to everyone, then everyone gets to decide for himself the rules which apply and truth is lost. For the majority of Christians, this is already happening.
The courage to preach truth
In the two gospel accounts, Christ compares the sin of one group of people to the sin of another. With reference to His disciples, Christ says, and whoever does not receive you, nor heed your words, as you go out of that house or that city, shake off the dust of your feet. Truly I say to you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah in the Day of Judgment, than for that city (Matthew 10:14-15). The sin of both will not be tolerated. Actually, Christ is describing His degree of intolerance.
In closing and I continue to say until the churches in StMaarten has the courage to teach and preach not to tolerate sin our country StMaarten will never be bless. This is my last message for this year 2010. May God be with you have a merry Christmas and a happy new-year. Remember our only master is Jesus Christ the son of God who can save us from our sins and give us everlasting life.
Yours truly
Miguel Arrindell.
Phone 5237327
Remember when people everywhere were outraged at a Cuban diplomat's remark that Elian Gonzales is the property of the Cuban state. If only their outrage extended to their own homelands! We are living under a system of state schooling, or as it is commonly termed, public compulsory schooling. Under compulsory-education and compulsory-attendance laws, the state requires parents to deliver their children to a state institution to receive a state-approved education from a state-approved schoolteacher using state-approved textbooks and follow a state-approved curriculum. (Socialism) People block out of their minds that through public schooling, children are effectively made the property of the state. Fidel Castro's two proudest socialistic accomplishments are free public schooling and free national health care. If a parent in the country St. Maarten resists these policies, the state will ultimately punish him/her by removing his children from his/her control and placing them in the custody of state officials. On the other hand, the state can and will impose an even harsher sanction on the parent. Over the years, many irresponsible women and men made children with no means of supporting them the result of this is the juvenile criminal delinquent problems that we are dealing with today. Under our form of socialism, the state punishes the wrong party the parent for disciplining the juvenile instead of the juvenile criminal delinquent for stealing and lying to the mother the state is effectively encouraging criminality by rewarding bad behavior by juvenile delinquents. Now, you wonder why we have so much crime. The first order of business of our new country's parliament should be the revision of the criminal justice system, stiffen the penalties' on all criminals' juveniles that commits an adult crime should be prosecuted as adults. Let us give back the power to the parent to discipline their children. Furthermore, it is also about time we empower the victims of crime instead of the criminal.
Peter Gunn
People of St Maarten wake up. Our conservative life style of correcting our children is being punish by a liberal court system that believe no parent should correct a child. No one advocate child abuse, and the case about the mother correcting a child with the belt is strange to me. I do not know all the facts. However the way the prosecutor puts it is like at no time you should use a belt to correct your child. We live in a Democratic country that is rule by laws. In a democracy governments and courts system rules or applies laws in their ideological principles. Holland is a very liberal country where children can legally have sex at a much early age or may I say it is accepted for children to have sex at a very early age. Marijuana is accepted as a normal habit and parents are not allowed to hit their children with the belt. I hope that people of StMaarten begins to understand that our values and ideology about life is different than our fellow Dutch citizens in Holland. Can anyone tell me when the government has the right to punish parents for correcting their child and you know I am not talking about abuse or ill-treatment of children. Our St Maarten values of right and wrong or our moral values of right and wrong is being dictated by a liberal socialist system that hates our conservative moral values of right and wrong. Our liberal legal system gives the children leadership over the parents. Imagine your ten year son or daughter telling you I am going to do what I want and if you hit me I am going to the prosecutor? What we are seeing is a clash of ideologies the left verses the right or Liberalism verses Conservatism. The same method of governing is applied in political ideology. People living in St Maarten are mostly from a conservative life style, but we elect socialist and liberal political parties which bring in liberal judges and prosecutors who believe in rehab and not in punishment. These people believe in humanism, they do not believe that God is the one we should worship and follow. These people may have education but they do not have values, this can be very destructive on our society. We need education with values. Imagine a PhD degree who is an atheist. God forbid that will be destructive. I remember Jesus, John the Baptist, Noah, Moses taking on governments to stand for right and wrong, unfortunately I do not see the strong Conservative preachers willing to protect morality to please God. If the Church cannot take a stand who will. The Church should be the last line of defense to fight for morality if they cannot who will? Slowly but surely the people in StMaarten is becoming property of the state, socialism is here. A local politician tells me but we are property of the state, I told him I am property of God almighty. I did not get chance to finish I would have ask him if you are property of the state that means the government own your house your wife and children. In short conservative believe in small government and private ownership which is capitalism, socialism believes in government ownership of the people and government should own the private sector. (Socialism or communism). That is why Liberals believe it is the government right to tell you how to correct your child which is very dangerous. God gives us laws to follow, which mean it is your responsibility to live by the law (personal responsibility). People of StMaarten make it your business to find out how the people we choose as politicians and judge's mentality is, because they will determine how much freedom we will live by. Conservative are rightwing and God fearing people, Liberals are leftwing and usually hate moral values. We as people must decide which people we will love not only to govern us but whom we love to lead our courts or legal systems. I respect every person choice of life style, but we have to ask ourselves do we believe in hope and I mean true hope if our values are not of who we are as a people. Again I ask you the question is our children property of the state?
Yours truly
Miguel Arrindell
Dear Editor,
As St Maarten move into country status we have no choice but to wish our government success in governing St Maarten to a successful country.
Sadly our crime situation is deteriorating to unacceptable levels. We must institute moral values and God back in to school and society; we can choose to live free or die hard. We need leadership not only to create wealth (conservatism & capitalism) but more important we need a system to ensure personal responsibility for each and every individual action. The lack of money might enhance crime but the strength of moral values and personal responsibility including loving your family is what will alleviate crime and will make a successful nation or country. I promise myself and the people of St Maarten I will help seek and find solutions to make St Maarten a better country. Unfortunately most of our politician does not understand political ideology so they not know what system to apply to tackle a financial crisis or criminality. To tackle criminality we must understand that human nature stay obedient to laws by punishment and not the Dutch way of rehabilitation. After punishment then we must teach them moral values and personal responsibility. Giving money to people without teaching values and personal responsibility is a waste of time. You can be rich and still commit crime. Many rich people continue to steel. But teaching our children in school about moral values (right & wrong) which can be also instituted in sex education will make people understand it is right to do what is right and it is a choice to do what's wrong. Leadership is not only about creating wealth but more importantly by living and setting the example of how we should treat each other with respect to all regardless of race, religion, color and sexual preference even when we disagree with each other position. No person is perfect in life, however we must stand for what we believe in and live free or die hard. To change our financial situation we must institute a tax system that allow people to keep more of their earn money. Government must cut waist. I would have prefer we build a 10 storey building that can house all governmental department including offices for the ministries and a legislative hall for members of parliament, we should make the new government building opposite of the university of St Maarten more bigger. A march against crime is nice but the power and knowledge of God is greater than any man made institution. We can spend and hire any criminologist but without the teaching of right and wrong we will be fighting a loosen war against crime. Many young girls does not get love at home or have a father to lead and head the home and they look for a father love by getting involve with a gang or being seduce by older men who has money which they see gift as a expression for true love. Until we have leaders ( political or pastoral) who can come out and speak about these realities in life we will never attain a society of true hope that will foster success in all avenues be it financial or improvement of family values. We need men of character who has the courage to do and say the right things even if they are hated but which will prove right in the long run. We must have the courage to call bad things evil and right principles and values good. We must have the courage to tell our friends and family when they are going wrong and reward them when they are doing good things. Building a nation or a country is not an election procedure; it is an all inclusive daily way of life which should be values and principles including culture of a nation. Our constitution mentions God in the beginning. If we are a Christian nation under God then we should act like it. We need leader that lead and live by example and not give in to self interest business people friends or family members. We must demand honesty and fairness in all governmental decision as to unite all people in St Maarten. My friends and people we can either live free or die hard.
Miguel Arrindell
With country Sint Maarten 2011 budget still pending, additional provisions will have to be made with respect to investing in our own national development as the Dutch Budget for 2011 reveals that subsidy support from Holland will start to decline in 2011 and cease to exist within three years.
The amount budgeted for Curacao and Sint Maarten in 2011 is 73 million Euros. The cooperation funds in the Dutch Government will be reduced in 2011 by 17 million Euros and by 36.4 million in 2012 and will be zero in 2013. Development funds from USONA and AMFO will not be subsidized by the Dutch Government after 2012; no more money for the programme Education and Youth after 2012 and the Netherlands Antilles Safety Plan PVNA will cease at the end of 2012; financial support for the Social Economic Initiative (SEI) will be terminated at the end of 2010.
Holland will provide 10 million Euros per year for Curacao and Sint Maarten starting from October 10 until 2015, in technical assistance/supervision to build up the government apparatus.
With development assistance going to dwindle in the coming years; as a nation we need to make our own provisions first and foremost from within our own national budget and then look else where for additional assistance. Country Sint Maarten should be able to tap into funds from multilateral institutions and receive assistance from other countries.
As Jamaica's Prime Minister Bruce Golding recently pointed out at the United Nations (UN) General Assembly, developing countries must help themselves towards sustainable development. "We must recognize that there is a lot that we can and must do for ourselves. Each of us must adopt and pursue with fixity of purpose the appropriate economic and social policies and good governance practices," Golding said.
Golding added, "...long term development must not be decided by strength alone, but through cooperation. The existing international financial system and multilateral trading arrangements will not enable these imbalances to be redressed. They have not done so up to now and they are unlikely to do so in the future.
"Market forces and competitiveness are indispensable for economic development but the new millennium cannot be defined by the survival of the fittest. We must make it our business to assist the weak to become fit in order to not just survive but prosper," Golding explained.
Cayman Islands Premier McKeeva Bush told a UN roundtable last week that associate member states, like the British island dependency Cayman Islands, are being excluded from certain development assistance programmes begun as part of the UN's Mauritius Strategy.
The Mauritius Strategy is an agreement that seeks to promote sustainable development in Small Island Development States (SIDS) aimed at tackling poverty and controlling debt levels. The strategy also is aimed at improving governance and consistency of international financial and trading systems to help smaller island states participate in the decision-making process for those industries.
Premier McKeeva Bush added, "...the Mauritius Strategy for the Caribbean cannot be fully implemented if some islands are excluded on political or constitutional grounds." "We are just as vulnerable to hurricanes, earthquakes and sea level rise as our neighbours." Bush added, "We need to move away from relationships based on post-colonial guilt, and trade preferences that has the unintended effect of discouraging diversification and prolonging dependency." "We need a new relationship between partners, based on mutual interests and shared benefits."
This is an effort – the inconsistencies of the international financial and trading systems towards SIDS - which we need to take up at the Dutch Kingdom level. As a SIDS ourselves, along with Aruba, and Curacao, we need to bring forth the challenges faced by SIDS and have the Kingdom of the Netherlands play a role in working towards creating a level playing field for all nations.
Roddy Heyliger
Dutch Member of Parliament (MP) from the Labour Party PvdA Jeroen Recourt, is questioning the integrity of members of the Main Voting Bureau who are also supported by members of the various polling stations, based on media reports of alleged irregularities.
The voting process on the island is carried out in the most transparent manner and upholds the highest standards found in any Western world political process. I can't recall when the integrity of the Main Voting Bureau has ever been brought into question and if so, that an investigation was carried out to bring to light any past irregularities.
Voters have the highest respect for the members of the Main Voting Bureau and the way they carry out their tasks and responsibilities.
The voting process on the island is regulated by law. The procedures are clearly defined and the members some of them who have been involved in the process for years are well aware of proper governance where voting is concerned.
It is a slap in the face for MP Jeroen Recourt to question the integrity of our voting officials and questioning whether the elections on the island were properly executed.
Recourt has proposed placing the island's Electoral Council under higher supervision.
His baseless rant is from newspaper clippings in Dutch media that are anti-Sint Maarten.
Recourt owes the Sint Maarten Main Voting Bureau and polling station representatives an apology.
Roddy Heyliger
The 'good' is actually 'excellent'.
Like in few-, or in any places in the world, elections on the 'Friendly-island', are a wonderful- display or respect-, fun-, friendship-, overcoming even very deeply held political differences-,fought out in fierce debates- and in other ways.
Traditionally, our election-days have become a time to come out-, make use of one's democratic right- and to enjoy a real social event.
As St. Martin people- and politicians alike-, elections are something most definitely for us all to feel proud about and to preserve.
The 'bad' is multifaceted and has many faces.
The buying of votes for instance-, is undisputed- and is a 'curse' on any real democracy.
This practice is very devious-, and anti-democratic, since it prevents political parties from being able to be objectively judged on real issues- / ideologies.
As such campaign reform must address this practice.
With a very few exceptions here as well, access to radio-and t.v.-programs during campaign is mostly based on the party having lots of monies- in order tp pay to get its message across.
While having full understanding for the owners of the stations- and the various talk show hosts to capitalize on that demand, fact is that, they too contribute towards a great disservice to the people.
Reason being that they themselves-, for the sake of money, make themselves 'prostitutes' and willing accomplice in denying the public getting information from all political parties.
In our opinion, there must be a balance found for them to make (lots of )money, and at the same time to have certain 'time-slots' available as a community-service to allow the public to listen to the message of all registered political parties.
When a public takes vital information on insufficient information,such can have devastating social consequences !
Therefore this 'bad' should be addressed in reforming how we conduct campaigns on the island.
Another 'bad face' of the campaign method on the island-, has a very, very dangerous potential.
It is the result of a practice started- and kind of 'copyrighted' by the DP-party over the course of many decades.
Placing naturalized candidates on the lists in the hope to attract votes from that particular group-, or 'constituency'
For years it worked well-, in the sense that the main 'benefactor' was the DP-political party.
However, the NA which has long suffered by being labeled an 'anti-foreigner' party by the DP, has not only caught on-, but has taken it to the 'next level'.
With the number of expats-, and naturalized citizens on the island expanding-, they are now realizing that they can in fact hold all the political parties 'hostage' to their (national-) wishes.
This practice-,is now clearly back-firing on all parties-, because it is making many of their own St. Martin members- and supporters very, very uneasy to say the least.
Clearest example is the label of 'Judas' pinned on William MARLIN.
While many people might not like this label-, it can not be denied that it represents a very strong anger and potentially explosive sentiment among a growing number of St. Martiners, that better be recognized- and addressed.
Practically all politicians-, in private conversations admit that this situation- of 'foreign intervention' has become a very serious threat to the people of this island, including the politicians themselves, because naturalized citizens have been allowed the possibility to totally take over politics on the island.
And with that 'political take-over' comes the total control of government and of everything on the island.
This to us is the most ugly- and most dangerous aspects of our political campaign.
It is time therefore that we realize that we are at a very crucial cross roads in this aspect as well.
Our strong recommendation would be for all political leaders of both sides the island to recognize the above-mentioned issues-, take on their responsibilities-, rise to the occasion and come together to chart a new way forward.
A new 'Unified St.Martin Order' aimed at restoring- and respecting the St. Martiners as 'key-constituents' and placing them at the 'core' of our very existence and development as St. Martiners- and as a country.
In ending, we think it needless to emphasize that our grassroots St. Martin nation building- and unification movement will once more make itself available- for this coming together of our political leaders and/or lead the way if necessary.
drs.Leopold JAMES
President St. Martin grass roots nation building movement
And proud-, native indigenous St. Martiner.
Dear Editor,
Please allow us, the Board of the St. Maarten Pride Foundation, some space in your well respected publication to respond to the United People's Party's (UP) recent press statement on the Ring-road project.
In its press statement the UP board mentions that the Ring-road project was outlined in the Development perspective St. Maarten Philipsburg Greater Great Bay Area or as it is commonly referred to the Almere Plan.
St. Maarten Pride Foundation would like to point out the following; The Development perspective or Almere Plan was compiled some 7 to 8 years ago and much has changed on St. Maarten in general and in and around the Great Salt Pond in particular, over these past years. Successive Governments, of which Mr. Heyliger of the UP was a member, have for instance allowed a great deal of filling-in of the Great Salt pond, contrary to recommendations in the development perspective, making the drawings and proposed location of the Ring-road in the document unrealistic and thereby undermining the intended purpose of the project. The Ring-road project as it is now being carried out therefore greatly differs from the suggestions made in the Almere Plan.
The UP board's article goes on to state that "...the plan... was developed through analysis and sessions with stakeholders, including environmental organizations". This paragraph seems to insinuate that St. Maarten Pride Foundation somehow approved of, or recommended the construction of the ring road during the information session held by TKA and the Almere group in 2003, this insinuation is entirely misleading and inaccurate at best. The development perspective itself contradicts the UP Party's implication; The following stakeholders have been consulted about the development vision described in this report ... ... ... ... . Their wishes have been noted by TKA, and as far as possible taken into account during the formulation of this Development Vision. Development perspective St. Maarten Philipsburg Greater Great Bay Area" (TKA, Architecture & Urban Design, 2003)
In additional attempts to justify the ring road project UP's board cites that the governing program of 2007-2011 states that "Government will pursue the expansion of the road network by removing various traffic bottlenecks at the intersections as well as the expansion of the road network with new links". ".......major road connectors that will be pursued are the causeway across the Simpson Bay Lagoon and the projected ring-road around the Great Salt Pond". A goal Commissioner Heyliger no doubt ensured on including in this program. Various government policy plans, government commissioned reports and independent studies have however, identified the alarming number of vehicles on St. Maarten as the primary cause of traffic congestion, a fact which the UP board skillfully chose to omit from their press statement.
The Tourism Master Plan of 2005, for instance, provides recommendations and specific proposals aimed at alleviating traffic congestion in the long-term including proposals on:
• Raising road or registration tax with excessively large cars more highly taxed,
• Introducing a regulated public transportation system with proper bus stops and related amenities,
• Regulating the car rental sector to limit the number of rental vehicles and the issuing of new car rental licenses.
With the number of vehicles on the island increasing by a significant percentage each year, as is presently the case, the planned road network expansions including the Ring-road will cease to meet traffic capacity needs in less than 5 years unless government takes measures to curb the increase of vehicles on the island and improve public transportation.
In addition to the aforementioned, research and experience in many countries shows that increased road capacity is very quickly filled with what researchers have dubbed "induced vehicle traffic"; people tend to abandon public transportation and carpools when additional road space is made available, through new road construction or linkages, thereby resulting in more cars on the road and subsequently more traffic congestion.
Building new roads without taking additional measures to curb the increase of vehicles on the island is therefore merely a very temporary measure and consequently an ineffective and unsustainable strategy for resolving the island's traffic congestion challenges.
No comprehensive traffic or road network study for St. Maarten has been carried out within the last fifteen to twenty years despite the tremendous growth the island has faced during this period. Government of which Mr. Heyliger has been an active member, for some eleven years by his own account, has not taken any measures regarding the comparatively more cost- effective proposals aimed at alleviating traffic congestion in the long-term, including proposals listed in the Multi Annual Policy Plan, The Tourism Master Plan and the Carrying Capacity Study, even though these recommendations or studies may very well dispel or nullify Mr. Heyliger's and Government's perceived need for the Ring Road project.
Mr. Heyliger was in office when the aforementioned comparatively more cost- effective proposals aimed at alleviating traffic congestion in the long-term were presented, the Foundation can therefore only wonder as to why Mr. Heyliger did not pursue these measures.
Questions such as how projects such as the Ring-road and the Bridge across the Lagoon will be funded are conveniently left unanswered. The Foundation reminds the UP Board and Mr. Heyliger that real leadership involves taking often politically unpopular but much needed decisions, to in this case perhaps introduce one of the aforementioned measures to alleviate traffic.
St. Maarten Pride Foundation deems it unfortunate that Mr. Heyliger and evidently the board of his new Party as well, prefer to propose and carry-out cosmetic solutions to St. Maarten's (traffic congestion) challenges through extravagant projects which do very little to actually resolve the issues at hand.
The UP's statement continues with rhetoric about what it deems to call "progress", "that progress comes at an Environmental cost" even going as far as to state that "without progress always, like it says in our coat of arms, St. Maarten is nowhere".
These UP statements about progress indicate that the Party's board members do not understand the dynamics of the topic, as "economic development and progress" on St. Maarten or anywhere else for that matter will not remain viable in the long run if the environment is not sufficiently protected.
The Party's baseless accusation that St. Maarten Pride Foundation is selective in the projects it chooses to criticize and find fault with is a blatant and obvious attempt to marginalize St. Maarten Pride Foundation and its concerns.
St. Maarten Pride Foundation and its partner Foundations have been advocating environmental protection, working to create environmental awareness and providing environmental education for over ten years now and will continue to do so in the years to come.
St. Maarten Pride Foundation
HONOURABLE PRESIDENT,
This letter serves to announce that I am resigning from the Presidency of the Commission in charge of youth affairs, culture, and sport. I am sure that this will not come as a surprise to you, seeing that, from December 2008, on several occasions, I have drawn your attention to the fact that I grew more and more uncomfortable with the little consideration you had for the Commission and its role, the little regard you have for democracy and the manner in which decisions were taken. In fact, the Commission is not to you what it should have been, a place where thoughts and ideas are being formulated and fashioned and actions to be taken are being determined especially with regards to the youth.
I am an elected official, member of the Island Territory Council, like you.
I'd like to remind you that we have been elected by the people to serve the people and not to use the people to our advantage and satisfy our personal ambitions. Your actions are leading our young community to a downfall and one would have to be blind not to see it and that's in every field.
Allow me to remind you of some cases.
What have we done in favour of the youth? We have talked and talked some more, but you have never considered it worthwhile to consult with the youth in the districts like I had recommended that it should have been done.
You even refuse to admit that the youth is left up to themselves, and so they are blamed for all the wrongs that are occurring in the community.
In the RSMA (Adapted military service) file, I proposed a joint action with the CLSPD, prevention group against delinquency. What have you done since? Nothing at all ! This means to me that you don't believe in seconds chances for the young people who are in difficulty that live here, where ever they came from. Do you know, Mr President, that this kind of approach has been proven to be successful in different countries and even in some metropolitan towns.
When I requested help to reward the young people involved in sports, your answer was also negative... and your excuse was that there's no money. Yet for other things, like different contracts, money is always there. What about the contracts given to a private business to take care of the sport infrastructures? Up to today our Commission has never seen any « cahier des charges», we don't have a clue on what is really going on.
After two years of work with the DDJSS about inclusion, through sports, of so many young people, it seems that we have worked for peanuts. What about the 20% fund promised by the Collectivity? What has become of the documents necessary for the homologation? Did we work for nothing?
The results are here: from 2007 till today, the funds allowed to youth programs have gone down from 1,2 million Euros to 350.000. Is this is YOUR politic for thousands of youngsters? It's a shame!
In other fields, Mr President, I also have questions.
Whereas our Commission, in agreement with the concerned departments, had decided not to grant a new authorization for a private individual to occupy the public domain in the area of Grand-Case, you, in your own right decided to over rule our collective decision. The request that we had previously turned down, you approved and had us look like a bunch of fools. And then, you have the nerve to send the requests emanating from locals, which you clearly discriminated against.
In the matter regarding public water and the board in which I sit, a recent audit shows that the price of the water in Saint-Martin is 2.6 times more expensive than in Guadeloupe or than on Dutch St. Maarten. Our people are held hostage by these prices, so when are you going to confront this situation?
You are mute on this important matter in which lots of money is being wasted and lost and the same goes for many other matters. But to whose benefit?
Definitely not in benefit of the people of Saint-Martin that you say you love so much!!
In the bid regarding the airport of Grand-Case, as a member of the board, I deeply regret that we are not, in fact, part of the decisions. Even if you have the power to act, don't you think it would be wiser to let the Island Council give his opinion on such important matters which will engage us for years?
We are elected officials, we have commissions that cannot give us information to make a right decision for our population. The majority group meetings never prepare the Territorial Council as it ought to be, so I will no longer attend these majority meetings.
As an elected person I don't even have the agenda of the Executive Council, so I don't even know when it concerns the Commission that I preside! And like most of my colleagues we learn things from third parties or by the media.
I have been elected by the people of Saint-Martin to work on their behalf and not on our personnel agendas. There is not a day that passes without having many of them express themselves about how they feel and about the functioning of our Collectivity. And your way of being president of the Collectivity is more than I can continue to bear and be silent about because it is, in no wise, respectful to the initial commitment of our programme announced during the election campaign.
It is to them that I owe my trust and respect.
It's on the basis of that engagement that I remain Island Counsellor to serve my fellow compatriots and them alone.
Jean David Richardson
Territorial Counsellor
For the past few weeks, Mr Daniel Gibbs, Vice President of French St Martin has been all over the newspapers and radios selling HIS water front project. An operation seduction in order to get the population of French St Martin with him for the validation of HIS project at the Conseil Territorial. Mr Gibbs is telling us that he has a Dream for us St Martiners!
This Dream, he says, he has since 2001 when he was elected municipal council of St Martin commune.
Now my question is, who you dreaming for Mr Gibbs?? The population of St Martin? Who you trying to fool Mr Gibbs???
I would like to remind you that the population of St Martin is not completely stupid, not all of us are ignorant!! Since when are you bothered about St Martin's population?? After 9 years of being an elected member, by the population, you suddenly realised that you actually need the people of this island? But Mr Gibbs, you never bothered with the St Martin population, your whole life time!
The first thing you did when elected Vice President is bring one of your good friend from France Mr Claysen and give him the post of Director de l'Office du Tourism. Was Mr Claysen one of us? I don't think so. And I'm not going to remind the readers of the whole nightclub saga that followed that episode!
What about your Directrice du Tourisme? Mme Bessiere. Where exactly is she from? But what a lovely exposé she gave us at the last Conseil Territorial! If I have one good advice to give you is stop making the Collectivité pay foreigners to tell us what we already know about OUR Island!
What about the locals that you got rid of Mr Gibbs? What about Diane Fleming with whom you never saw eye to eye. Isn't she back in Guadeloupe now? What about Sabrina Charville?? When last you had a meeting with her? Aren't you in charge of the airport in Grand-Case? But now we have to hear that you want to give our airport to some foreign country!
But what about the rest of them? All of sudden, still part of your Operation Seduction a la Population, we have to hear the most gorgeous profile on Mr Moreau, godfather of your child he described himself. Now who are you trying to fool?
The truth is that you have never liked the local population on a personal level and on a political level but now you're asking them to back you up! Now you say you're doing all of this for us! What exactly happen for you to start doing things for us because you're track record does not show you doing anything for us before.
5,000 jobs for St Martin Mr Gibbs you're shouting on the radio! 5,000 jobs for who exactly? The way I'm seeing things, those are 5,000 jobs for 10,000 more metropolitans to come on our island! Last time the French side had investors building projects on our island it became the invasion of the French metropolitan population here. The same people your surround yourself with, by the way! Why should it be any different this time?
The point is Mr Gibbs, YOUR project looks very nice but any project looks very nice on paper! The details are what important Mr Gibbs is. And for that I have a few questions here for you. After YOU put all this extra land and change the shape of our island, who will own this land?? Since we know that the Collectivité cannot pay for it. Those 800 M Euros, who is going to pay for it? And how will they be reimbursed ?
What I'm asking you Mr Gibbs is stop talking about doing things for us! You are not one of us ! You never were one of us before, you're not that worthy!
Name with-held upon author's request.
It is said love conquers all, question is what is love? Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing (sin), but rejoices with the truth (righteousness). Love never ends. Next question is what is education? Education is knowledge acquired by learning and instruction. Education can produce very good solutions to our problem when it comes to science, at the same time it can produce havoc to society or this world. Education is the knowledge of good and evil. So that is why education alone will destroy the world. Family values are togetherness. In families cohesion would be defined as the feeling of being loved, of belonging to the group and being nurtured by it. Although closeness is good in a family unit, there must be a balance between being together and being separate. A person must be able to develop their individuality, while being supported and confident within the family. A few things that bring a family together are the commitment of other family members, and the spending of time together. A person that was love from young with good family values usually study well and achieve greatness, the problem with us as a people it is our nature to sin (Doing the wrong thing or breaking of God laws). Often times we use our intelligence or education to hurt people or fool people for our self-interest, that manner of thinking can lead to murder or in greater terms can lead to war. If we have values then we will not look to steel our brother or sister property or spread false rumors of him or her. In-fact we will be using our expertise to benefit them and us which is love proven in actions. The key to success and happiness in this world is education along with love which is a value. Spiritual knowledge is from God that knowledge cannot sin nor do no wrong. But we as human do not posses it so we must teach and practice God principles and laws to promote peace and to lessen crime. Rehab and education cannot do it. In reality most of us will go church and prey, but by choice we reject to live by God norms and foolishly expect we can bring up a society of peace. It will never happen. We must teach our children right from wrong and give them love. Punish them when they break the rule of law and reward them when they practice love and affection and respect to their fellow man. Many times as human we complain, but most of us do not have the courage to make a difference by making life our personal responsibility to teach help promote good deeds by living it in action. I am sure there is many people right now that hates to hear about God and hate me for this, how ever it is my duty to still respect them even if my feelings say do not respect them. Remember it is always more difficult to do what's right than the wrong. Ask your self this question what has our grand parents and parents done so well in the past that we turn out to be good people? The answer is simple, church was a must, togetherness was a must taking care of your younger brother or sister was a must. So we were taught and practice the golden rule of loving
one another. Politicians suppose to make sure the law is enforce, but the best crime prevention in my opinion is parents and church responsibility. Yes we must have separation of church and state, but their must never be separation from God and state. Our very purpose here in this life is not to please ourselves but more important to please God. We can never get a good society if the author and creator of good which is God almighty continue to be omitted. Our failures in life is that we are to concern about pleasing people or man and we should be much more concern by pleasing God. Good comes from God, Evil comes from the devil. Ad the letter o in the word God it will write good, ad d in front the word evil it will read devil. My point is this, we choose God way of doing things then good things follow us, if we choose other than God way which is evil or the devil way is what we will get. Many politicians hate bringing God into state affairs, but they foolishly wants the church to prey to the very source they hate to bring in to state affairs. Remember as I said in the beginning the key is education and values. Education with out values will continue to fail. Education with values and the blessing and recognition of God as our creator is destine to success. That form of political ideology is conservatism. In closing if we continue to make the wrong choice and live the wrong life style we will continue to create criminality. People like me who have a passion for good are now call extremis. Law breakers and deceivers and haters of the word of God are call good people and smart they admire by many people. Until we get and live by the correct values only then we have a good chance of reducing crime.
For the love of God is to hate evil (sin). But the love and acceptance of God is everlasting life, the choice is yours choose wisely.
Yours truly,
Miguel Arrindell
The following is in response to and article in the Daily Herald-, of Monday-, November 29-, 2010 in regards to the outcome of a Swiss referendum to expel convicted foreigners.
Characteristic for death is that everything is 'frozen in time'.
On the contrary,- the most characteristic feature of life is change-, adaptation.
Biologists for instance-, are very familiar with the concept of homeostasis.
This concept simply means that all life-forms have the desire-, and 'built-in' ability to maintain-, or work towards a state of equilibrium-, or dynamic balance by making the adaptions necessary within their systems.
This is key to survival of any organism.
However-, if we carefully look at it-, the same concept exists within the our society as well.
Especially-, in developing a country-, it plays a very important role.
For instance.
There is a time to allow for a 'building boom-',
Or to encourage people to be naturalized-,
Or to encourage immigration-,
Etc.
This applies of course-, when a country's carrying- capacity is 'underutilized'.
But alas-, what is the actual situation on the 'Friendly Island' ?
Not only has our carrying-capacity in terms of infra-structure etc. reached its 'breaking-point'-, but perhaps worse than that-, so has the 'tolerance-capacity' of the native-, and legal population.
In this case-, it is time to apply our ability to adapt-, and to activate our 'social homeostasis'-, in the expectation to survive as a people.
As such-, the example of Switzerland-, and of more countries as well-, could be seen as a necessary evil.
Therefore-, the time has come to apply reverse-processes such as 'reverse' thinking-/policies-/laws
Like what you ask.
Well just think about it.
Time to undo-, to retract-, to revoke-, to de-...all what was taken for granted for so long.
Just like we can grow our development-, we can 'ungrow' it (make time for quality-development)
Just like one can come- to our island, one should be also able 'uncome' or to leave,-.
Just like one can be naturalized-, one can also be de-naturalized (Ask Geert WILDERS)
Just like one can be 'born-here'-, one can be 'unborn here' and 're-born' elsewhere.
Just the thinking of these real possibilities-, could have an incredibly humbling impact on those who come to the shores of others-, and after having got what they wanted-, feel that now no-one can do them anything anymore-, even if they commit crime- and/or disrespect the laws-, and people of the host-country.
Upset ?
Don't worry.
Those with an 'added value' should not fear of course.
But-, for those elements with bad intentions-, this could well be a 'wake-up' call to get their acts together-, or be deported.... 'tout suite'.
Drs. Leopold JAMES
President SNBF/ Association L' Esprit de Concordia
Despite the fact that we are in the worst economic recession St. Maarten has ever seen, and have the highest unemployment in our history and most small businesses are on the brink of bankruptcy. One would think common sense tells us that tax reduction and not tax increases are needed for private sector job growth to lead us out of this depression. Tax increases will discourage any investment that businesses of all sizes need now to grow and add jobs. Instead of encouraging investors to take risks on creative new business ideas, tax increases will have the opposite effect. Start by selling off all governments owned companies and reduce the size and waste of government. With the funds received from the sale of all government companies, we can pay off the debt of not only St. Maarten but also pay off the debt of St. Kitts and Anguilla. Everyone knows that government owned companies are personal piggy banks for and only benefit some politicians and their political cronies. Look at how efficient the receiver's office, SVB and TelEM are tomorrow morning. Government has no business of being in the business of business. Governments' first responsibility is to take care of our safety and security and to protect our borders from the massive invasion of criminal aliens, yet they are not addressing this issue at all to date. Under socialism, incentives either play a minimal role or are ignored totally. A centrally planned economy without market prices or profits, where property is owned by the state, is a system without an effective incentive mechanism to direct economic activity. By failing to emphasize incentives, socialism is a theory inconsistent with human nature and is therefore doomed to fail. Socialism is based on the theory that incentives don't matter! In a one on one debate several months ago with a Marxist professor from the University of Minnesota, I pointed out the obvious failures of socialism around the world in Cuba, Western Europe, Venezuela and North Korea. At the time of our debate, Haitian refugees were risking their lives trying to get to Florida in homemade boats. Why was it, I asked him, that people were fleeing Haiti and travelling almost 500 miles by ocean to get to the "evil capitalist empire" when they were only 50 miles from the "workers' paradise" of Cuba? If this government does not halt and reverse this continuing move towards more and more socialism, which will only tax everyone out of their homes and businesses, we may just soon see a tea party type movement arising here on St. Maarten. "A wise and frugal government, which shall leave men free to regulate their own pursuits of industry and improvement, and shall not take from the mouth of labor the bread it has earned - this is the sum of good government." Thomas Jefferson.
Peter Gunn
Great Bay:--- After having deceived the people of the island about the real consequences for 'Country St. Maarten'-, the 'chickens appear to be coming home to roost'.
The trip to the Netherlands by Vice prime-minister Theo HEYLIGER-, and Minister of Finance-, Hiro SHIGEMOTO, has not been exactly 'fruitful'.
Based on a consensus of all members in the Dutch parliament they met with-, since St. Maarten has now embarked on its own against all advice-, it cannot depend on budgetary assistance from the Netherlands.
In other words-, the expected 'hole' of 130 million guilders-, must be 'found' on the 'Friendly-island'.
Clearly-, the easiest way out has always been to pass on any additional burden on the working class people- and the people the least organized and therefore represented.
These are the St. Martin people-, and their fellow Antillean residents on the island.
Based on all of this-, it cannot be ruled out, to put it very euphemistically-, that soon tax hikes in various areas can be expected to be levelled on our people-, who are already scrunching to make ends met.
drs. Leopold James
Capitalism is an economic and social system in which capital and land, the non-labor factors of production (also known as the means of production), are privately owned; labor, goods and resources are traded in markets; and profit, after taxes, is distributed to the owners or invested in. A free market is a market without economic intervention and regulation by government except to regulate against force or fraud. A market is any one of a variety of systems, institutions, procedures, social relations and infrastructures whereby businesses sell their goods, services and labor to people in exchange for money. Goods and services are sold using a legal tender such as fiat money. This activity forms part of the economy. It is an arrangement that allows buyers and sellers to exchange items. Competition is essential in markets, and separates market from trade. Two persons may trade, but it takes at least three persons to have a market, so that there is competition on at least one of its two sides. A free-market economy is an economy where all markets within it are unregulated by any parties other than those players in the market. In its purest form the government plays a neutral role in its administration and legislation of economic activity neither limiting nor actively promoting it (for example neither regulating industries let alone owning economic interests nor offering subsidies to businesses let alone protecting them from internal/external market pressures). Such an economy in its most radical form does not exist in developed economies. A market economy is an economy based on the power of division of labor in which the prices of goods and services are determined in a free price system set by supply and demand. Division of labor is the specialization of cooperative labor in specific, circumscribed tasks and like roles. Historically an increasingly complex division of labor is closely associated with the growth of total output and trade, the rise of capitalism, and of the complexity of industrialization processes. Division of labor was also a method used by the neolithics and paleolithics to categorize different jobs, and divide them to skilled members of a society. In economics and accounting, a good is a product that can be used to satisfy some desire or need. A service is the intangible equivalent of an economic good. Service provision is often an economic activity where the buyer does not generally, except by exclusive contract, obtain exclusive ownership of the thing purchased. The benefits of such a service, if priced, are held to be self-evident in the buyers willingness to pay for it. Capitalism stresses private economic choices. People are free to decide how they will earn and spend their income. Companies may choose which goods and services to produce and how much to charge for them. They also compete with one another to sell products. Nations whose economy is based on capitalism includes the United States, Canada, Germany, and Japan. In modern times, right-wing ideologies and movements support capitalism. In politics, Right, right-wing and rightist are generally used to describe support for preserving traditional social orders and hierarchies. Today it is primarily used to refer to political groups that have a historical connection with the traditional Right, including conservatives, monarchists, aristocrats.. The term is also used to describe those who support free market capitalism, and those who support some forms of nationalism. Conservatism (Latin: conservare, "to preserve") is a political and social philosophy that promotes the maintenance of traditional institutions and supports, at the most, minimal and gradual change in society. Some conservatives seek to preserve things as they are, emphasizing stability and continuity. Strong belief in moral values and always in favor of capitalism. Have a happy St. Maarten day.
Yours truly,
Miguel Arrindell
It takes a lifetime of painstaking and consistent hard work, diligence, and dedication to build a career and a good name; it takes just one sentence of unsubstantiated suspicion to destroy one's integrity and character. The much publicized suspension of Regina Labega and Edward Dest of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau is the latest in what has become an ongoing saga in which our leaders, our very best and brightest are chopped down, first in the court of public opinion, where they have no redress, and later in the court of law where they may or may not be exonerated. What is disturbing about this trend is what I choose to call the culture of suspicion which is based on the popular saying, "where there is smoke, there is fire."
Really?
How can we, in the same breadth then claim that a suspect is innocent until proven guilty? By stating that where there is smoke, there must be fire, have we not already concluded that the suspect must have done something wrong? In so doing, the onus is now on the suspect to prove otherwise, rather than on the accuser to prove beyond any shadow of doubt, his accusations. This is turning the foundation and principles of justice and fairplay on their head. Presumption of innocence is thrown out of the window when we declare that there is no smoke without fire. It grants the accuser the upper hand in that the accuser is presumed to be incapable of false accusations or to be infallible in his or her suspicion.
Contrary to our portrayal of justice as a blindfolded lady, justice is not blind, and often times is not a lady, and does not act in a lady-like manner either. We all know about kangaroo courts. We all know too that if the system decides to go after you, it will find any stick to beat you with. The pity is that the public generally does not see the system at work, but prefers to believe indeed that nobody is evil enough to crucify another human being without any reasonable cause. I believe the biblical example of Jesus Christ settles that argument. If He who is without sin could be put to death on false accusation, who are we mortals?
It is important for us to focus on some aspects of our judicial process. In a criminal procedure, if you are suspected of a crime, you are arrested, detained and brought before the judge of instruction who will determine if you have a case to answer and if you should continue in detention. Until you are actually convicted in a court of law, you are still presumed innocent, regardless of how long you spend in detention. However, the longer you are detained, the quicker the presumption of innocence evaporates. At any event, the crime(s) you are suspected of committing must be disclosed to you from the onset of the investigation.
We often focus on the way something is done because we are a people who show respect even to our enemies. There is an unwritten code which we honor when we have to perform unpalatable tasks involving certain caliber of people in our community. For example, you don't slam the handcuffs on a father in front of his children, no matter what he may be accused of. Actions like this, however, are designed precisely to create that smoke and lead people to believe that there "must" be some fire somewhere. This is the kind of smear that cannot be removed with the best stain remover from the fabric of one's integrity, no matter how innocent the suspect turns out to be. Is this fair? Is it just?
Such character assassination based on a culture of suspicion hurts even more when the victim is someone who has given his or her entire life and career to the service of the same community. What message are we sending to the rest of the population, especially the younger ones, when those who should ordinarily be given medals of merit for their unselfish service to society are hounded like petty criminals and their names dragged to the mud because of a suspicion of wrongdoing?
I will not delve into the case of the two highest-ranking officials of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau in order not to contaminate an already poisoned atmosphere which raises too many questions than one can find answers to. One of those questions is the timing of the measure.
What was so URGENT about an investigation that authorities claim had started before September 2010 – that is more than two months ago – that cannot wait until the island's first major food and wine festival is held? How does this suspension stack up with the staffing position of the Bureau, knowing that up to five members of an already critically understaffed government agency are on sick leave? And all of this with the high tourist season just a few weeks away? The real suspicion is of something much more sinister on the part of those pulling the strings behind the scene. Perhaps, here is where indeed, we may apply the adage, where there is smoke, there is fire.
Fabian Ade Badejo
Dear Mr. Editor,
Dutch Labour Party PvdA Member of Parliament (MP) Jeroen Recourt sought clarification on media reports that the UP party of Theo Heyliger bought votes in the last island election.
Recourt cited two articles, one in the Curaçao newspaper Antilliaans Dagblad and the other in the Dutch daily NRC Handelsblad. Antilliaans Dagblad in its September 17 edition headlined "Duncan: Heyliger buys votes." In the article, Minister Roland Duncan said that Heyliger had restored the old methods of his grandfather Claude Wathey by buying votes. NRC Handelsblad on September 18 referred to reports that the UP party "bought votes on a large scale."
Recourt asked Dutch caretaker State Secretary of Home Affairs and Kingdom Relations Ank Bijleveld-Schouten if what Duncan had claimed had any truth to it: that votes had been bought through laptops, payment of school fees, rent, electricity bills, a fridge and building blocks. "Is it true that multiple voting cards have been issued per person?" asked Recourt.
Recourt, a former Judge of the Joint Court of Justice of the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba, inquired whether buying of votes was punishable by law on the islands. "To what extent is the handing out of goods by political parties in violation of the oath that public representatives have taken or will take? What measures does the local government take against these kinds of activities?"
Dear Editor our current Minister of Justice should answer the questions of the MP Recourt as he is now in the position of addressing the issues he adamantly and boldly pointed out against the current Minister Theo Heyliger and his party. The current Minister of Justice Roland Duncan should indicate what his views are now since he has now joined the UP/DP government. Are they the same? Will he pursue justice and investigate his own claims? Are we certain that our current Minister of Justice will live up to the oath taken to serve and protect our country when he has now teamed UP with the same questionable UP party?
I will send this article to MP Recourt as well because I am quite certain that he too and the rest of the Dutch is wondering the same thing I am wondering.
J. van Hennegen
Someone said and I quote: "The Burden of Freedom is not the absence of law, work or a release from authority, but in reality, true freedom imposes more law and more work than slavery, because it demands more discipline and self-control than slavery" end of quote. I don't want us to focus on the word slavery but I need for us to understand that freedom brings with it a price. We have to be responsible with that which we have been made custodians of and that is to manage our own affairs in a responsible manner.
During my acceptance speech on October 5, 2010 I wanted to place emphasis not only on the government or Parliament but on all of us recognizing that the responsibility for the success in building of country St. Maarten lies with us all. We all have rights but also obligations. We are co-responsible for our health, our education, our environment, our infrastructure and how can we forget crime? These are things that need to be addressed individually as well as collectively. We can't or should not think that we can do as we please. There are rules, laws or guidelines laid down as to how Parliament, Government and people should behave. The constitution is one of the prime examples regulating such. It speaks about freedom of religion and personal convictions, freedom of expressions of opinions, freedom of education, freedom of association, meeting and demonstration, movement and so on. But as I said before all of this comes with a price tag. We as Parliament and Government must inform the people but this does not mean that people can't take it upon themselves to go out and seek information and also apply that which they know. I will continuously use this phrase that I learnt some time ago "information without application is a waste of time". My hope is that the professionalism required for the building of country St. Maarten will be exercised at this very critical time in our history. We must change our behavior because we are now called country. Permit me to close with another quote: "There is no way to walk into freedom without shouldering its responsibility" end of quote.
Senator George Pantophlet
The Sint Maarten Tourist Bureau has embarked upon a new marketing initiative to further improve upon 2010 tourism figures which resulted in a 7.9 per cent increase in arrival numbers for the first quarter of 2010 and an overall 2.1 per cent increase in visitor numbers for the first six months of the year. The bureau recently completed a series of marketing strategy sessions which should lead to more visitors coming to the island in the high season.
Other Caribbean nations are not sitting by and are also in the forefront of attracting more visitors to their shores. The Cayman Islands Tourism Advisory Council reports that the winter season is looking pretty good in terms of bookings. The General Manager of Carlisle Bay in Antigua reports that bookings are double the pace of last winter, reflecting a high season trend seen at many Caribbean properties.
According to the Barbados Central Bank Governor, the tourism industry should pick up in the final quarter of this year with construction also playing an important supporting role for the economy. So far for the year, the Barbados economy has contracted 0.5 per cent while the island's tourist arrivals have increased three per cent between January and September when compared to the previous year.
A drop in visitor spending has been and remains still a major challenge for the tourist industry in the region. The reduced spending by tourists is a reflection of caution due to the uncertainty about the world economy and this is impacting regional tourism businesses.
The prognosis is that recovery in the international economy is driven mainly by the performances of emerging market countries such as China, India and Brazil, and growth in the countries where the Caribbean sells its tourism remains weak and uncertain. Some economists say that the U.S. economic downturn is part of a seven-year cycle, of which almost three years have passed with four more to go.
A survey of airlines during the third quarter of 2010 indicates that confidence is high in the industry. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), 77 per cent of those who responded had reported improvements in profit during the second quarter of 2010, which was based on stronger revenues and tighter control of costs. IATA adds that demand and revenue are both still growing in terms of passenger traffic, but at a slower rate than the initial rebound at the start of 2010.
Nations around the globe are reviewing economic policy after the financial crisis of 2008-2009. The idea that competitive markets are sufficient to ensure efficient outcomes and stable economies is under heavy fire. The crisis has prompted a fundamental re-think of the relationship between markets and governments. There seems to be a re-think between the political economy and models of governance. President of France Sarkozy said, "Laissez faire is finished," and attention should be focused on the model stakeholder capitalism and social consensus.
Today, the discussions continue about the balance between markets and government; what is the role of governments in promoting economic growth? What can governments do to seize the opportunities of globalization while minimizing its downsides? The global economic crisis has revealed a number of significant imperfections along with the limitations of governments.
Our new country is also at the cross roads and in the midst of the prolonged global crisis. While the big countries have no clarity on the way forward, Sint Maarten as an island nation has to look outside the box. Stakeholders need to come together to chart our way forward under our new constitutional structure.
We need to set up an economic early warning system which would allow us to mitigate the impact in the event of a major economic crisis. Some island nations within the region have had the experience where it took more than a year after the onset of the global crisis to put a stabilization package and mitigating strategies into place.
Each country will have to find its own balance between markets and government. The balance between markets and government may have to be reviewed continually, adapting to circumstance and context. Our approach as a country to policymaking will have to be based on pragmatism and the willingness to adapt to the local context best practices from around the world.
Roddy Heyliger
Hi Marinka,
First of all, please allow me to wish you a very good morning.
Marinka, for a while now, I have not contacted you- nor spoken to you.
The reason for such was that I simply did not to create any impression of wanting to have any undue influence on your thinking- and opinion, considering the reality, that we are once more in the 'campaign season'.
However-, and I hope you will understand me-, as I sincerely and solely mean it.
After having read your OPEN LETTER to Mr. Theo HEYLIGER, in the Daily Herald this Thursday morning, August 26, 2010, I once more was really touched by the fact that you-, as has become your 'style', clearly signed that article with your name.
Marinka, people can say what they want about me, but I will always respect- and defend the rights people-, like yourself,, who stand up for what they believe- and accept full responsibility for such, by putting their 'John Henry' (signature and/or name under their letters.
Therefore Marinka, allow me to once more express my deepest appreciation- and admiration for you in this regards.
Whether I agree with everything you write or not, is complete besides the point.
In my estimation, people like you Marinka, are members of the generation of new leaders of this island, and that gives me hope.
However, Marinka, I must also express my regret that young- and intelligent ST. Martiners like yourself-, did not take a similar stance, when the party you are part of-, as well as all the others presently in the Island-council-, failed to stand up for your own ST. MARTIN people, when it REALLY mattered.
That was, when they all refused to recognize your own St. Martin people, to preserve- and protect them as a people.
That was a far more fundamental issue, that 'attacking' Mr. Theo HEYLIGER I sincerely believe that ALL parties should have made- and signed a COVENANT with the St.Martin people, committing themselves to what matters most to the people of any country...SELF-PRESERVATION.
Please Marinka, do not take this letter as any offense to you, because I wrote it with a 'heavy' heart-, but felt that it had to be said, in an effort to challenge-, and inspire young people, to have the courage to stand up in defense of their people.
Even if this means, speaking out against your own party-leaders.
If not-, ALL young people on ALL parties will simply be put on the list for politically convenience-sake, but in the end-, completely taken for granted-, which is a tremendous loss for the future of any self-respecting country..
That was one of the reason, I always admired my students, who had the courage, to stand up to me- and to question if what I was teaching during my biology-, and chemistry classes-, was really correct.
I never took that personally, but as a challenge to use more logic to prove my point-, or not.
If I was unable to prove my point, I simply acknowledged, because I too can be wrong, or even dead-wrong.
Many of my former students today-, are doctors, specialists, surgeons, lawyers etc, which certainly fills me with pride.
My message to you Marinka- and all other young people is to never allow anyone-, including me, Leopold JAMES to ever take your independent mind- and/or intelligence for granted.
That should be your sacred gift from the Almighty, who bestowed everyone with that specific- and unique ability for a reason-, a purpose-, and a mission during one's life on earth.
In ending, Marinka, trust me-, as always, my doors-, my heart- and soul remain open to contribute whatever ideas-, advice I have for the future of this island, its natives- residents and visitors.
Meanwhile, Marinka, Just like Mr. Jeffrey RICHARDSON of the CPA has done (see attachment), I look forward to see you- and all other proud- and conscious young St. Martin politicians stepping up to the plate and sign the covenant pledging your commitment to the preservation of the St. Martin people.
All other issues are simply comparatively speaking irrelevant to the St. Martin people.
The reason is simple.
How much good is a perfect environment-, great educational system-, fantastic jobs aboard cruise-lines, health care system-, pension-schemes-, tax system-, homes-, roundabouts-, hotels-, jobs- etc for St. Martiners............... if they are allowed to be wiped out as a people ?
God bless you and keep doing your part, it is very needed.
Love & respect
drs. Leopold JAMES
One proud, native indigenous St. Martiner without apologies.
We have always said it many times before-, and this Wednesday morning, August 18, 2010, on Billy D's radio-program, it was admitted-, by none other than the 'fox' himself, Julian ROLLOCKS campaign-manager of the DP party.
Sounding as the perfect 'cry-cry-baby', he vented frustration- and a sense of defeat-, feeling what others-, for decades have been going through at the hand of the DP-party .
Being 'outspent', by a party without any manifesto-,but with a very deep 'war-chest' to 'buy' votes.
It was 'delightful' hearing the man, whose 'Lord' is MONEY, now talk about the DP's 'manifesto' and blame the UP of Theo for 'splashing-around- too much-cash', without a real message.
All of sudden the DP-party-, which in fact has the 'copyright' on how to run a corrupt Government- and to buy your way into Government, wants-, oh yes....campaign-reform.
Wattating.
Talking about 'multiple standards'-, crocodile-tears-, opportunism and the like.
It appears that the DP-, just like many others-, including the TODAY-newspaper, is having a very strange- and uncanny 'premonition', that this time around, 'splashing-the-cash-to-buy-your-votes', might be very risky, to say the least.
Of course-, who would not 'take the 'cash' ?
But-, will very 'cash-taker' now also return the 'favor' as expected ?
That is the million dollar question.
That is a growing- and very unsettling fear within the large parties, such as the DP-, the NA- and the UP.
Clearly-, large bill-boards- and thousands of flags, might look victorious, but what of that will not really work ?
As 'crazy' as this might new sound, just 'mark my words'- or 'read my lips'.
The time might not be too distant-, that having lots of 'cash-to-splash'- and flags- and posters to show off with-, post might be simple seen as a clear 'motion of non-confidence' .
Consequently-, we might not be too far away-, that parties will no longer want to embarass themselves and look like absolutely empty-headed fools :-! :-! :-! by having all these ridiculously extravagant paraphernalia, polluting the environment.
Meanwhile-, with so many people suffering hardships, who knows what beautiful clothing could be made out of these flags- and what homes and shelters out of the plywood bill-boards.
Food for thought.
Leopold James
President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia
Ever since, the idea of a cultural-ancestral ID-card for St. Martiners was launched, the demand has been growing steadily- and especially impatiently.
The demand is across all political party-lines-, and includes St. Martiners of all walks of life.
This is an indication that there is an awakening-, if you will even a resurrection of a hitherto dormant awareness of St. Martiners of their identity-, heritage and genealogy.
Within short-, interested persons will be able to apply for the card.
This ID-card will allow for native St. Martiners, residing anywhere in the world, to be able share their common ancestral identity with each other- too renew their ancestral bonds-, and to make sure they remain connected to their native St. Martin land.
This process indeed is one of inclusion, because it certainly does not exclude St. Martiners, like many other organizations on the island, so blatantly do.
What we are planning, as European resident recently pointed out to us, can be compared to the fact that 'a Jew is a Jew-, regardless, his orher place of birth-, nationality and/or residence'.
They all feel bonded by a common ancestry-,history-, norms&values-, isreal as their home-land, which regardless where they live they will take up arms and travel to defend.
Mr. Hilbert HAAR does not label the Jews, the way he labels us, for doing just the same; renewing- and maintaining our common bonds with each other as St. Martiners in order to preserve ourselves as any other people.
So, in that regard, the initiative of the St. Martin cultural-ancestral ID-card is nothing out of the ordinary.
In addition, no-one is forced to apply for one-, and no-one has to agree with it as well.
As a matter of fact, any St. Martiner who opposes the idea, is free to express such- and can be assured that we will be more than privileged to record such rejection for the record as well.
Consequently-, there is no need for any long winded debate on talk-shows and in newspapers on the issue and parties can agree to disagree.
Meanwhile, we will make use of our human right- and freedom of association as well-, and continue with the preparation of the registration process of people with a common ancestral identity-, whose destiny certainly is firmly interlocked.
In ending we also would like to add, that indeed it is our intention to honor- and recognize those who can not demonstrate their St. Martin cultural- ancestral heritage, but have made a tremendous contribution to our country- and people, with an honorary ID as well.
And finally-, for the smart 'Back-yard Alec's, we say 'wise up'.
Our cultural-ancestral St. Martin ID needs NO approval from any Government, because it is not a legal document, so it is completely out of the authority of any government.
So, just have fun-, relax- and settle down, because no-one gets excited when on the 'Friendly island' every nation is allowed to make use of the freedom of association, even if they exclude St. Martiners in the process.
That is great !.
Alas, when ST. MARTINERS, after being excluding by everyone on St. Maarten/St. Martin decide to do exactly the same....Oh my God, 'The skies come a tumblin' down'
Double standards ?
Hypocrisy ?
Simply ignorance ?
Make your pick.
Any which way, it simply matters not to us.
Quite to the contrary...it only inspires us even more.
Leopold James
President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia
We agree: the DP wrote the book. (On running an island, that is). Unfortunately neither you, nor your NA colleagues have taken the time to read it! Your press release of July 1, 2010 was an eye opener. Your NA government has been in office for more than 1 year now (and we all know how you got there)and still cannot get the 2010 budget right. Who to blame? Not the DP! On June 8th, 2009 the NA government promised the people a governing program by June 29th 2009. A year later we are still waiting. Who to blame? Not the DP! The NA government had to deal with the GEBE concession. Nottin' t'all go so! Who to blame? Not the DP! The NA government promised to deal with the new garbage collection contracts. It has not happened yet. Who to blame? Not the DP! The NA government had to deal with the agreement for the homes in Hope Estate. That too has not happened yet. Who to blame? Not the DP! The NA government had to appoint new members to the board of PJIAE NV as per January 1, 2010. No new members yet. Who's to blame? Not the DP! The NA government had to appoint new members to the board of TELEM. No new Board members there either. Who to blame? Not DP! The NA government had to vote against the motion of no confidence against NA appointed Commissioner of Finance Blackman. Oops, apparently your leader was sleeping during the meeting, while every other member of the coalition including yourself sat idly by and enjoyed letting the motion pass UNANIMOUSLY! Who to blame? Not the DP! Xavier Blackman now has the distinction of being the only sitting Commissioner in the history of the Island Territory with a motion of No-Confidence passed against him by the entire Island council, including his own party faction! Who to blame? Not the DP! The NA Commissioners Frans and Hyacinth announce NA Government's major role in churches and proudly proclaim there will be no church/state separation. Who to blame? Not the DP! Not one project completed by the NA Government to date is a National Alliance project. All were initiated, planned and started by the DP. So, dear George, you should really stop blaming the DP and may we recommend that you take the time to read the book.
Michael Ferrier
The DEMOCRATIC PARTY
I have been following the many discussions that are going on back and forth amongst the people of St. Maarten pertaining to whether the St. Maarten people should be mentioned in our constitution or not and I came up with the following answer.
Of course without a shadow of a doubt it should be mentioned in our draft constitution since it is called the draft constitution of St. Maarten and it has to do with the St. Maarten people, which are now the native people of this island. The former Commissioner of Constitutional Affairs mentioned in the opening remarks of the handbook for Foundation Based Education (FBE) the following: and I quote "We have seen and experienced many changes in the past and are confident that we can face the 21ST Century as a forceful, prepared, knowledgeable and strategic generation of St. Maarteners"
When the former commissioner speaks about St. Maarteners I would like her to explain to the St. Maarten people exactly who she is referring to because as we all know that currently there is no nationality that is called a St. Maartener. Therefore she must have been speaking about our Cultural Identity which is not a Nationality. I would like to challenge the former Commissioner, currently Island Council lady to please stand up and defend the St. Maarten people by letting her voice be heard and not to allow the constitution to be approved without mentioning the people of this country called St. Maarteners as she mentioned in her opening remarks in the above-mentioned handbook. I believe that our politicians should let the St. Maarten people know why the Island Council of Curacao were not able to pass their draft constitution with a 2/3 majority.
Nevertheless, St. Maarten has a prime opportunity to ensure that St. Maarteners be counted in their own country just like any other country that mentions the existence of their people. The Island Council is the people's representatives and it will be a sad thing to know that our representatives who we have voted into Government will deliberately forget to mention in our constitution the fact that we exist as a people. Our forefathers made a sacrifice to get St. Maarten where it is now and we will not leave it up to any politician who we think doesn't know or care about the yesterday or today's hard times that we bore. St. Maarten is our home and we'll do anything to make it bloom.
We'll think of it dream of it in the morning, night and noon and to it we'll give our life to keep it shining like the sunshine that comes out in the morning.
We have worked hard to build this nation working together as one people called St. Maarteners and we will not sacrifice our heritage nor would we allow any politician to exclude us from being mentioned in our constitution. We are demanding that the Island Council include us in the draft constitution of St. Martin, which will benefit not only the living St. Maarteners but also the unborn St. Maarteners as well. Politicians please do the right thing. Our future and the future of our children depend on it. Make the St. Maarten people a proud people.
C. Jeffrey Richardson
Youth Activist
Re; The most coveted '10-10-10'-jingle...a 'fata morgana' ?
Reference material; See (cut- & paste) attachment from the Daily Herald, of Tuesday, June 22, 2010; Police, prison, census under General Kingdom Measure.
Our commentary'
While the Daily Herald, correctly called it as being under 'General Kingdom Measure' , the name most politicians dread hearing anyone use is less 'mundaine'; it is nothing else but, being placed under the most dreaded 'measure'...... Higher Supervision from 'Ulanda', to be very sure.
Nothing can be more embarrassing, humiliating for any self-respecting Antillean politician, aspiring to do his/her 'own thing' than such a most colonial measure.
And while that might be the case for 'leader' of Government, Mr.William MARLIN, and his 'smart' and highly 'educated' crew, who months ago with a glass of champagne, concluded the very 'successfull debates in the Hague pertaining to the Kingdom Consensus laws, one person for sure might be having a 'laugh'.
Who does not remember Statian Councilman, Reginald ZAANDAM who alone by himself during the debates in the Hague, proudly, and courageously stood up and warned that the Dutch were setting up the people of the islands.
He was immediately and forcefully 'rebuked' by the simple-minded and power-hungry Antillean delegation-members for '$poiling thing$'.
Again, the Dutch, famous for their cunning intellect projected a fata-morgana or a hallucination into the simple minds of the politicians, as some real, tangible, glitzy and shiny prize, the St. Martin delegation jumped at, not realizing that they came back home with a 'cat in the bag' ....labeled...'10-10-10', no mo' stoppin' us now..
Of course, William and his intellectual smart gang, did not have to listen to some grass roots people, who repeatedly said that unless you have, the grass root St. Martin people's support, you will NEVER get the status so much coveted by you and of course by 'Sarah' and her followers as well.
Even if the Dutch would not have decided to place 'Country' St. Maarten under Higher Supervision, come '10-10-10', on ground-zero, where real grass roots people live, it will never work.
There will NEVER be any such thing as 'Country' St. Maarten, if that 'country' is not St. Martin to its very core and where St. Martiners come first !.
Hopefully come '10-10-10' at least you will have full autonomy over we own 'domino-club'.
At least we will have something to show for having deceived and manipulated the people for over so many years.
Wondering who it is, writing so boldly ?
Guess no more.
Yes, it is me, the same messenger......again.
Leopold JAMES,
And still....
Proud, native-indigenous St. Martiner without any apologies or compromise
Dear Editor
There is a saying when life hands you lemons make lemonade, well Mr. Glenn Carty surely trying to make lemonade without sugar and water. save-a-lot is the lemon...SUPERVALU is the lemon-sugar and water.
Like it stated...Carty defends Chamber, he definitely needs to defend his actions after misleading the public with a retail group SAVE-A-LOT, no where in his previous article he spoke about SuperValu.
No time in his previous press release did he ever state the things he is presently claiming in this release....nobody in St.Maarten knew anything about a SuperValu in the deal...he said SAVE-A-LOT wanted to establish a mini mart in St.Maarten ,that means a retail store...those were his words. He even indicated that local business would not be able to raise their prices...so it was competition for local businesses ...now he has changed his tune...that it is to sell to local businesses...read through the lines...He woke up and is smelling the roses.
Carty stressed that the chamber was there to represent the interest of all businesses, not a selected few, and urged Lugisse to focus on looking after the affairs of St. Maarten's students in Tallahassee, Florida, and encourage them to return home after their studies.
I would like to inform Carty...that Calvin Mardembrough from Study Financing, Commissioner William Marlin, Commissioner Xavier Blackman, Commissioner Sarah Wescot William, Commissioner Maria Buncamper all who came to Tallahassee did their job where the students are concerned requesting them to come home... I have done the needful to give them that opportunity here to meet with the students, so that's a done deal they are the authority...the rest is up to you to give them a job when they return, its not the job of Government alone to employ them..... ...hope you can make provisions for them to get a job when they return home...I read the article by Ms Melissa Gumbs about returning students and you should look at that situation its part of your function, she talked great about Bernard Hunt and the opportunity she was given by him at Sonesta Maho Beach Hotel and also the lack of opportunities to get a job in St.Maarten, the hard time she had, and now she is moving to Holland ...get more of your membership to do the same if you want to show interest in our students.
Carty is trying to tell me what I should do to get of his case but my function also include dealing with the Chamber who I respect their role in the community...but if something is being done wrong we need to voice our opinion without creating bad blood. I would like to draw his attention to part of the Proclamation that was signed by St.Maartren and Tallahassee 23,September 2009: On this day Wednesday, September 23, 2009, let it be recognized and acknowledged as the continuation of the relationship between Tallahassee and St.Maarten.
WHEREAS, the Government and citizens of St.Maarten Netherlands Antilles have enjoyed a vibrant educational, cultural, social and economic relationship that nurtures and promotes greater communication and interaction between the USA, with Tallahassee as our Partner through the Partnership, signed September 23, 1999 at City Hall, Tallahassee.
WHEREAS, the Tallahassee – St.Maarten Foundation, Inc. (TLH-SXMF) and the City of Tallahassee and St.Maarten will observe the Tenth Annual Recognition of the Partnership this September 23, 2009, hoping to build alliances by focusing on the Partnership and the future relations between Tallahassee and St.Maarten empowered by the Government of St.Maarten to identify areas of interest to broaden the scope of involvement and future participation.
WHEREAS, the Tallahassee-based grass-roots Tallahassee-St.Maarten Foundation, a Florida Incorporated (TLH-SXMF) non-profit organization with goals that include fostering, maintaining, and promoting permanent ties between Tallahassee, USA and St.Maarten, Netherlands Antilles, which will also transcend efforts globally. WHEREAS, St.Maarten serves as springboard to the rest of the Caribbean and Europe. WHEREAS, Tallahassee serves as springboard to the rest of the USA and Africa; by way of the city sister relations with Ghana, not to exclude other nationalities that cut across the cultural, socio-political, economic and educational arenas; and also have similar goals and objectives. WHEREAS, the focus is to introduce public and private sectors to the ongoing relationship which has been very positive to the representatives of both the City and St.Maarten.WHEREAS, we look forward to expanding relations with medical and healthcare professionals and students, university student, staff, and faculty exchanges, businesses, churches, cultural, sports and educational institutions and the general populace joint venture opportunities; and WHEREAS, TLH-SXMF implements programs and strategies to foster collaborative efforts between parties in the United States, Africa, the Caribbean, and Europe on identifying, nurturing, and establishing functional partnerships mutually beneficial in business, cultural and educational exchanges, and other areas of interest.
Everyone should realise that St.Maarten is moving forward before a new era with all the challenges that comes with 10-10-10 it is time that it becomes every bodies business and we step up to the plate, not just wait for the people that are the so called important people in the community that serves their personal interest no matter what, because of that status and they try to dominate the masses. We as a people should all believe in ourselves and look at what positive contributions we can make now with St.Maarten becoming a Country 10-10-10, well 10-10-10 is also my birthday so I am motivated to contribute to the max.
As Diaspora's of St.Maarten we will not create limitations for ourselves because at the end of the day we have to come back home and we have kids and grand kids that expect a better life than we had laid out for them...now more than ever St.Maarten needs the talent that it has distributed globally we are on the side line looking in and can see the game better than those on the field, we should always have the ability to question authority. We will create no limitations for ourselves, we have to make sure that when things are done in our so called interest it's also for the right reasons and not for ones ego or benefit...as I always say it has to be beneficial to all concerned, our foundation Tallahassee-St. Maarten Foundation (TLH-SXMF) will be bringing positive opportunities to St.Maarten to assist in its on going development even if we identified that there are persons trying to block that road of opportunity.
I would also like to take this opportunity to inform that for the past 10 yrs my involvement with the Partnership and Study Financing with our students at in-state tuition in Tallahassee has saved St.Maarten over $32 million dollars that would have been spent at out-of state tuition fees by our St.Maarten relations here for education. I will also indicate that representatives of both the DP and NA has been to Tallahassee and has performed beyond the normal expectations to motive this partnership, I don't play politics I perform a 100% in their preparations as per protocol for the arrival in Tallahassee for SXM Government...if there is one thing I can say for all past and present St.Maarten Governments they have maintained the same positive vision with the Tallahassee- St.Maarten Partnership with their counterparts here and that is a plus. Well Carty should know that the education platform is showing positive results on this end and he should make a difference on his end, now as per our strategic plan we are concentrating on socio-economic development for all concerned in the partnership so my commitment is also to move that forward and bring positive opportunities to the public and private sectors of St.Maarten.
June is American Caribbean Heritage Month, when reference is being made towards Caribbean-Americans...St.Maarteners living in the USA is part of that group: CONGRESSWOMAN BARBARA LEE said:" Americans of Caribbean ancestry resides in every part of the country. Millions have emigrated from the Caribbean to the United States. Throughout our history, Caribbean-Americans have served our country and contributed to the heritage of the United States through the arts, science, education, business, sports, military and government. The 2009 resolution allows Congress to continue recognizing the important contributions of Caribbean-Americans to our nation's history."
The SAVE-A-LOT Saga 2
In the Herald story of the past week, and I quote, "After being given confirmation that the e-mail had been sent to the Chamber in December, Carty said the Chamber had been engaged in talks with SUPERVALU's top management long before the correspondence from Lugisse. He provided evidence of this."
Let's take sense from nonsense. Carty came out with a press release in MAY, I sent an email about Supervalu in December and he tells the public that he was in contact with SAVE-A-LOT before December 2009 when that info was sent to the Chamber from us...now only after 5 months he is informing the public of this deal. The question needs to be asked what he was hiding for five months.
Carty said the discussions had focussed on distribution/wholesaling to grocery stores and supermarkets in St. Maarten and around the establishment of a retail store to "benchmark" prices.
This was stated no where in his first press release...so my article shook him up a bit and he is trying to change his vision now...which is good, I commend him on that...because at the end of the day the right thing to do is to get the best for less for our businesses so that it can be past on to our community.
However, Carty said Lugisse had his facts "mixed up." Carty said Save-A-Lot's mother company SuperValu manufactured items for Save-A-Lot. He said too that he had visited SUPERVALU's plant while in the US. Carty and his VP visited Supervalu plant and never indicated that in his first press release what he is hiding I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW?
Supervalu, the third-largest grocery-store chain by revenue, said in January it would double the number of Save-A- Lot locations in the next five years. Save-A-Lot will tap into underserved demand in what Shaner called "urban food desert" centers.
Carty does not understand that Supervalu is not a manufacturing company but a wholesale distribution center. It sells goods to Save-A-Lot. Supervalu Inc. is the second-largest U.S. grocery chain.
Supervalu, based in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, is made up of more than 10 grocery-store banners, or small chains with different names, which operate for the most part independently and do most of their own purchasing and advertising.
Until 2006, when Supervalu bought Albertson's 1,100 stores, the company received 80 percent of its sales from acting as a wholesale distributor primarily to independent grocers. The rest came from retail stores. After Supervalu bought Albertson's in 2006, the percentage switched to 80 percent retail and 20 percent wholesale distributor.
The daily Herald article continues: "Carty had told this newspaper earlier that Save-A-Lot was conducting a market analysis to determine the feasibility of establishing a mini-market here. He had said that a team from Save-A-Lot was expected to be in St. Maarten later this month to continue its analysis and to hold talks with officials. He had said that he couldn't disclose too many details due to a non-disclosure agreement."
St.Maarten must also be informed about the company so that it can also make its own assumption on this opportunity in the interest of the community...the people needs to know and not left hostage because of a non-disclosure agreement, they need to know that it is Supervalu and not Save-A-Lot that can make the difference to St.Maarten.
The Herald story continues: "Asked how the Chamber had come into contact with Save-A-Lot, Carty said the Chamber had done research via the Internet. He said too that the Chamber's role in this initiative was almost coming to an end. He said once the Chamber helped the company to establish the necessary contacts that would be the end of the chamber's involvement.
He also said the Chamber did not yet have information concerning when exactly Save-A-Lot officials would be in St. Maarten."
Now Carty is indicating that when the Chamber establishes the necessary contacts that would be the end of the chambers INVOLVEMENT...Can the Chamber give proof of any local business or businesses that he contacted on their behalf as per Supervalu doing business with them in St.Maarten?
Finally I would like to state that in the future the Chamber should inform its members on any deal that it is trying to bring to St.Maarten before going to the media with so called competition from Save-A-Lot if he is working in the interest of St.Maarten. Supervalu is a powerful company in the USA if a local distribution center can be setup to buy bulk and redistribute that would be the answer to our price problem for food in St.Maarten, as was requested by Carty in the first instance, I presume he got personally creative after seeing the opportunity.
Save- a- lot in St.Maarten cannot benefit local super markets in St.Maarten as a retail store it cannot give competition to itself...For instance every local super market buys from Prime Distributors who is a wholesale outlet...but their retail outlet Grand Marche would not sell to super markets they would send them to Prime. The Caribbean comes to St.Maarten to by food mostly from wholesale food companies on St.Maarten.
I have know Commissioner Frans Richardson for the past 41 years and 10months and also have a lot of respect for him based on his tenacity to do the needful for the people of St.Maarten and its future but if he is mislead in this venture based on his open agreement to support Carty fine ...LIKE Jimmy Cliff said, time will tell, time will always tell.
At the end of the day my query in this issue is not a matter of winning or losing, it is at the end of the day if the right thing is done for ST.MAARTEN so that awareness be made to the public that will be positive and also give opportunity to let people speak out when they think something is going wrong which will not benefit the country, and its people so that they can speak out and make a difference. The only way you can contribute and support Government and Country is to be very objective with reasons on all matters of interest and make sure they are beneficial to all concerned, and understand that free speech is also part of the process here, even in the USA I see it everyday if you are true and honest to your commitment and conviction. It is not that I am against better prices for St.Maarten, but how we get to better prices, and I still thing Supervalu is the ansewer.not Save-a-lot, I have no personal problem with Glen Carty or the Chamber, the Chamber is an organization that has a significant role to play in St.Maarten becoming a country and need to do the needful for everyone concerned and by so doing will get the needed support from everyone also.
Again I state I hope that this dialogue will create positive end results for St.Maarten Glen and I are insignificant when it comes to what lies ahead for St.Maarten,now more than ever Government needs support and guidance moving forward to becoming a country.
St.Maarten will be the judge in the near future OF THE END RESULTS.
May God Bless St.Maarten.
Arthur Lugisse
Listening to Mr. ROLLOCKS on Talking Point, this Monday morning, June 7, 2010 made me wonder what was his message- if any at all, apart from venting stinging bitterness and accusations.
Even if it was to do 'damage-control' or to defend the DP and its leader, I wonder if he was the person with the public credibility to do such anyway.
But then, during the break of the program some-one, called me and asked me if I was following the 'Trumped-up cook-up' on Talking Point.
Even if I had tried my best, I couldn't have summarized it better; a 'Trumped-up cook-up' .
Knowing all the actors involved, soon we will have more of these 'Trumped-up cook-ups'.
For sure, I will be paying very keen attention for the record.
For instance, I am very anxious as to hear exactly the name of this 'best friend' of ROLLOCKS who had the 'evil courage' to 'set up' his brother against him.
Poor, honest, innocent ROLLOCKS, whose 'concern for people' is well-known, having now become the 'victim' of everything and everyone but himself, of course !
Wattating.....
Therefore, I sympathize with Mr. ROLLOCKS and encourage him to mention the names of those bad people who 'set up' his brother against him.
I am sure that if he does that, that only then the 'real show' can begin.....
Meanwhile, it is very clear to the public, that the DP has stepped up its political campaign, doing what it traditional does best with the help of its collaborators, which is just fine.
For those who want to continue to underestimate the level of awareness of S. Martin people and prefer pledging their loyalty-till-thy-Kingdom-comes to those politicians who think the people will continue accepting offer lip-service instead of real commitment to the people, time will tell earlier then many think.
Finally, for the record, I will not apologize to anyone for standing up for the rights of the St. Martin people to come first at home, whether some people want me on their programs or not.
Matters not all, the message is unstoppable.
Leopold JAMES
And still proud, native-indigenous St. Martiner without apologies and compromise...
...
Dear Editor,
Please allow me some space in your well respected publication to address the topic of World Environment Day 2010 and to provide an opinion of how environmental protection relates to St. Maarten.
Today Saturday June 5th, 2010 marks the 38th annual commemoration of World Environment Day by the United Nations and thousands of organizations around the World. This year's theme is "Many Species. One Planet. One Future". The website of the United Nations Environment Programme or UNEP as it is more commonly referred to, features an interesting article on this year's World Environment Day, parts of which read as follows:
"A total of 17,291 species are known to be threatened with extinction – from little-known plants and insects to charismatic birds and mammals. This is just the tip of the iceberg; many species disappear before they are even discovered.
The reason? Human activities. With our present approach to development, we have caused the clearing of much of the original forest, drained half of the world's wetlands, depleted three quarters of all fish stocks, and emitted enough heat-trapping gases to keep our planet warming for centuries to come. We have put our foot on the accelerator, making species extinctions occur at up to 1000 times the natural rate.
As a result, we are increasingly risking the loss of the very foundation of our own survival. The variety of life on our planet – known as 'biodiversity' – gives us our food, clothes, fuel, medicine and much, much more."
During a recent conversation a friend of mine expressed the opinion that St. Maarten is a microcosm of the world, I smiled at the word as I hadn't much heard it in quite some time. The word microcosm is derived from the Latin microcosmus and means a little world. Using it to describe St. Maarten would therefore imply that St. Maarten or events occurring here are a reflection of what is happening globally albeit it on a diminished scale.
My friend was of course very right with his analogy as evident in the fact that the above text from UNEP's website could easily be used to describe much of what has been happening on St. Maarten over the past four decades;
A comprehensive Biological inventory of St. Maarten's Flora and Fauna has never been carried out as environmental foundations simply can't afford the costs associated with such a project, with the rate of development and the resulting habitat destruction on St. Maarten it is very plausible that "many species disappear before they are even discovered" or in any case before they can be documented as found on St. Maarten.
Explosive, largely unplanned and unregulated development has lead to the destruction of 14 of St. Maarten's 19 ponds an alarming three quarters of the island's wetlands as opposed to the drainage of "half of the world's wetlands" which UNEP's text refers to. It seems we have surpassed the rest of the world in the rate of the destruction of wetlands. Not particularly an accomplishment to be proud of.
From an economic perspective we too are "risking the loss of the very foundation of our own survival", we are jeopardizing the viability of our tourism driven economy through the systematic destruction of the very foundation on which it is built: St. Maarten's Natural and Cultural Heritage.
This is not just something that the environmental foundations have been indicating, but is actually also being pointed out by many other residents, return visitors, international experts and well read publications such as the National Geographic's Traveler magazine.
"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 overdevelopment".
"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 island's historical, artistic, culinary, or other local heritage. Quality of life is a major consideration for residents as well as visitors". National Geographic, Traveler, 2009.
It is high time that our decision makers take these issues more seriously. Government needs to work towards insuring that development on St. Maarten takes place in a sustainable manner, through the implementation and enforcement of environmental legislation such as Zoning plans, an environmental framework ordinance and the Marine Park Ordinance and construction of proper waste and sewage treatment systems and associated infrastructure.
Sustainable development itself is defined as "(Economic) development that meets the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs". (Our Common future, The World Commission on Environment and Development; The Brundtland Commission)
Tourism and tourism related services are the driving force of St. Maarten's economy, accounting for an estimated 80% of the island's economic activity. 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 maintained in such a manner and scale that it remains viable in the long run and does not degrade the environment in which it exists to such an extent that it prohibits the successful development of other activities.
The durability of the tourism product including (St. Maarten's) hence greatly depends on the level of nature conservation and environmental care and requires a balance between tourism and the environment.
"Tourism development and environment protection are intimately linked. The natural environment can attract tourists and tourism investments, and therefore it can be the basis for generating economic development. However, if tourism development is not managed properly, it can devastate the environment and undermine the tourism activity itself in the long run." (Briassoulis, 1995).
Part of the problem on St. Maarten is that the Portfolios of Environmental affairs and infrastructure and development are coupled and have historically been held by the same Commissioners. These Commissioners and Department Directors (in this case sector ROB) seem to have more of an affinity for road infrastructure projects or other forms of construction then for safeguarding the environment and do not seem to understand the necessity of a balance of both.
The aforementioned was once again evident from Commissioner Heyliger's speech during April's meeting of the Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance in Philipsburg. The Commissioner spoke of often having to choose between "development and progress" on one hand and the safeguarding of the environment on the other. A clear signal that the Commissioner does not understand the dynamics of the topic, as "economic development and progress" on St. Maarten or anywhere else for that matter will not remain viable in the long run if the environment is not sufficiently protected.
It is my opinion that the time has come for the portfolios of Environmental affairs, and infrastructure and development to be separated, held by two different (perhaps "professional") Commissioners and managed by civil servants with a better understanding of environmental and sustainable development issues.
St. Maarten Pride Foundation and EPIC have been advocating environmental protection, working to create environmental awareness and providing environmental education for a number of years now. This school year alone EPIC, for example, provided interactive environmental education classes to approximately 1468 students during the foundation's four month long environmental education program. The time has long come for Government and the relevant commissioners in particular, to start to carry out their responsibilities in safeguarding St. Maarten's environment and heritage for current and future generations of residents and visitors alike to enjoy.
Rueben J. Thompson
Vice President
St. Maarten Pride Foundation
With Sint Maarten on its way to country status, preparations for the long-term development of the nation and creating a solid economic and financial foundation to the benefit of the people have to start from today.
When 10-10-10 arrives, we should be able to hit the ground running shifting our attention, outlook and thinking of currently an island territory and part of the Netherlands Antilles constellation, to that of country Sint Maarten.
The new parliament of country Sint Maarten will have the opportunity to develop the legal framework and enhance existing legislative regulations – that would be passed from the Netherlands Antilles to the country - to ensure the country's economic growth. Growth can only come by expanding what exists or by creating new sectors and enterprises.
For example, the island is a magnet for private jets and mega-yachts. Two areas that country Sint Maarten Government could develop are a registry for aircraft and one for ships – "Sint Maarten Civil Aviation Authority" and a "Sint Maarten Maritime Authority."
Once we have the legislation in place and the statutory body to run and develop these new sectors, as a nation we can move forward in promoting Sint Maarten as a registry of choice for owners of an affluent, sophisticated demographic with high disposable incomes with corporate and private aircraft and the same can be said for vessels and mega-yacht owners. Sint Maarten provides a safe, stable and friendly flag.
The development of the aforementioned will create jobs and bring in additional revenues for the country Sint Maarten government.
Another new economic opportunity for progress that country Sint Maarten Parliament and Government should develop is the financial services sector. We should put our efforts into becoming a centre for international financial services and thereby creating new employment opportunities for our college graduates and at the same time creating additional revenues for the country.
Tourism is our main economic pillar and employment creator, however, the reality is that it creates mostly low skill paying jobs and not many management level jobs for Sint Maarten college graduates.
Therefore, we currently suffer a brain drain of human resources where many of our best and brightest remain in Holland and the United States/Canada. Those that do return struggle to find employment commensurate with their educational level and skills.
These aforementioned areas of new economic opportunity should be a priority for which ever government takes the reins of power to govern the nation for a four-year period on 10-10-10. We need strategies to grow the economy to achieve sustained and inclusive growth thereby improving the living standards of our people in a post 10-10-10 country Sint Maarten era.
Roddy Heyliger
Dear Editor,
Please allow me to review the state of St. Maarten's environment on behalf of EPIC, St. Maarten Pride Foundation and the Emilio Wilson Estate Foundation on this 22nd day of April, 2010 the 40th anniversary of Earth day which coincides with St. Maarten Pride Foundation's 10th anniversary.
Our National Anthem describes St. Maarten as being "So bright by beach and strand" and "Where the chains of mountains green, variously in sunlight sheen" yet the reality of today's St. Maarten is somewhat different;
Sewage, leakage from septic tanks and urban run-off floods the streets of many of St. Maarten's neighborhoods and flows towards the island's natural treasure chests and economic products; ponds, lagoons, beaches and coral reefs. These same sewage covered streets are more often than not adorned with solid waste ranging from car wrecks to a multitude of bottles, plastic bags and other domestic garbage. School children and other pedestrians jump over or walk straight through the endless puddles of sewage and discard of whatever waste they may be carrying wherever they deem it is convenient to do so, thereby contributing to the further degradation of the already unsightly and unhygienic surroundings.
Over 50.000 people are registered as residing on St. Maarten with the actual figure rumored to be at least 70.000 yet there are no solid waste or sewage treatment facilities.
Developers have managed to clear and excavate property, construct extra floors, entire buildings including hotels, condos and in one case even a marina without the required permits to do so.
Commissioners circumvent their departments and issue verbal approvals to developers to in essence, do as they please, while publicly making well documented statements that permits are frivolous details. These same commissioners spearhead the destruction of our natural and cultural heritage for potentially disastrous infrastructure projects, such as the Ring road in the Great Salt Pond, in the name of progress and in this particular case supposed traffic alleviation, without regard for public safety concerns, whilst doing nothing to improve public transportation or curb the ever increasing amount of cars on the island.
St. Maarten's Utilities Company GEBE N.V. discharges oil and other forms of fuel unto public beaches and into the sea on an all too regular basis and does very little to mitigate human health and environmental effects or prevent reoccurrences.
Cement companies pollute our air, at the same time as boaters, marinas and boatyards contribute to marine and terrestrial pollution through solid waste and sewage discharge and the use of harmful chemicals during vessel maintenance, reparation or painting.
The Government Accountants Bureau SOAB report about Sector ROB's permitting process mentions a number of irregularities and other reasons for concern within the Sector but so far, nothing has been done to seriously address the matter.
The Marine Park Ordinance, designed to preserve the natural resources of St. Maarten's marine environment for both commercial (fisheries industry, tourism), as well as educational, recreational and scientific purposes has been completed and has been awaiting approval by the Island and Executive Councils since 2006. In recent media reports Mr. Theo Heyliger, the Commissioner of Environmental affairs, claimed that: "the delay in completion of the ordinance had to do with the shortage of staff in the Spatial Planning and Environment department (VROM)". A more plausible reason for the now almost 5 years of delay in passing this ordinance is that it would set regulations and restrictions to projects such as the large scale dredging activities in Great Bay for the Ring road project, the proposed filling-in of the Cay Bay area for an industrial zone and similar projects which are currently on the same Commissioner's list of priorities.
Aforementioned behavioral, environmental, and infrastructural challenges are symptoms of a much larger problem, namely;
The visionless, poorly planned and largely unrestricted development of practically the entire Dutch side of St. Maarten over the past 3 to 4 decades. Fuelled by, as well as evident in, the absence of comprehensive environmental legislation, deficient enforcement of existing legislation, due to the shortage of qualified personnel and more importantly the lack of political will to take often unpopular but increasingly necessary measures to protect the environment, improve public transportation and thereby safeguard the sustainability of the economy and well-being of society as a whole.
Thankfully, there is also light at the end of the tunnel. Although the Foundations will be the first to admit that, the Emilio Wilson Estate is far from being out of harm's way. The fact that the Estate has thus far not been desecrated and that Government has made a number of commitments to the people of St. Maarten regarding the area's protection, including placing the entire Estate on the Monument list, is a small step in the right direction.
Initiatives such as the Halley's Seaside Nature Park on the Bell family property in Cay Bay/ Cole Bay, Ras Bushman's gardens, the Bellevue organic gardens and Tri-sport's kayak tours although small in scale and not entirely conservation projects are good examples of sustainable economic diversification.
The environmental awareness generated by foundations such as St. Maarten Pride, EPIC and Nature Foundation is becoming increasingly evident in; the responses of primary and secondary school students both during and after environmental education presentations; the number of environment related projects in the annual science fair; positive feedback from the public and the ever-growing scale of media coverage for the topic. The fact that Governor Fritz Goedgedrag and Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards are paying more attention to environmental concerns is a valuable acknowledgment of the need for sustainable change and a welcome sign of an increase in awareness. One or two politicians have also started to support environmental projects; Commissioner of Tourism Frans Richardson's and the Tourist Bureau's ongoing support of the Blue Flag and environmental codes of conduct projects has set an example that other politicians, whose support, if any at all, has so far been limited to nice speeches, would do well to follow.
In closing please, allow me to thank all those who have supported the Foundations in various forms over the past years. Words of appreciation also go out to the many persons that congratulated me on having been awarded the Euan P. McFarlane Award for Outstanding Environmental Leadership in the Insular Caribbean, an honor that truly came as a surprise. Please know that my colleagues and I could not continue to carryout our work without your support.
Special words of thanks go out to Mr. Jan Beaujon who gave me my start in the environmental field and Mr. Will Johnson whose life-long dedication to our islands was once again apparent in his heartfelt speeches and presentations related to the dismantling of the Netherlands Antilles in the Netherlands earlier this month. Senator Johnson's efforts, stories, and books about our islands continue to be an inspiration to us all as we continue our work "For the Love of St. Maarten".
Rueben J. Thompson
Vice President
St. Maarten Pride Foundation
Project Manager
Environmental Protection In the Caribbean
Board member
Emilio Wilson Estate Foundation
Look how sweet they look.
The 'newly-wed' and very happy 'love-birds' , William and Sarah after exchanging their vows after the Dutch Senate blessed their matrimony.
Look at them.
Oh so cute......
Almost 'husbandish-and wifish'.
Or, even like fairy-tale 'Queen and Prince', or 'King-and-Princess'.
No wonder they are all smiles.
After all, hurrah, hurrah, they really pulled 'it' off (for now).
For years, they fooled the people into believing that they were political opponents and ideologically miles apart.
Finally, the secret 'love-birds' can now come out of the 'closet' and prove us right.
Sarah, William (and not to forget Theo) and their parties all have one and the same anti-St. Martin people ideology.
So thank God, finally at the upcoming polls, the voters on St. Maarten can now realize that a vote for the NA is the same as a vote for the DP and the same as a vote for the UPP.
Therefore, in the event of the ascent of a new and pro-St. Martin and Antillean people's political party on the political scene, this will finally create a real choice for the people.
They can now either vote for the anti-St. Martin/Antillean people's hybrid/blac/'love-birds'-group, disguised as separately as a DP or an NA or a a UPP party.
Or, finally they can also vote for an ideologically distinctly different pro-St. Maartin people/Antillean political party.
Meanwhile, we wish the newly-wed, 'love-birds' a very romantic 'honey-moon' , which might end with a 'hang-over' once the elections are over come September 2010 or there-about.
Cut the cake and celebrate, while still on 'cloud-9'
Leopold JAMES, and still your humble, but very proud native-indigenous St. Martiners without apologies.
While, the TODAY-newspaper in its Opinion & Commentary section (United we stand, Friday, July 9, 2010) continues to do what it does best, which is to demonize me for fighting for we the St. Martin people to come first in our own land....the calls of support keep my phone ringing off the hook.
Not only are the callers expressing their support for what we are doing, but many are sending information about many ills and giving examples of how, within the existing political parties, deals are made excluding St. Martiners.
The information comes to us even from even high-ranking members and core-supporters within the DP and NA.
One particular top-politician even after having called me, came to me home personally totally frustrated.
The information shared with me, is nothing less than a political bombshell for that party, but will not be revealed (as yet)
So, let the TODAY-newspaper continue to 'dream on' into believing that our 'message' is not solidly entrenched already in the souls and minds of the St. Martin-, Antillean and many other people as well.
In addition, we are receiving information from Antilleans in the Netherlands-, and from all the islands, that there is a growing resentment and reaction against the 'whole-sale' sell out of the rights of the Antillean people, while empowering the politicians with the aid of Holland, for its colonial agenda.
So, we agree with many people, to encourage the TODAY-newspaper to continue exposing and confirming where it stands...in the way of the people of the enjoying the the universal principle, that charity should start at home for all people, including for St. Martiners on St. Maarten/St. Martin.
Thanks for your support.
--
Leopold James
President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia
---------
Dear Mr. Editor,
In StMaarten we have very ungrateful and disrespectful people. Most of the talk show host brings on guest that favors their story. The very fact that StMaarten have about 125 nationalities proves we are the most tolerant people in the world that allow ourselves to become a minority in our own country. As we move toward country status and we want to define who is a StMaartener some people of foreign origin seem to have a problem with that. These people should be saying yes StMaarten you deserve to be recognized for your outstanding service in human rights and economic opportunity and your passion for tolerance for pleasing others. Instead of saying thank you we are call discriminating and intolerance of the very same people we have help. There is an old saying never bite the hand that feed you. Now I understand why people of Jamaica, Guyana, Dominica, China, India, Dominican Republic, and Haiti think we are fools. Yes, we were fools for being nice to you loving you like one of us just to be kicked in our behind as a token of appreciation. Then there are other people that do not feel welcome so they are spreading fear that if we allow the people StMaarten origin to be recognize we would not be treated equal. I say to those people we were fools for treating you more equal than us because we allow ourselves in to be this position. My mother has always taught me to be grateful to he or she that helps you and surely they should be recognized for their grateful ness. In StMaarten case the people of StMaarten origin being kick by our own government for finally becoming aware of the importance of our heritage and culture. We finally wake up at this time 11.59pm. How is it that the most loving people and most friendly
people in this world can be a problem for they outstanding service for love of people. Or are they saying to bad you were foolish for loving us. As soon as the people of StMaarten origin comes to getter it appears that fear becomes the norm. It was always ok to accept every one else and tolerate them. But we should not tolerate the people of StMaarten origin coming together. To all people that do not want people of StMaarten origin to be recognize you will never be blessed. God goes not like ungrateful people. Ask yourself this question which other island or country in the world with the size like StMaarten have so many different nationalities, people who is against us are parasites for not appreciating gratitude. As long the StMaarten people of origin does not get their rightful recognition there will never be peace. We do not include to be excluded. With out the origin of people in a nation being recognize division will continue, so continue fooling yourselves.
Ungrateful people will never prosper. The people who we must hold accountable are our government they have the power to protect us but for money they are glad to betray us. All those people of StMaarten origin in the various political parties one day your children and grand children will be kick in their own house. I will be glad to tell them thank your father and mother for not recognizing you. How does it feel to not to exist? That's what happens when you include to be excluded. With out justice there will never be peace. As my friend told me which God in his right mind could ever bless a fool? Foolish is to be ungrateful to those that help you. Inclusion is always good for immigrants as soon as we have to honor and help StMaarten people of origin all hell break loose. The question people of StMaarten origin must ask them selves does a country that include all people to exclude ourselves has any relevant to us? In closing I affirm ungrateful people will never be blessed.
Miguel Arrindell Phone 523-7327
Dear Mr .HASSELL,
Your letter to the editor, must have really scared the living daylight out of many people.
However, it is not that I disagree with your observations in general in that letter.
Quite to the contrary.
But Mr. HASSELL, experience has thought me many things in life.
One being, to always remain firmly 'grounded' with both feet on the ground, and to avoid of living in 'Fantasia'.
Also-, that there have been many very competent- and qualified St. Martiners in the past, who have been totally rejected-, by our government-, and who have consequently left their island to further their career elsewhere.
That type of 'treatment' is still prevalent today towards outspoken St. Martin professionals.
In addition-, I am very comfortable doing what I am doing presently as president of the grass roots St. Martin nation building movement.
As such-, it is clear that our movement, regardless of what government does-, or does not, will become an even more independent- and influential 'stakeholder' on the island-, and abroad for St. Martiners in the 'diaspora'.
Honestly, there is no incentive whatsoever for me to 'trade' this position- and betray my principles, just to be possibly 'neutralized' with a big salary- and other 'perks', like how the present Island-council members betrayed the St. Martin people..
In ending Mr. HASSELL, I too am of the firm opinion, that even more important than any of the other issues confronting the island, the relationship between the natives of this island- and other residents will remain the most critical, and under-estimated force-, driving and determining the relevance of all the others, inlcuding education-health-care-, environment etc.
The longer the 'power that be' continue to live in denial of this hard reality, the more such will 'fuel' anger- and so called radicalism and threaten security-, safety- and stability and sustainable development on the 'Friendly Island'.
In ending, I humbly thank you for the recommendation, but the answer-, for now is; 'Thanks-, but no thanks'.
Leopold JAMES
Proud, native -indigenous St. Martiners..no apologies,...no compromise that St. Martiners should come first on the 'Friendly Island'.
Open Letter to Ms. Gracita Arindell
Ms. Arrindell,
I would first like to wholeheartedly thank you and the PPA for standing up for good governance, solid principals, nepotism, and corruption in the past; you represented the people by magnifying these ills in our community committed by our very own elected officials. I thought you were an esteem woman of moral and ethical principles. Your fight for the introduction of the Ombudsman, Good Governance, and Campaign finance regulations, were in-line with the general public's sentiments at the time. Had these laws and policies been in place, Councilman Louie Laveist would have been convicted much earlier.
One of your main convictions as the PPA leader and your fight for "Justice for the people" was to bring Commissioner Theo Heyliger to justice, which you often told us, your PPA supporters, that it was due to him that you resigned from the "Red" machine. Theo's alleged "wheeling and dealing," and the creation of wealth for his immediate family and cronies were the focus at almost every public meeting, and because we all knew it was indeed a "public secret," we just thought it was a matter of time for him too, especially by your past persistence in bringing justice to the people of St. Maarten by way of transparency.
Based on these principles, you and the PPA had my support as well as my family's; we too believed in good governance, and thought that enough was enough when it came to our government officials, especially Commissioner Theo Heyliger, who you often referred to on numerous occasions.
To be quite honest, I really miss the Gracita we once knew; what happened to the Gracita we once knew? I think the change in your personality is where the PPA started its decline; you, Gracita, became a carbon copy of the very "creatures" you once fought against. If someone told me that you were joining up with the DP or the NA, I would have believed him/her, but to join with someone you so publicly despised because of his alleged "racketeering," really surprises me. What will happen to us, your supporters, the ones who supported what you and the PPA stood for?
Do you expect us to follow your move to join with the UP? I believe that the shared sentiments that swayed us into supporting you from the very beginning, will have to be re-aligned back with the DP, because if we all develop the same attitude of, "If you can't beat them, join them," we will at the end stand for nothing!
Your decision to join the UP can be seen as political suicide and all-out risky; your supporters deserve better, and for leaving them out in the cold, they will have the last say. I hope that your "no-show" at the UP launch was a sign of contemplation and the return of the Gracita we once knew.
Former PPA supporter
First of all I hereby express my sincere thanks and appreciation to the more than 1000 (and still growing) persons who have posted their comments in response to the article/letter I was allowed to post on www.smn-news online.com and also the Today newspaper for allowing me the space. The Daily Herald refused to carry it. Contrary to what some may think; getting your story in the media is not as easy as it seems, one must have a true life story as a person. The chances of your story being published or not is solely left to the media outlet itself, I can not dictate to them; they own the website or the newspaper. If the media was more liberal with me the eyes of the people of St. Maarten would be opened a long time ago. In a democratic society we still enjoy freedom of speech. Yet sometimes I feel stifled by that same media. I also thank those who were critical of the article and of me myself. What struck me most was the amount of bad words coming from members of the Wathey family, the hatred- ness, as they try to hide behind fictitious names. The anger and greed displayed in those comments can only come from one family, my fellow Watheys who want nothing to do with me because I am fighting them with all my might for what has been awarded to me by the courts in Holland, Her Majesty Queen Juliana as well as the courts in St. Maarten. Another modus operandi of the Watheys is not to answer their critics, just keep quiet and the problem will eventually get lost in history. This time around however Wendy and Al Wathey could not resist blasting me, I finally got a response from them after years of beating on them, and they gave in. The self-professed well educated Watheys, who unlike myself, were for years educated by some of the most prestigious American and Canadian universities while I stayed home trying to work with my father in his businesses but he didn't like to pay or the chances of getting promoted were minimal. As his unacknowledged son, I was always put at the bottom of the ladder while others were given higher positions, some with less education than mine. He always hired foreigners for the top positions in those businesses. A local had no chance whatsoever. Examples are: the late Coldridge, Alcide, Palao and many others. Al should have never brought in Maureen's name in the picture, she also was not acknowledged by my father, if she is indeed his daughter. That issue is also now being ruled on in the court. I could only get what was available to me at the time, a lousy MULO diploma which according to Al Wathey, I got while sleeping in the whorehouse. To my bitter critics, when life throws you limes turn around and make lemonade from them. That's exactly what I did. Well I am still very proud of my ability to write and read enough English and maybe more important, Dutch to defend myself against them in court as well as the little arithmetic to be able to count the millions they have squandered or stashed away somewhere and how much my inheritance is worth, I do not need anyone to count that for me, thank the good Lord and Savior. The Watheys as expected did not address important and relevant issues on the news site such as the more than US $. 20,000,000.00 they have received through inflated mortgages on sometimes tiny parcels of overpriced real estate from their crony bank and others. Where is the 20 million, Wendy? Why did Mr. Spadaro fire you from his real estate company? I also have the right to know about those millions! They did not address one worthy subject after another, like how they intend to settle my claim for my legitimate portion, the upcoming claim for other damages, nor did they defend why they have to live such lavish lifestyles since they were only very hard workers who worked for everything they own. T.O. and the Watheys were so eager on jumping on me, they completely pushed aside that fact that each allegation they posted against me will eventually have to be proven in court, sooner or later but then again they are the island's wealthiest family, they can pay lawyers till kingdom come; they have the millions. I have no choice but to clear my name from these allegations and accusations; one is not guilty until proven, they dumped a lot of stuff on me. Like Tupac wrote in one of his famous songs, "call me a dog but give me my money". The Wathey have all the money they need, they own homes in the USA and Canada, they can go relax in Santo Domingo under the palm trees with their rum-n-coke in hand or elsewhere under the sea grape tree, they can easily go into exile if St. Maarten fails after 10-10-10, you and I can't. Most of us will get stranded here and "die-like-whelks" on this already plundered rock which T.O. and the Watheys, themselves, are determined to finish selling out after 10-10-10. Watch out, the close-out-sale is coming if you permit T.O. to be elected in any leading position in the people's business, Government! What the Watheys won't admit is that T.O. is just a leaf on the Wathey family tree? I am the trunk. That leaf is very vulnerable and will eventually fall; they are foolishly depending on the weakest link of the tree. The one who should be following in his father's footsteps by continuing to do good for St. Maarten is his eldest son Al not T.O. but the necromancy around him seems to have gone to his head. Al was once a pillar on this island, today he is not even a block; his word cannot be taken for anything whatsoever. Well, T.O. has the perfect campaign manager and advisor in Al with Brenda as make-up artist for his list. T.O. and the Wathey should now do the honorable by doing the dishonorable, leave this island you have destroyed before St. Maarten people, themselves run you into exile. It is not unheard of. You have the country held up by holding me up. Turn me loose. Don't do me the favor of having to run you, myself! By the way, the Democratic Party of St. Maarten was founded by the late Milton Peters and others in Cole Bay and not by Claude Wathey as T.O. incorrectly told the voters when he was still with DP to get the votes he then got. I hereby extend my invitation to the Dutch to come in and monitor this very important election for incidents of vote buying, kick-backs and other irregularities the politicians always got away with over the past. The Dutchman should ensure that change also before 10-10-10, the Dutch Police knows what to do if they would only do it. Since rumor has it that T.O. is somehow affiliated with MNO Vervat, Windward Roads, Blue Mall as well as other larger construction companies on the island who perform work for government, I hereby also extend my invitation to them to publish their list of contributions to political parties and candidates in order for the voters to see where bias lies. Stay tuned for parts 3!
Norman C. Wathey II (One of YOU)
Dear Mr. Van RAAK
Member of the Dutch Parliament for the Socialist Party,
We have taken serious notice of statements attributed to you in our local St. Maarten news-paper the Daily Herald, of Saturday, July 31, 2010. (Van Raak: 'St. Maarten no country as per October 10')
'Grosso modo', we agree with the positions you have taken in this particular article, as far as they relate to the constitutional process affecting St. Maarten,
In particular we must add, that our total lack of confidence in the state secretary Mrs. Anke BIJLEVELDT-SCHOUTEN to really take the best interest of the people of the Antilles- and of the people St. Maarten in particular into consideration, has led to us no longer being interested in what the Dutch Government, as a whole has to say.
To be exact.
The feeling of betrayal our people have felt from those in the Dutch Government, collaborating with the same politicians generally considered to be incompetent at best-, and corrupt at worst, at the expense of the best interest of the native people of the island has made us realize that we have to rely on ourselves as a people.
As a consequence, we have decided no longer to communicate- with the Dutch Government and not to trust it at all, but to do whatever we have to do to protect ourselves as a people.
Therefore, whether or not St. Maarten receives its coveted 'Country status' or not, it will be on 'ground-zero', where these constitutional dreams- and fantasies will have to work and get the co-operation- and blessing from ordinary 'grass roots' St. Martiners.
Against this backdrop, the collaboration of most Dutch parliamentarians with the atrocity against our native people, we can fully understand- and sympathize very much with Mr. Geert WILDERS, because just like our movement, he listens to the cries of his native Dutch people.
Meanwhile, we are proud that a new party has been formed on St. Maarten, the CPA,( the Concordia Political Alliance) under the leadership of Mr. Jeffrey RICHARDSON, which intends to bring back structure-, justice-, and a sustainable development for the island and in particular for the natives of the island as the best foundation for integration with others.
In ending, Mr. VAN RAAK, we also thank you for your outspokenness, which is very necessary in dealing effectively with the issue of St. Maarten's drive for its so-called 'country status' for St. Maarten, which is solely intended to serve the interest of POLITICIANS and to further marginalize the PEOPLE of the land.
respectfully yours,
drs. Leopold JAMES
President St. Martin nation building- and unification movement and still...
proud, native-indigenous st. Martiner without apologies.
It has been announced that elections for the new Island Council, consisting of 15 members, will be held two months from now, on September 17 2010.
This new Island Council is expected to be the first Parliament of Country Sint Maarten on October 10 2010.
Country Sint Maarten will have a Council of seven Ministers that will be responsible for the daily running of the people's business.
Up to this moment, we have not heard any suggestions or confirmations regarding the salaries of the members of this new Parliament and the Council of Ministers of Country Sint Maarten. I think the decision makers (the politicians) needs the guidance of this society on this issue.
Perhaps more important than the question of who is going to be our first Prime Minister, is the question of: What are we, as a society, willing to pay our members of Parliament and the Ministers of Country Sint Maarten? Think about it for a moment.
In order to be elected as a Member of Parliament, you must postulate yourself on the slate of a political party contesting the upcoming election. To be appointed as Minister in the Council of Ministers, you do not necessarily have to postulate yourself on a slate.
On becoming a country, a society should aim to have the best and brightest from within their own community, private and public sector, seated at the highest elected and appointed positions of that country.
Procedures must be put in place to ensure that those that are elected and/or appointed are held to be as transparent and accountable as possible in the execution of their tasks.
In most countries, there is always a discrepancy with regards to remuneration between the public and private sector. More often than not, this means that in the private sector, the best and the brightest are paid at a higher rate than those in the public sector. This is why Governments throughout the Caribbean have been increasing salaries of top civil servants to better retain them to the line of work they basically volunteered for.
Are we willing to encourage the best and the brightest, from private and public sector to postulate themselves on a slate and/or be a candidate to be nominated in an appointed position and from now decide that they will be compensated properly?
If we offer peanuts as salaries, who and what do we expect to get to run the affairs of Country Sint Maarten?
The media, talk shows and community groups are hereby encouraged to talk about it and pose the question: WHAT ARE WE WILLING TO PAY OUR MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT AND MINISTERS IN COUNTRY SINT MAARTEN?
Naturally, this debate/discussion must be held without emotions playing a part, and it must serve as guidance for the present Island Council to take a decision on the matter. It would be politically unethical for the decision on the remuneration of Members of Parliament and Ministers to be left for the incoming Parliament.
It is time for the people to truly let their voices be heard. Remember, it is not about who carries the torch through the gates as Prime Minister, but rather, who keeps it burning steadily so that the new country can see the way through.
Time is running out on this one and trust me the politicians from both side of the aisle can use some guidance from the community on this issue.
Marcel F.A. Gumbs
Presently Citizen
Former Observer of Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles
Former Member of Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles
Former Member of the Island Council of Sint Maarten
Former State Secretary of Justice, General Affairs and Home Affairs of the Netherlands Antilles
The Sint Maarten Hospitality & Tourism Association (SHTA) last week met with the Executive Council to discuss a number of important matters related to tourism development and the nation's economy.
One of the areas discussed was marketing, and the SHTA learnt that budgetary cuts have not affected marketing plans, but familiarisation trips for foreign press and tour operators have been cut.
Local tourism officials have reported that the new charter flight from Brazil with GOL Airlines is overbooked. Between June and December, the flight is expected to provide 5,000 seats to the island. Brazilian airline GOL has seen record demand growth in its international network especially in the Caribbean.
The Island Government is reportedly committed to strengthening Sint Maarten's position in the Brazilian market.
Several Caribbean island nations are looking at the BRIC countries as an avenue of new opportunities and as a new frontier for sustainable development. The BRIC countries are Brazil, Russia, India and China.
One of the areas keenly being explored and developed is tourism. China has developed a Caribbean region policy whereby it hopes to enhance relations with Latin American and Caribbean countries in order to achieve common development.
China seeks to deepen political trust, economic cooperation, and cultural exchanges to ensure stable development of bilateral friendly cooperation for mutual benefit. The world Tourism Organization (WTO) predicts that China is becoming the fourth most important outbound travel market, and will in 2020 have 100 million outbound travellers.
More Asians are heading abroad on holidays than ever before according to the WTO and Asia's outbound growth rates and travel potential far exceed that of other economic blocs, such as Europe or the Americas.
The top reasons that Asians travel, among them is health and wellness, city breaks, shopping and visiting TV and film locations. The Chinese get much of their travel information on the internet. Group travel is losing popularity and independent travel is gaining. Asian tourism is becoming more activity-based rather than destination based.
Indians like to visit several countries on each trip. Shopping is the favourite activity of Indian tourists. On average, Indian tourists spend more per day than other nationalities. India is Asia's leader in real tourism growth.
The Bahamas is one Caribbean nation that is taking advantage of the potential that exist for Chinese visitors. China has signed an approved destination agreement with the Bahamian Government. Statistics show that roughly 1000 Chinese have visited The Bahamas each year since 2003. Even though there are no direct flights between The Bahamas and China, tourists transfer through Toronto, London, New York, Chicago and Philadelphia.
Once our island nation achieves country status, the Minister responsible for Economic Development needs to develop a BRIC policy with respect to the fastest developing economies of Brazil, Russia, India and China. We are already on the right track where Brazil is concerned, however we need to immediately build on that so in 2011 we either double or triple the number of Brazilians coming to the island especially during the summer month period often referred to as the slow season.
Commitment to sustainable development is necessary if we want to deliver sustainable employment opportunities for our people and additional business for our commercial sectors. A new approach, a new way of thinking outside the box will be the success of country Sint Maarten.
Roddy Heyliger
The St. Maarten people should observe carefully what is happening to our once Friendly Island St. Martin, which our ancestors built in becoming the on of the most attractive island in the Caribbean where tourism is concerned. Unfortunately our island is now being destroyed by politicians who continue to blame each other for the many problems we are facing today instead of trying to come together to find solutions for the problems that we have.
When I read the Daily Herald of Tuesday, July 13, 2010 I was disappointed in realizing that our politicians are only busy with blaming each other, especially around this time when election is near approaching and they feel that the voters will join them by voting against politicians who are making decisions that are not in the interest of the St. Martin people. We are at a serious crossroad and the blaming does not do us any good. It's just allowing parties to keep on pointing fingers at each other while forgetting the bigger picture.
Crime amongst our young people is escalating, our people are not interested in the change of status because of lack of involvement, 10-10-10 is near approaching and no date is set for island council elections which should be held before October 10, 2010, the Public Works or ROB saga is not yet solved which is now taking a toll on the speedy issuance of building permits, the new Government building is not being utilized while rent is being paid to the Financiers RGM a company from Trinidad, the Hope Estate Housing project is completed while potential tenants are still waiting to sign their rental contract to be able to move into the apartments, the traffic congestion are not being handled, Cost of living is soaring trough the roof while salaries remain the same, proper governance is a key element because we notice that Government, especially this one keep setting dates for the finalization of certain responsibilities and not living up to them, the educational system is in shambles and there is no explanation of how this issue will be remedied while our children are suffering from the system, unemployment of young people are becoming a normal phenomena which I believe sometimes causes the increase in youth delinquency and every day we read about more and more negative news.
I believe that Government should be there to help and not to hurt our people, which is something persons are experiencing on a daily basis. Some people get involved in politics just to get back at someone they feel hurt them in the past. Where are our moral standards? Are we still considered the friendly island or should we change our name to something else that would suit what is happening in our society.
Government should rather re-direct their energy and start looking at ways and means to work with the Northern side of the island in order to strengthen our ties and binds us more together so that every decision that is taken on any side of the island would be consulted with the other side to synchronize all efforts and to work as one, based on the spirit of the Concordia Treaty which we should uphold and ensure that the oneness of our people be maintained.
Our former Senator Marcel Gumbs is one of the liaison officers between the Northern and Southern side of St. Maarten which I believe that this gentleman would do good by spending more time to bridge the Northern and southern side of our island and to seek collective ways in solving our islands problems which we see affects both sides of our island. This is vital because whatever affects one side of the island impacts the other. This is no secret, like Dr. Petit once say that the Gail (hurricane) does not stop at the Frontiers. It rains on the Northern and Southern side and Crime is rampant on both sides.
Then tell me don't you think our time will be better spent in planning and consulting with Authorities on both sides in order to solve the many challenges that were faced with. This is a new Era and St. Martin will only be able to live on if we put aside all party politics. There should be no favoritism for whether you are a D.P., N.A. or a P.P.A. supporter, but there should be the quest for St. Martiners to come together in these very crucial times and allow everyone to play their role in ensuring that our nation St. Martin becomes once more the island, as we know it to be in the past.
We can only do this if all hands are on deck and we allow UNITY to prevail.
The blaming will not solve the problem. It just stagnates the process and makes us go nowhere fast. Let us always move forward (semper pro gredients) and do what is right in the interest of our island St. Martin soon to be a country. We have only 88 more days to go before we become a country so let us not try to solve all our problems in those days but let us make sure that we come with structural long term solutions for the many challenges that we are faced with and we can only do this if all St. Martiners get involved with the building of this very unique nation called St. Martin. Long Live St. Martin.
C. Jeffrey Richardson
Pro St. Martiners and anti No Nationality
We all have our role to play and we must live together as one, both St. Martiners and Immigrants.
Dear Mr. HUGHES,
On March 17, last, i sent an open request to you and Mr. Sydney de WEEVER, inspector of the Bureau Telecommunications on St. Maarten, requesting a meeting in order to come to a mutually satisfactory understanding on how to allow for the program 'In the back-yard with the Young professionals' to return back on the air.
For the record.
At no time, was it my intention to challenge your authority to set rules for your radio-station, because not only is that your responsibility and prerogative, but it is very necessary as well in order to maintain a minimum ethical standard among the employees and others making use of the facilities in your station.
My only concern was to make sure that the rules apply equally to all programs, including those in programs you and most listeners might not understand.
At no time either did I ever, express any opposition against having any program in a foreign language as a certain media-outlet eagerly and without success tried to imply in one of its abusive editorials.
Nevertheless, I am very indebted to both you and Mr. de WEEVER for your very professional response and understanding as well as for your willingness to accept the apologies of those responsible for you having to have taken the decision you took a few weeks ago.
I am sure that the host/co-hosts of the program have learned their lessons and will continue to provide the people of the island with vital information and to serve as role-models for other young St. Martiners.
They made an unfortunate, unintentional 'gaff' , but we are still very proud of the work they are doing and are happy they got a chance to correct this experience.
Once more, brother Don, my sincere thank you,
Leopold JAMES
and still....
proud, native-indigenous St. Martiner, without apologies.
Dear Commissioner Frans RICHARDSON,
Along with many of the callers, who called in last night Tuesday, March 2, 2010, to the program 'ONLINE' of Mr.Fernando CLARK, we too would like to comment and support you for taking a stance against what is perceived by many as unacceptable disrespect by Mr. Bobby FERRON and many others in the marine-industry on our island.
Also Mr. Commissioner, I hereby wish to thank you for expressing during that same program your appreciation for the work our St. Martin nation building -& unification movement has been doing, under very difficult circumstances by the way, to protect the rights and the very existence as such of the native-indigenous St. Martiners in their own home land.
However Mr. Commissioner, I repeat here what I called in and told you last night as well.
It is time that you as government, and we as the native people of this island as well realize that we are no guests here on this island.
We are the HOSTS, because we are ancestrally rooted and steeped in the history, emancipation of this island, more than any others.
Also, in talking and preparing for the new constitutional status for 'Country' St. Maarten, we should even more realize that we have a great opportunity, especially with a possible delay of the date of '10-10-10' of the implementation of our new Constitution.
That is, that we take care of what island-council lady, Mr.Sarah WESCOTT-WILLIAMS, finally realized and correctly called 'OUTSTANDING ISSUES' in the constitution.
In other words, this possible delay, could well be a 'blessing in disguise' offering us an opportunity to be aware of 'outside' threats to our existence as a people and to formally include in our constitution (Pre-amble) among others; our history, our emancipation-struggles, our oneness as a a native people, our moral values, our moral ancestral and civic rights to remain vibrant and thrive as a native people, regardless how many other people come to live on our island.
We are sure that our lack of this ancestral pride and patriotism, has contributed significantly to many 'others' feeling that they can say what they want to us, do what they want to us and totally disrespect us, our civil-servants, our leaders and even our ancestral history.
Being in the position now to add these and other vital elements to our constitution, will save you as Government having to waste time, going on talk-shows to 'bawl' and 'cry foul' which in the end has limited results and no 'bite' anyhow.
This is the time to ACT and to incorporate vital sections in or constitution.
That, in and of it self, will at least show that we, and our Government respect ourselves and not only want a country called St. Maarten 'in name', but for real and that we are prepared by constitution/law to defend our national interests.
In ending Mr.Commissioner, we hope you realize that continuing to 'scream', but not doing anything effectively, is at best counter-productive and at worst, hypocritical.
If you really mean what you said and say then take it up in our still draft constitution and save your voice.
In ending and as stated before, our willingness, readiness, commitment, social influence, and passion are at your disposal and at the disposal of ALL St. Martin people.
drs. Leopold JAMES,
Native-indigenosu St. Martiner, without apologies.
Mobilization of community councils and the formation of a Crime Task Force after the second murder of a businessman within a period of three weeks is an effort to develop a grass roots approach in the fight against crime. In order to deal with crime in an effective manner from the perspective of St. Maarten, we first need to understand the motivation among other aspects.
Over the year's stacks of reports with the most recent one, the "St. Maarten Safety Plan," of 2007 has been compiled about fighting crime. Various stakeholders contributed to the compilation of this plan.
As community organizations ponder on what to do, developments within the region reveal the severity of the situation as well as new trends and developments. The Caribbean and Latin America have been described by the World Bank and United Nations as the most violent region in the world.
Experts say that Caribbean-wide surge in violent crime in 2009 was fuelled by drug trafficking, gangs and an influx of weapons, namely guns. The self-destruction of persons by committing acts of violence has been attributed to bad economic times.
Besides that being a possible factor, the strategic location of the islands at the cross roads of drugs heading to the United States and Europe and guns heading to the Caribbean and Latin America from the United States, have resulted in the current situation the region finds itself.
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime has linked the recent bloodshed to the surge in regional drug traffic, estimating that as much as 50 per cent of all cocaine bound for the U.S. and European markets from South America transits the Caribbean.
Internal fighting amongst the cartels has spilled over into the Caribbean where for example in The Bahamas, 82 people were killed last year; Puerto Rico, where more than 890 were killed in 2009, and the U.S. Virgin Islands where 56 persons were murdered.
Crime and criminals have become trans-national. Persons travel to one island commit crimes and then move on to another island living as a fugitive from justice and possibly committing additional crimes.
The multi-cultural setting of our society demonstrates that law enforcement authorities have to have a close working relationship with other Caribbean islands. Chairman of the Association of Caribbean Police Chiefs Darwin Dottin, recently pointed out that there is an estimated 1.6 million illegal guns in the region.
Regional governments are working closely with the U.S. Government to deal with the regional gun problem. Last summer nine Caribbean Governments signed a memorandum of understanding with the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF), to participate in the "e-trace" ballistic tracking system, since the U.S. has been identified as the main source of guns to the region.
Law enforcement officials have observed a trend within the region of turf wars that can be traced back from one island to the next. For example, in the U.S. Virgin Islands, feuds have been taking place from persons originating from Dominica, Haiti and the Dominican Republic.
Gangs are a region-wide phenomenon resulting in Caribbean Police Forces having to establish special gang units to deal with this challenge to society. A recent report by the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Education said some of the territory's youth get involved in gangs as early as middle school, and that the influence of gang culture is on the rise throughout the public school system. Another study under Project Safe Neighbourhoods U.S.V.I. showed that 47 per cent of local students have seen a weapon at school and 25 per cent had been part of a posse or gang.
Security experts expect crime in the region in the coming years to only get worse as Mexico and the U.S.A. tighten their grip along the border in their fight against the drug cartels. Some believe that the region is already seeing this development – rise in violence - which is referred to as the "toothpaste effect."
The "toothpaste effect" entails that the Mexican drug cartels and their associates will look for alternative routes to get their products into the U.S. This can be done by expanding their operations throughout the Caribbean, and exploiting the islands weak points.
A study is needed with respect to the criminal element. Once we have that information in hand, we are then able to develop the appropriate strategy and intervention measures to fight crime on the island.
Roddy Heyliger
Dear young candidates on the slates of the DP, NA and PPA,
At the time of this letter being written, the outcome of the Federal election still has to become known.
However, although it is not yet know at this moment how the three parties have done, I know for sure that you young people all have won.
You have won, for many reasons.
One reason being, that each of you have accepted the challenge with all of its consequences to join a political party of your choice.
In doing so, you must have endured the heart wrenching experience of not being able to please everyone, even within your own circle of families and friends.
Nevertheless, you have accepted to join the party of your choice because you believed that was the way you could make your contribution.
In doing so, quite a number of you form all three parties, made it your business to visit me on various occasions in order to be informed in an independent and very constructive and analytical manner.
This experience I have appreciated very much and therefore wish to thank you for at least being willing to listen to all voices.
As such I hope that you will take your own parties to the 'next level' by sharing ONE strong consensus.
While there should be honest and sincere loyalty party and party-leader, loyalty to a future UNIFIED St. Martin is yet of a fundamentally much higher level.
This I would hope should become the 'key priority' in the upcoming and all other political campaigns on the entire island, regardless of any party.
Therefore, while commending you for your courageous roles in this presumable last federal election, you should realize that the future of all parties is no more (solely) in the hands of the older, so-called more experienced politicians generation, but far more so in your hands as young people.
So, I invite you to join hands with your brothers and sisters on the 'French'-side and start building on the foundation for a UNIFIED St. Martin.
This 'status' is the only logical and sustainable one for the island, whose natives are ONE indivisible people of ONE blood with ONE ultimate destiny.
As always, we will be there for counseling and guiding you in making this possible.
With respect,
Drs. Leopold JAMES
Proud native-indigenous St. Martiner, with no apologies.
Ever since,he was recognized for his work by the IMA (The Indian Merchants Association ) during its celebration of the India Republic Day on January 26, 2010, Mr. Leopold JAMES is rapidly becoming an extremely sought after stakeholder in the overall development on both sides of the island.
After so many years of championing, under very challenging circumstances the rights of the native-indigenous St. Martin people and their ancestral heritage, a growing number of people and organizations have been contacting his organization offering various types of services, network possibilities and possible funding.
Based on the tireless efforts of Leopold JAMES, the time finally seems to have come for a consensus that there can be no stable, sustainable development of the island, if it is not based on the premise, that native St. Martiners are not at the very core and/or foundation of such.
Therefore, as undisputed grass root nation building movement, which like no other has been championing the rightful and justified role of native St. Martiners, the St.Martin Nation Building Foundation and the Association L' Esprit are set to be recognized as the un-disputed representative of all native-indigenous St. Martiners residing on the island and abroad as well.
In order to be able to cope with the growing interest in the movement, Mr. Leopold JAMES, president stated that a recruitment campaign will start to solicit the input of volunteer professionals to res-structure the organization.
It is to be expected that there will be no shortage of potential candidates.
LOOKING FOR
Enthusiastic, professional St. Martiners and St. Martiners-at-heart to help, on a voluntary basis to restructure the SNBF/Association L'Esprit de Concordia to meet growing demand.
Especially volunteers with experience/expertise in the fields of legal-constitutional, organizational, financial, public-relation, multi-media etc. are welcome.
For more information, contact Leopold JAMES, president
Tel 54 43512, US Magic JACK 727 470 2560, cel 5204325/ 06 90 485855
Leopold James
President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia
Educating young inmates through training in the trade areas of barber, computer repair and tailoring, is a very positive development and a step in the right direction in rehabilitating these persons and making their way back into society as productive citizens.
Last week Foundation Judiciary Institutes Windward Islands signed a financial agreement with Dutch-funding agency AMFO for over Naf.155,000 to develop the intervention rehabilitation program based on the aforementioned trade areas.
The foundation and the Pointe Blanche Prison will work together to implement the programme. It was revealed that 40 per cent of the prison population housed in Pointe Blanche were no older than 24; most are repeat offenders and past interventions have not resulted in a behaviour change.
The Foundation Project Coordinator/Policy Worker Cynthia van Samson-Filemon was reported to have said that the conclusion was drawn through evaluation that prisoners need a structured programme to keep them occupied and help develop their social skills.
Samson-Filemon added that it is a challenge for young offenders to find adequate jobs when they are released, and the local Chamber of Commerce and business community have suggested that they learn a trade to contribute to their rehabilitation. The Labour Department according to information written about this programme will assist these young adults in finding work. Thirty-six persons will be taking part in the programme.
Education is crucial to the rehabilitation of offenders. This programme is one way of dealing with the national crime challenge our community is facing. However, we need as a society to deal with challenges faced by young people by addressing the needs of youth at risk before it reaches to the point where they end up incarcerated. A holistic approach is therefore a necessity to prevent delinquency and crime.
St. Maarten is not alone, as different Caribbean islands are also looking at how to deal with prisoner rehabilitation. Jamaica for example will be vigorously pursuing alternatives to incarceration. The four main strategies currently being looked at are: the Probation Order, which allows the offender to do community-based rehabilitation; the Community Service Order in which offenders are given 40 hours to do community service; the Suspended Service with supervision; and the Voluntary Supervision, which is offered to offenders deemed to be in need of counselling or treatment outside of the formal system.
Barbados just recently concluded a symposium on Recidivism And Re-entry Of Prisoners In Barbados: The Challenges And Solutions. Finding the right approach is essential not only for offenders but the community at large. Barbados officials pointed out that a problem-solving approach to sentencing needs is a must where you move beyond the purely punitive or retributive approach to sentencing. A survey done in 1997 at the Glendairy Barbados Prison found, 79 per cent of those interviewed at the facility felt that rehab programmes were ineffective. Consideration is being given in this case to having longer sentences in order to have more effective rehabilitation, especially for persons who have only been sent to jail for a very short period of time.
Prison programmes are about rebuilding lives. They are about reducing re-offending and re-integrating them back into society after their release from prison. Rehabilitation however does not start and end in prison. The offender will return to society after his/her release.
A network of community-based organizations, ready to support and help the ex-offender when he/she is no longer under any formal supervision is a necessary requirement. Rehabilitation is an area where prisons cannot do it alone. The community plays a critical role in helping the ex-offender stay crime free. This support has to come from employers, families, social/civic organizations and the community overall, because without the support, as a society we will continue to live in a vicious circle.
Roddy Heyliger
The fall of the Dutch Government late Friday night into Saturday may have repercussions for the constitutional renewal process within the Dutch Kingdom, with a delay of six to nine months.
With a lame duck Dutch government in place at this point in time, the possibility exist that the various legislation that needs to be handled by the Dutch Parliament won't take place until after new elections and after a new coalition government has been formed Holland.
Normally, after a government has fallen, pending legislation would have to wait until the next new government takes office.
On Monday, Queen Beatrix will meet with her advisors namely, the Vice President of the Council of State Herman Tjeenk Willink, the chairpersons of the First and Second Chambers of Parliament Rene van der Linden and Gerdi Verbeet, the CDA Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende and the two Vice Prime Ministers from the PvdA labour Party Wouter Bos and the Christian Union Andre Rouvoet, of the current demissionaire government.
Dutch elections are scheduled to be held within 90 days once the official notification has been given to the Queen that the Prime Minister no longer enjoys the support of the majority of parliament. Dutch Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende gave official notification on Saturday.
Dutch elections may be held in June or July for the 150-member Second Chamber of Parliament.
The issue of Afghanistan brought down the fourth coalition government led by CDA Party Prime Minister Balkenende. The government fell after the CDA and coalition partner the PvDA failed to agree on a NATO request to extend the tour of duty of close to 2000-Dutch military personnel in the Uruzgan region of Afghanistan. Dutch troops have been stationed in that country since 2006 and were to have returned home in 2008.
Another possible repercussion for the constitutional renewal process after the Dutch elections are held is the formation of the next Dutch coalition government, and which parties will make up the new cabinet.
Dutch opinion polls indicate at this point in time that the VVD-Liberal Party (The People's Party for Freedom & Democracy) and the PPV Party of Geert Wilders (Party for Freedom) will win the elections along with the CDA of Balkenende, and that a possible coalition could be formed by those three parties.
The first polls from Maurice De Hond polling bureau after the fall of the Dutch cabinet indicates that the VVD would get 23 seats, PVV 24 and the CDA 26. The latter is expected to remain the largest political party in Holland.
The VVD and PPV parties have been very critical of the constitutional renewal process within the Dutch Kingdom. Representatives of the PPV have also been very disrespectful towards the political leaders of the Netherlands Antilles as well as towards the people by making derogatory remarks against the latter.
Another possible Dutch coalition scenario would be the CDA, D66 and VVD; the Democrats 66 (D66) has been very supportive of the constitutional renewal process.
Having the CDA as part of a new Dutch coalition, the constitutional renewal process may survive based on the agreements that have been made between all stakeholders concerned. However, a delay in the process of the islands achieving their new constitutional positions on 10-10-10 should not be ruled out.
A possible delay may be from six to nine-months counting from 10-10-10, so we may be looking at April 2011 or July 2011.
Roddy Heyliger
The most recent youth-on-youth violence was an incident that took place at Sundial School early February. This resulted in school management calling an urgent meeting for parents of first form students. The meeting focused on crime and violence and what possible interventions could be taken. During the meeting the role of parents was highlighted.
Due to various acts of senseless violence on the island of Bermuda, the government has decided to implement a National Service Programme which is funded by the island government in order to restore harmony and peace within the community.
A study conducted by the CARICOM Commission on Youth Development on the situation of Caribbean youth has revealed that youth's risky behaviours such as youth violence (gang related), teenage pregnancy and HIV/AIDS are wreaking serious havoc on the economies of Caribbean nations.
The study found that murder rates in the Caribbean – at 30 per 100,000 annually – were higher than any other region in the world and that youth were the primary perpetrators, as well as the victims, of crime and violence.
The report revealed that the economic costs of youth crime had two components: the first being direct financial costs related to public expenditure on security, policing, arrest, judicial processing, and incarceration. The second component was indirect costs linked to the foreign earnings of the criminal while s/he was in prison and to the losses in tourism revenues linked to youth crimes.
Lost tourism revenues as a result of crime has reached in excess of US$200 million per year for the CARICOM region and overall youth crime was costing at least seven per cent of the region's Gross Domestic Product.
The National Service Programme could be one of the interventions for other Caribbean nations to implement and we should also consider as an avenue for our nation's youth. The Bermuda programme is designed to engage young Bermudian men and women in positive and meaningful activity to not only counter the feeling of entitlement currently held by some of the islands young people, but also address anti-social behaviour and youth problems.
The National Service Programme would allow even more of Bermuda's young adults to contribute to Bermuda's national interest, personally and professionally. It is felt that by sharing their acquired knowledge and talents with other younger Bermudians and by assisting seniors, the participants in the programme will be contributing to the development of Bermuda as a whole.
The programme is not uncommon, and has been successfully implemented in other countries, such as in South Africa, the United Kingdom, the USA and Jamaica. The Bahamas is also considering a similar program.
The Bermuda program is catering to individuals who are male and female between the ages of 24 and 30-years. Those who volunteer will be required to provide 16 hours of service per month for two consecutive years in order to complete the programme. Those who fall within the qualifying age and who are abroad studying may serve upon completion of their studies, and complete their national service before their 30th birthday.
Government and non-governmental organizations will be encouraged to provide internship programmes which would allow young adults to train and mentor younger Bermudians giving them an insight into available future careers.
The private sector would also be encouraged to become part of the national project. Businesses would also be asked to offer internship programmes that will allow those who volunteer to gain their national service hours by training and mentoring younger Bermudians. This will enable young people to gain practical knowledge of the work environment.
To encourage the success of the programme, the Bermuda Government proposes that incentives be given to participants during and after national service is completed. Such incentives may include free public transportation, funding for further education, discount card packages from various retailers, or preferential lending rates, just to mention a few.
Roddy Heyliger
Already now and even before the elections for the Island-council of St.
Maarten expected to be held in June 2010, which are supposed in fact to result in the formation of the very first Parliament for* 'Country St.
Maarten'*, many politicians are*/ 'jockying'/* themselves, in terms of getting an endorsement by the grass root St. Martin nation building- & unification movement.
During the last Federal elections of January 22, 2010, candidates from both parties had private meetings with *Mr. Leopold JAMES*, president of the movement in which they solicited his advice and coaching.
Now again, with the resignation of a candidate from the DP-list and the with the */'buzz'/* of possible new parties and of possible switching from one to the other party, all indications are that the grass root movement of *Leopold JAMES* will become one of the most powerful factors in the elections and in politics in general on both sides of the island.
The reason is very simple.
At the present moment there is a */'public fatigue'/* of all the current political parties, because in essence there are absolutely no fundamental differences between any of the existing political parties.
In addition, the *DP-party* for instance, has great problems finding a cause to rally around and inspire its members on.
At the same time, while it is at loss how to rid itself from its biggest '*/divisive factor'/*.
Therefore, there is clearly a need for, not only a new party, but for a new political/* paradigm shift*/, in which a new party is formed which _*FUNDAMENTALLY*_ profiles itself as distinctively different from *ALL* the other political parties.
Obviously, no-one can deny the fact that there is a growing consensus that the future of *BOTH* sides of the island, lies *NOT* in a continued administrative division and on two different and diverging political constitutional directions, but in *ONE* unified sense of direction.
Since, none of the existing parties ever had any vision on such a unified future for this island, they need advise, or an endorsement from a credible movement, which a proven long term track record in building and unifying the St. Martin nation.
For the record.
There is absolutely no dispute who has been the one personifying such a vision more than the president of the grass root St. Martin nation building & unification movement, *Leopold JAMES*.
Therefore, it is not that difficult to understand why more politicians will be gravitating around his movement, if not to get its endorsement, definitely not get its repudiation for being hypocritical.
Even with this growing political- and community clout, *Leopold JAMES* remains humble and focused on his vision of building the St.Martin nation and promoting its ultimate unification with the native-indigenous St. Martiners in charge of that process.
Consequently, has movement has no axe to grind with any political party or with any politician.
To the contrary, Mr. *Leopold JAMES* is very much willing and prepared to advise, coach and even endorse any politician and or political party so deserving, if necessesary.
There is one condition however.
This support will only be given after those seeking such, commit themselves and pledge to the St. Martin nation building- and unification process whereby the native-indigenous St. Martiners are clearly acknowledged as the foundation for this process.
--
Leopold James
President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia
On Monday, February 15, 2010 there was an interview on PJD-2 with Mr. Remco STOMP, secretary of the Bar-Association.
In this interview the good gentleman expressed his 'concern' that ILLEGAL immigrants, based on the BTA, which represents the Law of the Land, by the way, might be deported, if they do not qualify for a temporary residence-permit.
Never mind of course, the 'little' detail that this 'concern' for offenders of the law, comes from a lawyer, whose fraternity is not exactly known for working pro-deo for any cause.
More important than the obvious 'concern' of a lawyer to protect a potentially tremendous 'market' of clients, are a number of really fundamental questions.
For instance.
What does allowing for people to BREAK the law of the land, without consideration of all consequences de facto mean for society as a whole ?
Besides.
Where does tolerating and even accepting such violation, start and where does i tend ?
Not to forget, WHO decides and who 'qualifies' to break the law without repercussions for such ?
Also.
Does it any longer make any sense at all to be law-abiding ?
In addition, what is the 'incentive' for young people NOT to get involved in criminal activities, if they see that illegality or crime can 'pay'.
People. Does it all make any logical sense to you ?
These are some very relevant issues that will be tested to determine whether or not we live in a state of law, or in a state of anarchy and lawlessness.
In the meantime, what is the 'prize', if any for people who are law-abiding ?
Or should law-abiding citizens simply be 'punished' for being 'foolish' enough to do such ?
The gist of this article, is NOT to necessarily oppose introducing a sense of 'humanitarianism' in executing the law of the land.
Quite to the contrary.
The question is, if we apply some 'leniency' in to certain groups of people, shouldn't the overall 'socio-economic equation' be adjusted as well to guarantee fairness, equity and socio-economic balance, by also rewarding the 'other side' of the equation ?
How you ask ?
Fair question.
We figured out such a 'delicately' balancing scheme many years ago.
Remember our proposed 'MARSHALL PLAN' for the 'Friendly-island' ?
Ask the politicians why they have not implemented such a policy ?
And especially question them why they prefer to keep the socio-economic situation increasingly out of balance and consequently very unstable, pitting groups up against each other.
The great thing about this concept is, that it allows for all kinds of 'favors' /'exemptions' to be granted to certain groups of people by immediately compensating such by making the corresponding adjustments to others in the overall 'socio-economic' equation.
What might be bad about this idea ?
Perhaps that it was not conceived by highly paid foreign consultants or 'smart lawyers', but it was formulated by a group of natives from 'right here'.
Meanwhile, even suggesting that the BTA be 'set aside' by allowing for illegal persons to remain on the island, might only serve to fuel the flame of mutual distrust between locals and illegal immigrants.
Lawyers and Government should be smarter that that.
Do have a nice day.
--
Leopold James
President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia
All radio- and tv. talk-show hosts and stations.
Re; Promoting free speech of public on how best to help Haiti.
2. Our http://ipetition.stmartinnation.org, which as a far more comprehensive approach (A 'MARSHALL PLAN' for Haitians) aimed at contributing towards a sustainable-, long term solution for Haiti and its people in Haiti.without adding more burdens the the region and its people.
Since this adding even more immigrants to our already very dire and explosive mix will have very far reaching consequences, not only for (French)Saint Martin, but also for (Dutch) St.Maarten, Saba, St. Eustatius and the rest of the Caribbean region, it is time to allow for the public to give its feelings on this subject via your respective radio and tv-programs in order to bring 'balance' and reasoning in this discussion.
Taking into account, the rights of free expression of all people, it is important that radio-and t.v.- talk show hosts respect this right even, if they might not always agree or disagree with the opinions of those wishing to make use of this right.
With respect,
--
Leopold James
President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia
An I-petition 'For the love of Haiti and its People', has just been launched online via this website (http://ipetition.stmartinnation.org).
This I-petition is the initiative of the well known St. Martin nation building grass root movement on the island of St.Martin/Sint Maarten.
While this grass root St. Martin movement has already committed itself financially and otherwise to helping the victims of the January 12, Haiti's earthquake, it remains committed to continuing helping the people of Haiti deal with their immediate and short term needs and it strongly encourages others to do the same as well.
However, this movement is also very much aware of the fact that, sooner or later the world's media will focus its attention to other 'hot' spots in the world, resulting in the attention of the world shifting away from the ongoing hardships and needs of the Haitian people.
With that in mind, the St. Martin grass root movement intends to capitalize the current focus of the international media on situation in Haiti in order to put in place a process for sustainable, long term assistance for the Haiti.
With this objective in mind, the movement has created the world's first known I-Petition in which creative ideas are presented aimed at contributing towards a sustainable, long term solution in Haiti.
Such a sustainable, long term solution is not only in the best interest of Haiti and its people, but also for the islands in the Caribbean region, who have always been a haven for Haitian immigrants, but whose small size, and limited resources and infra structure can no longer bear any more immigration burden.
Clearly, while Haiti most definitely should be massively helped financially, in all fairness, so should many of its Caribbean neighbors also for their sacrifices over many decades in helping their Haitian brothers and sisters.
It is hoped that by signing up to this I-petition, individuals world-wide, can now demonstrate their true love for Haiti and its people.
In addition, the local St.Maarten/St. Martin media, the regional media and the international media, also have a responsibility to go further than promoting only telethons for donations for the short term, but commit themselves also to the long haul.
Clearly supporting this I-Petition gives them a wonderful opportunity.
Eventually this I-petition is expected to reach the UN, the Governments of the US, France, the UK, CARICOM, former Presidents Bill CLINTON, George BUSH and many others and consequently start the process of a MARSHALL PLAN for Haiti.
For more information go to I-Petition.
After listening to the call-in program of Mr. Lloyd RICHARDSON this afternoon, Tuesday, February 2, 2010, I called in after the program and shared with him my little contribution on how to possibly deal with the escalating (problem-) youth and the youth in general.
Most of the callers who called in to the program this afternoon, in fact proposed REPRESSIVE measures to curb the escalating crime perpetrated by young people.
While to me, that certainly is also necessary, not dealing PREVENTATIVELY with youngsters, will not entire solve the problem of youth delinquency.
Rather, the crime will simply shift to other areas of society and be be 'mutated' , to the new set of circumstances.
It is important that we get the the MOTIVE of the criminal intent of young people and of people in general, if we are to resolve these problems other than responding and fighting the symptoms of their behavior.
I therefore believe that society must find a way, to MENTALLY or PSYCHOLOGICALLY connect with our youth.
In other words, we need to get in their minds to UNDERSTAND their thinking and motives for engaging in asocial and criminal activities.
Perhaps therefore, the Island Government of St. Martin and the Collectivity of Saint Martin establish a joint work-group of psychologists, social workers, teachers, ex-cons, etc. to come up with an island-wide save our youth project.
This should include for instance;
1. Involving all the schools on the island to dedicate part of their classes-time to a particular section of this project on the same days (synergy)
2. Involving all churches, talk-shows, etc. etc.
3. Design a very extensive and informative (anonymous) questionnaire for ALL children to participate in with questions about their situation at home, on the streets, at school, their dreams, wishes, fears, desires, where they get weapons, how they get these weapons etc. etc.
4. Have a special website for young people to express themselves and also to post the questionnaire on.
5. Organize a large, joint public forum on fighting crime
6. etc.
I would like to believe that such a project would be able to give us the best and the most complete insight into the minds of our kids and thus into the motives that make them 'click'
These are just a few suggestions, to contribute towards addressing a very serious and escalating problem, that will sooner or later totally paralyze our economy and social life if not brought under control..
I am willing to completely discard this idea for those who are willing to also express any better ideas.
However, doing nothing is no option.
Hoping that the Authorities on both sides of the island would be interested in taking this and other initiatives by the public into consideration
.
After all, too often it is said that the authorities alone can not solve the crime.
With respect,
Leopold James
President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia
-------
Did you also read what the former Leader of Government, and current Island-Council Lady, and DP-leader, Sarah WESCOTT-WILLIAMS reportedly said to the press on Tuesday, February 16, 2010 ?
Here is a very interesting quote of the news-paper clipping hereby attached.
'Outstanding issues to the constitution are safeguarding the rights of the indigenous St. Maarteners to guarantee that they won't be marginalised'.
When I actually read it, I too wondered, whether it was a mistake by the newspaper, or whether the lady was 'out of touch' with the 'modus operandi' of politicians to be 'politically correct' in order to stay in power for as long as it takes...
Or, just remotely, maybe, perhaps, it was no mistake and that the lady really has seen the light and really is sincere about what she said..
Granted, her DP-party has been in Government for about a half century, more than any other party in the island's history...
Granted as well, that her DP-party more than any other institution on the island, is responsible for the loss of identity and pride in their heritage of native-indigenous St. Martiners...
Granted too, is the fact that the DP-party deserves the 'un-distinct recognition', for having giving 'foreigners' the feeling that there was no need to acknowledge, let alone respect native-indigenous St. Martiners.
Oh yes, more than any other organization it has been the DP-party that has transformed and elevated vices such as greed, materialism and disregard for our native heritage and monuments into a national policy, which resulted into a total lack of self-confidence of the native St. Martiners.
Certainly, more than any other institution also, the DP is responsible for the native St. Martiners following into the foot-steps of their predecessors the Amer-Indians towards oblivion, extinction and genocide by substitution.
Therefore, to many the recent comments made by the leader of the DP, Mrs. Sarah WESCOTT-WILLIAMS pertaining to safeguarding the rights of the indigenous St. Martin people, can come across as a monumental paradigm-shift, in every sense of the word on the island.
However.
Whether, she made these comments based on opportunism, or because she is in the opposition, or because she now is in much closer contact with the real life of the St. Martiners, or even whether via the younger members on her party-list, she finally is getting the message we have been preaching for decades, is even less relevant.
Less relevant, because not even the NA, nor the PPA when in opposition ever showed that concern for the native-indigenous St. Martiners.
Less relevant as well, because we have in the past, also encouraged drs.Gracita ARRINDELL, leader of the PPA to fight for inclusion of the rights of the native St. Martiners in the constitution, exactly what Sarah is purporting to do now.
She never did as far as we know.
Again, was this out of 'political correctness' , so that the PPA would be able to capitalize on the 'multi-cultural' votes at the expense of the native St. Martiners ?
How ironic now therefore, that it is no-one else than DP-leader Sarah who thus far is the ONLY politician, publicly standing up for the native-indigenous St. Martiners to be recognized in the constitution !!!
Therefore, what is relevant is that Sarah had the courage to utter that statement publicly.
In addition, as we have stated many times before and have also, especially advised the youngsters on both sides of the island the following.
Yes, loyalty to your party- and leader is a moral must.
However, the challenge for ALL young politicians will be to develop a loyalty of a much higher level.
That is loyalty to the all the people on the entire island of St. Martin and to the principle that the native-indigenous St. Martiners must come first and be recognized as host of this country in order to allow for all others to be grounded through our native heritage.
We have on many occasion lambasted the constitution as being a 'soulless' document, a 'clinical manual', a 'copy-and paste' and very boring document.
Reason for us feeling that way you ask ?
Simple.
It does not have a PREAMBLE reflecting EMOTIONS, PATRIOTISM, we the PEOPLE of this island, our HISTORY, our EMANCIPATION-STRUGGLES, our sacred rights to FINALIZE THEIR EMANCIPATION TOWARDS SELF-DETERMINATION, our CULTURAL-HERITAGE, etc.
In ending, allow me to sincerely commend Sarah for this bold, but very necessary statement and t express the hope that not only she means it, but that she is prepared to take it to the next level of getting it implemented within the constitution.
For the record.
We are not too big to sit down with Sarah and with all those who are interested in making use of our network, our established reputation and track-record in order to amend the constitution and to promote the St. Martin nation building process and ultimate unification, because only a strong St. Martin people and St. Martin cultural-heritage can offer others the most stable and viable foundation and 'soil' to establish their roots in as well.
Sarah, the choice is yours,
With respect,
Leopold JAMES
President SNBF & the Association L'Esprit de Concordia.
Proud native-indigenous St. Martiner without apologies.
Not that it is a most scientific poll perhaps.
Nevertheless, a 'snap-shot' poll presently being conducted by the online version of the Dutch daily newspaper the TELEGRAAF (www.telegraaf.nl) on Thursday, February 18, 2010 is very interesting to say the least.
Certainly, it could be a very ominous sign for St. Maarten's most coveted '10-10-10 country status'
In the poll among some 41.158 (almost forty two thousand voters) 84 % said not to have any more confidence in the present Dutch cabinet-coalition, led by Mr J.P. BALKENENDE.
Only some 18 % expressed to still have confidence in his Government.
In fact, this poll clearly reflects a very negative expectation that this Cabinet may well fall within days over the role of the Dutch military in Afghanistan.
A possible cabinet crisis in the Dutch Government would signify a most unwelcome obstacle in the process of constitutional change in the Antilles, including the euphoric expectation of the local St. Maarten politicians for their coveted '10-10-10 Country St. Maarten status'.
And with the PVV of Geert WILDERS only growing in size in the Netherlands, the possible fall of the BALKENENDE-cabinet could mean that the constitutional talks would have hit a serious 'snag'.
Even if WILDERS is not directly elected in any new Dutch Cabinet, by no means can any new cabinet ignore his message in their governing accord.
With all of this looming at the horizon, it should be clear that St. Maarten needs every bit of support on the island in order to be able to negotiate any new status with a new Dutch Government.
Consequently, any social- or political division on St. Maarten's home front will be effectively exploited by the lieutenants of WILDERS, such Hero BRINKMAN
So, 'Country status St. Maarten 10-10-10' might be a real challenge, if not a head-ache to say the least.
We have always said and repeat that if any constitutional changes do not take in the first place the interest of the native St. Martiners into account, its future seems bleak to say the least and the politicians will be made to give an account for the mess..
--
Leopold James
President SNBF & L'Esprit de Concordia
In reference to statements made by you as reported in the Daily Herald of, Wednesday, February 17, 2010, as well as our response to you as reported on the website, www.smn-news.com, we hereby make ourselves available to you as well as other interested parties, in order to give content to your proposal to amend the draft constitution to contain, among others the protection of the rights of the native-indigenous St. Martiners.
Although there are those, who criticize you for being hypocritical, because your party which has been Government longer than any other party, had ample opportunity to propose this vital provision in the constitution, we give you the benefit of the doubt.
Considering the fact that as a people, we do not have the luxury of focusing on who is at fault/not at fault, it is our contention that we should move forward and learn from past mistakes.
We therefore, hereby look forward to your response in giving real content to your proposal in order to guarantee the survival and protection of the native-indigenous St. Martin People.
In addition, we are very pleased that, finally our vision is becoming better understood by 'mainstream' St. Maarten/Saint Martin as well as organizations as the IMA..
In particular, it is a very positive development, that people are realizing and accepting the fact that protecting one's own native people, is a moral obligation which can perfectly be combined with including others in the nation building process and the socio-economical development in general.
As a matter of fact, it is the most logical and moral way forward in developing a sustainable, harmonious and balanced society.
In ending Mrs. WESCOT-WILLIAMS, how can we truly care-, let alone love and include others, if we do not love our first.
That would be a most fundamental 'oxymoron' to say the least.
Clearly, anyone who fails to understand such a fundamental- and universal principle, can hardly be considered of any good faith or 'added value' to any community.
Once more Council lady, our compliments for your proposal, which should now be transformed into reality in order to have been of any value.
Hopefully, the NA as well as the PPA will not miss out on this opportunity as well to correct having forfeited the rights of native indigenous St. Martiners in return for the 'favors' of others electing them into office.
We guarantee that, this time around, there will be a real prize to be paid by any politicians, who betrays the people of this island.
With respect,
Leopold JAMES
President SNBF & Association L' Esprit de Concordia
A proud native-indigenous St. Martiner without apologies
It would have surprised no one.
Not even a child.
It was almost inevitable, that the DUTCH First Chamber would have in this particular case, 'rubber-stamped' what the DUTCH Second Chamber had already agreed upon, the so-called 'Consensus Kingdom Laws'.
After all, haven't the Dutch got what they wanted ?
Haven't our so-called leaders not simply gave them all they wanted ?
Who with 'butter dripping from their fore-heads' , wouldn't have given in as well ?
Never heard of a 'quid pro quo deal ' then ?
Aren't now not all 'doors' wide open for Dutch annexation, re-colonization and control, over what you are proud to call 'Country St. Maarten' ?
Hope you will have a very good explanation to the people of this island when they realize, that the Dutch will not only take control over Government, but will also impose their liberal cultural life-styles on our people, whether they like it or not.
Also, you will have to convince, especially young people why prices of real-estate will be going through the roof for them, while the Dutch will be buying the best places, living like colonial masters.
Check the situation on Curacao and Bonaire already.
Nevertheless 'Leader of Government', we congratulate you for succeeding in selling out our country in order to get your puppet country state, although you will simply be figure-heads, or symbolic figures at best.
Still you have one last chance to correct this whole-sale betrayal of St. Martin people.
The constitution.
As it is now formulated it is neither for-, of-, nor about us; it is totally subservient to the DUTCH rule.
This so-called 'constitution' is a disgrace for any proud people, whose ancestors have shed blood, sweat and tears to make it possible for some of us to call themselves 'Leaders of Government'.
In reality, as it now stands, it is nothing else, but the official declaration of our non-existence as a native St. Martin people.
Knowing your attitude, we do not expect you to even take us into consideration, especially since the DUTCH are 'backing' you (of course, for their own agenda).
Nevertheless, we repeat it again.
Your so-called 'Country St. Maarten' and its 'Constitution' have to prove themselves right here on 'ground-zero'.
There should be no misunderstanding that failing to clearly-, and unambiguously recognize the native-indigenous St. Martin people, their history-, their emancipation-, their norms and values-, and especially their ancestral rights in the constitution, will evoke the wrath and pour out a generational curse on all those who betrayed their sacrifices.
In that case, not even having a green card,- or a second home elsewhere will protect the perpetrators of this atrocity.
We urge you to please take this deep sentiment very seriously, because there is a lot of anger out there William !
Leopold JAMES
Dutch and French passport- holder, but more-so,
Proud, native-indigenous St. Martiners without apologies.
We have said so many times before in the hope that you, our leaders would at least listen to US, the natives of this island as well as our Antillean brothers and sisters.
Not do, what we ask, but at least...
At least, listen to our voices and listen to our cries.....
Listen to our concerns, listen to our fears.....
Listen as well to our proposals to contribute towards a more equitable society.
Alas, all in vain.
A 'wall' of arrogance-, of refusal and of exclusion was firmly erected by you against the grass roots St. Martin people.
After all, weren't we just a small-, insignificant minority compared to the exploding numbers of immigrants and naturalized citizens on the 'Friendly island' ?
At every step of the way, you pushed their constitutional agenda 'down our throats', which did not even take our very existence, let alone our rights as a native St. Martin people into consideration.
In the 'best case scenario', you were proud, simply to INFORM us about our future, but NEVER willing to allow us meaningful INPUT in shaping the future of ourselves, based on our in-alienable right to self determination as a St. Martin people.
We are now in charge, we have your votes, so we will decide for you, and you simply have to accept whatever we decide for you, your children, your grand-, your great-, great-great grand children and all those coming after.........
We and our selected group of educated 'elitists', void of any sense of their identity, will decide even on all matters without your input.
Even on matters of 'life or death' of you as a people.
'To hell' with your justified desire- and rights to ratify, what have decided for you and for your generations upon generations to come.
But, lo- and behold.
Now, after having received the 'blessing' from the colonial masters for YOUR 'Country St. Maarten status', you, under the proud leadership of William MARLIN and Sarah WESCOTT WILLIAMS, suddenly seem to realize, what we have always told you.
After your 'euphoric and ecstatic' experience and 'honey-moon' on 'cloud-9', you must sooner or later descend to 'ground-zero'.
Your 'return-ticket' will eventually take you right back to the land of harsh reality, with real people, hungry-, homeless and frustrated people.
You will have to drive-, or walk through the 'valleys and alleys' of 'ground-0', with its own codes, its own justice-system-, educational system governed by its own 'Consensus street-laws'.
Now, all of a sudden you realize that the most important 'blessing' for any politiciand and government is the one coming from the people of the land, especially from those whose ancestors, shed blood sweat and tears to create the hospitable and attractive foundation for its development.
The 'Friendly island' with all its incentives for investors and others was the result.
Now, only AFTER you have signed away our 'birth-rights' and have denied us our rights to ratify what you negotiated, Mr. MARLIN now says ; 'It is now up to us'.
Now, let this message to our political leaders and Government, therefore be very loud and clear.
When WE (St. Martiners) needed your ear and heart and soul, you denied the very existence of us.
OUR kind of 'us' is not even defined in any shape of form in YOUR constitution.
So, it is simply hypocritical to put it politely, to now try to appeal on the 'us' who never existed for you, to help make YOUR new status work on 'ground zero' and to protect YOUR 'derriere'.
You did not deem us worthy then when it really mattered to ratify the outcome of your negotiations, so logically we should now be equally 'unworthy' to share in the 'blows' you can expect, when your 'chickens come home to roost'.
The prize and consequences for you having sold out our birth-rights and having abandoned and betrayed us as a people, for your nice and lucrative positions in 'Country St. Maarten' are exclusively for your account.
While the 'window of opportunity' for making the necessary corrections of the draft-constitution, may a very last resort to get some 'blessing' from us, knowing your arrogance, we will not exactly hold our breath on that one.
Meanwhile, we wish you God's richest blessings and wisdom.
But as far as we are concerned, since we do not exist for you, 'thanks, but no thanks'.
Our kind of 'us' can not be in solidarity with you, when your 'chickens come home to roost on ground-0'.
You wanted to make up your bed by yourself, without our input, no problem.
Now, the privilege is yours to sleep in it by yourself as well.
Sleep tight.
Leopold JAMES
Proud, native-indigenous St. Martiner with no apologies or compromise that 'St. Martiners should come first on St.Maarten/St. Martin and all others after'
When some months ago renowned American talk show host, Bill O'Reilly referred to the authorities on St.Martin as pinheads, many persons, even within Democratic Party circles, did not take kindly to this statement. As far as those of the Democratic Party were concerned, it was felt that in referring to pinheads, Mr. O'Reilly generalized his reference to authorities. Some persons within the DP even felt, like some others did that pinheads or patriots, no one should come to our country and call persons elected by the people of St. Martin pinheads." If there are pinheads amongst us, they're our pinheads."
However, when the situation gets to the point where well respected citizens and professionals of this country, refer to actions and statements by members of government as Idiotic, Ignorant and Stupid, then we need to take notice. Are these persons voicing general sentiments? The leader of government who is responsible for actions and statements by the members of his government needs to sit up and take notice and accept responsibility. The deputy leader of government needs to speak up, as silence is consent.
Again we re-iterate, in less than 3 months from today the people of St. Martin will be called to elect 15 persons to the Parliament of country St. Martin. Those members of parliament or any combination of these members, will have to appoint ministers of government. These ministers together will be responsible for every aspect of our daily lives.
Sarah Wescot Williams
Leader of the Democratic Party.
What type of 'crime'- and 'criminals' are they really fighting ? They being the UTFAC, the United Task Force Against Crime headed by Clarence RICHARDSON, a very intelligent-, competent- and professional St. Martiner hailing from a highly respected-, traditional native-indigenous St. Martin family-heritage Not that the members of UTFAC is not doing their best to fight the crime that is literally paralyzing our society. They are-, and we highly commend each one of them for taking on this incredibly difficult- and dangerous mission.
Therefore, that is not the issue we have with the possible 'implication' of the approach of the UTFAC.
Our deep concern is that the 'modus operandi' of the UTFAC lacks a 'bigger picture' approach in which the root-causes is also integral part of the solution.
Critically lacking for instance, is that while they talk about crime, such is done WITHOUT defining what is meant with 'crime'-'criminals' .
Consequently-, this approach is at best not effective- and at worst yet not genuine and/or fair to all and it possibly also contributes even more to the problem that anything else.
Reason, is that the 'implied' criminals-/crime are in fact mostly-, 'selectively' directed towards certain 'socio-economic' groups- in the process leaving out 'other'., perhaps more 'established' stakeholders A simple case in point.
It appears that only when members of 'certain sectors' of our community are affected, that some people, exclusively apply the term 'crime'- and 'criminals' on those perpetrators, who 'happen' to be mostly young-, Black boys from the 'hood- or the 'projects'.
In the process, it seems at best opportune to focus on these juvenile delinquents as the main 'culprits', forgetting the universal principle that; 'Every fish starts to rotten from the head down towards the tail'.
In other words.
How fair-, logical can it be to expect that our young people can be any better that those in the highest place within our community, who in fact create the conditions, in which only bad can come out ?
The number of examples is too large to even start mentioning here, but just to make our point-, and to shift the discussion in the 'other direction', to bring balance in the 'blame-game' against who are the real criminals.
What about those in high places, being Government selling out the island- its people and the future of our young St. Martiners, just to fill their own pockets- and enrich their family and their own elite circle ?
What about having allowed for Chinese supermarkets to 'infiltrate' deep into the 'hinterland' of the country, pushing out locals out of their traditional grocery businesses ?
Then what about employers, who abuse their employees, simply because many of them are undocumented and have no other choice then to accept ?
What about politicians 'bribing' immigrants to undermine local-, native St. Martiners What about the blatant discrimination taking place against many St. Martin- and Caribbean persons working in the white-south-African dominated marina-industry especially- at IGY in the Simpson-bay lagoon ?
What about the fact that there are many single-mother families, where the mother is underpaid-, and the children underfed and left up to the streets ?
And so, there are so many examples of exploitation and 'institutionalized' crime by the 'Haves against the have nots'.
So many people can express their own 'horror-stories'.
Unless-, we as a society have the courage to really attempt to define the notion of crime and its perpetrators and deal with their root-causes, I am afraid that NO task-force will ever be successful in fighting crime.
Focusing on the young perpetrators of the many violent forms of crime-, without also addressing the importers of the weapons- and those who make profit from the drugs-trade- and politicians, who condone this atmosphere of ired and supported, but so should also be the 'scope' of their work, including their definition of crime- and criminals.
Society must also go after the 'big guns' and those in Government-, who in fact create conditions conducive for asocial behavior- and crime.evil,- greed-, and corruption makes absolutely no sense in my humble opinion.
This is not to discourage those members of the task force, because they should be very much adm Our young delinquents-, as disgusting and appalling their violence is to any normal person, they are largely the product of neglect-, and bad examples by those in leadership position-, starting with Government, trickling down to law-enforcement officers-, churches-, educators-, parents etc.
Perhaps we can consider an initiative, I proposed on many occasions before, but which again was ignored by the media and the establishment.
Its premise is simple.
The only ones who REALLY know what 'drives them' to do what they are doing are the young people themselves.
We MUST therefore engage with them regardless the challenges.
That is what Greg ARRINDELL did a few weeks ago on his program 'It is about time', for which we highly recommend him.
And yes, it is time to conduct structural-, ongoing intensive secret polls among our young people in all schools, at the jobs etc. to find out what is 'in their heads', such as who and what pushes them into crime etc.
Only-, once we have that information-, can we possibly together with them design the right 'medication'.or solution Food for thought.
Leopold JAMES
First director HAVO/VWO of the Milton Peters College and still...
Proud-native indigenous St. Martiner without apologies
Are you optimistic or pessimistic? ...now read this story. I cried shame on the University of St. Martin (USM)! A young prominent computer technician, and the only one qualified at the institution, to fit the role of Computer Network Specialist, was fired from his job on Thursday. No reason was given to the young man, nor was there any evaluation done and presented to him. Reports claim that his role will be passed on to the Librarian, who is not a technical person and needs a work permit to work on the island. Which begs the question of him being victimized, because of his union status and him representing his fellow workers and students?
The young man was giving a dismissal letter by the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), who was previously mentioned in numerous articles for threatening and harassing particularly local staff. Now that 10.10.10 is fast approaching it seems more than ever that businessmen are pushing to give friends and family a dig-in, while the youths and workers of this country are trampled upon.
A CFO at the age 68, way past retirement is allowed to be employed, whereas a young national just in his 30's was sent home. USM should be crafting our young people to be future leaders in this country, not crush them. What kind of signal are we sending to the young people of this country? Who can they turn to for help?
A university is a place of higher learning. A place of ideas and debates and not a centre of victimization and oppression. I am appealing to the elected and honorable officials of this country to intervene and help put an end to the abuse and harassment of the workers at this institution and many other businesses on the island. This institution was put together by believers and funded by the nation for the betterment of the island and its people, but has become a plague to the youths and citizens of this country.
The Board of Directors continues to beg government for finances, yet up until the day the former president left, USM could not convince government with a proper budget. This should have been the CFO's priority, not the firing of local people and replacing them with foreigners, who needs expensive work permits. At the age of 68, it is due time to give our local and young accountants a chance.
Finally, 10.10.10 needs people with skills and not oppressors.
Joseph Harvey
Greetings to the people of StMaarten, I have notice in StMaarten we have a lot of party loyalist. They will do anything for party before country. These people will even deny God or Jesus before political party. Imagine if those people could love Jesus or country as much as party. The world would be perfect. Just recently we have ex government employee a former police who is on pension who gladly deny who he is, for most probably of securing a job in country StMaarten. We have party loyalist from all 3 major parties eager to deny who is a StMaartener. The big question is who are they loyalty to, is it foreigners or party. The foreigner knows who he or she is, no matter if he or she is a Jamaican, Guyanese, Haitian, Chinese etc. Now let's come back down to earth, if we have 2 Dutch citizens both are qualify, the Chinese get his Dutch citizens last month, and the person of StMaarten origin born with his Dutch citizenship. According to Judas and this ex pensioner of government we should give it to the Chinese.
Why they say that is because we cannot determine who is a StMaartener but we know who is a Chinese Dutch citizens, so these fools by their own words will give it to the Chinese with Dutch citizens. How foolish are these people for years in the cadastre and government registry all what is register is not real or accurate. All these so call StMaarten experts are making StMaarten the Jackass of the world. Foreigners tell me your so call leader is StMaarten biggest enemy they do not know who they are. They tell me StMaarten problem is that there is no leadership. Don't you see they do not care about StMaarten? This foreigner tell me your country will be very difficult to work because you your leaders do not know who they are so they cannot fight for StMaarten, he said he can see I fight with love and conviction they(Judas William Marlin and all island council member) fight for money and power. He concurs that only fools leave them selves unprotected. Patriotism is one who is true to their country, willing to die for its honor. All those members in the anti StMaarten Party of the National Alliance are party loyalist and not patriots. A true patriot of StMaarten will never be so foolish to say he cannot determine who he is, that alone disqualify you for wanting to be a leader. The point is you cannot love something if you have no knowledge of it that is common sense. Voters of StMaarten do not be fool vote for people who knows who they are, do not vote for people who does not know who they are or else you will be deceiving yourself. You are not a NA or DP or UP or CPA. You are citizens of StMaarten, your first loyalty should be to God then Country and then Party. Never be afraid to vote for or against a party. Vote your conscience and vote for a party that recognize you. You should not be a party loyalist you should be a patriot. In closing look at all 4 political parties, that is DP, Judas and his anti StMaarten Party, UP and the last newest party the CPA. Then look at which party knows who people of StMaarten origin are. Do not only look at their platform (manifesto) but look at their members see if they can be trusted look into their background? See if these people really love StMaarten. See if they are willing to value original StMaarten norms and culture. Judge them by the character. Make sure do not vote for any party or person that cannot recognize people of StMaarten origin, for surely he or she is an enemy of StMaarten. Do not be a party loyalist but a true and good patriot of StMaarten. Vote against Judas (William Marlin) and his anti StMaarten Party.
Miguel Arrindell 523-7327
Congratulations to our elected Members of Parliament and our Governor and Deputy Governor. Congratulation to our future Ministers
I've been reading a lot of comments online about the elections and the feelings of those who post
comments.
Many have not yet realized the importance of the elections and many don't seem to know the
changes that have come about.
Many are still talking about who will be in power and who will not be in power.
This last part is the sad part.
WE, the PEOPLE are the ones with the POWER and WE must NEVER relinquish that POWER.
WE voted for 15 Parliamentarians to represent US. It is the hope that all 15 will do so, whether
from the opposition benches or not. When WE believe that WE are not represented properly, WE must tell them. They will make mistakes, because they are human and we could forgive them.
There are many ways that WE can bring them all in line. The question is, will WE be ready and willing to do so, when the time comes. Will WE continue to see things through the eyes of politicians or will WE tell the politicians what WE see.The Parliamentarians are there to work for our Country, for US.
Quite some years ago, I made a suggestion and only when one party got 'shafted' did it see the
need for such a change. http://www.simadom.com/crowpoems/19970811.htm
A few years later, I suggested another improvement to the system and I repeat that suggestion,
because I believe that change is necessary. http://www.simadom.com/crowpoems/basicidea.htm
We are heading to Country status and we should not be represented by someone 'brought along' by others.
Let those who get the most votes overall be the elected ones.
This gives a small party like the CPA a chance to get a seat in the future and gives a voice to those
who share its views.
I believe this can lead to building a stronger Country St. Maarten in the future.
Blessings to all.
Clifton R. Wilson
Committed to Country St. Maarten
Friday, September 1, 2010 will go down as '10-10-10-10''
The newest ten-, indicates that we will then be 10 days away from '10-10-10' (October 10, 2010).
While magical date of '10-10-10' was projected to mean entering some 'Walhalla- status' of sorts-, or some 'Brave New World' according to St. Martin's 'award-winning' and popular talk show-host-, for other people-, it is becoming more like a very scary 'dooms-day'-scenario.
Just days after the 'green-machine' of 'T.O'. has taken control of the 'new' DP-UP coalition (= the 'United DP'-party), finding suitable candidates for the various ministerial positions seem less simple that formulating the DP-UP coalition accord !
It appears that running a Government-, which is closely monitored by 'Ulanda', is quite different from running a political campaign and/or ruling over a 'plantocracy' of subservient-, 'plantation dwellers'.
Meanwhile the 'Constitutional clock' is ticking non-stop.
On Friday, October 1, 2010, the clock will read '10-10-10-10' and then there will be no more Netherlands-Antilles (RIP).
While that was the explicit desire-, and intent of many politicians-, they still have to figure out quite a number of challenges facing the people of 'Country' St. Maarten come '10-10-10'.
Like what you wonder ?
Well-, what about the travel procedures between the islands, which up till such time were part of one- and the same country, the Netherlands-Antilles ?
What about having an emergency needing specialized medical care in Curacao ?
What also about having properly screened,- and put in place of the new Commissioners-, who will become Ministers come '10-10-10-' and have to run the island under very-, very difficult circumstances ?
Meanwhile-, according to the 'school-children', the NA seems to be suffering from serious 'internal hemorrhage', with various members 'jumping ship' and 'King' William-I's 'scepter' being 'under siege'.
Again-, all of this and more with just 10 days to go............
While-, against that backdrop of total confusion and 'unreadiness'-, the Dutch Government knows exactly what deal they have got on a 'silver-platter' with the BES-islands.
They have already in place an ID-card, which will be used to screen exactly who is welcome on their BES-islands and who not.
Consequently-, we should not become victims of any 'optional delusion', thinking that because we can see Statia -, and Saba from Jack's place, that we can simply take a trip there.
Forget that quick, quick.....
That WAS the case in the past.(pre-'10-10-10')
Come '10-10-10' those islands will simply represent the highest parts of the Netherlands-, which itself lies on the European continent.
Nostalgia already setting in ?
Wipe your tears, because the clock has now begun to 'tick' .
Friday it will tell us how late it is; '10-10-10-10'.......
And oh yes,
Who was the one again, boasting- and claiming 'victory' for having brought home the 'beef' ?.....
William-, or Sarah-, or the drs.-, or Duncan ?
Who ?
Fair is fair.
Those responsible for 'delivering us the goods', certainly deserve 'due recognition' !
Drs. Leopold JAMES
President SNBF/ Association L' Esprit de Concordia
It is totally ridiculous in this day and age in the 21st century to have persons forming a line out onto the sidewalk waiting for service at the SVB Social Insurance Bank offices on Ch. E.W. Voges Street. This has been an on-going annual phenomenon.
A person having to go to that office before sunrise is also not good service. I've had the same experience on more than one occasion as many others experience on a regular if not daily basis.
The community is aware that local management and staff have to work with the tools and facility provided to them by SVB management in Curacao. I'am sure that over the years that this problem has existed, local management has complained to the head office on Curacao, and to no avail have these cries for help gone un-noticed and un-heeded.
The time has come for change at the SVB. Customer service has to be priority number one under country status. Additional branch satellite offices need to be opened in the coming months in other districts to assist SVB clients with the service they deserve.
Now, under country status, a new health care system is envisioned. The transition from that system to the Sint Maarten home grown system will take some time and in the meantime a Service Level Agreement (SLA) is being negotiated with SVB Curacao to continue providing service to SVB Sint Maarten clients.
The five-day old UP/DP Executive Council pointed out last week in a press conference that the SLA proposal by SVB Curacao was not in the best interest of Sint Maarten as the Curacao based entity wanted to manage all the funds for the country until January 2012, with little input from Country Sint Maarten.
A counter proposal from Sint Maarten to SVB Curacao is to have the latter manage SVB Sint Maarten until December 31, 2010 pending the establishment of our National Health Insurance System.
Provisions have to be made to facilitate having branch offices opened in Belvedere, St. Peters/South Reward and Cole Bay/Simpson Bay, and its all about putting people first and given them the best of service.
It's time for Sint Maarten, time for SVB Sint Maarten customers to finally get the service they deserve.
Roddy Heyliger
Dear Mr. Roland DUNCAN
Minister of Justice St. Maarten.
RE; Your responsibility towards the Antillean people.
Yes your Excellency,
You would be legally in your rights-, if you would now deem it fit to deny any more responsibility towards the people of the (former) Netherlands-Antilles.
However, the spiritual universe has its own 'justice' and no-one ever can escape its ultimate 'sentence'.
Point in case here.
Judging from the media-, it is very clear that after all the 'hype' about '10-10-10'-, it is finally dawning on the ANTILLEAN people what really means-, or does not mean for them.
While this new constitutional 'concoction' might be regarded as a 'dream come through' for certain politicians-, and as a POLITICAL success-, on 'ground zero' for the ordinary ANTILLEAN people-, it is quite another story.
Just to give one little example.
The fact that there has not been any arrangement made for the free movement for the ANTILLEAN people as it was before your most coveted '10-10-10', is becoming a real 'nightmare' if not properly resolved.
While power-struck politicians did everything to point out differences between the islands-, the ANTILLEAN people are one in-divisible people by blood links-, and cultural ties as well.
You have now placed 'barriers' between members of the same ANTILLEAN family.
in the past-, we have repeatedly expressed our deep concern-, and distrust at the 'modus operandi' of the process to achieve status change.
Not so much against any necessary change in-, and of itself.
But-, because a critical-, objective observation revealed that the process was NOT transparent-, but based on deception, betrayal, manipulation, discrimination, intimidation etc by the politicians.
On many occasions-, we explained what we meant by this and many people did not (want to understand.)
Now-, it is becoming clear to many that the status change was NOT meant for the ANTILLEAN people, but for the POLITICIANS.
Therefore-, they did not first seek to guarantee the protection of the rights of ANTILLEANS to maintain their rights on ALL islands of the Antilles-, as has been for generations.
For instance, the rights to free movement-, free residence and work etc.
Now AFTER the politicians have secured THEIR political positions- and fat salaries-, they realize-, and admit that 'oops' we forgot all about the ANTILLEAN people.
In other words, we come in as an 'AFTER-THOUGHT".
This is pure BETRAYAL in our books.
Now the ANTILLEAN people realize that they have been deliberately 'trapped' on the individual islands, without any protection against others, whose trumped up International Human rights' are secured in our constitution.
Wattating..
It should be clear , Minister DUNCAN that as Minister of Constitutional Affairs-, you failed miserably in your task to protect the ANTILLEAN people.
To now, stay on the 'side-lines' because you are no more in that function-is a very 'lame' excuse.
The least you can-, and should do is to take the lead-role in finding a solution to this betrayal.
After all-, as Acting Governor, Mr. GROENEVELDT in a radio-program, with Fernando CLARK on Tuesday, October 5, 2010 pointed out reference the 'French St. Martin drivers-license issue'.
Any time rights of a people/individual are RETRO-ACTIVELY taken away, that can be taken to court...and won.
Back to our case in point.
Going to any (international-)court to fight the retro-actively removal of the 'rights of ANTILLEANS' can be a very strong case.
Hopefully-, the powers that be-, will not let it come to that point.
However-, it should not be taken for granted that we the ANTILLEAN people will simply 'role over' and become victims of the '10-10-10 genocide' of the ANTILLEAN people.
It will not happen!
To be sent to all relevant authorities.
Drs. Leopold JAMES
President SNBF/ Association L' Esprit de Concordia
Mark RUTTE, Prime-minister of the Netherlands,
Gerrit SCHOTTE of Curacao,
Sarah WESCOT-WILIAMS of St. Maarten.
RE; New law on admission and expulsion BES-islands, perfect legal precedence for all islands to follow.
Dear Prime-ministers,
On Thursday, October 21, 2010 an article entitled 'Wet Toelating en Uitzetting begint bij nul' appeared in www.amigoe.com-, the online version of the AMIGOE newspaper.
In this particular article-, an explanation is given pertaining to workings of the new admission-, and expulsion laws which now govern the BES-islands as per '10-10-10'.
>From what we understand-, these new laws will not be applicable to Dutch nationals-, who themselves-, or whose parents have been born on Boanaire-, St. Eustatius-, or Saba.
Again-, if we understand that new law well-, it means de facto-, that the Dutch Government has made a very wise decision to recognize the BIRTH-RIGHTS/HERITAGE of those people as a LEGITIMATE reason for the new law of admission-, and expulsion not to be applied on these persons.
This is something we certainly applaud-, and are grateful to the Dutch for.
In addition-, it serves as a great example- and motivation-, if not as a LEGAL precedence the leaders of the other islands, St. Maarten-, and Curacao can use to apply for the natives of their respective islands as well.
We therefore urgently recommend the above-mentioned prime-ministers to come together and to in fact re-instate the birth-rights-, and heritage of ALL Antilleans to be able to reside-, and work on ANY of the former islands.
This provision is the 'missing link' in the entire constitutional process which we have been clamoring for from 'day one'.
We are convinced that without this right being re-instated-, there will NEVER be any sustainable-, and genuine tranquility within the Kingdom.
At the same time-, adjusting the new constitutions to include this right which can never be legally retro-actively removed-, will make it irrelevant whatever constitutional status there will be.
That simply because the ANTILLEAN PEOPLE'S existence as such would have been guaranteed regardless what status- and regardless who is in power.
In any democracy, the interest of the PEOPLE should benefit first- and foremost of any development-, and not complying with this basic principle-, would do much harm to the reputation of the Dutch Kingdom around the world.
We do not see the slightest reason not to finally include this 'missing link' in the constitutional equation-, and look forward to you as leaders finally bringing closure to this very 'stormy' phase in the relationship within the Kingdom.
In ending-, addressing this very essential issue-, can create a perfect opportunity-, to also in due time also include Aruba-, and Suriname in the total 'equation'.
After all-, we are all tied by a common history- and social ties-, and sooner or later we should consider reciprocating the same freedom of movement-, residence-, and work for another.
dr. Leopold JAMES,
President grassroots St. Martin nation building-, and unification movement.
Proud St. Martiner-, without apologies.
Crime is on a rampage in StMaarten. Many people are scared of their children. We have let tolerance of evil destroy our way of life. Our so call justice system gives children rights over parents. The courts system aloud criminals to go free because of a technicality even when overwhelming proof shows criminals are guilty. Many churches stay politically correct because their first interest is to receive government funds. Homosexuality is now call alternative life style. Women believe it is their rights to murder children if they do not want it. Voodoo is a way of life and is use for financial gains. We even advertise voodoo in our newspapers. What we are seeing is that sin or wrong doing has become acceptable way of life. We have value sin as okay once money is in our interest. We in StMaarten are living a false hope. What you accept badly today will come back in hunt you and hurt you tomorrow. We can pray to God to bless this new country, but then hold fast steadily on the devil and then foolishly ask God to bless us. God is not foolish and does not bless sin, he curse sin. Remember he said for the fear of God is to hate evil, and the wages of sin is death. The strength of sin is the law. When we give in to evil, God will let evil destroy us. Crime comes from when people loose respect for mankind and when rehabilitation replaces punishment.
When we loose courage and will to do what is right which is sin or evil (crime) becomes the way of life. God said above all things the heart of man is desperately wicked, he said who can know it. My friends the best criminologist cannot stop crime, they only tackle the effects. It is our nature to sin (do wrong things). The laws suppose to punish breaking the law, but if the law does not call wrong bad, then people commit what they call circumstances beyond their control, which is a lie (God call it sin). People will sit down all day talk nonsense and mind other peoples business, but from the moment you talk about God their gone. That's the human nature we love to sin. The only power that can correct crime or sin is God. But God will not help you. God said you must be willing to turn away from your wicked ways. The average person feels shame to speak about God, but men and women proudly boast and talk about how much women or men they had. That is so irresponsible and childish. We must act like responsible adults and mind our own business. If children are making children which are already wrong, how can we accept them to have values if we do not teach them? More importantly we need the courage to stand for right teach it and be it. Until we are good leaders in all aspects of life then we have a chance to harvest a good future. Leaders with out values are prone to lead a nation to destruction. What is most surprising to me so call Christians do not believe a man of God should be into politics? Ask God who he prefers to lead the world between Martin Luther King or Hitler; I am sure he will say Martin Luther king. That how it was in the past, leader had to be a man of values. No person is perfect, but a leader must and should be a man with the will to do justice, peace and righteousness which will foster wealth and health and prosperity.
Education alone is not wisdom, for the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom. Wisdom is all inclusive; it comes with character, values and education with love for your people. The only way to defeat crime is to practice values and teach it. If we don't do that we will continue to live in sin. Sin is the breaking of God law. And the wages of sin (or your earnings of sin) is death. This crime wave in StMaarten is because we do not want God into our daily lives; this in turn invites evil (crime). If you hate to hear about God you might be already loss, but if you welcome him hope lives on and the turn for a better life can be. A sin full man like your self cannot save you. Putting more police on the street is good but that is only the effect. To deter crime human must be taught the difference between wrong and right, more importantly we must make our fellow man understand the wages of sin is death. We have to change the man heart and mind to think good only then we can deter crime along with real punishment. Stay tune for more as next time I am back into political mode.
Yours truly,
Miguel Arrindell
Dear Editor,
The article in yesterday's paper about genocide on St. Maarten definitely caught my attention. And many of what the person said is true. The person is a St. Maartener born from foreign parents. I do not agree with everything the person said. However what is nice to see is that people born here in St. Maarten is proud of being born here and should become first in their country when it comes to rights. I champion that option. While I feel the person pain, imagine the people of St. Maarten heritage who was around for hundreds of years and is still being treated not fairly. We welcome you once you acknowledge us and you should join us. We are fighting for the same cause. The cause is greater than any individual, but seniority and charity begins at home should be always first. If I do not acknowledge that my grandmother and grandfather come first then how would I be from here. What I will like Tania Pedro to do is bring all born here St. Maarteners once they truly love here and we will welcome them into SNBF. (St. Maarten Nation Building Foundation) We include not to be excluded and together as a St. Maarten team we will win the day. Log on to http://www.stmartinnation.org.
I agree with you when you said having a French and Dutch passport but owning nothing and being treated as a foreigner is not right. That is why you should help us help you. Think about this, imagine people from all parts of Europe that is part of the European Union come from far and is giving privilege over you because they are consider European and you is consider a foreigner even if you born here. That is why we see one St. Maarten as a people from heritage. Nationality can be taken away by government, but heritage can never be taken away. Germany which was east and West Germany did the same. I am St. Maarten man from both side, I do not rejoice when any person be it legal or illegal is mistreated. You are right, there is no unity among StMaarten people; prove yourself wrong by joining us who love St. Maarten and willing to fight for our rights. You are right again when you said St. Maarten should come first before foreigners. Together we achieve, do not give up the fight.
You together with us can bring unity among all St. Maarten people of heritage, born here and nationalize Dutch. Again I say we do not include to be excluded.
Our cause is noble and is right. Feel free to join it is not about you and me it's about the greater cause love of country St. Maarten.
Yours truly,
Miguel Arrindell
The alleged gang incident on Friday involving a school bus and a group of young men on the road resulted in an exchange of bottles and bullets. A shot fired narrowly missed a passer-by is a very serious development and escalation in so-called gang related incidents on the island. Some witnesses remember hearing two gun-shots, the second one not coming from the school bus.
A stray bullet struck a passing car and lodged in the car seat headrest. What if there was a person sitting in that seat? That person could have been killed? What if the car was driven by a tourist whose passenger was struck and killed? The latter could have some very serious repercussions for our nation's one-pillar based tourist economy.
Gun-totting and machete wielding teenagers does not display a good image as a tourist destination. A police control of the students and the school bus after it was intercepted led to law enforcement officers finding a .38-caliber Smith & Wesson revolver in a girl's schoolbag besides two machetes and three knives.
The tourist vessel Star Clipper announced last week that it was dropping calls to Antigua & Barbuda after one of its cruise passengers was murdered on the island. The 227-passenger Royal Clipper will now visit Nevis instead.
Antigua has been a popular destination for the cruise line and Star Clipper vessels have been calling at Antigua for many years without incident. The CEO of Star Clipper reportedly said that the cruise line will continue to monitor the security situation and evaluate their options for the next winter season regarding returning to the island.
What happened in Antigua where a cruise line pulled out could happen in any other Caribbean cruise destination including St. Maarten. If we as a nation do not get a hand on crime, we are looking at such a scenario.
Bermuda has an on-going gang problem. The Bermuda government has established a number of safe houses for people who want to break away from gangs. The houses have been set up to offer people the protection they need and help them start their new lifestyles. Another option being considered by the Bermuda government is a curfew.
What motivates young people to turn to gangs? This is the crux of the problem, and once you understand why this is taking place, only then can you develop intervention measures to resolve the issues or at least put policies in place to deal with the challenges being faced by young people.
Dialogue with gang members is one option. A Bermuda member of parliament Michael Weeks says, "We must address gang issues to end the violence." Young people who join gangs feel shunned and disenfranchised by mainstream society and are in need of education and employment.
Weeks believes the only way to stop the violence is to listen to gang members. "We have to get them round the table to hear them out and address their issues. They are in an underworld that is separate from the rest of Bermuda – we have to bring them back to mainstream society," Weeks pointed out.
Perhaps this is one of the options for St. Maarten - speaking with persons who are a member of a gang or who have been involved in gang activity. The writing is on the wall, and every incident that has taken place to date has shown an escalation in gang activity on the island. The time for action is now!
Roddy Heyliger
Eh, come closer to the paper. I write only once, especially to the intellectually challenged ones that live and breathe amongst us. Rumor has it that the appointed Commissioners in the last Executive Council of the Island Territory of St. Maarten who served for 5 days either have, or will be paid one full year's Commissioner's salary for doing so. On Sunday October 31, 2010, the topic was again brought up on a popular local radio talk show. Notwithstanding the fact that none other than our Prime Minister has previously addressed this issue publicly on at least two occasions, the rumor is persistently kept alive and the host of the Sunday radio program even questioned the integrity of our Prime Minister, as it relates to this topic. So Mr. Editor, allow me to make the following statement: My name is Michael Ferrier. I held the position of Commissioner in the Executive Council of the Island Territory of Sint Maarten twice. Once for 4 years from July 1, 1999 to June 30, 2003, when I was elected to the Island Council of Sint Maarten. During that time in Public Office, I drove my own car, paid for my own gasoline, travelled for Government in Economy class and amongst other strange habits, when invited to lunches and dinners by business persons, paid for my own lunch and dinner and often also for the lunches and dinners of the very business persons that had invited me to those lunches and dinners in the first place. I was never offered or given a kick-back, nor did I ever ask for any. During the campaign I promised myself and thus informed my party leader that if elected, I would serve for one term only. For me it was never about being a career politician or getting "chooked" by the proverbial "syringe with the Elixir of Power". For the record, I kept my word and did not make myself available for a second consecutive term. (As an aside, there is a "so-called" history book written by a local school teacher floating around, in which he writes a piece about me on the subject that is riddled with wrong information and plenty of "un-truths", notwithstanding the fact that the good gentleman interviewed me personally when he was gathering information for his book). But to continue, recently after the UPP and the DP agreed to form the first Government of Country St. Maarten, I was one of four persons asked by our respective Party Leaders to serve as a Commissioner for 5 days from October 5 to 10, 2010. I agreed to accept the honor and together with the three other Commissioners, worked my butt off for 4.5 of those 5 days. NOW COMES THE JUICY PART, SO PLEASE PAY ATTENTION: I have not been paid, nor do I want to be paid for working as a Commissioner for those 5 days in October of 2010. So you that are IQ deprived and you know who you are, please "find another tree to jump on". Capiche? I can be reached on 520-5555.
Michael J. Ferrier.
Let me congratulate all Americans on a job well done as conservative ideology wins the day. We have seen what socialism & communism (left wing ideology) has done in the U.S.A these last 2 years. It has tax people to death and spending went out of control and create communism and socialism in the U.S.A. America was always a right center country, and political ideology dictates you cannot change the foundation of a right wing country (Capitalism) in to a left wing country (Socialism & Communism). Even China advises Obama and warns that world powers come and go when they break the principle on how a world power is brought into existence. China said it crystal clear you cannot tax or spend your way out of a recession. (Link to view http://www.youtube.com/v/OTSQozWP-rM?version=3 )Imagine a communist regime advising you not to tax and spend, which alone should tell you you're going the wrong direction. What you have seen is a class example of real professional politics at its best. Ideology is what wins the day. The Netherlands has also move to the right. (VVD PVV CDA). The Dutch Kingdom has move to the right for the first time to my knowledge. People is beginning to understand that personal responsibility is what makes the man, government is to provide opportunity. But self reliance is your duty to achieve. Hand outs are what create stagnation, dependence and poverty. Social security is a way to help those who cannot help themselves but never meant as a way of life. Look at Greece and France, socialism is causing those economies to go bankrupt and causing riots on the streets. That is when people are taught that government is to feed you and clothes you, which is a dangerous leftwing ideology. (Paul can pay and there for must pay for all, that is the creation of poverty.) The buying and selling of votes in StMaarten is real practice of socialism, which is buying them and own them. The people in the U.S.A has bring government back in control, they have thrown out a lot of those extremist leftwing Democrats and put the will of the people back where it belongs. That is real change. Another great news is even thou the Republican still can not change the very liberal state of California; they have mange to keep marijuana illegal in that state. A big win for morality. The next real goal is 2012. The conservatives and rightwing have a chance to also take the senate and the presidency. Then we can instill values along with Capitalism which will create wealth. America becomes the greatest nation because of Capitalism and upholding values, when ever you break one of them, chaos and poverty becomes the results. Continue to the right America, God Bless you. Your United States Dollars has served my country well from the American tourists that come here on vacation.
Yours truly,
Miguel Arrindell
Dear Editor,
Please allow us some space in your well read publication to respond to Mr. Kurt Ruan's of the Department of New works most recent, perhaps purposefully inaccurate and misleading, statements on the Ring-road project.
Having analyzed the flooding St. Maarten experienced in early October as a result of the tropical depression which later became hurricane Otto (not Earl as stated in Thursday's article) St. Maarten Pride Foundation maintains its position that the filling-in of the Great Salt Pond, for the construction of the Ring-road project, significantly contributed to the extent of flooding in the Greater Great Bay area.
The often improperly carried out excavation of St. Maarten's hillsides, removal of vegetation, top soil etc. for the building of roads and houses has lead to erosion and reduced the water retention capacity of these hillsides, placing an increased burden on lower areas. Consequently the influx of rainwater and soil into the Fresh Pond and the Great Salt Pond over the past few years has increased at a rapid rate. The aforementioned combined with poor drainage infrastructure and the filling-in of the area's main catchment basin the Great Salt Pond over the past decades, most recently for the construction of the Ring-road project, played an important role in October's flooding of the Greater Great Bay area.
The flooding was made worse by the Public Works department's mismanagement of the Great Salt Pond's water level and the incursion of soil from the surrounding hills which has decreased the pond's depth thereby reducing its water retention capacity.
Anyone that experienced or saw pictures of the flooding can easily determine that Mr. Ruan's claims that"the areas around the pond that had not been filled-in to facilitate the ring road had been flooded more than the areas that had been filled in" are far from the truth. The Ring-road's influence on the extent of flooding was evident from early-on during the first day of rain when water which had accumulated on the Walter Nisbeth Road (Pondfill) and adjacent parking lots could not flow into the Great Salt Pond as the Ring-road formed a barrier, thereby trapping the water and flooding both the parking lots and the street.
The heavy sea surge which according to Mr. Ruan "pushed water inland" is a consequence of the dredging of some 400.000m³ of sand from Great Bay for the harbor extension project. These dredging activities have completely changed the way waves come into and break in Great Bay. The bottom of the Great Salt Pond is roughly 1 meter and 30 centimeters lower than the average Great Bay sea-level, this combined with the fact that the water-level in the Pond is also lower than the sea-level causes a strong underground discharge of water from the Sea into the Pond. The abovementioned dredging combined with ill-planned construction activities and sheet-piling (for the boardwalk and other projects) in Philipsburg has altered the natural dynamics of water-flow between the Pond and the Sea causing water to be displaced and contributing the flooding experienced in times of heavy swells or rains.
Mr. Ruan stated that "the sand had acted as a natural dam for the water from the Great Salt Pond" he carried-on to claim that "if the water in the pond is kept at a low yet appropriate level and if the pond is pumped a few days in advance of a storm, the Ring-road will be a benefit for Philipsburg". Quite a number of "ifs" and uncertainties. Mr. Ruan fails to realize that the Ring-road formed a man-made dam (not a natural dam as he continuously claims) for water from the surrounding areas which was flowing towards the Pond, resulting in the flooding of a number of streets. Perhaps Ruan should consider that there would have been substantially less flooding had the Pond's retention capacity not been diminished by sand for the Ring-road in the first place and if the appropriate mitigating measures had been implemented and properly managed beforehand.
St. Maarten Pride Foundation wonders how Government can even consider approving a multi-million dollar project such as the Ring-road without having commissioned any studies to determine whether or not the project is feasible and will have the desired effect of alleviating traffic.
The most significant factor in October's flooding of not only the Greater Great Bay area but many of St. Maarten's other districts is of course the amount of rain which fell, Government's mismanagement of the island's Natural resources including water-ways and catchment basins combined with the carrying-out of unnecessary projects such as the Ring-road only made matters worse.
St. Maarten Pride Foundation
Dear Editor,
There has been a lot of discussion about Government's proposed causeway across the Simpson Bay Lagoon these past few days, please allow us to address the matter and inform your readership of St. Maarten Pride Foundation's position on the subject.
Traffic congestion has become a major concern for St. Maarten's residents and the island's many cruise ship and stay-over visitors. Long traffic jams occur throughout the entire island with the route between the Airport and Philipsburg, which partially follows the Simpson Bay Lagoon's shoreline, often being the most congested.
This past Saturday's news informed us that the Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority Corporation, a subsidiary of the Government owned Harbor Group of companies, signed a contract for the construction of a causeway over the Lagoon. Minister Heyliger has promoted the causeway as a way to relieve traffic congestion. Much of Government's actions and projects aimed at the alleviation of traffic congestion have only focused on the expansion of road networks. Various government policy plans, government commissioned reports and independent studies have, however, identified the alarming number of vehicles on St. Maarten as the primary cause of traffic congestion. With the amount of registered vehicles on the island increasing by a considerable amount almost annually, this planned road network expansion will cease to meet traffic capacity needs in less than 5 years.
Research and experience in numerous countries in the Caribbean and around the world shows that increased road capacity is very quickly filled with what researchers have termed "induced vehicle traffic"; people tend to abandon public transportation and carpools when additional road space is made available, through new road construction or linkages, thereby resulting in more cars on the road and subsequently more traffic jams.
The proposed causeway across the Lagoon will quickly result in more cars on the road and subsequently more traffic jams as:
- People will likely take additional trips to the Simpson Bay, Cole Bay or Marigot area considering that the causeway will cause the destinations to seem more accessible.
- People tend to abandon public transportation and carpools when additional road space is made available.
- The causeway will stimulate development and commercialization of previously less visited or desirable locations due to increased accessibility.
- The causeway will partially shift the traffic congestion problem from one side of the Lagoon to the other.
Increasing road network capacity, by building a causeway across the Simpson Bay Lagoon, in efforts to alleviate traffic jams is therefore not an effective solution for St. Maarten's traffic related challenges.
It should also be noted that no comprehensive traffic or road network study for St. Maarten has been carried out within the last fifteen to twenty years despite the tremendous growth the island has experienced during this period. Government has not taken any measures regarding the comparatively more sustainable and cost-effective proposals, aimed at alleviating traffic congestion in the long-term as listed in the Multi Annual Policy Plan, The Tourism Master Plan and the Carrying Capacity Study even though these recommendations or studies may very well dispel or void Government's perceived need for this causeway. The obvious question here is, why not?
In defending proposed and often controversial projects, Government and in particular the Minister of Environment and Public Works Theo Heyliger and his immediate staff are always eager to claim that these projects were all mentioned in the Development Perspective
St. Maarten, Philipsburg, Greater Great Bay Area (GGBA) or "Almere Plan" and that this perspective was adopted unanimously by the Island Council in 2001. Saturday's article in the Daily Herald is no different as it includes the following paragraph: "The Development Vision... ... adopted unanimously by the island council in 2001 had included the suggestion for the causeway".
This claim, which has not only been made in the media but in Island Council meetings and official correspondence as well, is false for the simple reason that the Almere Plan does not mention the causeway across the Lagoon nor does any such approval of the Almere Plan dated 2001 exist. In his foreword on page 7 of the Almere Plan the then Mayor of Almere Drs. H.G. Ouwerkerk states the following: "During the summer of 2001 the island government of St. Maarten requested the assistance of the municipality of Almere in the preparation of a development plan for Philipsburg and Environs". Page 11 of the same document goes on to state that "In December 2002 TKA was commissioned by the Municipality of Almere to carry out the study...". The approval of the Almere Plan could therefore not be dated 2001, unless government knew exactly what the document would recommend and somehow approved it before its completion.
This often referred to Development Perspective is over half a decade old and much has changed on St. Maarten since its compilation. In addition, the "Development perspective St. Maarten Philipsburg Greater Great Bay Area" is just a perspective, vision or a view point and has no legal standing.
Saturday's Article in the Daily Herald contains the following sentence;
"The Almere Plan, ... ... was developed through analysis and sessions with stakeholders, including environmental organizations". This sentence seems to insinuate that environmental organisations approved of or recommended road network expansion projects during the information session held with TKA and the Almere group in 2003, this insinuation is entirely misleading and inaccurate at best. The development perspective itself contradicts the implication; The following stakeholders have been consulted about the development vision described in this report ... ... ... ... . Their wishes have been noted by TKA, and as far as possible taken into account during the formulation of this Development Vision. Development perspective St. Maarten Philipsburg Greater Great Bay Area" (TKA, Architecture & Urban Design, 2003)
It is obvious to St. Maarten Pride Foundation that the full range of social, economic, traffic and environmental impacts of a causeway over the Lagoon have not been be studied or taken into consideration and weighed against the negligible and short-lived infrastructural benefits (temporary and very minor traffic alleviation) the causeway will provide. Once again the Foundation is left to wonder, why the aforementioned has not been done.
It must be reiterated that St. Maarten Pride is in full favor of the development and implementation of sustainable solutions to St. Maarten's and in this particular case Simpson Bay's traffic congestion challenges. The Foundation is however convinced that a causeway across the Lagoon is not a solution and that the actual purpose of the project is not about alleviating traffic at all.
St. Maarten Pride Foundation
We signed an agreement approving the General Kingdom Measures, we agreed to the establishing of the Committee for Financial Supervision (CFT). We signed an agreement that our Budgets would be balanced. Why did we sign them one would say? The answer is quite simple no agreement no country. When the former National Alliance led government was in office and even prior to this sitting in the minority benches we had maintained first of all that the Budgets over the last 10 years were never balanced. We had also maintained that they were not realistic. The General Auditing Chamber of the then Netherlands Antilles never approved any of the Budgets over the same period. They made it abundantly clear that the documentation were of such a nature that it could not be approved. Former commissioner of Finance Xavier Blackman had argued and fought tooth and nail to include the monies that would come from country Netherlands Antilles to St. Maarten in the 2010 Budget. But this was denied by the CFT although the 2010 Budget of the Central Government was approved for the entire year and now we have to amend the same 2010 budget to accommodate these funds. We are now facing a budget deficit of Naf.130 million. The skeletons are coming out of the closet. I hope that seeing we have a General Auditing Chamber that the decisions taken by government with financial consequences are sent to them. What I am curious to know is if the external accountancy firm to study government's existing policies and laws has already been selected. Some three weeks have already passed. Internally it should not be a problem identifying the deficit since the Minister of Finance has been working as head of the Finance Department for some 10 years. As I said before Government can begin by identifying the deficit. When and where did it start, what was the cause and is there a paper trail? Another aspect that must be looked into is how much funds if any has been deposited by the Netherlands for St. Maarten in an account of the Central Bank and what effect would this have on the deficit? I understood that these funds cannot be accessed unless St. Maarten presents approved accounts or financial statements. The Skeletons are coming out of the closet.
National Alliance Senator George Pantophlet
Time and again, St. Maarten voting population has been deliberately misled deceived and betrayed by self-serving political agendas. This time constitutional change in addition to an inherent high cost also brought an obligation to competently manage the economy. History on St. Maarten has thought us that popularity has always overshadowed the importance of proper economic planning and sound political management. Ideally, to appropriately address the financial situation, these deceitful politicians have to cut their own salaries to the level of minimum wage, seize their house, property and businesses before starting any taxing on the public. For government to simply assume that increasing taxes on the working class without considering their personal political responsibility is unacceptable. An additional tax devoid of a calculated honest explanation about the consequences of such is to add insult to injury. Conservatively, Government needs a forty percent annual revenue increase to secure a sustainable future for the country. There just isn't enough room in any part of our economy to reasonably absorb a twenty percent cost of living adjustment. Therefore, I submit that the political leaders be held personally liable for the poor irresponsible experiment with the future of St. Maarten people. The people trusted their livelihood, the quality of their very existence in reckless political guidance. We need realize that running a country is not a roulette game to speculate with. Gambling with the life of a nation is a very serious and dangerous crime. Inevitably such a crime must be punishable with the highest price possible. Deliberately leading a country into an economic disaster is not to be taken lightly. Ironically, the perpetrators of this economic holocaust have given themselves a raise with no shame of being over paid. Perhaps, none of the political leaders are able to make the same type of salary for the same level of detrimental service in any part of the private sector. For Parliament to be selfish and careless about people's quality of life even to the point of burdening future generations is to set a regrettable precedent and precarious mistake. The government must make it vividly clear what exactly is the mysterious plan to balance the 2011 budget now long before December 15th, 2010. And tell us the consequences for not meeting the constitutional agreements with Dutch government. Uncertainty about the future does not promote economic confidence and stability. One suggestion that could spark some hope in public trust is a joint economic summit with all socio-economic partners of both sides of island. Since both sides of St. Maarten are showing signs of very poor political leadership. Joint economic planning is a must! One thing is for sure, there is no option for none accountability. Certainly the price of shortsightedness or the lack of bold vision is becoming very high.
Mr. Eldridge van Putten
Social & Political Activist
Please intervene to break suppression of freedom of expression in 'Country St. Maarten'.
Dear excellency, drs. HOLIDAY,
Your kind-, but very urgent attention-, and appropriate action is requested regarding the following.
There are reasons to believe that at present-, there is a suppression of freedom of expression taking place in 'Country St. Maarten' under all kinds of pretexts.
We are very concerned-, that such has the potential to lead to very undesirable social consequences in an already stressed-out society.
Although-, certain individuals have in the recent past warned that the financial reality of the island-, sooner of later would result in a serious budget deficit-, those in charge denied such.
Worse yet-, the people of the island were misinformed into believing that the new 'Country status'-, would result in a better financial situation for them.
Now-, the Government is in fact preparing the people for even tougher financial conditions that they already are experiencing.
At the same time-, the salaries and benefits of those in charge-, who were responsible for misinforming the public-, is very comfortable to say the least.
That the public is 'livid'-, and wants to have the opportunity to debate these issues via talk-shows etc-, is an understatement.
Simply-, because if ever there was a public debate necessary to discuss culpability-, accountability-, alternative solutions etc-, it is now.
Therefore-, we urge you to make good use of the power vested in your office-, to call upon those in the media-, to allow for a mature debate on issues like this-, and to consequently avoid pent up emotions to be expressed in undesirable ways.
We all remember what took place in Greece-, Great-Britain-, France-, Ireland etc.when masses took to the streets.
There is absolutely no logical reason to believe that the same-, or worse could not happen here on the 'Friendly island'-, because even a very peace-loving people can be provoked into violence.
It can not be accepted that in reality 'Country St. Maarten' simply means a de-facto 'Banana Republic'.
In ending Excellency-, our advance thanks for your attention-, and we anxiously look forward to your wise-, and expedient response-, in the best interest of freedom of expression for the citizens of 'Country St. Maarten'.
Meanwhile-, we have hereby discharged ourselves of our civil duty to inform you of the sentiments which are brewing within the community you bear the ultimate responsibility for.
drs. Leopold JAMES
President St. Martin grassroot movement.
Dear Damu,
As a dear-, and cherished friend of us- and as fellow St. Martiner of a proud Indian heritage as well- allow me to thank you and the Indian Community for having invited me to attend your Diwali festivities last evening in the celebration-palace.
In addition-, I also thank you very much for the very attentive treatment you bestowed upon myself-, my wife and fellow board-member Mr. Jesse ADAMS during said event.
In particular-, I was surprised-, and deeply honored to have been requested along with yourself- and Mr. Imrad Mac SOOD to come on stage-, and to hand out the various prizes to the winners in the various categories of the traditional Indian dances performed.
Damu-, relationship is testament to you understanding that our message that 'charity should start at home for St. Martiners' is not one of exclusion.
Quite to the contrary.
it is one of setting the right sequence in terms of preservation of our St. Martin cultural heritage-, while encouraging inclusion of those with an 'added value' for this country.
In ending Damu-, on behalf of our grassroots St. Martin nation building- and unification movement-, we look forward extending our relationship of mutual understanding- and respect to the next level-, all in the best interest of building a harmonious community within our country St. Maarten/St. Martin-, that can be the 'blue-print' for many other countries-, grappling with balancing preservation of 'self' with immigration- and integration.
With respect,
drs. Leopold JAMES
Proud-, native indigenous St. Martiner without apologies.
A few days ago an atheist fool tries to teach me the difference about communism and socialism. And his foolish remarks empower exactly what I said. He said a pizza consists of 3 parts and he goes to explain about different toppings and how much who gets. He is a real ignorant socialist and atheist. Then the atheist said I am a small minded close fisted capitalist. To make a long story short socialist people is so narrow minded and they believe in splitting up a pizza to share for a hundred people. They believe in equally poor nonsense. A capitalist who believe in performance and production uses his sense what God gives him and will make a hundred pizzas for a hundred people, you see God is wise and he give wisdom to us capitalist. But because the foolish far left ignorant leftwing extremist who does not believe in God or Jesus Christ (atheist) can not create anything. That 's why they hate believers in Jesus Christ so much be cause we can create and produce, but these ignorant small minded socialist believe you have to divide everything in a hundred pieces to make the world a better place. And remember this fool, Our Lord Jesus Christ wants us to help the poor help themselves not spoil them. Again your mind is to narrow minded to understand spiritual knowledge because it is to rich and too high for you to understand. Only a believer can interpret the bible, not a foolish atheist like you. An atheist who is a socialist is not worthy of God praise, God gives us capitalist wisdom to create wealth. I can forgive ignorance but how dare a lunatic atheist who does not believe in God tries to give me bible lesson about something he does not believe or understands. I think my self to high and will never empower an atheist as to give him popularity. And my esteem is too high and worthy to mention an atheist name. This is what God said about atheist fools (Psalm 14:1a) "The fool hath said in his heart, no, God...." (Corinthians 15:33) Do not be deceived: "Bad company ruins good morals." (1 Corinthians 15:56 to 57) The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. John 16:13 But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. (John1:1-51) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. You fool can write again and call my name; I know my name gives you popularity, but I will never answer you again. You want to know why? This is because my God the almighty creator commanded me to obey this law. (2 Corinthians 6: 14) Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness.
Yours truly,
Miguel Arrindell
In a letter dated 22 June 2010 sent to you, Prefet Jacques Simmonet, and the French Ambassador to the United States in Washington, D. C., I asked for a response to only ten (10) questions. That letter was posted in this newspaper's website that day and now is on the Internet for everyone to read. People want answers from you, as do I.
I have been told by staff at the Embassy of France in Washington that the responsibility to investigate and respond to this inquiry rests with you alone, not the head of the Gendarmerie or others who report to you. They have told me to expect a reply from you. You have my address, as does the world. It is time to live up to your responsibility conferred upon you by the Government of France.
You, sir, have the staff and resources to order a complete and thorough investigation and report on the results. People on St. Martin have reported to various news reporters and other residents on the island who I have been in communication with that an investigation was initiated within days of the posting on my letter in this newspaper. So what happened? Have you decided the best response is no response? Has anyone instructed you not to respond? Is this the lack of transparency all citizens of French St. Martin can expect from your office? Now is the time to demonstrate accountability not only to the citizens of the French side of St. Martin, but to the people in the French Government who have faith in your integrity and honesty.
Recently there have been shootings on the French side of St. Martin and the violence seems to appear weekly in this newspaper. People have died. Robberies are becoming more daring and dangerous, as in the Grande Case shooting at midday this week.
The Gendarmes make much publicized "controls" where fifteen (15) Gendarmes armed with machine guns surround the cars of citizens and tourists to demand their papers and be subjected to searches for guns and drugs. Arrests were made and guns and drugs seized. Is this how you administer the French side of St. Martin? With four Gendarmes per vehicle carrying machine guns stopping cars for "control" checks? Is this how the world's tourists should see "The Friendly Island"? Instead of the use of massive and overpowering force, could you request from France professionally-trained investigators and real detectives, not the clowns posted at the Grande Case Gendarmerie who sit back, smirk at victims, threaten them, and then dismiss them?
You must recognize 85% of the island's revenues are from tourists like myself. To intentionally ignore a letter sent as a result of apparent misbehaviour by your Gendarmes sends a clear message to people considering coming to the French side of St. Martin: travel in groups, hire your own security, film any interactions with the French government officials, or if necessary, go to another island.
I am publicly requesting you respond to the letter I sent to you on 22 June 2010 within the next two weeks. Please indicate you will allow me to post your reply in this newspaper for all to read. I am asking only for a reply to the ten questions contained in my letter of 22 June 2010.
How difficult is that, and why should it have taken so long to get the answers? If you are incapable of answering questions, you should resign your postion and return to France to request a competent Prefet for St. Martin. That might save lives.
Claude Bordelon
Claude F. Bordelon
1110 Fidler Lane
Silver Spring, MD 20910
U.S.A.
June 22, 2010
Ambassador of France to the United States Pierre Vimont
Mr. Romuald Muller, Police Attachè, Police Cooperation Department
Philippe Caillol, Senior Liaison Legal Adviser
Embassy of France
4101 Reservoir Road, NW
Washington, DC 20007
RE: French Gendarme Policies and Procedures in St. Martin, Guadeloupe
Dear Honorable Ambassador Vimont, Mr. Muller, and Mr. Caillol:
I am an American citizen who traveled to Orient Bay, St. Martin, between 20 May and 5 June 2010. I am nobody "special" or "important", just an American tourist. On or about May 22, 2010, I was assaulted on the Orient Bay public beach by an employee of Club Orient Resort while sitting on a beach chair I rented from an establishment known as "Pedro's". I paid George US$50 for ten days' use of a beach chair and umbrella. I was situated (facing toward the water) to the left of the sign on the beach stating "Please, No Cameras" and to the left of the sign posted on Club Orient Resort property announcing "Nude Beach". In short, I was on a public beach which is not the property of Club Orient and I had a reasonable expectation of safety in an area clearly not part of the Club Orient property.
At approximately 1030 hours I was approached by a man wearing a shirt that had "Security" written on it. He said he worked for Club Orient Resort, but he refused to give me his name. He told me "many people have complained" about my cameras, and I must give him my cameras so he can delete any photos he deems offensive. I told him I was not on the property of his employer and he has no right to touch my cameras regardless as I am not a customer of Club Orient Resort and he has no authority over my behavior. I told him George, the vendor from Pedro's who rented me the chair I was using, told me photos are not against the law as long as they did not have nude children in them, which they did not. In fact, there were no children in sight on that day while I was there. He said if I don't give him my cameras, he will take them from me. He was a black male approximately 30 years old weighing approximately 230 pounds and standing over six feet tall; I am 60 years old, disabled, and unable to defend myself from a person that size and strength. In an attempt to diffuse the situation, I placed my $2500 Nikon Digital SLR camera and lens in my camera bag along with my less expensive Canon digital camera.
When I did that, this Club Orient Resort security guard then literally ripped the bag out of my hand, resulting in a serious injury to my right index finger which remains painful today. I am unable to use this finger to type, hold my briefcase, fasten buttons, tie my ties, etc. My productivity at work has become limited. After my bag was forcefully taken from me, I followed this security guard to his employer's office on Club Orient Resort property. My property was handed over to the person behind the reception desk. She also refused to give me her name. She said I had a choice: I could agree to the deletion of all my photos, or they would call the French police. I told her to please call the police, as they had no right to destroy my photographic work, they have no authority to censor any photographs on my digital memory cards, and their security guard had assaulted me in stealing my property and I wanted to file a criminal report.
After calling the police, the Club Orient person reformatted both my camera memory cards effectively deleting all my photos taken since my arrival on St. Martin, including commercial photographs of businesses I intended to use in travel reviews. She then handed me back my bag and cameras and told me to leave the property and never return. (As a result of this warning to stay away from their property, I never returned to Pedro's beach chair and essentially lost the US$50 I paid George. I did not want to risk an arrest by your Gendarmes for "trespassing" even though it is a public beach and not the property of Club Orient. I feared I had become a target of the security officer and your Gendarmes because of the theft of my property and the injury I sustained. I limited myself to a small stretch of the public beach near the L'Hoste Hotel where I was staying for the remaining 12 days of my vacation. I was intimidated).
While walking to my car, I met three Gendarmes who had been called to the Club Orient Resort. I told them what happened. They instructed me to follow them to the Club Orient office, which I did. I was told to wait outside while they spoke with the people involved. Ten minutes later they came outside and told me I could file a report, but the Club Orient people were prepared to file a complaint against me stating four of their employees found child pornography on my camera.
I went to the Gendarmerie near Grande Case (number Seven) to file a report of theft and assault resulting in injury. They had been told by the three responding officers the information they had received from both myself and the Club Orient employees, including the security guard who had assaulted me. At the police station I spoke with a total of four of your officers. All of them refused to give me their names. A young officer roughly thirty years old with a pudgy face was openly hostile towards me, and pointed to his shirt saying his name was "Gendarme". He kept insisting, as though it was a fact, that I was a child pornographer, and under French law, I could be arrested, the record of my arrest would be public knowledge as a child predator, and I could be imprisoned for thirty years. He further told me since I had my camera bag in my possession, no theft had occurred. He then said before they would accept any charge of assault, I had to go to the hospital, be examined, and bring a certificate from the doctor. But he and his supervisor again warned me that if I filed any charge against any employee of Club Orient Resort, I would be arrested and charged with child pornography. I found this threat strange considering they demanded my two cameras and saw for themselves the memory cards had been erased and there was absolutely no evidence of this false allegation other than the willingness of the four employees to lie under oath to protect their employee from an arrest for assault and theft. In fact, there were no photographs at all.
I went to the Emergency Room of the hospital in Mairgot, was examined, and received a certificate of the injury. When I arrived home, I went to my doctor, who examined my finger and said I needed an x-ray to determine if the Club Orient security guard had broken my finger. It was not broken, but severely sprained (two weeks after the assault).
The reason I am writing with this history is to request a clarification from you or the proper French authority on St. Martin. In the United States, law enforcement protects victims, not criminals. In my many visits to France, law enforcement authority rests with sworn duly-appointed police officers, not private security guards.
1. Is it the policy of the French Gendarmes to refuse to identify themselves to the public when asked?
2. What authority do employees of a private business have on the public beach at Orient Bay to take the private property from tourists and citizens alike?
3. When tourists are assaulted on the public beach at Orient Bay, what should they do? Do the French police actively patrol this area of the beach, or do they intentionally avoid this area to give the security guards carte blanche to engage in aggressive and violent behavior against tourists?
4. Is it the policy of the French government to intentionally reduce reported crimes against tourists at Orient Bay and St. Martin to protect tourism-related businesses?
5. Is the taking of photographs at Orient Bay on the public beach illegal, or just the taking of photographs of children who are nude (which is illegal in the United States as well)?
6. Is it French law that if property is stolen and subsequently recovered, no crime has been committed, as stated by your pudgy Gendarme at the police station outside Grande Case, St. Martin?
7. Does French law prohibit witness intimidation, such as use of unfounded threats of prosecution and imprisonment against victims of crime to dissuade them from filing a criminal activity report?
8. Is it the policy of the Gendarmes on St. Martin, Guadeloupe, to actively discourage tourists from filing reports of crime to prevent a decrease in tourism-generated revenue on the island? Did these same law enforcement officers destroy the written documentation they produced on this incident? They had notes from the three investigating officers, my statements, and my personal information from my identification document (my Maryland driver's license).
9. Was the intent in establishing the Gendarme station outside Grande Case, St. Martin, to assist tourists who have been the victim of crime?
10. How many reports of assaults or thefts at Club Orient Resort or on the public beach adjacent to Club Orient Resort have been reported between January 1, 2010 and June 30, 2010? How many reports of cameras being thrown into the water on this section of Orient Beach have been received during the same time period? How many injuries have been reported on this same section of the public beach during this time period?
I have never been arrested in my sixty years, I am permanently disabled and have difficulty walking due to severe spinal injuries, and I work as a consultant supporting the United States government in national security with an active Top Secret clearance. As a result of the threat of the Gendarmes at the #7 Grande Case police station, I did not return with the certificate of injury I received from the local hospital in Marigot to file a criminal charge against the employee of Club Orient who stole my cameras, severely injured my finger, and forced me to go onto Club Orient property to retrieve my property after they permanently deleted my photographic work. I am not a bad person. I am the victim of criminal behavior by an employee of Club Orient Resort and intentional witness intimidation by your police officers at that police station.
In an editorial written on March 20, 2010, by the local newspaper in St. Maarten, The Daily Herald, reference was made to the unsafe conditions on the French side of the island: "... in a society where, as many contend, the Justice system is failing citizens, for it does not have the resources at its disposal to deal with the crime situation." Perhaps your Gendarmes have developed a solution of systematically not reporting crime to create the impression such criminals such as the Club Orient employee who assaulted and injured me do not exist? In another editorial in the same newspaper published February 9, 2010, it was stated "...crime is becoming a serious threat to the local tourism economy and if it gets out of hand things quickly could turn very sour..." Tourists from all countries need to know if the island has become unsafe due, in part, to police corruption and incompetence.
Your timely response to this letter is greatly appreciated. In it, I request that you provide me with the names of the four police officers on duty that specific Saturday (May 22nd) and Sunday (May 23rd) if it does not violate French privacy laws. I would also appreciate information on any resulting action the French Government will take as a result of this information. I cannot image this occurrence is so normal that your officers have no recollection of this incident as it involved a total of seven of your officers (three taking the information at Club Orient and four at the station).
I will refrain from going very public with the crime dangers in St. Martin from both criminals and your Gendarmes until I receive your response or September 1, 2010, whichever occur first. Hopefully your information will dissuade me from pursuing the matter any further.
Most respectfully,
Claude F. Bordelon
Cc: U. S. Senator Barbara Mikulski (D, MD)
U. S. Congressman Chris Van Hollen (D, MD 8th District)
Prefet Jacques Simmonet, Prefet, St. Martin
Silviane John, Director, Tourist Office, St. Martin
Nancy Trejos, Travel Section, Washington Post
TripAdvisor.com
Roger F. Snow, President, The Caribbean Herald NV D.B.A The Daily Herald
Managing Director Mary Jane Snow-Hellmund, The Daily Herald
Leader of Government, Commissioner William Marlin has expressed deep sadness at the senseless murder of the manager of the Dutch Quarter Afoo Supermarket, Eric Yuan Sam, two days before the New Year, and one day after celebrating his 48th birthday.
Marlin also uncorked government's plans to combat rising crime in the community saying that several St. Maarteners are being trained to bolster the police force and that the new Police Force being designed for Country St. Maarten will be a modern operation "that is information-driven, and pro-active instead of reacting to calls that come into the station.
Marlin said Eric, as he was affectionately called, was much-loved in the community, and certainly did not deserve this tragic fate.
Describing his killing during a robbery as "cold-blooded murder." Marlin said this was a grim reminder that crime has gotten out of hand in our community.
"This is not who we are; this is not what St. Maarten is about, and we must all come together to take back our island from the hands of those who are intent in sowing fear and tears in our midst," the Leader of Government continued.
He said government was well aware of the current situation where crime is concerned and that is why in his New Year's address he focused on what government is doing to tackle the problem. He reiterated that the Executive Council is initiating a "national crime prevention program" aimed at making St. Maarten safer and more secure for all residents.
"Let me repeat that for this program to be successful, our approach must be holistic and everyone must get onboard," Commissioner Marlin stated.
"These criminals live among us. They have neighbors. It is the duty of every man and woman to be part of our effort to fight crime and make our island safer for all."
"Everyone, in every section in St. Maarten, must support the Police effort to prevent, investigate, solve and prosecute crime and perpetrators of crimes," he stressed, adding that it cannot work any other way.
He said government will seek further reinforcement to put "more police on the streets. The perpetrators of these crimes will not go scot free," he vowed.
Speaking on the new Police Force that is being designed for Country St. Maarten he said: "We have designed a new Police Force that will also be territorially-bound. In other words, it will function in teams distributed around the districts – with the Simpson Bay Police station becoming more or less on the same par as the Police station in Philipsburg. These teams will generate information and be expected to know all that is happening within their assigned districts," the Commissioner revealed.
"We will also establish our own basic Police Training Academy in St. Maarten and provide the Force with the necessary equipment it needs to carry out its duties effectively. This means investment in Information Technology, which has already begun. We will continue with and possibly expand the Bicycle Patrol (the so-called Bike Police)."
At the helm of this new Police Force will be a Chief of Police with experience and expertise, the Commissioner said. "I am happy to announce that our search for that person will soon result in the appointment of a Chief of Police with undisputed credentials. We will however, continue to invest heavily in the training of our own officers to fill in the top management positions in the Force as these become available."
Commissioner Marlin expressed his deep condolence to the family and friends of the late Eric Yuan Sam, whom he had personally known for many years, and called on the community to assist the Police in capturing his killer or killers.
"This senseless loss of lives must stop," Marlin concluded.
Cul de Sac --- Students on a school bus fired shots at a passing vehicle in the Cul de Sac area. SMN News learnt that at least one person has been shot. Police boarded the school bus in question and arrested two students who were in possession of firearms. More information on this case later today.
Philipsburg: --- Police were called to the St. Maarten Medical Center on Friday after two persons went to the hospital seeking medical treatment for bullet wounds. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said that at approximately 07.30 p.m. the Central Police Dispatch directed detectives to the Sint Maarten Medical Center to investigate a shooting incident. Henson said two men were shot during an argument shortly before. Immediately after receiving this call, the detectives went to the hospital to investigate the matter.
At the Sint Maarten Medical Center, the detectives spoke to the two victims who were brought in by private car. The initials of the victims are J.B. from the Dominican Republic and M.G. from Jamaica. J.B. had a flesh wound (in and out) to his upper left leg and M.G. had a bullet wound to his left foot. J.B. stated that he was driving in his car in the vicinity of Star Ocean Supermarket on Caracas drive in Dutch Quarter, when he saw the suspect he knows with initial J. J. according to J.B. the suspect had an unknown object hidden under his shirt and kept pointing at him. J.B. came out of the car at and an argument started between them. Both parties started pushing each other at which time a gun, which J.J had hidden under his shirt, fell to the ground. J.J picked up the gun and a shot suddenly went off hitting M.G on his lower right leg as he was sitting on the step of the supermarket. M.G. immediately got up and headed towards his home, which is located in close proximity. According to M.G., he saw when the argument was going on between J.B. and J.J and while trying to reach his home after being shot, he heard when a second shot went off. He did not see the actual shooting. M.G. said he was taken to the hospital by a friend in a private car. J.B. stated he felt threatened by J. and was shot for no reason. M.G. was operated on to remove the bullet from his leg. J.B. was treated and could go home. The detective and Forensic departments are busy investigating this case and hope within short to have this case closed.
(Press Release by Ricardo Henson)
GREAT BAY:--- On Tuesday afternoon February 2nd 2010, Governor of St. Maarten Franklyn Richards was paid a courtesy visit by current Miss Caribe Hibiscus Yoly Hawley of St. Maarten. Also present were Commissioner of Finance Xavier Blackman as a representative of the Executive Council and accompanying Miss Caribe Hibiscus, Mr. Patrick Eugene Director of the Miss Caribe Hibiscus Pageant.
Philipsburg:----The four Toastmasters Clubs of St Maarten, known as Area 6, put on a public display of professionalism in all aspects at their annual "Evening with the Toastmasters". The event was held at the Conference Room of Carl & Sons on Saturday evening. The four Clubs that participated are the Philipsburg Toastmasters Club, Soualiga Corporate Club, The Disciples and the St Maarten Achievers club.
The complete public display lasted for exactly two hours and consisted of the three segments of a Toastmasters meeting; Table topics session, Prepared speech projects and an evaluation session. There were four prepared speeches by Toastmasters; one from a Toastmaster representing each Club. The first speaker was Toastmaster Dwain Carbon; a new and dynamic member of the St Maarten Achievers. His project was to get to the point and he did just that with an inspirational presentation on achievement entitled "It is if you say it is". Next Competent Communicator Bernadette Hassel of the Philipsburg Toastmasters Club took the audience to the folk tale story telling of Haiti as she delivered a moving folk tale entitled "Bouki's shoes". She delivered her presentation from the Story telling manual. Competent Communicator Beryl Berkel gave an informative expose on Public Relations in her delivery of "The new buzz in town" in which she outlined how to deal with difficult people during a press conference making use of the acronym "HOSTILE". The final speaker for this section of the meeting was Advanced Communicator Catherine Connor-Arrindell who displayed her advanced presentation skills as she delivered a keynote address from the Professional Speaker manual. In her keynote address she inspired the audience to improve their lives through enhanced communication skills that can only be learnt in the Toastmasters organization. ACB Catherine brought the entire evening into full perspective making use of the other presentations as well as everyday situations to show how effective communication can be achieved thru better listening, thinking and speaking.
A special feature of the evening was a presentation by young Georgio Richardson who delivered an electrifying speech on bullying. Georgio was featured in the program to highlight the Toastmasters Youth Leadership Program that is conducted annually with youngsters ages 13 thru 18. His presentation, along with the other prepared speeches, was met with rousing applause from the audience.
A very important segment of the Toastmasters meeting was the effective evaluation process; in which each aspect of the meeting was evaluated based on Toastmasters International standards. Speakers were evaluated based on guidelines set out in the manuals as well as an oral evaluation of the speech and the communication effect on the evaluators. Presenters were also evaluated based on their use of grammar, time and fillers (ahs, uhs etc). The overall meeting was then evaluated and suggestions for future improvement provided.
In order to attract new members to the respective clubs display tables were set up where each club could provide Toastmasters information to the guests.
Valerie Brazier, Area 6 Governor commended all for a professionally conducted program and the audience for their involvement as well. She outlined that this is the first year that all four clubs had gotten together to host the annual event and based on the success this will continue in the future. She also commended DTM Richelda Emmanuel for an exemplary role of guiding the meeting as the Toastmaster of the Evening. "An Evening with the Toastmasters" is held annually as a membership drive and to bring Toastmasters closer to the General public.
Maho:--- The body of a man of Africa decent was found in the area of the old convention center in Mullet Bay on Monday. Prosecutor Rienk Mud said the dead man is unknown to police and they are calling on the community to come forward if they know of anyone that went missing.
Mud said the man was killed by someone and his death is not accidental neither did the man died of natural causes. With the recovery of the dead man the police is now investigating the third murder for the year 2010.
They are Christian Lloyd, Angela Georges and the unknown victim discovered on Monday. Police already had some ten murder cases that were under investigation from previous years and is still unsolved. Some of the recent cases include, David Eustace, Priest, Yuan Sam from Afoo group, and Haresh Dayalani who was killed in front of his Cole Bay home last year.
According to reports reaching SMN News the man was found shirtless lying on his back with visible marks of violence about his body. According to reliably information, the victim died from severe wounds to his head.
It is not clear if the victim of the latest homicide is residing on St. Maarten or if he was visiting the island.
A press release from police spokesman Ricardo Henson states that police was called just around midday informing them of the dead body that was located in the Mullet Bay Area.
Henson said several police patrol and members of the detective department were sent to the scene to investigate the gruesome discovery. Henson said on the scene police found a man of dark complexion, lying on his back in the open space where used to be the Mullet Bay Convention Center. Henson said the man bled from several wounds that was on his head and body. Already police has determined the case as a criminal investigation in their preliminary reports. Police is yet to identify the man as well as the cause of death.
Henson said the police department is calling on the community to identify the now dead man whom he said is about 5feet 9inches tall, dark complexion, strong posture, and he is either in his late twenties or early thirties. The victim head is shaven bald, and he has no facial hair. At the time of the discovery he was in shorts and no shirt. The victim he said has two tattoos on his left shoulder, one bearing the name Mikaila Paula, or Zoila and or Rolia. The other tattoo is two hands comming together in prayer.
The Police Department is asking anyone of the general public or a family member who may recognize this person based on description that is given to contact the Detective Department on the Phone number 54-22222 ext. 222/224/225 or they can also call 911 to give information to be able to establish the identity of the victim. Also the Police Department is asking the general public who may have any information with regard to this criminal act to also give the Detective Department a call and pass on this information.
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The St. Maarten Youth Development Program has launched its awareness campaign for the business community under the slogan "Giving our youngsters in the community a second chance". The aim of the campaign is to generate awareness of the program amongst the business community and to get the businesses involved in the program as much as possible as the business community plays a key role in the development of our youngsters.
The St. Maarten Youth Development Program is part of the Education & Youth program project. It is a corporation program between the island government of St Maarten and the Dutch government and funded by USONA. The program is especially for youngsters between the ages of 16 and 24 years who were unable to finish secondary education. With this program youngsters obtain the basic qualifications needed to enter the job market or further their studies at the SBO/ASVE schools. The program currently offers the courses Front Desk Agent, Bartending/Waiter/Waitress, Room Care Attendant (general maintenance), PC Repair and Networking, Cook and SPW1 (assistant caregiver). Before the students are able to begin these courses, they must complete three months training in social skills, computer lessons and if necessary English lessons.
During the next few months, the program's team will be contacting businesses and arranging informative meetings to provide information on the program and to ascertain businesses that graduates of the program are capable of doing the work they are qualified for. The feedback from the businesses is also important in further developing the program and the program is aiming to establish a relationship where businesses can help in the development or adjustment of courses.
Letters to a selection of businesses will be sent out in the next couple days so businesses are asked to look out for the letters that are kindly requesting their time and assistance. Project Leader Janelle Presentacion stated "We are working extremely hard to teach our youngsters a trade and instill a positive attitude that will help them lead positive lives. However we need the assistance of the businesses to show these youngsters that with hard work and determination, success is possible but our youngsters cannot experience this without the helping hand of businesses". For more information on the campaign or the program, please contact Janelle Presentacion at 543-0497 or email her at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Great Bay, St. Maarten (Friday, July 16, 2010) – Paul the Octopus may have been retired after successfully predicting the results of eight World Cup matches, including the final one, but it seems Puerto Ricans are being called upon to match his prowess in a new promotion launched on Thursday, July 15, 2010, by the St. Maarten Tourist Office in Puerto Rico.
Themed, "Escaapate a St. Maarten con San Patricio Plaza" (Escaape to St. Maarten with San Patricio Plaza) participants are asked to guess how many seashells are inside a plastic urn filled with an unspecified amount of seashells.
The person who guesses or submits the closest number of seashells in the urn will win a 2 nights / 3 days vacation for 2 in St. Maarten at the Holland House Beach Hotel, including a return airfare courtesy of American Eagle.
The plastic urn is located in San Patricio Plaza's main hallway, next to Kmart's main entrance, which has a lot of traffic, especially during this time of the year due to the on-going back-to-school shopping.
http://www.diviertetemas.com/caracoles or by sending an e-mail to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Persons can also participate by scanning the QR-Code (two-dimensional barcode) on the display with their Smartphone. By doing this, the person's phone will open the specific website address with the promo registration from.
This Sunday, an ad El Nuevo Dia newspaper will also have a call-to-action to the promo and the QR-Code that people can scan with their smart phones. This marketing strategy is new in Puerto Rico and people will find it very curious and fun. In this way. St. Maarten will engage people to participate.
The promo is also being advertised on Facebook and via an e-mail blast to over 18,000 addresses. San Patricio Plaza will also do their part to promote this with their Facebook group and Twitter account, as well as in their bi-weekly newsletter. The promotion will run through August 22.
San Patricio Plaza is an upscale mall specializes in clothing, jewelry and footware boutiques. Located in Guaynabo, San Juan's tony neighborhood, over 150 stores are under one roof for your shopping. A movie theater and a food court featuring popular fast food restaurants provide other attractions.
Philipsburg:---Staff of the St. Maarten Nature Foundation have captured the venomous Lionfish on the "Bridge" dive site on Saturday morning with the help of a local Dive Centre. "Ocean Explorers Dive Center contacted us late Friday saying that they and their guests would be heading to the dive site where the lionfish was reported by another Dive Operator, Octopus Diving, on the 15th of July. The diving community have been excellent in sharing information with the Nature Foundation regarding sightings of the lionfish", commented Nature Foundation Manager Tadzio Bervoets.
On Saturday morning Nature Foundation staff, assisted by Ocean Explorer Divemaster Cayley Mackay,were able to capture the specimen and bring it to the surface. The specimen was a nine centimetre long juvenile and was hiding within a wreck, so capturing it using specially designed collecting nets proved difficult.
The specimen was euthanized, samples were taken and stomach contents were analysed. The Nature Foundation stresses that it is very important that every specimen be reported, euthanized and important data collected. "Unfortunately we need to kill every specimen which we collect because we need very specific data which is necessary to manage the infestation. We feel guilty killing such a beautiful animal but we need to in order to protect our reef fish and limit its spread."
Lionfish are an invasive venomous fish that can inflict a painful and sometimes fatal sting. Lionfish are usually found in the Indian and Pacific Oceans but were introduced into the Atlantic thru the aquarium trade. "Our native fish species don't recognize the Lionfish as a threat so they are unable to defend themselves against it. In other places were lionfish were spotted there are hardly any snappers and grouper because those are the type of fish the lionfish likes to eat."
The Nature Foundation will be hosting an information session on the Lionfish at La Bamba Beach Bar on Kim-Sha beach on Wednesday, the 28th of July. If a lionfish is seen contact should be made with the Nature Foundation at 5444267 or 5270490 or by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
The Hague:--- The St. Maarten delegation headed by leader of government and commissioner of constitutional affairs William Marlin has lots to rejoice over now that they have crossed the final hurdle on Thursday in the Netherlands during the Round Table Conference(RTC) meeting. Moments after the meeting was concluded Marlin said Thursday, September 9th, 2010 marks a historic day in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. But in particular for the people of St. Maarten, as it was concluded and agreed upon at the Round Table Conference, that St. Maarten and Curacao would become countries. For St. Maarten this process started some 10 years and almost three months ago, when the majority of our people voted in the historic referendum to leave the Netherlands Antilles.
During Thursday's ceremonies, Marlin said he asked the meeting to observe a moment of silence in memory of the Late Councilman Vance James Jr. who "did not make it to the promised land". Vance was one of the three leaders who rallied the people of St. Maarten during the June 23rd 2000 referendum to "step out" of the Netherlands Antilles and become country.
"Against all odds, we have made it to the finals and passed the test. The immediate reaction 10 years ago, by the Dutch Government and Members of the 2nd Chamber, was that St. Maarten could not become country. But we didn't give up, we never lost faith." Marlin said.
"I have always said that the constitutional future of St. Maarten is bigger than any one politician or political party. And for that reason I have always remained loyal to Team St. Maarten and believed that one day, St. Maarten would become country." Marlin continued.
"Today marks the end of this process to become country and on 10-10-10, one month from today it will be a New Beginning! a new beginning for the people of St. Maarten, We have a new country to build, together." The island's leader said.
Congratulations are in place for all the persons who have given so much of their time, expertise and energy to help Team St. Maarten accomplish this goal on behalf of the people. All the Ministers, State Secretaries, Advisors, Staff of the Secretariat, members of the different Kingdom work groups and all members of the Island Council, past and present, particularly those members of the present Island Council, who have supported the process over the past weeks, to enable us to adopt the Constitution of St. Maarten unanimously and to sign off on all the organic laws, Meetings were held on the day of the passing of the hurricane, on Saturdays and on certain days until late in the morning, even until 3:15 a.m.
During the Round Table Conference, copies of the English version of the Constitution of St. Maarten, bound in leather, were presented to all delegation leaders, members of the different Kingdom workgroups and to Robert Vennix who helped in making the final adaptations to the constitution, making it the most modernized and progressive constitution in the Kingdom.
A copy was also presented o former Commissioner of Constitutional Affairs, Mrs. Sarah Wescot-Williams, to Mrs. Mavis Brooks Salmon, Deputy Minister Plenipotentiary of the Netherlands Antilles, who has been appointed the first Vice Chairperson of the Council of Advice for Country St. Maarten and the first Governor for Country St. Maarten, Mr. Eugene Holiday.
Eugene Holiday, Dennis Richardson, Richard Gibson and Joane Dovale Meit deserve special recognition for the exemplary work given to Team St. Maarten.
For now, let us all join in the celebrations as we prepare for 10-10-10, the day St. Maarten will become country.
Tomorrow, God's willing, after our return from the Netherlands I will address the people of St. Maarten live via radio and TV at 5:00 p.m.
Philipsburg:--- Police are busy investigating the killing of a man whose body was found on the road in the vicinity of Le Grand Marche. It is believed that the man was shot to death.
On the scene on Wednesday night around 10:45pm was police spokesman Ricardo Henson. Henson confirmed that police discovered the body of dead man on the road. The police spokesman said he was unable to confirm who the victim was and who exactly is responsible for the killing. More information on this murder investigation will be given in a subsequent article.
Belvue:--- A very successful handing out ceremony of first St. Martin ID-cards on '10-10-10' took place on Sunday last October 10, 2010 ('10-10-10') a very special special-, and symbolic ceremony was held that was meaningful to the St. Martin people.
During this event, content was given to the celebration of '10-10-10', in recognition of the native St. Martin people.
This was done by handing out the first cultural St. Martin ID-cards to a number of native St. Martiners-, and long-time residents of the island as well.
The following were recipients of the first St. Martin ID-card indicating them to be rooted in the Traditional period of St. Martin.
Miguel Arrindell, Max Choisie, Lino Hughes, Adeline Thomas-James, dr. Aurelius Scot, drs. Mark Williams.
Also receiving their St. Martin ID-card based on honorary recognition of their contribution to the grassroots St. Martin nation building movement were, Kishore Mirchandani (Kishu) and Damodar Ghanshamdas (Damu)
The St. Martin ID-card does not replace the nationality of its holder- rather it is an added identity-value to the nationality of those whose ancestry is rooted in the Traditional Period of St. Martin (1848-1963) and who therefore can be considered as St. Martiners, regardless their color, race-, religion, place of birth- and/or nationality.
Clearly-, this document not only gives St. Martiners a renewed- and necessary sense of pride in their St. Martin heritage- and culture, but it also creates a sense of bonding with other card-holding St. Martiners anywhere in the world as well as a bonding with the homeland 'Sweet SMaatn' land.
Needless to explain that eventually this group of St. Martiners, can become a very powerful constituency in their own homeland, something many had long given up on.
In addition by offering this ID-card to other ethnic residents on the island, who have contributed towards the preservation of the St. Martin heritage on the island, in a very convincing manner a contribution has been made towards St. Martin nation building-, unification and inclusion.
By publicly recognizing- and accepting Damu-, and Kishu as brothers and fellow St. Martiners, the false accusations of hatred against foreigners and of xenophobia have been completely dispelled once and for all.
While the official-, Government organized '10-10-10' celebration was experienced as a real 'bourgoisie' event, the grass roots version has created an enormous demand for the cards.
Preparations are being made by the movement to facilitate the official procedure of accepting somewhere between November 1 and 11 of 2010.
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PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto announced on Tuesday that creditors on Sint Maarten who have outstanding invoices with the former Netherlands Antilles Federal Government for services and goods delivered up to October 9, 2010 for which no payment has been received, are hereby requested to submit their declaration along with their invoices to the Finance Department, Government Administration Building at the Clem Labega Square.
Creditors are also requested to submit their banker and bank account number where payments can be made based on the invoices submitted.
Previously, the former Federal Government use to make payments by check or cash on the island. This won't be the case now and that is why all creditors would have to submit a bank account number so the former Director of Finance can transfer the monies from Curacao.
The paper work should be submitted to the attention of the following persons at the Finance Department, Head of Finance Bas Roorda or Cassandra Royer-Wilson.
For those who have the information digitally, you can send this via email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
If the information is not submitted you run the risk of not receiving payment.
Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto met with Curacao's Minister of Finance George Jamaloodin and his advisors among which the former Federal Government Director of Finance last Friday who informed him about the aforementioned.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Vice Prime Minister Theo Heyliger supports the Red Cross Sint Maarten appeal for donations from the community to help the victims of the islands that were impacted by Hurricane Tomas.
Red Cross Sint Maarten is requesting money rather than donations of food and clothes. Anyone who wants to donate can send money to Windward Islands Bank accounts 809.809.00 (Naf.) and 809.809.02 (US$). Persons making monetary donations can also specify on the deposit slip which island they would like their donation to benefit.
"We are saddened by the loss of life and the millions of dollars in damage left behind by Tomas early November. I appeal to every resident and the business community for your assistance. As a nation we must do our part to assist our Caribbean brothers and sisters.
"The people of Sint Maarten can empathize with our Caribbean neighbours after having gone through such an experience back in 1995 with hurricane Luis," Vice Prime Minister Theo Heyliger said on Tuesday speaking from The Hague, Holland.
The disaster struck the Caribbean region during a challenging time. The global financial crisis has impacted Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) member states with regional Gross Domestic Product (GDP) having contracted by almost eight per cent in 2009 and this year is projected to contract by an additional three per cent.
Minister Heyliger said during his working visit to Holland this week, he will speak with his ministerial colleagues in The Hague with reference to having Holland support international efforts to help those islands that have been impacted by the hurricane.
"Efforts are underway by the OECS Authority to have a team from the United Nations system conduct macro socio-economic disaster impact assessments which would compute the indirect and direct effects and impacts of this disaster event with respect to the short, medium and long-term economic performance of the islands.
"These assessments will be used to engage the international community of nations as well as international institutions such as the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank with respect to long term support that is vital to the reconstruction of the islands. With Holland's international membership and vote in certain organizations, we ask that our Dutch colleagues assist by using their influence to help our Caribbean brothers and sisters," Vice Prime Minister Theo Heyliger pointed out on Tuesday.
Philipsburg:--- The production plant that supplies GEBE with water ran into difficulty on Wednesday leaving about half of the Dutch side of the island without water.
GEBE commercial manager Steve Duzanson said that Airfin had some difficulties at the production plant causing the water shortage throughout Wednesday. Some schools ended school early on Wednesday due to the water shortage. The GEBE manager said the effects of the water shortage did not come directly from the utility company. SMN News learnt that the water tank in Cay Hill went down rather quickly causing air to enter the water lines. SMN News also understands that whenever Airfin gets backs its production capacity to normal it will take GEBE maintenance men at least four hours to get the excess air out of the lines. Up to late Wednesday afternoon several areas in Philipsburg were still out of water.
Cripple Gate: --- The body of a dead man was found at his doorsteps in Cripple Gate on New Years Day. According to reliable sources, the man had several injuries that would suggest that he was murdered. SMN News has been reliably informed that the man was killed by one of his compatriots who are currently locked up on the Dutch side pending extradition. However, our sources say the two cases are linked but somewhat complicated.
SMN News has learnt that the man was either badly beaten or killed sometime during New Years Eve or during the early hours of New Years Day. Authorities on the French side have not released any information on the discovery of the dead man whom it is understood is of Haitian decent.
Efforts made to contact Commandant Stephen Brunet and Captain Stephen Arrousseau for a comment on the case proved futile up to press time on Monday.
On Monday, a Haitian man appeared before the judge of instruction on the Dutch side, as he is wanted by authorities on the French side for attempted murder. It is not clear if the two cases are linked. Prosecutor Jacques Louvier when contacted on Monday said he had no information on the extradition since he is currently on vacation.
It appears that the French sides has already recorded their first murder for the year 2010, but have chosen not to release any information about the gruesome discovery and probable cause of death.
Philipsburg: The following is the message delivered by Leader of Government William Marlin on the occasion of the National Day of Prayer.
"Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!" Thus sings the Psalmist. It is indeed good and pleasant when brethren can come together as one to pray and praise the Lord.
This is what this gathering here today is all about: an offering of prayers to the Lord, asking for his continued protection, provision and guidance for our community, for our island, its people and its governments both in the North and South.
St. Maarten is a blessed island. We are a blessed people; not because we are so special; not because we are so pious; but because we are highly favored by the Almighty.
Amidst all the global economic meltdown that has seriously affected countries all over the world, we are still standing, shaken but not knocked down. That is a special favor of God, no matter how much we would like to claim the honors for ourselves.
In the face of global warming and the resulting climate change, with Europe, the United States and other parts of the world experiencing the worst winter in half a century, we can still bask in the Caribbean sun, and enjoy the warmth of Paradise. That is God's special favor upon us.
While international terrorism stalks the skies, striking fear into the hearts of millions across the globe, our own skies have been spared such horrors and we have not had to lose any sleep over potential attacks. That is God's special favour upon His people.
That is why we are gathered here today: to seek God's favours as we begin this year of the Lord, 2010, a year that holds a lot of promise for us as a people; a year in which our advancement as a people will be measured by how united we are and how committed we will be to the ways of the Lord.
I am, of course, not a preacher. Those of you, who know me, know me perhaps better as a teacher. The two however share quite a lot in common: they are both callings; and both the preacher and the teacher are called to disseminate the truth; to impart knowledge; to educate and edify and mould souls.
The preacher and the teacher also share another thing in common (and this time, presumably with the politician, also): they can often talk for long.
Fellow St. Maarteners, Ladies and Gentlemen, Residents, Friends, it is not my intention to keep you here for too long. I must, however, share a few thoughts with you.
Prayer is putting our faith to work - and work is prayer. Government, like any other person, needs prayers, not just because as Christians we are required to pray for our leaders, but also because as Government, all our plans will come to naught if we do not first seek God's approval.
This brings me to the point of the separation between Church and State. There are those among us who question why we should have a National Day of Prayer, implying that Church and State should not mix.
I have my own views about that. The separation between Church and State, as I understand it, is not meant to be a divorce; to the contrary, it is supposed to lead to mutual respect, and a relationship based on a common belief: that we are ALL God's children.
Some people, on the other hand, lament the fact that the Church generally stays out of social issues, and even moral ones that affect our society.
In my humble view, the role of the Church also includes serving as the moral conscience of the community. This role should not be confined to the four walls of the Church.
The Church should be seen as an agent of fundamental change in the dangerous direction society sometimes takes. A good example of this is the rising crime rate on the island.
Not only the Community Councils should be establishing a Task Force, the Church should also get involved and let its voice be heard loud and clear; after all crime is a sin against man and God. It affects ALL of us, whether you are saved or not saved.
Similarly, the Church cannot and should not remain silent when children are deliberately left out of school because of their immigration status which is no fault of theirs.
Education is not an immigration issue; it is not just a social issue; it is also a spiritual issue. After all, wasn't it Jesus Christ himself who told his disciples, "Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God"?
What I'm trying to say is that we cannot claim to be God-fearing people and yet discriminate against children in such a way that we deny them education.
The Church has been a dominant part of education on our island. And by the same token of the involvement of the Church in education, I dare say St. Maarten cannot develop without the Church being part of that development in an enlightened way.
At the same time, the Church, I humbly submit, cannot progress unless the faithful experience progress in a holistic manner, and by that I mean body and soul.
Fellow St. Maarteners, Ladies and Gentlemen, Residents, Friends, as we begin this New Year, the two – Church and State – "two-gether", and the whole island Together must move forward in order to face the challenges of 2010 and beyond.
These challenges include: reducing crime, creating jobs, improving our educational system, setting up the structures for our new country status; marching towards 10-10-10 together confident that we are the Joshua generation, destined to get to the promised land of country St. Maarten.
This reminds me of that Scripture where a dozen scouts were sent to check out the land of Canaan. Nowadays, the 12 would be known as spies and treated as such. Ten of them, an overwhelming majority, came back and said it was a mission impossible to take the land because it was full of giants.
They saw themselves as grasshoppers. Only two returned with a positive report, confident that those giants could be defeated, and the land promised as inheritance to the children of God would become theirs.
God doesn't work with a misguided majority; He chooses an enlightened (I guess, some of you would say, an anointed) few to accomplish His plans. That is why one with God is a majority.
This Scripture is very relevant to our pursuit of Country Status for St. Maarten. Our Island Council currently consists of 12 members – yes, 12: - 11 elected and one, the chairman, appointed by the Crown.
We may not be the 12 scouts spying on the land of Canaan. But we have been repeatedly told also that it is impossible for St. Maarten to become a country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands because there are too many giant problems the island cannot handle.
Fellow St. Maarteners, Ladies and Gentlemen, Residents, Friends, well, I am pleased to tell you that today, 10-01-10, exactly nine months to that glorious date, today, by the grace of God, we are now camping on the outskirts of our own Canaan right now.
My question to you today, therefore, is: are you one of those 10 scouts who see giants and are terrified by them, are you one of the ten who see themselves as grasshoppers or are you one of the two who see victory as a God-given blessing for His people?
Let me quickly add that Country St. Maarten is not going to be a land full of milk and honey. Country St. Maarten will not be Heaven on earth. Country St. Maarten is part of our journey to that eternal Kingdom which is our final destination.
It may take us through the Kingdom of the Netherlands for a while. But we're not stopping there. It may take us through valleys and potholes, but we shall fear not. It will demand of us more work, more sacrifices, but we shall not be moved.
Fellow St. Maarteners, Ladies and Gentlemen, Residents, Friends, I am convinced as leader of your government, that with your prayers, and with God on our side, we shall move this island forward together.
Philipsburg:---- One of the suspects arrested on Friday last week was sent to Statia on Friday after the young man K.A.D appeared before the judge of instruction for extension of his pretrial detention. According to information, reaching SMN News K.A.D was arrested for at least two shooting incidents, which took place in 2008. SMN News learnt that members of the RST raided K.A.D's home on Friday last week, two days after they arrested the mother of his five-month old child. Sources say the young man whose girlfriend is also in police custody was questioned about the shooting and murder of Afoo businessman Eric Yuan Sam. "It seems as if the police are on a fishing expedition to solve this gruesome murder case, since they are questioning everyone they arrest about it." The source said.
Prosecutor Rienk Mud in an invited comment said he could not confirm neither could he deny if K.A.D was sent to Statia on Friday. Mud said the K.A.D was arrested as a suspect in robbery cases. The public prosecutor made clear that he said on numerous occasions that no arrests were made in the Eric Yuan Sam murder investigation.
SMN News has been reliably informed that police found a diary belonging to the female suspect R.D (17) which has incriminating information. Police and RST raided R.D's home on Wednesday last week and she is currently held on firearm charges.
It is further understood that police also arrested the sister of R.D with initials R.D. The source said the second R.D claimed that monies that was found in sister's house belonged to her since she is working at the Princess Juliana International Airport. SMN News also learnt that police also arrested a cousin of the two girls on Wednesday. Even though police arrested several suspects during the past week, they are yet to release any information on the arrests.
Philipsburg:--- Today is election day for voters of the Netherlands Antilles. Contesting the federal elections on St. Maarten are three political parties, namely the National Alliance led by William V. Marlin, the Democratic Party led by Sarah Wescot Williams and the People Progressive Party led by Gracita Arrindell. At 3 pm there were a mere 36% of voters that casted their votes. It is expected that voters would flock the polling stations later this afternoon.
Above are the latest scores from each polling station.
St.Kitts:--- A Guyanese woman is still in police custody despite being fined for a crime after elections charges that was brought against her is now in further hot water as despite the magistrate's ruling they are refusing to release her. Joylyn Ross was convicted and fined for being at the polling station with a Motorola phone on Election Day. While a second charge which was brought against her was dismissed. She was convicted on the first charge and fined $3,000.00 XCD which the magistrate ordered must be paid within six months.
However, the police are refusing to release Ross despite the magistrate Yasmine Clarke concluding that the issue of Ross immigration status will have to be determined by the Ministry of National Security. The police are contending that Ross has no legal time on the island and therefore cannot be release. She has however been asked by the police to pay the fine and also to secure a ticket to Guyana. When the case was first called in court today (yesterday) morning to an overflowing court room, Chesley Hamilton appeared for the defense while the police had their case presented by Inspector Trevor Mills. Hamilton is however contending that the action of the police demonstrates that they have disobeyed the court's ruling stressing that the police have flouted the court's ruling.
The inspector argued that the defendant had no legal time on the island and thus should not be granted bail in reference to bail application which was put forward by Hamilton. The magistrate then asked; "...can I release her if she don't have time on the island," responding to the magistrate's question both Inspector Mills and Assistant Commissioner of Police Joseph Liburd rose and responded by stating no. "If she was granted bail by this court we will re-arrest her your honour as she is in breach of immigration policy," Liburd said. The magistrate then noted that the law gives the police certain powers which also centers around immigration. "There is two matters here, one that deals with criminal and the other that addresses immigration and I want to state that I have no authority , no jurisdiction on immigration related matters," the magistrate told the packed courtroom.
As magistrate Yasmine Clarke made her statement, Hamilton requested time to converse with his client so as to get the details of the case as he pointed out in court that he was only contracted as the woman's lawyer the very morning. Liburd reiterated that the woman has no immigration status noting that bail should be refused as Hamilton sought again to convince the magistrate to release the woman on bail. After both the prosecution and defense were evidently on loggerheads with regards to whether and how the matter should proceed the magistrate enquired if the police was ready to proceed with the case if she was going to hear it, they responded in the affirmative.
During at the break the Assistant Commissioner of Police was asked by this reporter if the public were properly sensitized on the new law which was passed in December of 2009 in parliament. He said that he is satisfied that the public was fully aware noting that leading up to the elections there were several notices cautioning voters on the use of their mobile phones. "The public had sufficient time to become aware of the new law and therefore I believe that they were fully aware of it," he said.
It was then decided to adjourn the case for 1.30pm after Hamilton's 1.00pm request was turned down. When the case got started at 1.30 Ross made her first appearance and after a brief presentation by Hamilton who requested the court's mercy on the woman taking into account that it was her first brush with the law the magistrate in handing down her judgment ordered that Ross pay the state the some of three thousand dollars within the space of six months. In speaking to this reporter Ross said that she had hoped to be given an opportunity to address the court in her defense. When asked as to her thoughts on the decision the mother of one broke down in tears saying; "...all I want is to be able to be set free and see my daughter, God, my God why are they treating me like a criminal I am no criminal and this is not fair," a tearful Ross said.
She said that while she has been given six months to pay her fine the immigration authorities should allow her some time on the island so as to get a few things in order as she has a number of things at her apartment among other things that needed to be sorted out and treating her like a common criminal. She said that she is fully aware that her situation is one of political mischief being created so as to silence persons who want to speak out. "This can never be fair and it pains my heart to know that I am being kept away from my three year old daughter as I do not know how she is doing, I trust that the Prime Minister will come through with his promise of looking into my matter as I need his intervention because I have no problem in leaving but I beg to be given a chance to leave properly," a broken hearted Ross said.
Police Public and Press Officer, Inspector Vaughn Henderson said that immigration police gives the Commissioner of Police as the Chief Immigration officer the right to decide whether someone should be deported or not adding that the actions of the police are not 'out of line'.
PHILIPSBURG—Imbali Center for Creative Movement is announcing the dates for its upcoming theatrical production Boudoir Secrets: Journey into the Erotica, which is scheduled to run at the Philipsburg Cultural and Community Center from February 13 thru 20.
The production's premier is set to be something special, with show time starting at 12am on Sunday February 14 (Valentine's morning) and running until approximately 1.30am. The venue will open at 11.30pm and those who have purchased tickets in advance will be given first preference. On the other dates the show will begin at 8pm sharp and the gate will open at 7.30pm.
Boudoir Secrets, was choreographed by Imbali founder Clara Reyes, who is also the show's director. Reyes and her mixed gender cast have been rehearsing non-stop for several weeks and promise that this production is one that will leave audiences chanting for more.
"I, along with several of my friends and associates, have been trying to put this production together for quite a few years. When In The Company of Women Presents The Vagina Monologues St. Martin ended over two years ago this production was already on the table, but the timing was always off. Now is the time. The cast is ready; they have been begging to do it for some time now, I'm ready and most importantly I think the people of St. Maarten/St. Martin are ready," Reyes said.
According to Reyes the motivation for putting together Boudoir Secrets stemmed from the inhibited ways in which topics of sexuality was dealt with by some during The Vagina Monologues.
"During that show I realized how taboo talking about sex still was on the island and yet there are so many people who want to talk openly and honestly about it. We have all these traditions, expectations, and reservations about being sexual and yet we are, so that is what this particular production deals with from many, many angles. During monologues the cast had all these stories about reactions in the community to the idea of a show dealing with sex and then later with some of the sexual content, but this is a subject matter that needs to be touched in order to gain new understanding and perspective. We want people to walk away thinking about how their own thoughts about sexuality have been formed and guide their lives and of course, also having enjoyed themselves," Reyes said.
Reyes said that those familiar with her productions can expect a format similar to History and Vagina Monologues. The show is built around dance, poetry and skits all dealing with sexuality and erotica and is most definitely for adult audiences only.
"This show is not for children and we do not encourage parents to bring along youngsters. In fact, those under 18 will most definitely be turned away. The content of this production tackles very adult topics, but in both serious and amusing ways," Reyes said.
Reyes said that there will several pieces of erotic poems and songs and stated that her cast would be dancing some spicy, titillating pieces.
"As I said the cast is ready, in fact their more than ready. They came with their own ideas and stories and together we developed this show for the people of St. Maarten/St. Martin. I'm encouraging everyone to come out and see for themselves what this production is all about. We promise you will not be disappointed," Reyes said.
Tickets for Boudoir Secrets: Journey into the Erotica cost $20 in advance and $25 at the gate and can be purchased at Imbali Center for Creative Movement in the John Larmonie Center on Longwall Rd or at Pete's Photo on Bush Road. More information about the production can also be obtained by contacting Reyes at
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 554-9364.
Great Bay:--- Commissioner of Tourism, Frans Richardson has expressed satisfaction at a pilot project that would soon see environmental code of conduct signage displayed at some of our most frequented beaches and marinas.
"This is a much needed project that will help us to preserve our environment for future generations to also enjoy and make our tourism product to remain competitive," the Commissioner commented when the pilot project was recently presented to him. "It certainly has my full support," he said.
The project is a collaborative effort of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau and EPIC (Environmental Protection in the Caribbean), who have adopted the code of conduct guidelines of the Blue Flag Program that is aimed at promoting sustainable development in the coastal areas through high water quality standards, safety standards, environmental management standards and environmental education. EPIC is the local coordinator for the Blue Flag Program.
The Blue Flag Programme started in France in 1985 and is coordinated by the non-profit organization, Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). Many countries from around the globe are now participants in this Programme.
According to Regina LaBega, Director of Tourism, five beaches and the Simpson Bay Lagoon marina have been identified for this pilot project. They are the Simpson Bay, Mullet Bay, Kim Sha, Little Bay, and Great Bay beaches.
"The project involves putting up some 32 signs and 24 garbage bins at these beaches and a sign at the Lagoon Marina," LaBega explained. "The code of conduct signs will spell out the do's and don'ts for beach users and indicate the amenities available at the beaches."
"These signs will be easily visible to the public and placed at all major entrance points," the Director of Tourism added. "Apart from tourist information and emergency telephone numbers for the Police, Fire, and Ambulance Departments, the signs will also indicate rules about camping fires, vehicles on the beaches and the use of the garbage bins."
Rueben Thompson of EPIC explained that the environmental codes of conduct are "benchmarks used to control the impact of tourism on nature and on cultural resources to achieve sustainable tourism."
"In other words," he said, "they are a set of principles which constitute guidelines on how to behave in an environmentally responsible and correct manner when visiting places of environmental and cultural importance."
Thompson said that this phase of the project is an essential step towards Blue Flag certification of the island's beaches and marinas which enjoys the enthusiastic support of Commissioner Frans Richardson who called the Blue Flag Program "a great and much needed initiative."
The code of conduct signs will carry warnings such as:
1. Do not touch living marine wildlife, such as coral, animals, etc.
2. Do not collect souvenirs
3. Do not stand or rest on coral reefs
4. Never harass aquatic animals for your amusement
5. Always be aware of your position in the water and that of your dive gear, in
relation to marine animals and the coral reef.
6. Do not feed marine animals.
The project will be accompanied by an intensive Public Relations campaign about the importance of preserving the environment and keeping our beaches and marinas clean. The campaign will target mainly the general public, the school community and visitors (hotel guests, cruise ship passengers, etc.)
"We are forever grateful and thankful for their readily available support and assistance to us whenever we request their help," this is according to President of the Meals On Wheels Programme, Mary Brison. Brison was referring to Windward Islands Airways for what she said has been their continued contributions to the communities that they serve.
The Meals on Wheels President pointed out that despite enduring challenging and very difficult years in keeping her programme alive, Winair continues to chip in through several ways. She pointed out that since the formation of her organization in 1995 they have only been able to garner funding and sponsorship support for one year which was in the first year of establishment.
She said that the organization as established on January 26th 1995 after the devastating effects of Hurricane Lewis which had the time had created havoc and major damage to both life and property. She noted that immediately following the hurricane she commenced providing meals to persons affected by the hurricane. "I begun by having cooked food each day which was done under two Heineken tents in my front yard and I would provide a hot meal a day to several persons seven days a week in and around my community," Brison said.
She added that after things returned to normal and the situation was brought under control she sought to provide a hot meal everyday to persons living in shut ins and underprivileged children. Quizzed on how funds are garnered so as to keep what many persons have described as true humanitarian efforts being executed by Brison, she said that her organization executes three fundraising ventures each month noting that monies garnered from these events helps in keeping her programme running. "It is through the three fundraising ventures that helps us to keep this progranmme going as getting help and assistance continues to prove difficult," she said.
She proudly disclosed that at present some 60 odd seniors and 20 underprivileged children benefits each day from hotly prepared meals which she stressed is prepared each day and then distributed. "Keeping such a programme going is really tuff as each day we are tasked with preparing food for both seniors and underprivileged children but I have made a commitment when I got started and even though at times I feel frustrated and somewhat tired I know that keeping this programme going is the only thing that matters. I cannot afford to stop this now as these people (seniors and underprivileged) look forward to each day for a hot meal," she said.
Brison added that the work that is being done by her organization is important as it seeks to provide for those that are normally ignored. She said that their only help is the meal that they would get on a daily basis. "Most of these people eat their only meal from us as in many cases they are not assisted or given the opportunities that they so desperately seek," she said.
She said that currently her programme is executed through the help of four volunteers while each day four vehicles are assigned in distributing the meals around the place. "There are times that I feel like calling it quits owing to the growing difficulties and challenges faced but when I look at these persons and I see the joy that is evident in their faces when I am distributing meals it reminds me that I need to continue," she said.
Brison expressed that her organization has plans in continuing to provide hot meals each day while they seek to enhance the lives of those living in shut in and also affected by varying health and social issues thus she has no plans to quit. "My heart would be broken if I was to do that therefore I cannot stop as these people depends upon us, Meals on Wheels programe," she declared.
Toastmasters Area 6 will be hosting the annual Toastmasters public meeting this Saturday March 13th at the Carl & Sons Conference room beginning at 7.30pm. Entitled "An evening with the Toastmasters" this event has been hosted for the past 6 years by the Philipsburg Toastmasters Club as part of the Toastmasters attempt to bring the organization to the public. This year the Club has agreed to allow Area 6, which comprises the four clubs on St Maarten to host the event.
The Evening with the Toastmasters will simulate an actual Toastmasters meeting on stage for the public. The three main areas of the meeting consisting of the Tabletopic session (impromptu speaking), the prepared speeches as well as the Evaluation session will all be demonstrated. Throughout the event, the public will be explained the purpose of Toastmasters as well as the International impact the organization has been having for the past 85 years.
The event begins at 7.30pm at the Conference Room of Carl & Sons. Admission is free, business attire is required and the general public has been invited to attend. The main purpose of the event is to attract members to the organization by demonstrating how an average meeting is held. Area Governor Valerie Brazier explained that Toastmasters is an international Communication and Leadership organization that is rapidly growing in the Caribbean as well. "If you would like to enhance your listening, thinking and speaking skills; Toastmasters is the ideal organization to develop these skills; Area Governor Brazier concluded. St Maarten has had active Toastmasters Clubs since 1994.
GREAT BAY,– A meeting of the Island Council will take place on Wednesday, March 17 at 10.00am in the Claude Wathey Legislative Hall.
The agenda points for the meeting are Budget 2010 and the consequences for not having a budget in place, followed by the agenda point, the labour situation on the island.
The first Island Council meeting related to those agenda points was held on March 11, 2010, however due to the lack of a quorum, the meeting was cancelled 30 minutes after it had begun.
The aforementioned agenda points were requested by the Democratic Party opposition faction in the Island Council, namely Island Council members Sarah Wescot-Williams, Maria Buncamper, Leroy De Weever, and Roy Marlin.
The requested Central Committee meeting by the Democratic Party faction in the Island Council in their letter of March 11, 2010, will be held on Thursday, March 18 2010 at 2.30pm in the Claude Wathey Legislative Hall.
The agenda for the Central Committee meeting is related to answers from the Executive Council to questions posed by the members of the Island Council in the Central Committee of March 10, 2010.
Willemstad: --- The Dutch Council of Ministers agrees on transitional arrangement on the movement of persons from the BES Islands. The Dutch Council of Ministers has agreed to the proposal of Minister Hirsch Ballin of Justice and State Secretary Ank Bijleveld of
Interior and Kingdom Relations for a transitional arrangement which regulates the access and admission of Dutch citizens to the BES Islands (Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba). The transitional arrangement determines that until the introduction of a
Movement of Persons Kingdom Act on the BES Islands, the existing regime for the access and admission of Dutch citizens will be maintained.
When the political reforms within the Kingdom have formally concluded, Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba will become part of the Dutch form of government in the form of public corporations. Curaçao and St. Maarten will then become separate countries within the Kingdom just as Aruba.
The present state of the Netherlands Antilles will be discontinued.
Following on the political reforms, the introduction of a uniform regulation was discussed for the access and admission of all Dutch citizens to all parts of the Kingdom, which will be laid down in a Movement of Persons Kingdom Act. The starting point of this Kingdom Act would be that the access and admission of Dutch citizens to the various parts of the Kingdom must be free in principle and subjected to as few restrictive
conditions as possible.
As long as no Movement of Persons Kingdom Act has become effective, the access and admission of Dutch citizens to the BES Islands must
temporarily -by way of a transitional regulation- be regulated elsewhere in order to avoid the creation of a loophole. It is however, considered
undesirable in this transitional arrangement to already unilaterally introduce the regime of a Movement of Persons Kingdom Act in a limited
part of the Kingdom, the BES Islands, for all citizens of the Kingdom.
In that case, all Dutch citizens would in principle have free access and admission to the BES Islands, whereas other (future) countries do not
(yet) have that free access and admission. That would not be in agreement with the intended reciprocity in a Movement of Person Kingdom Act, namely a uniform regime of free access and admission for all Dutch citizens that is going to be applicable in all the countries of the
Kingdom. That is why it was opted to maintain the existing rules for the time being.
The transitional arrangement will be sent to the Lower House in agovernment amendment with the already submitted bill Admission and Expulsion Act BES. That bill will regulate the access and admission of foreigners to the BES Islands, and after the introduction of said transitional arrangement, therefore also the access and admission of Dutch citizens to the BES Islands.
Dawn Beach: --- A three-year old toddler of Haitian decent was pronounced dead at the St. Maarten Medical Center on Thursday after the child accidentally fell in a pool and died. According to information, reaching SMN News the mother took the child to work with her; at some point, the child escaped from her, and fell into the pool. It is not clear, why the child was taken to her mother's workplace and if this was the norm. SMN News learnt that the young lad was found in the pool by his mother who began looking for him when she missed him.
Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos said the ambulance responded quickly to the scene and transported the toddler to the hospital but the child was already dead when found. Asked if the body of the child was confiscated and if there is a criminal investigation into the death of the child Mos said based on the preliminary investigations conducted at, the scene it was clear that the child's death was a tragic accident, thus the body was not confiscated and there is no criminal investigation ongoing.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—The Department of Health Care/VSA/ Ministry of Health Care, Labor, and Social Affairs has engaged in measures to combat the Aedes aegypti mosquito that can spread dengue fever.
Besides the fogging that is planned for the next two weeks, the department sent out personnel to canvass the neighborhoods, advising persons on preventive measures on how to get rid of the source of mosquito breeding.
A team of eight (8) persons went into the different neighborhoods and advise people on what to do around their homes to eliminate mosquito breeding places in decreasing the mosquito population.
Mr. Gerald Peters, the epidemiologist, said that the best way to deal with the source of the breeding, is to get rid of clean stagnant water. So first, people have to get rid of all stagnant water locations, from old tires lying around to plant pots that have stagnant water in them to well-sealed cisterns, among other actions that can be taken.
The areas that were visited are Belvedere, Cole Bay, Middle Region, Sucker Garden, Cay Hill, Cay Bay, Guana bay, Dutch Quarters, Hope estate, Middle region, Fort Willem, Defiance, Over the bank, Sucker Gardens, Naked Boy, The Quays, South Reward, St. Peters, St. Johns, Cul de Sac and Ebenezer. These areas were the biggest concentration, where persons have been infected with the virus/disease Dengue according to the available data.
In executing this task, there were some challenges, which ranged from the normal circumstances like people not being home to mechanical issues and at times, some people simply did not open the doors to speak, they thought that the workers from the Public Health were immigration officers, and even when they knew that the workers were from Public Health they still didn't open their doors.
This effort to rid the districts of mosquitoes is one intervention or strategy in the fight against minimizing the Aedes aegypti mosquito which is the carrier of Dengue Fever and Dengue Hemorragic Fever.
The project started on March 15, 2010 and ended on May 15, 2010.
The aim, over the two-month period was to reach about 10,000 homes with the information/consulting campaign that will inform each householder.
The results of the project were:
1. A total of 9,360 premises were inspected.
2. One thousand three hundred and eleven (1311) containers inspected.
3. The officers eliminated 850 containers that were liable to breed mosquitoes.
4. A total of 743 breeding sites found.
The House Index from the exercise was eight percent (8%). This means that for every 100 premises inspected, eight (8) were breeding the Aedes Egypti mosquito. The Internationally accepted House Index is below five percent (5%).
The fogging campaign, another intervention/strategy in the battle of minimizing the mosquito population started May 16, 2010, the aim is to fog the entire Dutch side of the island.
The time for fogging will be done mostly at 4:30 to 6:30am, and the 5:00pm to 7:00pm in areas and on days when traffic will not pose a challenge. In the evening time (5:00 to 7:00) is when the Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are in flight and you would get a greater knock down.
The mosquito usually bites at dusk and dawn but may bite at any time during the day. Householders are kindly asked to open their windows when the spraying is in operation.
Fogging eliminates the adult mosquitoes the wrigglers in the breeding source are not eliminated with fogging but with decrease mosquito breeding source/places.
The Collective Preventive Department is monitoring the spraying operation.
GREAT BAY,– As part of Emergency Services Week (EMS), on Tuesday representatives of the Ambulance Department presented brochures and posters to representatives of the tourism sector, namely Sonesta Great Bay Beach Hotel & Casino General Manager Keith Graham and Ayanna Guy of the Sint Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA).
Ambulance Department Head Cylred Richardson pointed out that the main pillar of the island's economy is tourism. "The receptionist and telephone operators at hotels need to know how to reach the ambulance department quickly in the event of an emergency.
"We have provided brochures and posters to the sector so they can provide these to their members. The SHTA represents a large number of tourism related organizations. We want to reach out to everybody and inform them of the ambulance emergency number which is 912," Richardson told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Wednesday.
The Ambulance Service which falls under Sector Public Health is committed to providing timely pre-hospital medical care and transport for the sick or injured persons 24 hours a day seven days a week.
The service has a staff of 24 which include ambulance nurses, certified driver assistants, ambulance dispatchers, a medical adviser, support staff and management.
The paramedics and emergency medical technicians are trained in pre-hospital emergency medical management of patients with medical conditions and traumatic injuries.
If you have difficulty reaching the 912 emergency number for whatever reason, the other two numbers that you can call are 5206262 or 542-2111.
Philipsburg:--- Members of the Democratic Party has requested a central committee meeting to get answers about the ongoing issue where French nationals are not allowed to enter St. Maarten with their identification cards. Members of the Democratic Party faction said based on the newspaper reports the matter is not clear and they need to know what kind of decision was reached with the French authorities on this matter. Some weeks ago the Lt. Governor of the island territory of St. Maarten and Prefet Delegue Jacques Simmonet discussed the decision taken International Air Travel Association (IATA) who decided that all air travelers must use a passport as they abolish the use of identification cards.
Members of the French Hotel Association (AHSM) has been protesting against the decision taken by the Dutch side authorities. The AHSM said the mandatory use of passport would affect the already fragile economy.
The Democratic Party also requested an island council meeting to discuss the health care situation on St. Maarten especially the matter that relates to the SVB and BZV cards.
Philipsburg:--- Eighteen countries representing some seventeen affiliates's area attending the 53rd Annual International Convention and 39th Annual General Meeting of the Caribbean Confederation of Credit Unions.
Delegates from affiliates, Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Montserrat, Netherland Antilles, St Kitts and Nevis, , St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, The Bahamas, Trinidad and Tobago while St marten who is not an affiliate also attending as they are the host country.
The four day convention which is being held at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort and casino is being attended by some 400 odd delegates who are meeting from June 26-30. In her welcoming remarks, President of CCCU, Ms Yvonne Ridguard thanked delegates for once again showing up in their numbers to the annual event. She expressed appreciation for what she dubbed as 'really great hospitality that has been demonstrated by the Government and people of St Maarten.
President Ridguard appealed to members to have a renewed passion for the continued growth and development of the organization stressing that despite the challenging times being faced the Credit Union will and can continue to grow. Highlighting some of the key critical issues that will be addressed at the meeting the CCCU president said that they will be looking at the regulations which have become topical since the current economic meltdown. "We need to understand that Credit Unions have always had internal regulations and operate by the prudential international standards that were set up by the World Council of Credit Unions (WOCCU) which is across the board for all credit unions," the President said.
She pointed out that her organization is cognizant of the fact that Governments have begun 'turning their eyes' to see what is happening within the credit unions in an effort to see if sufficient regulations are in place. She declared that because credit unions are used to strict regulations they do not wish to be regulated in the same way that banks are regulated. . "It must be noted by all that Credit Unions are different financial institutions and therefore we would want governments to u8ndersatnad that as we are a unique organization. They do not want governments to give us regulation that will affect the growth and development but to look at empowering them so as to ensure that they do what they do best," she declared. She noted further that the various credit unions need to promote the credit union as the financial institution of choice adding that it should also be the credible alternative. "We have a responsibility in our respective credit union to promote the organization as the financial institution of choice and let me stress that the credible union should also be seen as a credible alternative," she said.
Ridguard who is the first woman President in the CCCU history noted that the Credit Union is a noble Caribbean movement
She also noted that the financial crisis that was experienced by countries throughout the world the Credit Union is the only financial institution that had not reduce or stop lending. This, she said demonstrates that the credit union is string, solid, financially strong and effective in its operations.
Meanwhile, the feature address which was slated to be delivered by Commissioner William Marlin, Leader of Government, Island Territory of St Maarten was unable to do so as he had to attend an urgent meeting overseas and as such the address was delivered by Acting Lieutenant Governor, Reynold Groenveldt.
Philipsburg: --- Leader of Government William Marlin at a press conference on Wednesday said that the executive council of St. Maarten had agreed to take a decision on how to proceed with the BTA permit recipients. Marlin said he already notified the Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba that the executive council would sign off on the agreement sometime this week. Jacoba is expected to inform the general public about the agreement on Thursday.
Marlin said the council has decided to grant the holders of the category one permits a three year residency permit and they will be considered as permanent residents when the three year expires.
The island leader of government said that while going through the file it has been determined that there are people who were residing on St. Maarten for 39 years and they were not registered.
Marlin said years ago the situation was different and people did not pay attention to the immigrants who came to live on the island. These people he said also did not bother to regulate their statuses. At that time he said jobs were in abundance and there was no control. Furthermore one of things government had to look at is how long these persons have been living on St. Maarten with children that were born here and those children knew no other home. Marlin said while these children are carrying their parent's nationality and they were born on St. Maarten. Marlin said it would be rather unfair to apply the labor policy to these people now and to have them constantly renewing their papers.
Marlin said when the three year expires then government would have to treat these persons as permanent residents, simply because these persons have been living on St. Maarten for a number of years.
Marlin made clear that even though the agreement is in place it will be signed off during the course of Wednesday.
...
Philipsburg:--- Members of the National Alliance and the executive council of St. Maarten including independent member of the island council Louie Laveist voted in favor of denying Olzina NV their variance permit. While members of the Democratic Party faction and caretaker commissioner Theo Heyliger voted against the proposal submitted by the executive council which was basically in keeping with a decision taken by the executive council on October 20 2009.
Acting Lt. Governor Reynold Groeneveldt said with the outcome of the second voting the variance permit is now officially denied by the island council of St. Maarten. On Monday the council debated the issues surrounding Olzina and its variance permit and the reason the developer took government to court. The court ordered the council to take a decision on the request submitted by Olzina or face a penalty fine of Naf 2,500 or a maximum of Naf: 5000 per day if decision was not taken by July 28th.
According to information reaching SMN News is that the developer will be returning to court as he contests the decision taken by the council.
At a press conference on Wednesday leader of government William Marlin told members of the press that the display they witnessed on Monday with caretaker commissioner Theo Heyliger who holds the ROB portfolio was not a representation of the executive council.
Marlin said over the past year Heyliger has refused to take action at the Public Works Department and while he probably got away with things when he was part of the Democratic Party that would not happen under his watch or leadership. "The former leader of government Sarah Wescott Williams failed to put her down and she allowed Heyliger to get away with certain things which caused the fall of her government". Marlin said.
Asked if the National Alliance government would replace Heyliger who resigned on July 19th. Marlin responded sharply by saying that he has had no discussion into replacing Heyliger. He said even though Heyliger resigned from the executive council, the political agreement signed on June 6th 2009 is still in place. "While Heyliger may not be reporting to work in his office he has been present at all the island council meetings and central committee meetings. One should also see that Heyliger is still sitting at his seat on the executive branch." Marlin then reminded the media of the events that took place when former commissioner Maria Buncamper Molanus resigned when she was confronted with a motion of non-confidence. He said Buncamper Molanus remained in office until she was reappointed.
Philipsburg:--- In the Herald of Thursday, August 19, 2010, candidate #18 on the National Alliance list for the elections of September 17, 2010 says "she made the best choice to join the Alliance". If her decision was strictly for immediate gratification and personal gain, the DEMOCRATIC PARTY would have to agree with her. If at any time however, the # 18 candidate on the National Alliance slate had even for ONE fleeting moment considered her own future on St. Maarten and that of her children and her children's' children, she would have realized what a grave mistake she was making. Allowing herself to be "bought" by the National Alliance is not only shameful; it is also against the law! President of the DP, Michael Ferrier, in a Press Release on Monday, August 23, 2010, revealed the following to the press: He and DP Party Leader, Councilwoman Sarah Wescot-Williams visited de Windt at her home on the L.B. Scott Road on Wednesday, August 11, 2010, to invite her to postulate herself as a candidate on the DP list for the upcoming Island Council election. De Windt eventually accepted and agreed to do so, but not before she insisted to tell Ferrier and Wescot-Williams about her disillusion with NA's Councilman Frans Richardson whom she had supported and campaigned for in the January 2010 Federal elections. She said she had become disgusted after Richardson had made many promises to her and her followers, but honored very few after the election was won by him and his party. She also explained in great detail how for the 2007 elections she had supported then DP candidate and incumbent Councilman, Louie Laveist. According to her many thousands of dollars were given to her during that particular campaign in 2007 by Laveist to, as she put it: "take care of things for him" for that election. She claimed that all these shady deals did not sit right with her, being someone who "believes in a Lord above". She agreed to meet with us (the DP) to make a fresh start with the DP, the party that according to her "made it possible for her mother to migrate to St. Maarten years ago to make a living, something the matriarch could not do in her own country, the Dominican Republic". This time, she assured Ferrier and Wescot-Williams that she was on board with the DP with no strings attached. She just needed to have the assurance from the DP leadership that all will be done to assure an improvement in the conditions of the most needy amongst her fellow D.R country men and women, once the DP is back in government. And IF immediate help was available from the DP to a few of these persons truly in need, so much the better. Late last week she agreed to meet DP President Ferrier in Philipsburg to have her official DP photograph taken dressed in a dark suit and a bright red blouse. She beamed with pride to be part of the Democratic Party. After the picture taking session she asked how she could stay in touch with the party, seeing that she did not have a cell phone. Ferrier offered to buy her one and stopped in at TELCEL to do so immediately.
On Tuesday August 17th Ms. De Windt called the DP President with the "breaking news" that NA Commissioner Hyacinth Richardson offered her a car and $20,000 for distribution amongst her "constituents", if she would run on the National Alliance list. She said she defiantly refused the offer adding that "she was not for sale". Ferrier thanked her for her stance and show of integrity. That afternoon she again called the DP President, this time to ask him to critique a speech she had prepared in English that she wanted to give at a "Meet & Mingle" get together the DP was hosting for its candidates and their significant others that evening. Ferrier and another DP member listened to her on speakerphone and congratulated her for the obvious effort she put in formulating the speech. Unfortunately that evening she was a "no-show" and all efforts to reach her proved to be futile. The next morning (postulation day) the DP leadership heard on the news that de Windt showed up as candidate # 18 on the NA slate. The Democratic Party now asks, if the offer of a car and $20,000 did not convince de Windt to join the National Alliance, what did? Could it have been more money? A nicer car maybe? In alluding to the above, Democratic Party Leader Wescot-Williams has on Postulation Day already publically stated that it is lamentable that political parties would exploit the hardships of Dutch citizens on St. Maarten for political reasons. DP President Ferrier added that the stories of vote buying with raw cash by bagmen working on behalf of the National Alliance in the January elections were numerous and plentiful. Ferrier considers this practice, if true, a threat to the democratic process in our Country-to-be. He therefore calls on the competent authorities to be vigilant before and during this crucial election scheduled for September 17, 2010 and goes as far as to ask that independent election observers be invited to St. Maarten to monitor this upcoming election. He calls on the office of the Lt. Governor to urgently issue the rules and regulations that need to be adhered to by one and all to allow the voters of St. Maarten their God given right to cast their vote free form all pressure and in a fair and peaceful manner. Ferrier thinks that prohibiting voters from entering the voting booths with a cell phone or other devices that are capable of taking pictures of how the voter has cast his/her vote, will already be a giant step in the right direction. Additionally, according to the DP President, no party paraphernalia and/or party supporters should be allowed within five hundred meters of any of the polling stations, and this should be strictly enforced by the police.
The National Alliance cannot ignore the fact that when an elected Island Council member accepts the position he/she is elected to in any election, he/she must either promise or swear that he/she has accepted nothing from anyone, or promised any one anything to hold the highest public office in the land. The Democratic Party wonders how this will apply to the NA Candidate # 18, if God forbid she gets enough votes to be elected to public office on September 17th.
In an invited comment Leader of the National Alliance William Marlin urged the president of the Democratic Party to go to the Prosecutor's Office and to file a complaint if he has proof to substantiate his claims.
SINT MAARTEN:--- Pelican Resort Club, no stranger to adversity, is facing another crisis and its general manager is speaking out for the first time. Since its rebirth in 1996, after the original developer sent the resort into bankruptcy, 12,000 Pelican timeshare owners, employees, Board Members and Royal Resorts Management have persevered for progress. The Pelican Resort is once again facing hard times, but this time from a very unexpected source.
After 12 years of harmony and progress, the Home Owners Association (HOA) Board of Pelican Resort Club initiated unusual strategies including a battle with their long-time ally, Royal Resorts Management. The Board has embarked on an unprovoked defamation campaign, based mostly on untruths and manipulated facts aimed at harming Royal Resorts Management's reputation among timeshare owners.
It has also made a number of financial decisions that are putting the entire property at risk, including defaulting on loan payments that could result in the foreclosure of Pelican Resort Club. This would not only have a negative impact on Royal Resorts, it would devastate the club's timeshare owners who have so much invested.
The Pelican Resort Club is one of several Royal Resorts Management properties in the Dutch Antilles including Aruba, Curaçao and St. Maarten. Pelican Resort's General Manager, Mr. Jules James– a native St. Maartener, President of the St. Maarten Timeshare Association, and more than 20-year veteran of the hospitality industry – has expressed concern for the future of the property.
"I don't know what the HOA Board is hoping to accomplish by their actions," said James. "The Board's decisions have caused us to reduce the workweek to four days for all employees and discontinue all improvement projects for the property. These decisions have negatively impacted timeshare owner satisfaction, damaged employee morale and our relationship with the labor union, and made it very difficult for us to continue rentals and sales," he noted.
James continued: "I accepted the offer to lead Pelican Resort Club based on the quality and integrity of Royal Resorts and Richard Sutton. As part of my recruiting process I was required to go to Cancun, Mexico to learn about the company and meet the team members. They intentionally had me stay in the oldest Royal Resort property so I could see what a 31-year-old resort should look like and how it should operate. By the second day of the visit I knew this was a company I wanted to be a part of. Every owner and guest was happy, the service excellent, the staff members terrific, and everything looking new."
Pelican's HOA Board changes every year through an election by the timeshare owners. The current Board has sought increased control over the day-to-day operations and to place responsibility for all their challenges on Royal Resorts Management and its Directors.
"I have worked for several resort management companies and I have never seen a company so committed to the timeshare owners and resort staff as Royal Resorts Management," states James, adding:
"When oil prices spiked unexpectedly in 2008 and we needed cash, Royal Resorts voluntarily deferred six months of fees without interest to protect the resort and the payroll. After the recent earthquake in Haiti, Royal Resorts Management provided US$30,000 to our Haitian workers with families in need. Recently the uninsured mother of an employee needed an air ambulance from St. Kitts to San Juan and Royal Resorts Management paid for it. Whenever the Pelican Resort or its employee's needs something I know Richard Sutton (Royal Resorts, Founder and Chairman) and Richard Corso (Royal Resorts Caribbean, CEO) will be there to help. I am very proud to be a part of the Royal team."
Pelican Resort relies heavily on its management company. Royal Resorts Management provides all of the operating and sales systems including: accounting, front desk, human resources, training and development, IT, engineering and e-commerce.
"Pelican does not have the resources to stand on its own," James said. "An owner, who is now an HOA Board Member advised me that my job was safe even if they get rid of Royal. While I appreciate his vote of confidence, I don't think he understands how this Board's actions are placing the entire resort in jeopardy. I quickly realized they do not understand what Royal does to keep Pelican Resort running.
"The Pelican must have the support of a qualified management company. We rely on Royal for the most fundamental systems including all of our reservation, front desk, and POS systems, most of our rental business, and even credit card processing. I really thought we had solved this problem with the Board when their Antillean attorney recently opened a Board Meeting emphasizing the trust and confidence the Board felt as a direct result of the remarks of the Forensic Auditors. These auditors, according to the Board's own attorney, had removed doubt and reinstated the Board's confidence in Royal Resorts.
"Pelican Resort has been operated as an open book since 1997 – and the auditors reported as much to the Board," noted James.
Royal Resorts Management provides Pelican Resort corporate resources and support that would not otherwise be available to a single-location resort. Department experts from Finance, IT, Engineering, Maintenance and Housekeeping work side by side with Pelican staff to provide continuous training and development.
"After I was hired, I was sent for a full month of comprehensive training that Royal has developed over 30 years. I was amazed by what I learned and the possibilities that were inspired," said James. "Many of our local St. Maarten staff have been to Cancun for similar intensive training and more are scheduled every year."
Pelican Resort has been steadily progressing in quality and financial strength since the 1996 bankruptcy and the timeshare owners' 1997 hiring of Royal Resorts Management. Twelve positive years together led to not so lucky number thirteen. "We entered 2010 in great shape," continued James, adding:
"Renovations of the 30-year-old villas were underway and receiving rave reviews. Our debt load was decreasing and all of our loans were current. Owner satisfaction and employee morale were great. Even our sales and rental business was steadily growing. Our timeshare owners enjoy one of the lowest Maintenance Fees in Simpson Bay and we are still being asked to cut payroll expenses and resort maintenance.
"The long-time local staff hopes the Board will soon recognize the impact of their actions and the critical contributions of Royal Resorts Management," he added.
With 35 years of resort management experience, primarily in Cancun and Riviera Maya, Royal Resorts Caribbean operates three properties in the Caribbean with more than 350 employees. The company manages more than 40,000 timeshare intervals for nearly 20,000 families and provides a variety of services for resorts including full operations management, vacation ownership sales and vacation rentals.
Aside from Pelican Resort Club and its newest property in St. Maarten, the Pelican Marina Residences, Royal Resorts Caribbean manages Costa Linda Beach Resort in Aruba and the Royal Sea Aquarium Resort in Curaçao, which is located on a private island right next to the world-famous Curaçao Aquarium.
The company is also in negotiations with a number of additional resorts facing operational challenges due to a range of factors including the economic downturn.
The Royal Resorts Group was founded in 1974 in Cancun, Mexico. Now with over 60,000 members, Royal Resorts has been listed among the top-rated resort companies in the world since 1975. The resorts have received the coveted Five Star Rating from Interval International every year since 1983 when that rating was first established. Since 2008, they have also been classified as Premier Resorts in the Interval International Resort Recognition Program, the highest distinction awarded to resorts that offer an outstanding vacation experience.
Philipsburg:--- On Friday October 1st, scores of high school students gathered at the Sundial School for the re-launching of the Readers are Leaders reading campaign.Readers are Leaders is a program developed by the Philipsburg Jubilee Library and the Rotary Sunrise Club which aims at turning St Maartens teenagers into avid readers.
For many students it was the first time that they participated in a Readers are Leaders event and there was a buzz of excitement in the air as students were eager to be part of the new book club for teens. Snatra Bauld opened the evening's event with an astonishing version of The St Maarten Song and later on entertainment was given in the form of great music by DJ Ramesh.
The teenagers were encouraged by prominent leaders in society like the president-elect of the Rotary Sunrise Club Mr Hendrik-Jan van Iperen and English teacher, Mrs Chantal Schaminee, of the St Dominic High School.
This book club promises to be exciting, as it is an approach to reading which will be enjoyable to young readers. The teens will be awarded gifts at the end of the program which culminates in March 2011 to mark the Rotary's literacy month. The goal is to get these students to read 1 book per month till March.
Students can connect with Readers are Leaders on Facebook by becoming friends of Readers are Leaders, where they will receive updates and detailed information on the reading campaign.
Though there were only 3 schools represented on Friday, we encourage and invite all high school students on the island to take part in this program. Parents and Teachers are asked to motivate their children and students to take part as we endeavor to produce effective leaders for country St. Maarten.
Residents and motorists advised to avoid low lying areas in event of additional rainfall; Island remains under a Heavy Rainfall Watch.
GREAT BAY:--- The Department of Disaster Management would like to inform the general public that a test was conducted in certain districts with respect to the Emergency Siren Alert System.
The island is currently under a Heavy Rainfall Watch; this entails that there is still the possibility of heavy rainfall within the coming hours.
Residents and motorists are advised to avoid low lying areas in the event of additional rainfall. The ground is saturated due to several days of persistent rainfall. Flooding is still likely across roadways.
Persons residing on hill sides and those driving along hill sides are advised to drive with caution and be alert for possible rock falls. This is due to the saturated soil.
According to the Wednesday 11.00am Meteorological Service of the Netherlands Antilles & Aruba weather advisory, widespread showers and isolated thunderstorms are forecasted through Thursday. Fresh and fairly strong winds and heavy gusts can be expected near heavy showers.
Current weather conditions are being caused by Tropical Depression #17 that is North of Puerto Rico and is tracking very slowly out into the open Atlantic Ocean.
Philipsburg:--- On Tuesday afternoon the Dutch representative in Philipsburg, Mr. Lars Walrave paid a working visit to the Prime Minister of St. Maarten, the honorable Mrs. Sarah Wescot-Williams.
Philipsburg:--- On Saturday November 6th 2010 FoundationEWA published it's third book, when at the "James Henry Lynch Extravaganza" at Belvedere they launched the booklet entitled, "The Constitution of St. Maarten made simple", compiled and edited by dr. Nilda Arduin who is the vice president of FoundationEWA.
The general reaction of and warm acceptance by the general public has been: "This could not be more timely. It gives the reader just enough to go in search of more".
As a foundation we are elated as one of the main objectives of the booklet has been met. We will like to get this booklet in every household and moreover in each school. The first volume does not afford for that and more sponsorship is needed to achieve that goal.!
The foundation nevertheless, now, that the author is back on the island intends to visit all schools and hand over a number of copies to the principals in the hope that they can spur the schoolboards to get sponsorship that each and every student can have a copy.
The president of the foundation Edgar Lynch thanked the sponsor Pelican Royal Resort very much for their corporate donation to make the first volume of the booklet possible. "Everyone must be in possession of the basic on our constitution. With the season on hand one can purchase a copy of Know Your Political History and get a copy of The Constitution of St. Maarten made Simple. Copies can also just be had from members of FoundationEWA.
On November 6th last at the launching copies were handed to the hourable Prime Minister Mrs. Sarah Wescott-Williams, chairlady of Parliament drs. Gracita Arrindell, who immediately took 14 copies for the other members of Parliament, Minister of Education and Culture Rhoda Arrindell and the person who started the "flame" former Advisor to Commissioner William Marlin, Miss. Dorothy Lake.
"We are happy, that on a continuous basis, we can contribute to educating, informing and enlightening the general public and that of St. Maarten in specific. And in the year of the 20th anniversary of FoundationEWA, -2010- we have published yet another book, turned-over part of the work of FoundationEWA to the next generation and are flirting on the skirts of another major publication. To God be the Glory", the president of FoundationEWA concluded.
For more or further information contact: Edgar Lynch 580 8449.
Philipsburg:--- Unconfirmed reports reaching SMN News late Sunday night states that the female victim that was in the Pond Island home on Thursday where the gas leak took place also died. SMN News learnt that the woman whose identity is only known as Carmelita passed away on Sunday evening. On Friday morning, police discovered a man known in the neighborhood as Nando dead in his home while his spouse Carmelita was taken to the St.Maarten Medical Center in critical condition.
Police said they believe there was some sort of gas leak in the home causing the death of the man. Police also said they were investigating the cause of the leak and the circumstances into the victim's death. So far no other reports have been made available to the media regarding the gas leak or what could have killed the victims.
Efforts made to contact police spokesman Ricardo Henson on Sunday night proved futile.
GREAT BAY– Persons who have received their first pandemic influenza A (H1N1-2009) vaccine and it has been more than three weeks, are hereby reminded to revisit their family physician for the second dose, the Preventive Health Department (PHD) reports.
Influenza A (H1N1-2009) has become endemic among global communities. Persons who form part of the risk group are reminded to consult with their general physician to get the vaccine.
The vaccine helps protect your family and other people who are close to you, as it is less likely that they will catch the virus from you.
The vaccine helps protect you against future waves of infection caused by the H1N1-2009 virus.
Besides vaccination against pandemic in¬flu¬en¬za A (H1N1-2009), vaccination against seasonal flu remains important. People, who would normally take their yearly seasonal flu shots, should still get their seasonal flu shot.
The H1N1-2009 vaccine is different from the seasonal flu vaccination and does not protect against the so-called swine flu.
Preventing the spread of germs is the single most effective way to slow the spread of the disease.
Members of the community are still strongly advised to maintain high standards of personal hygiene which entail covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you sneeze or cough, and 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. Try to avoid contact with sick people.
The symptoms of pandemic influenza A (H1N1-2009) flu virus in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with the virus.
Persons who have flu-like-illness should remain at home and contact their family physician via telephone who will determine whether influenza testing or treatment is needed.
Persons who have traveled in the preceding seven days to affected countries should seek immediate medical attention once they develop influenza-like symptoms. You are advised to stay at home and contact your family physician. This will help minimize the risk of infecting those around them, especially people who are at a higher risk of severe illness and complications of influenza.
Another preventive measure is eating healthy foods, getting a lot of exercise and maintaining an eight hour sleep schedule.
GREAT BAY– Governor Franklyn Richards on Wednesday morning spoke with both Dutch Representatives in St. Maarten and in Curacao, namely Lars Walrave and Rob Vermaas, about the developing situation in Haiti and appealing to them for Dutch assistance.
Governor Richards also spoke with Prime Minister of the Netherlands Antilles Emily De Jongh Elhage on Wednesday afternoon with respect to the developing situation in Haiti and what type of assistance could be provided by the Central Government.
Castin Ironce, a representative of the St. Maarten Haitian Community, visited Governor Richards on Wednesday afternoon where they discussed the situation regarding Haiti and the St. Maarten Haitian community.
Governor Richards also spoke with Antillean Minister of Home & Constitutional Affairs Roland Duncan regarding Haiti.
In the meantime Dutch Minister of Development Cooperation Bert Koenders announced on Wednesday that preparations are underway to send a Dutch Urban Search & Rescue Team to Haiti.
The team comprises of 60 persons along with search dogs to search for missing persons who have been buried under the rubble caused by the magnitude 7.0 earthquake.
The Dutch team will make-up part of an international coordinated effort under the leadership of the United Nations. The team was expected to leave Holland Wednesday night from Eindhoven on a transport aircraft made available by the Dutch Ministry of Defence.
Dutch Minister Koenders has also made available two million Euro in emergency aid.
"Nations around the world are mobilizing resources to aid Haiti after Tuesday's catastrophic earthquake that has left a lot of destruction in the capital city of Port-au-Prince.
"The full extent of casualties is still unknown. This is a major humanitarian emergency and we continue to offer our prayers to our brethren during this difficult period," Governor Franklyn Richards told the Government Information Service (GIS).
Philipsburg: --- The St. Maarten/St. Martin Christian Council along with other radio stations on St. Maarten will be holding a radiothon this Sunday to aid the earthquake victims of Haiti. The radiothon will begin from noon to 4 pm. The decision was taken on January 12 when the council deliberated on the Haiti tragedy a press release from the organization states.
"As living human beings we can sometimes not understand the acts of God, but we have been thought to accept them and know the Lord is in control. He promised not to leave, nor forsake us."
As Christians, we know that we have to get up and strive to assist our brothers and sisters. Therefore the council has decided, as St. Maarten-St. Martin Christian Council, that it will be most fitting to organize, in collaboration with the SMUMF and the Seventh Day Adventist a Radiothon on January 24th, 2010. The funds collected will go to the Red Cross in Haiti to be distributed appropriately.
All churches have been asked to join in and participate in the synchronization meeting this Tuesday, January 19th, 2010 at the Lions Den in Sucker Garden from 4:30 -5:30 pm.
The Radiothon will be from 12.00 noon to 4.00 pm and all radio stations on the Dutch and the French side are being asked to cooperate.
Churches are being asked to donate their offerings of January 23rd and 24th 2010 to this worthy cause. The public at large is being asked to participate and answer to the call to assist Haiti in this difficult time.
GREAT BAY– Chairman of the Main Voting Bureau Governor Franklyn Richards on Thursday afternoon visited the polling station at Milton Peters College as part of an inspection round of polling stations in preparation for Friday, January 22 Election Day.
Governor Richards was accompanied by his Chief of Staff Ligia Stella and a civil servant from the Department of Public Works Mr. Pantophlet.
A total of 16 polling stations are available for persons to exercise their democratic right on Friday. Governor Richards is asking for everybody to come out and exercise their right to vote in an orderly manner as has been customary over the years where there have been no incidents of violence or any disorderly conduct.
Philipsburg: --- Members of the RST and Federal Detectives have detained officer Germaine Semeleer who has been on suspension for over a year now as they investigate the brutal murder of Christian Lloyd. Officer Semeleer was involved in the kidnapping of some prostitutes from Crystal Bar sometime ago. He was convicted in the court of First Instance and has since appealed.
Lloyd was found dead in his St. Peters home on January 25th 2010; police said Lloyd was found on his bed covered in blood. To date police have not released the types of injuries that killed the well known pageant trainer. An autopsy was scheduled to take place on Tuesday to determine the cause of death.
Sources told SMN News that police got information about the alleged killer the same day they went to the murder scene to remove the body of Christian Lloyd. SMN News learnt that the "village boys" of St. Peters gave police detailed information about the suspended officer whose car was seen leaving the crime scene. Police also intercepted the victim's phone records and saw that officer Semeleer was the last person that allegedly spoke to Lloyd prior to his death.
SMN News learnt that the police internal affairs on St. Maarten started an investigation on the alleged suspect the moment they were notified. However, the case has been transferred to Curacao. It is not clear if Semeleer willingly surrendered to police and left with the officers to his native island of Curacao and is cooperating with the ongoing investigations.
SMN News carried an article on Friday evening explaining that that there have been consistent rumors within the community of St. Maarten linking a suspended officer to one of the recent murders, but police and the prosecutor's office were tightlipped about the investigation.
In an invited comment Prosecutor Rienk Mud said no one was arrested in the murder of Christian Lloyd but several persons are being heard (questioned) by the police as the investigations proceed. Mud said he would not be giving any comment on the ongoing investigations since it is very much in its early stages.
The St. Maarten Police Department (KPSSS) have had its fair share of negativity from within the force causing long serving and dedicated officers of the force to face shame and disgrace. The court of first instance convicted several immigration officers, including the former head of immigration and the Chief Commissioner of Police for corruption, forgery and bribery. Officers were also convicted for taking bribes and extortion but this is the first time an officer has been detained in a murder investigation.
SMN News also learnt that officer Semeleer was in a relationship with the victim as well as with one of his colleagues working at SLAC office stationed at the Simpson Bay Police Outpost.
While SMN News has reported that officer Semeleer is on suspension from the police force it is not clear if he has been officially fired from the force. SMN News is receiving conflicting information on the working status of Semeleer since both the police and prosecutor's office has refused to elaborate on the suspect and the investigation. Officer Semeleer was convicted for illegal house search, and he appealed the verdict. It is still not clear if the case has been finalized in the judicial system of the Netherlands Antilles.
Presently reporters on St. Maarten have to rely on information they receive on the streets since law enforcement is not releasing any type of information to the media. It is however, very difficult for media outlets to publish accurate information without the cooperation of both the police and the public prosecutor's office.
Due to the lack of information there were rumors throughout the community of St. Maarten on Tuesday linking brigadier Giovanni Sprott to this murder investigation. Members of the community went as far as publishing Sprott's name on Facebook claiming that he was arrested for this ongoing investigation. Currently Sprott is on sick leave and has spoken to this reporter several times on Tuesday. When contacted about the recent incident he said that people went very far because they contacted his mother and told her he was arrested for murder. "This caused my mom to fall sick, people also contacted my daughter who is studying abroad with the same information Sprott said people should get their facts straight before smearing anyone.
MARIGOT— The gendarmes have arrested two young men ages 19 and 20 on Tuesday, the two are suspected of thefts with violence. The duo is suspected of beating up a man on January 28 in French Quarter and stole his money and cellular phone. The victim was on medical leave for two days. The two would have appear in court on March 18.
This coming Friday February 5th at 4pm EPIC, St. Maarten Pride Foundation, Nature Foundation and the Seaside Nature Park will be planting 25 Buttonwood Trees (plants found along St. Maarten's coast) at the Seaside Nature Park's grounds in Cay Bay in commemoration of World Wetlands Day which is on February 2nd, 2010 and in recognition of the importance of St. Maarten's wetlands and coastal zones. The Foundations are asking all volunteers, organizations and interested individuals to come out and help.
Philipsburg: --- Members of the Chamber of Labour Unions as well as Attorney at law Bonita Hart met with a large number of Haitians at the WIFOL building on Sunday evening as they updated the Haitian community on how to process their legal documents. Hart in an invited comment said several members of the Haitian community contacted her office as they are trying to process their documents now that the Brooks Tower Accord is over.
"Most of these people are trying get some sort of document so that they can go back to their country which was devastated by earthquake on January 12." Hart said she saw an interview where the Minister Jacoba gave detailed information which she believed the Haitians need to know and thus they at the WIFOL has decided to hold some information session. "Last week we had over 120 persons who came here for information and tonight it was full again." Hart explained that Haitians nationals can visit them at the WIFOL as of Tuesday so they can begin preparing letters to send to the BTA committee, where they would claim humanitarians' grounds under the BTA for Haitians nationals. She said while the Minister of Justice made clear that there would be no extension on the BTA due to lack of funds the Minister also said that people can send a letter to the committee, furthermore the Minister acknowledged that the largest group of people who did not get help were from category three. She said there are people who came here after 2006 and are working and they are not legal.
Asked if there is a legal fee attached by her law firm? Hart said there are no legal fees attached but those seeking assistance from the Chamber of Labour Unions and her will be asked to provide a donation since they have to buy paper, ink and materials do the work that will be asked of them. She said they as a group is trying to offer the Haitians some sort of assistance due to the earthquake.
Hart said while the BTA process is over people who are here since 2001 still have a chance to submit a letter and their documents to the BTA committee so they can get one last chance to become legal.
Philipsburg:---On Monday afternoon February 22nd, 2010 Mr. Maritza Boekhoudt L.L.M., notary on Sint Maarten passed the deed to establish the Sint Maarten Alzheimer Foundation (SMAF).
After six months of preparation, the formalization of the SMAF gave way to the organized development and improvement of prevention and care of all forms of dementia and of the disease of Alzheimer in particular on the island of St Maarten.
The SMAF board consists of persons whose lives have been affected by dementia or Alzheimer disease of a loved one in their family. These are Keith Franca (president), Raymond Jessurun (secretary), Patricia Krolis (treasurer), Patricia Pantophlet and Sophia Farrell. The SMAF will soon appoint local and international caregivers and professionals with expertise and experience on dementia and Alzheimer to advise and support the board of the Foundation in the realization of its programs and activities.
This weekend from Friday February 26 until Sunday February 28, the Alzheimer Foundation of Curacao will organize a symposium in the Curacao Hilton Hotel on the occasion of their 10th anniversary.
The secretary of the St Maarten Alzheimer Foundation drs Raymond Jessurun is invited to deliver a presentation on the Rights of Older Persons and the rights of Dementia and Alzheimer patients and caregivers in particular.
Furthermore, Mr. Jessurun will have meetings to explore possibilities of cooperation between the St Maarten Alzheimer Foundation, and Fundacion Alzheimer Aruba, Alzheimer Foundation Curacao, Alzheimer Foundation of the Netherlands and Alzheimer Disease International.
More information concerning the Sint Maarten Alzheimer Foundation programs and activities will be presented in the following weeks.
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The issue of being creative, innovative and conservative should not be left up to management alone but employees as they can play a more meaningful role by helping in whatever way that they can, this is the firm belief of President of Winair Activity Club, Ms Lisa Brooks.
Brooks in an exclusive interview said that her group was formed last year as while management sought means and ways in cutting cost the relationship between management and its employees needed to be greatly enhanced thus she and some other employees saw a critical need to strengthen the relationship.
She pointed out that as part of their objective they recognized that providing each other with an opportunity of getting to know the families of each employee provided the platform for a more enhanced relationship. She noted that there is a more family oriented environment within the company while employees are getting along much better as they seek to continue building their relationship.
The Activity Club President pointed out that they recognized that waiting upon management for things to happen is not always the best approach thus the need to unite and bring about a more cohesive environment among employees was sought. She made reference to the group's rapidly growing events which she pointed out has not only grown in terms of numbers but also in seeing a major shift in how employees operate. She said that people are beginning to see each other not as 'just another person working along with them' but to 'a more important individual'. "My colleagues and I are doing our work voluntary and I am excited to say that we are seeing progress in our hard work as every time we do an event the question is being asked as to when is the next event and how can they get involved as fellow staff members are seeing the true benefits of coming together," Brooks said.
She however admitted that some of the challenges faced is garnering finances so as to execute projects and programmes noting that the economic crisis has placed significant stress and burden on companies thus the need to change their approach in business. She said that she is very thankful and grateful for what she said has been the unwavering support given thus far by management signaling out the company's Managing Director and Vice President of Marketing, Edwin Hodge and Claudio Buncamper respectively. She stressed that their personal involvement and willingness to provide a platform for staff to explore avenues and means of socializing while bringing about development and a more holistic approach to their work has helped significantly.
"Our success rests primarily with the support and tremendous assistance that has been given by Eddie and Claudio who have been fully cooperative, supportive and truly helpful in whatever way that they can to our activities. This, I want to note helps in ensuring that growth and development of our group. I want to say also that because of their support and assistance the relationship between staff and management have grown significantly," she said.
Meanwhile, fellow committee member, Aline Fleming pointing out some of the significant benefits of the Activity Club, said that it has been able to allow employees to work together noting that despite their financial challenges they have been able to execute all their events thus far successfully. Fleming said that already they are working on the details for their next event which will be held in another couple of months. She said that currently some 60 percent of staff members are actively involved in their events and activities noting that the number continues to rise. "Every time we hold an activity there are always very positive responses and other staff members who may not have attended would express disappointment at not being able to attend after they would have heard about the responses from other employees," she noted.
Fleming said that making a profit from events is not the objective of the group thus they have only sought to breakeven. She said that their first and primary objective is to ensure that bringing employees together in an attempt to forge and create a much enhanced and closer relationship is of paramount importance. She added that their objective also seeks to ensure that the relationship gap between the management team and the employees can be much closer so as to create an environment of comfort and family environment which she stressed will build a much stronger company thus ensuring that the production and performance of all is one that exceeds expectations.
Philipsburg: --- NAGICO Insurances will be once again participating in the Lions Health & Wellness Fair. The company will provide general information on its products and services, in particular NAGICARE Health Insurance and Life Insurance products.
Life Insurance Manager at NAGICO, Jacqueline Bennett stated: "The Health Fair provides for an interactive opportunity between NAGICO and the community, whereby we can continue to form part of the initiatives of the St. Maarten Lions Club to continue to increase health care awareness on the island. Health and Life Insurance should be an integral part of anyone's financial plan as they provide the means to monies needed to cover the ever-increasing health costs as well as providing financial security for surviving family members in the event of unforeseen circumstances. Our company encourages the public at large to partake in this informative event, that is not only free of charge but also provides an opportunity to get in tuned with all aspects of healthcare, including insurance products, and financial planning services which include protection and savings."
The company will also be providing logistical support to the Health Department's HIV Aids Program Management Team, including NAGICO employees who have volunteered to assist with administrative duties.
Philipsburg:----As the current library building is insufficient to serve the growing population of our island, and ill-suited to perform the tasks of a modern-day digitally oriented information resource centre Board and management of the Philipsburg Jubilee Library are looking for ways to set up a new library building.
To get a better insight in the needs and requirements of different groups in the St Maarten society when it comes to the overall infrastructure for a new library facility the library management recently initiated a research project . The main part of this project is a questionnaire which has been sent via e-mail to a selective group of respondents, including government officials, directors of key companies on the island and various foundation representatives.
President of the Library Board, Mrs. Chantal Schaminee and Director Mrs. Monique Alberts issued a joint statement, stating: "The Philipsburg Jubilee Library made a selection of respondents who represent a wide spectrum of our community. We encourage all invited participants to fill in and submit answers to the questions in preparation for a possible face-to-face clarification interview with the Project Coordinator, Mr. Jimmy Challenger. The deadline for submitting answers to the questions is set for the 15th of April, allowing time to move into the second and third phases of the project."
The first respondent was Mrs. Elsje Bosch, Director of the St. Maarten National Heritage Foundation, who also took part in an interview, she stated: "These types of enquiries are important to the development of the library and our community as a whole. The questionnaire is simple, clear and covers the relevant areas for a proper discussion on the community's needs and wants as it pertains to the new Philipsburg Jubilee Library facilities- a vital institution. In a few minutes a valued contribution can be made that enhances the future of St. Maarten."
The invited respondents may contact the Project Coordinator via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. The input given will be more than welcomed by the architectural designers and contractors who will design and construct the building based on the needs and wants of the St. Maarten community.
Airport:--- Regional airline Windward Islands Airways "WINAIR," has upgraded its website to allow passengers from the Islands of Saba, St. Eustatius and St. Maarten to purchase tickets on Insel Air. According to VP of Marketing, Claudio Buncamper this new arrangement is to the following routes of Curacao, Bonaire, and Aruba. He said that this feature has been active for over one month on a testing phase.
The VP of Marketing noted that the response of users on the Islands found this new feature an added benefit. Buncamper urged users of the company's website to place more emphasis on making use of the numerous benefits available. He said that he is confident that the new partnership between WINAIR and Insel Air will bear significant fruits noting that it demonstrates the growing popularity and holistic growth of WINAIR.
He noted that despite the challenges that the airline continues to face management with the assistance of the marketing department has a tremendous burst of energy in their continued quest to promote the airline.
He added that in future WINAIR will be adding all of Insel Air routes to its traveling public. Buncamper said that the relationship between WINAIR and Insel Air has been very good and the ability of both carriers having an interline e-ticketing agreement has allowed the carries to offer these added value services on the website. He stressed that the aim of this venture, is to provide quality and enhanced service for the traveling public adding that with increase technologies so should there be increased service, which the public truly deserves.
An official of Insel Air expressed confidence that they would be able to accomplish much together.
Meanwhile, Managing Director of WINAIR, Edwin Hodge indicated that like he is very satisfied and pleased with this enhancement on WINAIR's website with another airline . He said that its testimony that WINAIR continues to grow despite its growing challenges and difficulties, which he noted, has helped to spur the management and staff on so as to remain viable and open.
Hodge added that he will continue to enhance the service of WINAIR as there is need for the additional service to the traveling public thus ensuring that people get value for their hard earned money.
CAY BAY— GEBE is taking the necessary measures to prevent future oil spills. MH-Maintenance has been contracted and is currently executing the laying of boulders for an oil boom fixation as well as containment walls. These infrastructural works should be completed by the end of April, including the deployment of the oil containment boom.
Two isolating valves for clean water discharges are being installed which would allow for the immediate closure of the drains in the event of overloading of the waste management system. The installation is also expected to be completed by the end of April. Both of the aforementioned measures were already planned prior to the first oil spill that took place a few months ago.
An extensive investigation was carried out into the oil spillage on April 2, concluding that the spill was a result of the Waste Management System overflowing resulting in a certain amount of waste oil escaping into the environment. At 2.45am on April 2, power plant personnel discovered the overflow of oil from the Waste Management System. Unfortunately, a certain amount of oil had already drained into the sea. Plant personnel activated immediate clean-up measures of the yard and to recover the spilled oil. At day break, additional human resources were brought in to continue with the clean-up activities.
Following the incident, additional training was arranged with the fabricator of the comprehensive Waste Management System CINED to provide three-days of refreshment training courses on site at the GEBE Power Plant in Cay Bay. The training sessions are scheduled for late April and early May for all personnel who work at the power generating facility.
GEBE is very much aware of its social and environmental responsibility towards the community that it provides essential services to and will make the necessary investments in line with the highest environmental standards. GEBE deeply regrets this incident and is taking every measure to prevent this from happening again. GEBE is confident that the additional measures being taken will resolve this challenge and prevent future accidents from occurring.
Philipsburg: --- Island Councilman Petrus Leroy DeWeever is calling on the Heyliger/NA/Laveist government to come clean with regards to the GEBE concession. De Weever said the current coalition is again showing total disregard for the commitments made and the functioning of government owned companies. The councilman was reacting to a report published in one of the daily newspapers regarding the imposition of financial penalties on GEBE. De Weever said the news is of no surprise to him since during the recent presentation of GEBE in the Central Committee he specifically asked:" What penalties will be imposed on GEBE by Pacific Life when concessions are not in place?" The response at that time was "no penalties would be imposed."
The extension of the concession for GEBE should have been in place since January 1, 2010. The Commissioner of Energy Affairs and members of the Supervisory Board of GEBE assured Pacific Life that the concession extension would be in place before March 31, 2010. This deadline was not met due to the irresponsible behavior of the Heyliger/NA/Laveist coalition. The members of government, who should have ensured that this concession extension was in place, would not have acted in this manner if the company was owned by them and the penalty had to be paid from their pockets. Unfortunately, because it is the people's money they have no regard for ensuring, that these penalties not be imposed on the company. Penalties of approximately US $ 100,000.00 -- per month is a significant amount. These funds could have been donated by GEBE and used towards assisting some of the needs of this community, such as the Mental Health Foundation, the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation, or the Safe Haven Foundation just to name a few.
This is the 3rd government owned company that is experiencing major issues since the Heyliger/NA/ Laveist coalition took office on June 8, 2009. PJIAE is functioning without a supervisory board of directors since January 1, 2010, the St. Maarten Group of Telecommunications Companies (Telem, Telcell, Telnet & Smitcoms) does not have a complete board of Supervisory Directors in place and no managing director to take the company to the next level. Now it is GEBE. Government granted GEBE a letter of comfort to satisfy the financers before obtaining financing by Pacific Life. An institution such as Pacific Life is governed by strict international financial regulations and must at all time secure its investment towards its shareholders.
Government's letter of comfort assured the financers that the concession would be extended for a period beyond the maturity date of the loans. GEBE's financial commitments towards Pacific Life could very well be jeopardized. "We are nearing the end of April and the penalty fees will continue to rack up, for every month that the concession is not in place." De Weever said.
He said he expects that the longer this situation continues Pacific Life will continue to exert pressure on GEBE to live up to its commitment. At which point a loan call option may be implemented. The blame game will then start between GEBE and Government. This situation cannot go on much longer and he is urging the Governor in his capacity as Chairman of the Executive Council to act, in order to avoid actions being taken which could jeopardize Government and totally disrupt the financial stability of GEBE.
In an invited comment commissioner of energy affairs Theo Heyliger said the electricity ordinance has been approved by the executive council and is now at the office of the governor general of the Netherlands Antilles. Heyliger said when the Governor General approves this ordinance then it will go before the island council for approval prior to having the concession for Pacific Life in place.
Philipsburg: --- Vice President of the Democratic Party Board Stuart Johnson has submitted his resignation to the party's leadership, candidates and other members of the Democratic Party via an email on Tuesday confirmed Party leader Sarah Wescot Williams.
Wescot Williams was not willing to say exactly why her vice president has chosen to resign. She said the Democratic Party has called a board meeting which will be held early this week to discuss the resignation of Stuart Johnson. "I prefer to leave the details of Johnson's resignation to the boards" says Wescot Williams on Sunday when she was contacted by SMN News for a comment.
SMN News has been reliably informed that Johnson indicated to the members of the Democratic Party on numerous occasions that they need to involve the younger generation in the political process. Sources said Johnson believes that the younger generation should be fully involved in the building of St. Maarten especially now that the island is about to achieve its new status.
The source said the party's vice president has expressed his concerns on several occasions about the lack of board meetings within the Democratic Party. They said the board met since late last year as the party was preparing for the federal elections. It is further understood that while the party council meetings have been held regularly no board meeting was held thus keeping Johnson out of the loop as to how the Democratic Party intends to contest the upcoming island election. It is understood that Johnson indicated to the members of the Democratic Party that country St. Maarten should be built with all hands on deck including the younger generation. SMN News understands that Johnson has indicated to the party membership that he does not feel he was fully involved in the ongoing process. It is understood that the party's vice president also indicated to the membership that he cannot hold a position to occupy an empty seat instead he wants to be fully involved in the political development of St. Maarten.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—The Ambulance Department will be commemorating Emergency Medical Services Week (EMS) next week to bring awareness about what its personnel do on a daily basis and how the public could better understand the department's role in the community. To begin the awareness campaign, Commissioner Hyacinth Richardson was present to accept a brochure and a poster by Head of the Ambulance Department Cylred Richardson and other staff members, namely: Tynisha Arrindell, Menno Wierda, and Arcides Cristina.
Commissioner Hyacinth Richardson was pleased to be present and provided a few words said he was honored to accept on behalf of the Executive Council the newly created brochure and poster for the Ambulance Department before the official start of the 'Emergency Medical Services Week' which will commence this Sunday May 23, 2010 as indicated by Mr. Cylred Richardson (Head of the Ambulance Department).
The brochures and posters depict more of the initiatives being taken by the New Ministry of Public Health and the Ambulance Department to fully inform the general public of the necessary steps that can be taken to ensure their continued safety during emergency situations.
It is always important for the general public to feel comfortable and safe in emergency situations. The Ambulance Department in my opinion has taken an important step in ensuring that sense of security for the general public by introducing the team of the department in the brochure and organizing a week of activities.
My staff and I have already made sure that the poster is featured proudly in the office and I would like to encourage the general public to do the same.
I understand that there will be a number of activities during the upcoming EMS week intended to fully inform the public of the services of the department. I would like to wish the organizers much success and ask the general public to come out and support our ambulance department during the activities and at all times considering the important work that they do for our community.
The theme for this week 'anytime, anywhere we will be there' is a strong and accurate theme for this department, considering the strides that have been made to improve the department over the last months."
Cylred Richardson, the head of the Ambulance Department, explained the theme is "Any time, Any where, We will be there", during this period we have intensified the promotional activities which are aimed at giving the public more information on how to make use of the ambulance services.
Tynisha Arrindell pointed out that EMS Week is not just about Ambulance workers, but about all emergency responders—Police, Fire Department, Emergency room nurses, including the their counterparts on the French side.
There will be a church service, radio station interviews, presentation of posters and brochures, an open house, motorcade, among other activities.
Arrindell urged the public to take part in the activities in whatever way they can.
On February 21st, 2010 Saint-Louis Stars Association and St Maarten Soccer Educational Foundation joined forces to offer best chances possible to youth talent in the field of soccer.
In continuation of this wonderful effort, Saint-Louis Stars and Sint-Maarten Soccer Educational Foundation are participating jointly in the international tournament " Disney Memorial Soccer Shoot Out" in World Disney Orlando Florida from May27 to June 1st 2010, whereby more than 500 teams from various parts of the world (well known in soccer) will part take.
The full delegation of the French and Dutch side consists of 68 people and are registered in the categories: under 9, 10, 11 and 12 years old. Joint practices have been set up through which the children are prepared mentally, emotionally and physically for this event.
The cost of this wonderful experience for our boys is US$1060 per persons including all related fees.
Not wanting to disappoint the kids nor to forfeit our representation at such immense soccer meeting, all possible efforts are made to make the project a reality and to offer the young athletes a time they will surely never forget. At this difficult time of a recession, sponsors are willing but very limited.
Parents have given but many other fund raisers still need to be done.
To seal the budget, a plan of action has been put together to raise said funds in the form of a DOLLAR DRIVE strategically placed in the area of Marigot. The team leans on the population to associate by putting a dollar or more in our boxes Saturday, May 22nd 2010 from 9to 12 noon. Should for some reason our boxes do not cross your path and you would like to give saint louis stars can be contacted at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 0590690626966.
GREAT BAY– Sign-up for 24 positions of the SBO Chef level-2 course, that will begin in September, is scheduled for June 22 and 23rd.
On June 15th 11 young persons that indicated they had an interest in starting the SBO Chef level-2 course, visited the winery/restaurant Bacchus in Hope Estate, Saint Martin. These persons were given the opportunity to find out if they really want to delve into the occupational field of becoming a chef over a two-year period.
According to SBO, most of the youths have no experience in cooking other than preparing an occasional meal at home.
"They were very excited to find out that culinary arts extends to a level in which one can be asked to give advice to a customer about the right choice of wine for an item on the menu, how to smoke your own salmon and opening a bottle of wine at the table in a proper manner.
"They had fun with testing their sense of smell with several small bottles containing various essences like ginger and vanilla and by unravelling the information on wine labels," SBO Service Center Project Manager Saskia Kliphuis told the Government Information Service (GIS).
Restaurant owner Benjamin Laurent encouraged the interested young persons to pursue their education in the hospitality sector since local chefs are high in demand by all restaurants on both sides of the island.
Teachers Bart Peut and Ivette Vermue gave the potential students more in depth information about the full-time chef course, provided at the renovated Sundial kitchen by SVOBE, working in alliance with the well respected International Hospitality Division of ROC Mondriaan School in the Netherlands.
Evencia Seabrookes of the Sint Maarten Hospitality Trade Association (SHTA) explained that the course will include a bartender and waiter/waitress program from Carib Cert., which is recognized throughout the Caribbean and will give the potential student the opportunity to be competent in several areas of the restaurant business.
After a tour of 90 minutes the potential students took the bus, kindly provided free of charge by Sheneidi's Tours and Transport, back to Philipsburg.
Youths that would like to be included in the June 22 and 23rd intakes can call SBO Service Center, above Carl's and Sons, Philipsburg, 543-0498, for more information.
GREAT BAY (GIS)— The Sector of ROB, Department of New Works and Infrastructural Management and the Traffic Police of St. Maarten would hereby like to inform the general public that the Bush Road will be completely closed for through traffic on Sunday the 27th of June 2010 from 6:00 AM throughout the entire day until 6:00 PM in the evening.
During the above mentioned timeframe two road crossings will be executed on the Bush road. One at the intersection with Blijdens Drive and the other a little beyond the Daily Herald main office in the direction of the Prins Bernard Bridge.
Residents living within the boundaries described locations are urged to park the vehicles outside the boundaries due to the fact that the access to their properties will be limited and in some cases not possible.
Access to the properties will be returned to normal no later than 6:00 PM on Sunday evening.
Only residents of the Bush road (limited), Emergency vehicles and personnel and persons involved in the project will be allowed to pass the road blockages. The Bush Road will be blocked from the intersection with Zaegers Gut rd and the Prins Bernard Bridge.
During the mentioned timeframe the Contractor Windward Road Infrastructure and Project owner NV GEBE will accommodate the residents as much as possible and hope to have their cooperation with the execution of the needed work.
For more information regarding this ongoing project interested persons can contact the department of New Works and Infrastructural Management of the Sector ROB, NV GEBE or the Contractor Windward Roads Infrastructure.
The St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) has solely focused on regulating its financials for the past month and has recently notified all stakeholders of progress made.
Former SCDF President Erno Labega, who has been officially re-appointed to the board of the (SCDF) has been tasked by the board to handle the financial aspects. He has also recently called persons who the SCDF is still indebted to (prizes or otherwise) to apprise them of the situation and assure that the foundation is diligently working.
"The response that we've gotten from them is a very understanding one. We wanted them to know that we have been working on this since Carnival concluded. We have been meeting every week to address outstanding issues so that we can go into Carnival 2011 more financially sound than we are now," Labega said.
On behalf of the SCDF, Labega has scheduled a meeting with the head of the Finance Department Bas Roorda for this week to discuss the outstanding government subsidies from 2009 and 2010 as well as SCDF's obligations in order for government to release those funds. A meeting is also scheduled with a local financial firm this week.
Labega, along with another former SCDF President Michael Granger, has also been tasked with public relations and finalizing the structure and persons who will form SCDF's Advisory Council. "Persons have been identified and have expressed their commitment. After our meetings this week regarding the financials, we will finalize the advisory group," Labega concluded.
Insurance agents, brokers and regional offices that represent NAGICO Insurances in more than twelve territories throughout the Caribbean region will be here on St. Maarten to attend the company's annual midyear conference and awards ceremony slated for this Friday and Saturday respectively. This year's theme message is: It's Hard to Hit a Moving Target. Countries represented at the conference include, the British Virgin Islands, ABC islands, Montserrat, the federation of St. Kitts & Nevis, Anguilla, Antigua, Dominica, St. Eustatius, Saba and Dutch St. Maarten.
Marketing Officer Jimmy Challenger: "Over the past years, the Executive Management Team of NAGICO Insurances, under the leadership of its Chief Executive Officer Mr. Imran McSood Amjad, with the support of a dedicated team of employees, has continued to move NAGICO in a direction which has resulted in an expansion of the products and services offered, an increase in the number of sub-branch territories, and continued support for community enhancement projects, despite the difficult economic environment caused by the international financial crisis. Hence the theme, NAGICO a moving target that continues to stay ahead by making sound investments and management decisions, to provide value added, sound insurance products and services that give a peace of mind to its customers, - knowing that once they purchase insurance coverage from NAGICO or one of its agents, that they are covered against risks in their lives."
At the conference this Friday, Guest Speaker Mr. Bertrand H. Doyle, a Chartered Insurance Practitioner, will give a two part presentation : "Strategies for Success in Achieving Targets and "Insurance Education – A must, an Option or a Privilege." In addition to this, NAGICO's Marketing Department will launch the corporate newsletter and give an update on other marketing related matters. The two-day conference will end on Saturday with a dinner and awards presentation to its top insurance producers for 2009, including recognition of last year's Life Insurance Sales Top Producer, a newly recognized category. The awards presentations will take place at the Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Casino and is scheduled to start at 6:30 pm sharp.
Countries represented at the conference include, the British Virgin Islands, ABC islands, Montserrat, the federation of St. Kitts & Nevis, Anguilla, Antigua, Dominica, St. Eustatius, Saba and Dutch St. Maarten.
Basseterre:--In a captivating and robust presentation in the High Court on Thursday, Counsel for Lindsay Grant Mr. Terence Byron made a most powerful appeal to Judge Hariprashad-Charles as to why his client should be afforded his rightful day in Court to allow his Election Petition against the Labour Party and Glenn Phillip to be heard at a trial on its merits.
"The amount of energy spent by the Respondents in delaying and avoiding a trial of this Election Petition is telling." Counsel Byron said Thursday morning.
Moreover, he asserted, it was clear during the oral submissions of Dr. Henry Browne and Anthony Astaphan, S.C., that they failed to point to any relevant law to support their Application to strike out Grant's Petition. For, while Mr. Astaphan referred to laws from Dominica and elsewhere, he could not make any link to the laws of St. Kitts and Nevis such as the National Assembly Elections Act which differ tremendously. And while Dr. Browne spoke eloquently, he could not cite even one case to substantiate all his arguments.
Counsel Byron declared: "The Constitution stipulates that you vote only in the Constituency in which you reside. Votes which were cast by people who do not live in Old Road were therefore not good and valid votes. This is a Constitutional imperative and the Constitution is supreme. Any Government policy or Act of Parliament which gives people the right to vote where they do not live is unconstitutional and a perversion of justice." Byron then pointed to the SR&O 18 of 2006 which purported to establish the Labour Government's electoral reform policy. This SR&O was already declared "unconstitutional, null and void" by Judge Errol Thomas in the Constituency Boundaries cases last year in which the Attorney General was found in contempt of court. Byron declared that he therefore made no apology in calling the Government's policy perverse and illegal.
There were dozens of objection hearings that remained unheard up to Election Day. Lindsay Grant asserts that adequate arrangements were not put in place for these voter registration objections to be heard by the Returning Officer before January 25th, 2010.
Counsel Byron emphasized that the law of St. Kitts of Nevis dictates that the Court must uphold the will of the Electorate. "That is," Byron advanced, "the will of those people who are qualified to vote in that constituency by virtue of their residence, in accordance with the Constitution".
"I am confident my legal team's arguments were well-grounded in the law and equally confident that the Judge will see the corrupt nature and immensely fraudulent activity that seriously skewed the results in my constituency in the last general election," said People's Action Movement Leader Lindsay Grant.
The Judge has reserved judgment in the matter and is expected to give her decision in late August.
GREAT BAY:--- With the increase of rain showers on the island, the Collective Preventive Services (CPS) reported that from January 2010 to September 24, 2010, it was recorded 96 confirmed cumulative dengue fever cases.
Of 349 persons who have been tested. Two of those cases were diagnosed by the French labs on the North side of the island.
During the same time-frame, January to September 2010, 15 persons were admitted to the Sint Maarten Medical Center of which 13 were confirmed dengue fever cases and two were negative.
PS is appealing to the general public to be vigilant in taking the necessary steps to prevent mosquito breeding in order to avoid mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever from developing further and getting out of control.
Measures that residents must take to prevent mosquito breeding are:
Debris, old tires and stagnant water in yards has the potential of becoming breeding sites for mosquitoes and should be removed.
Residents are therefore strongly advised to take action making sure to keep their yards free of stagnant water; clean out their roof spouts; and disposing responsibly old tires, empty drums, buckets, jars, birdbaths, boats, plant containers, paint cans and other items that can collect water around your home and businesses.
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 mosquitos from breeding in the water. Persons should also ensure that their windows and doors are properly screened and wear protective clothing.
Contractors on job sites are advised to empty buckets and cover water storage drums and have the site cleaned up at the end of the work day of anything that can hold water even plastic bags.
Mosquito fogging is not effective during periods of rainfall as it doesn't allow the chemical to remain long enough to be effective. Frequent fogging can cause mosquitoes to build up a resistance to the used chemical to control the mosquito population.
Philipsburg:--- The eleven member of the island council of St. Maarten voted unanimously to accept the recently elected members of the council and parliament of St. Maarten. The new island council now has 15 members and they are scheduled to take the oath of office on October 5th.
An island council meeting was called on Thursday to check and validate the credentials of all fifteen members of the council who was elected on September 17. The procedure which was expected to last just about an hour took about five hours because of minor mistakes and or glitches on the part of the governor's cabinet and the census office.
Three members of the council namely William Marlin (Chairman), Sarah Wescot Williams and Louie Laveist formed a committee to check the credentials while Theo Heyliger an independent member of the council was not present when the committee was installed.
Upon checking the credentials Marlin said the declaration from the governor's cabinet stated that Island council lady Sarah Wescot Williams was born on St. Maarten rather than St. Martin and that had to be corrected. In the case of commissioner Hyacinth Richardson they omitted to state that he is currently a commissioner and island council member, the same error was also made for Frans George Richardson. Marlin said in the declaration for island council member Louie Laveist, they omitted to state that he is an island councilmember and civil servant who is on leave of absence to serve in the council, while in the case of Patrick Illidge mention was not made that he is a non active civil servant of the government owned company UTS.
In the case of Silvia Meyers Ollivachi the census office declaration omitted the candidate's marriage name. Marlin said the necessary corrections were made which is in accordance to the law. After reviewing the documents, the necessary corrections were made allowing the committee to declare that the credentials were in order and the council admitted all 15 members to the council.
The members elect representing the National Alliance are, Hyacinth Richardson, Louie Laveist, William Marlin, Patrick Illidge, George Pantophlet, Frans Richardson and Dr. Lloyd Richardson. While those from the United Peoples Party slate are Theodore Heyliger, Silvia Meyers, Rhoda Arrindell, Jules James, Romain Lavelle, and Gracita Arrindell. Representing the Democratic Party in the new council is Sarah Wescot Williams and Petrus Leroy De Weever.
CAY BAY:--- GEBE technicians have been working around the clock monitoring the seaweed filters and cleaning them in order to maintain power generation levels, thereby avoiding any outages.
Seaweed in the Cay Bay area near the intake pipes out in the bay is presenting a problem, however due to the efforts of the staff, there have not been any problems therefore ensuring a reliable supply of electricity to consumers.
Predicting the amount of seaweed and the severity of the situation in the bay near the GEBE seawater intake pipes which is used to cool the majority of generators, is difficult to gauge, but GEBE Power Plant technicians do not expect any problems.
As Tropical Depression #17 which is located North of Puerto Rico, as it moves further out into the open Atlantic Ocean further away from Sint Maarten, sea conditions are expected to subside.
GREAT BAY:--- The Executive Council has decided to give Monday, October 11, 2010 off to all civil servants and teachers of public schools with respect to the transition to country status that fell on a Sunday.
This decision by the Executive Council is a thank you to all civil servants and staff that played a role in preparation for 10-10-10 over the course of the 10-year period, the length of time it took to achieve country status.
GREAT BAY:--- The Ministry of General Affairs is now responsible for Disaster Management, and this Ministry falls under the direct responsibility of the Prime Minister.
Therefore the Prime Minister is now responsible for the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and will act as Chairperson of the EOC in the event of a national emergency.
The aforementioned also includes EOC meetings that are called to deal with the threat posed by an approaching hurricane.
The Prime Minister will be responsible for calling an EOC meeting that includes meeting with several or all the 10 Emergency Support Functions (ESFs).
The Ministry of General Affairs will also be the ministry responsible for drafting the curfew decree on behalf of the Prime Minister via a Government Resolution. The Prime Minister has the responsibility to also inform Parliament in a reasonable time about the curfew, the purpose and duration.
The Ministry of General Affairs, Office of Disaster Management & Preparedness, is responsible for the issuing of hurricane passes on behalf of the Prime Minister.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Chef Marc Forgione, currently a contestant on the Food Network's The Next Iron Chef and owner of New York's Marc Forgione restaurant, has been added to the first "Flaavors of St. Maarten Food & Wine Festival" (www.Flaavors.com), taking place Nov. 10 – 14, 2010. The "Flaavors of St. Maarten" offers five days of cooking, wine pairing, instruction and culinary excitement for food lovers from around the world.
The "Grand Champagne Tasting with Iron Chef Contestant Marc Forgione" will take place at Porto Cupecoy on Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2010 at 7 pm and will feature renowned French champagnes of Piper Hiedsieck and Louis Roederer. The cost for the event is $150 per person.
"We are thrilled to have Chef Marc Forgione participate in the inaugural Flaavors of St. Maarten Festival," said Regina LaBega, director of tourism for the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau. "Chef Forgione's expertise in the culinary world raises the bar and adds even more excitement for the event as participants can walk away with tips and culinary know-how from a renowned television personality," LaBega added.
Chef Marc Forgione recently received a two-star review from the New York Times for his namesake Tribeca restaurant as well as a second consecutive Michelin Star from the 2011 New York City guide, making him the youngest American-born chef and owner to receive the prestigious honor. Forgione's formative years were spent learning from his father Larry Forgione, an American culinary legend and under industry luminaries like Patricia Yeo and Laurent Tourondel, as well as several posts in France studying classical technique and enhancing his relationship with ingredients. The Marc Forgione restaurant and Chef Forgione have garnered many awards and distinctions including "Star Chefs Rising Star of the Year Award 2010," "Key Newcomer" by Zagat Guide 2009, and "Rising Star 2008" from Restaurant Hospitality magazine.
Flaavors of St. Maarten
"Flaavors of St. Maarten" will bring together the island's top chefs with celebrity chefs from around the world. Participants will be able to experience intimate winemaker dinners, a Grand Champagne Tasting, and formal sit-down celebration dinners. On the final day of the event, visitors and locals alike will be able to enjoy festivities while sampling hundreds of different types of foods and wines along the Philipsburg beachfront and boardwalk.
Participants will be delighted by the food of great chefs and the sublime wines of the best vineyards from around the world. Additionally, those who attend will have the opportunity to learn to cook from master chefs, the correct way to taste great wines, and experience what it takes to achieve culinary greatness.
Following is the Schedule of Events for Flaavors of St. Maarten which can be accessed via: http://www.flaavors.com/events.html.
- Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2010 - The Grand Champagne Tasting with Iron Chef Contestant Marc Forgione at Porto Cupecoy, 7 pm. Tickets: $150 per person.
- Thursday, Nov. 11, 2010 - The Oakville Ranch Winemaker Dinner with Chefs Wayne Nish, Doug Psaltis and Dino Jagtiani at Temptations Restaurant, 7:30 pm. Tickets: $150 per person.
- Friday, Nov. 12, 2010 - The St. Maarten Celebration Dinner & Benefit Auction at the Westin St. Maarten Dawn Beach Resort & Spa, 7 pm. Ticket: $150 per person. Auction proceeds will benefit the St. Maarten National Culinary Team.
- Saturday, Nov. 13, 2010 - Celebrity Chef Cooking Demonstrations by Chef Wayne Nish at Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino, 10 am, and chef Ken Frank at the Westin St. Maarten Dawn Beach Resort & Spa, 10 am. Tickets are $40 per person for each event.
- Saturday Nov. 13, 2010 - "Napa Valley Rocks" conducted wine tasting by the Napa Valley Vinters Association, 12 pm. Tickets are $50 per person. Participating wineries: Flying Horse Winery, Grgich Hills Winery, The Hess Collection, Jones Family Vineyards, Luna Vineywards, The Miner Family Vineyards, Oakville Ranch Vineyards and Peju Vineyards. Participating panelists: Dan Bailey, The Jones Family Vienyards; Paula Kornell, Oakville Ranch Vineyards; and Michael Davis, Hart Davis Hart Wine Company.
- Saturday Nov. 13, 2010 - The Luna Vineyards Winemaker dinner with Chef Ken Frank at Aura Restaurant, 7:30 pm. tickets: $150 per person
- Sunday, Nov. 14, 2010 - St. Maarten Flaavors Festival (Phillipsburg Beachfront and Boardwalk), 12 pm - 5 pm. Tickets: $45 per person. Participation by 40 of the top restaurants and wine distributors in St. Maarten as well as the Napa Valley Vintners Association, among others.
Philipsburg:--- The SHTA is echoing statements made by president of the Central Bank of Curacao and St. Maarten, Dr. Tromp, during the 6th Biennial Conference of the Caribbean Ombudsman Association Caroa in Curacao two weeks ago.
In his message, Dr. Tromp emphasized the need for accountability and transparency in the governments of the new countries to create prosperous and productive economies. This is something the SHTA has been advocating for quite some time. In the SHTA's post election press release in which they congratulated all elected officials on forming part of the 1st government of Country St. Maarten, the SHTA stressed the need to reinvent Government and advised that keen attention be paid to amongst others:
Government structure: This unique opportunity only comes around once in a lifetime and it should be handled correctly, particularly as it refers to government services. Focus should be on removing all the red tape (which currently acts as an impediment to business and creates an environment for corruption) and streamlining operations to be more efficient, customer friendly and impactful.
Long term planning: The SHTA believes that in order for Country St. Maarten to properly develop, strategic, long-term planning is critical. This means that changes in taxation, legislation and policy would be evaluated by many measurements but most importantly by its impact on the economy. An important tool in evaluating proposed changes would be a Macro Economic Model. This model would allow government to estimate the financial consequences of decisions thus paving the way for structured planning and long term fiscal responsibility.
GREAT BAY:--- The Civil Registry Department has organized an information session at the Sister Regina School in Simpson Bay for Wednesday, November 17.
Residents of Simpson Bay and environs are invited to the information session that will be held from 6.00pm to 7.30pm.
Attendees will have an opportunity to ask questions about the services that the department offers along with the procedures that must be followed.
Persons who need additional information can contact the Civil Registry Department at 542-2457.
Philipsburg:--- The police department and the prosecutor's office has made tremendous headway into solving a string of armed robberies that were committed by at least eight St. Maarteners between the ages of 19 and 26.
Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson at press conference on Wednesday gave reporters a joint press statement regarding the eight suspects who are now behind bars and the crimes they have committed. Below is the full text of the press release.
We have invited you here this afternoon because we can announce that in recent weeks Police and Public Prosecutor's Office have solved a string of serious crimes that have caused a great feeling of insecurity on this island. We considered it fit to inform the public about these crimes and the fact that the main suspects have been arrested and are in custody.
However we will not be able answer any questions because the investigation is still ongoing and we are trying to solve as many crimes as we can.
Yet this is such important news, that we chose to invite you to share this news with us.
The 8 suspects, varying in age between 19 and 26, that were arrested the past few weeks are all persons from St Maarten. They were working in small groups in these various serious crimes that were committed.
The Public Prosecutors' Office and the Police Department joined all forces in gathering evidence and thus solving these cases. A total of twelve detectives were assigned to these cases and worked alongside detectives of the Marechaussee.
1. The first case that we would like to mention is the Maho Reef Investigation.
In the early morning hours of Saturday October 16th 2010 the lifeless body of the man who later turned out to be Wouter Romeijn, was found on the Friendly Island Boulevard in Maho Reef. The investigation into this case showed that earlier that evening, three suspects of the ages 20,
21 and 24 years old, had forcefully abducted the victim, robbing him of all personal belongings and ill-treating him on the road between Maho Reef and Atlantis Casino.
The victim was beaten and thrown into the trunk of the stolen car the group of suspects were using. The intention of the suspects was to take the victim to a "cash point"(cash machine) and force him to withdraw cash from his bank account by using his debit or credit cards.
However it never reached to that. The victim apparently managed to free himself from the trunk and fell out of the fast driving car. The results of the autopsy showed that the victim had suffered severe bodily harm causing the death of the victim, Wouter Romeijn.
2. Further investigation showed that around midnight of October 15th and 16th 2010 five suspects robbed a couple of their rental car in the vicinity of Marigot. The suspects used violence and threatened the victims with a gun. A witness who tried to stop the suspects, was shot at twice. The car that was stolen was used not long there after for the abduction of Wouter Romeijn.
Other cases that were investigated and that were committed by this group are:
3. An armed robbery on October 21st 2010 at a home in Point Blanche.
While the caretaker of that residence, a Haitian national, was asleep at the time, three unknown men forcefully gained access to the house. The victim was struck on the head with a solid object. He was taken to another bedroom, covered with a blanket and a knife was put to his throat.
His life was threatened while part of the household, such as a safe and a flat screen television were taken.
4. A robbery in the Cay Hill area on October 12th 2010.
While driving in his car the victim in this case was blocked by two other cars. Suspects exited their vehicles and approached the victim.
Maize was sprayed in his face and then he was robbed of all personal belongings such as wallet, cellular telephone, passport and clothing.
The vehicle the victim was driving was also taken.
5. An armed robbery on October 10th 2010 in Dawn Beach area.
The victims, while driving in their car, were overtaken by the suspects.
The suspects' vehicle stopped in front of the victim's car. The suspects'
vehicle was then intentionally reversed into the victim's car. At the same time four suspects walked to the victim's car while throwing a stone through the window and pulling the driver out of the car. The female victim saw a fire arm. The male victim received blows to his head and body. Their money, I-phones, handbags and cellular telephones were stolen.
6. An armed robbery at Guana Bay on October 12th 2010 Four American tourists were staying together in an apartment. They were asleep when three men armed with knives forced their way into the building. They attempted to cover the mouth of one of the victims with tape. A physical confrontation took place between another victim and two of the robbers. He was severely beaten by the robbers. A rental car, an envelop containing U.S.$ 900.- cellular telephones, camera and binoculars were taken from the apartment. After the robbers left the apartment the victims heard several gun shots going off. The security officer stated later that four suspects were seen leaving the property and that one of them had a rifle in his hand.
7. Armed robbery in Cole Bay on October 10th 2010 The victim dropped a friend off at home and waited for a while in front of the house waiting for the friend to bring her a glass of water.
At the same time a car stopped behind that of the victim blocking her from driving away. Two suspects stepped out of the car and began pounding with a gun on the hood of the victim's car, demanding her to open the door, which she finally did. The victim's bag and telephone were stolen. The other robber attempted to gain access to the friend's apartment by pulling on the door, but was unsuccessful.
As further investigations shows, this group of suspects has also been involved in various break-ins in the Pointe Blanche and Guana bay areas. Stolen cars were used as transportation to and from the crime scene.
Currently investigation into the involvement of the suspects into several other crimes on the island is ongoing.
The Public Prosecutors' Office and the Police are convinced that with the arrest of these 8 suspects further crime by these men has been prevented.
This intensive and extensive investigation was conducted while several other crimes caught the public's attention. Since these were also serious crimes the Police were forced to divide their limited attention to these crimes too.
For example The Public Prosecutors' Office together with the Police department have paid much attention to several cases which in first instance seemed to be quite serious. Such as a recent case in the Dawn Beach area, in which a suspect claimed to have been a victim of an armed robbery and then was locked in the trunk of his car. An in depth investigation done by detectives, resulted in the conclusion that no robbery had taken place and that the suspect had fabricated the story and had taken the money for personal use. Yet, the information that another "trunk case" took place shortly after the Maho case, resulted in a broadly felt feeling of insecurity. Therefore the Police were glad having been able to establish that the latter case was a fabricated story. The suspect nevertheless was arrested and was dealt with.
Around that same period a telephone call came to the Police department informing them that two young women had been abducted by several young men after a night out. They were allegedly kept against their will in a house in the Pointe Blanche area. The reports seemed to be serious that a special team was put together to coordinate the large police effort that was involved in investigating this case.
After two
days of intense investigation, it showed that the story was fabricated by one of the young girls. This young lady has been in custody for questioning and then released. The police department believes that this young lady is in dire need of psychiatric attention and hopes she gets that real soon.
Although these two examples in the end showed that nothing serious had occurred, yet coming to these results had gone to great cost and effort by both Police and prosecutors.
In a nutshell these are the results so far of these intensive Police investigations. It took a joint effort of the departments involved in these investigations to come to this these results. If the ongoing investigations will show further remarkable results, this will be forwarded to the press and the public as soon as possible. Since the investigations are still ongoing and prosecution likely will follow, we are not in a position to divulge any further information about the investigation and the cases presented. We count on your understanding with respect to that.
The Police and the Prosecutor's Office are proud of all men and woman who contributed with relentless efforts to solving these cases that have troubled the public so much and want to thank them for their great achievement.
The Public Prosecutors' Office and the Police Department also want to express their gratitude to the general public and in particular those persons who in some way have contributed to the achievement of these results."
Philipsburg:--- Senator Louis Laveist is now the representative of the National Alliance faction in parliament pending the absence of the faction leader William Marlin. According to a letter sent to the chairlady of Parliament Gracita Arrindell, Marlin has informed the chairlady that he is currently off island with his wife who is undergoing medical treatment abroad.
The National Alliance leader also informed Arrindell that she should make contact with Laveist from November 22 to November 24 to inform him about any planned meetings. Marlin said due to his absence he will not be able to attend the meeting planned for Tuesday at 2pm.
PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Drs. Gracita Arrindell announces that the national Parliament will be meeting in public session on Thursday, December 09 at 2.00pm in the A.C. Wathey Legislative Hall.
The two agenda points are the list of incoming documents and the election of a Second Vice President for the Parliament.
The second agenda point has been added to the agenda at the request of Senators Patrick Illidge, Romain Laville and Roy Marlin.
The four parliamentary factions represented in the Parliament of Sint Maarten are, namely the United Peoples party (UP), Democratic Party (DP), Independent Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge and the National Alliance (NA).
"The grim reality facing the federation of St. Kitts and Nevis has finally been exposed for all to see. The smokescreen of "its working", "we have weathered the storm", "debt is good for development" and other such ridiculous platitudes has been blown away by the harsh economic storms wrought by disastrous fiscal mismanagement." These are the sentiments of St.Kitts-Nevis Opposition Party Deputy Political Leader the Hon. Eugene Hamilton. Hamilton made the statement in light of the austerity measures announced by the Prime Minister during the recently concluded parliamentary budget debate presentation.
"After years of fiscal irresponsibility and wanton spending the country has now emerged battered and bruised washed up on the doorstop of the IMF," Hamilton Lamented
The budget appears to be a carbon copy of the austerity measures that the IMF recommended in its Public Information Notice just last month. According to Hamilton it is hard to imagine a government as bankrupt as ours having any latitude at all in choosing which IMF measures to accept or being able to reject any. Thus the very similar nature of the measures announced to those recommended by the IMF
Economists have declared that with a National Debt that reaches 196% of GDP at the end of this year St. Kitts and Nevis is completely at the mercy of the IMF with absolutely no power to bargain, not even for the price of our lands.
"Our sad and dire economic situation has precipitated the IMF to recommend the selling of our lands," said Hamilton . "As any sensible person knows when the seller is desperate for cash the buyer has the power to haggle down the price. Who knows how low this Labour government will be forced to go to hand over our patrimony only to in turn hand over the proceeds to our creditors" Hamilton continued.
Hamilton further opined "This is an ignominious state to be in and this is no accident. This economic and consequent social disaster is the direct result of the corrupt policies of Prime Minister Douglas and his Labour government."
"The prime minister claims that the National Budget is $2.6 billion so we can accept that it is at least that amount. The question then is; how much will these harsh measures ameliorate this situation. How much can this Labour government gain from raising electricity rates, reintroduced Unincorporated Business Tax, VAT, raising social services levy, removing the subsidy from gas, defunding UWI students, eliminating civil service jobs and the other austerity measures?" Hamilton questioned
"An even more pressing question is whether the increased revenues will even go where it should. A significant portion of the National Debt is the result of corruption; of inflating infrastructure contracts, of imaginary consultancy fees, of a reserve contingency fund for which there is no accountability, of nepotism and waste in statutory corporations and of plain old theft. Will our increased taxes simply be funneled to Lex Consulting LLC?" HAamilton continued
Hamilton concluded "Does anyone really believe that a government that has proven singularly incapable of managing an economy will suddenly be able to? No, I think that the rose coloured glasses have finally been removed and as a people we are resigned to a near future of even more bitter pills but for how long?"
The government recently announced steep increases for electricity, increases for the Housing and Social Development Levy and an end to many duty free concessions effective January 2011. Prime Minister Dr Denzil Douglas said the measures were aimed at tackling the massive $3 billion national debt.
Philipsburg:--- The Philipsburg Methodist Church proudly presents their annual concert entitled, "Men's Night of Praise Concert" which is fundraising event organized by two classes of the church in aid of church missions.
This special concert will feature a talented male line up of artists from the church such as Chester York, Jeffrey Richardson, Isidore York, The James Brothers, Don Froston, The Men's Fellowship Group, Raymond Benjamin, Leroy Van Stralen, Dion Gumbs, Marvin Dollison, Celestial Voices, Willy Thomas, MNOP Band and Reverend E. Lloyd Brisset singing songs of worship along with some surprise artists.
This concert take place this coming Saturday, October 2th at 7:30pm at the Philipsburg Methodist Chapel. Tickets are only $10 and can be bought from any member of the organizing committee and at the door.
Pond Island:--- Despite heavy rains firemen fought hard on Tuesday to save a partly wooden house that was on fire. According to the fire men on the scene the fire started when the lone male occupant was cooking.
Fire officer Frans Nieuwenhoven said the inside of the house was totally destroyed but no one was injured.
Paris/St. Maarten:--- Police arrested a female suspect on Friday as they continue to investigate the slaying of Eric Yuan Sam of Food Club Supermarket. SMN News has been reliably informed that the suspect has been charged with being in possession of illegal firearms. According to well-placed sources the suspect is closely involved in the brutal slaying of the Dutch Quarter Businessman who was killed on December 30th during an armed robbery.
Efforts made over the weekend to confirm our information proved futile, as police are tightlipped about the arrest and ongoing investigation.
On the evening of December 30, at least three armed gunmen entered Food Club supermarket and opened fire as they proceeded to rob the supermarket. During the ordeal two other persons were shot, one a pregnant woman from a nearby hair dressing salon.
On Friday, the arrest team as well as other uniformed police conducted a joint operation in search of the suspects that involved in the murder of Eric Sam as well as other armed robberies.
Police arrested three more suspects on Sunday, all of which are involved in the robbery and murder of Eric Sam of Food Club Supermarket. According to reliable sources, one of the suspects that was arrested on Sunday found the murder weapon and kept it. It is understood that he is from Jamaica. The other suspects SMN News understands is directly involved in the brutal slaying of Sam.
GREAT BAY,– St. Maarten's commissioner of tourism, economic affairs, aviation and sports joins the local Haitian community in St. Maarten and others elsewhere, in expressing solidarity with families and friends of victims claimed on Tuesday, as result of a deadly earthquake in Haiti.
As a sign of sympathy with the victims of the earthquake, Richardson says that the thoughts and prayers of the people of St. Maarten should remain with the relatives of the victims and with members of the local Haitian community, which has been part of the wider community here for decades.
Richardson says that he wishes to convey a message of strength and comfort, to all those affected, at this time of sadness.
"With this catastrophe hitting Haiti, we must be reminded of the substantial damage and casualties, such an event brings with it", says Richardson.
The tragic and untimely developments transpiring in Haiti is a time for St. Maarten to show that it cares about its Caribbean neighbors and that as heart breaking as the ordeal is, it is encouraging to note pledges for international relief assistance coming in.
He called on local relief organizations, charity organizations and the public, to provide assistance, to Haiti, wherever possible, in coming days.
"This is the least we can do, as a community, in order to help all concerned through this difficult time," says Richardson.
Philipsburg: ---On Thursday January 21 the Police and Immigration Department spearheaded by members of the Migroff Social Club, will hold a "Charity Drive" in connection with the January 12 2010 earthquake that devastated the island nation of Haiti.
Recognizing the desperate situation that is ongoing in Haiti, all social organization within the police department came together to contribute to this serious cause. The police department is appealing to all the members of the Police Force of Sint Marten, Saba and Sint Eustatius and other all judiciary departments to donate any non-perishable food items and/or clothing they can afford. The drive will take place on the premises at the back of Philipsburg Police Station between 10.00 a.m. and 05.00 p.m. The organizers are looking forward to the support of the members and the members of all other Judiciary departments to support this effort to help the victims who were affected by this tragedy.
GREAT BAY,– The Government Information Service (GIS) and the Main Voting Bureau have launched an election website to keep web users on the island and abroad informed of hourly incoming election results for the last parliamentary elections for the country of the Netherlands Antilles.
Persons can go to www.sxmelection.com and get all their official election results along with pictures. The site is powered by Computech.
The website is very easy to use. There is a welcome address by Governor Franklyn Richards who is Chairman of the Main Voting Bureau.
The main menu links are "Hourly Polling Station Update," "Federal Election Results," and "Federal Election Images."
The website gives the opportunity to St. Maarteners studying, working and living abroad the opportunity to keep track as the official election results are released.
Every election is an important one and the January 22, 2010 parliamentary election is expected to be the last one for the Netherlands Antilles as a constitutional entity.
Persons elected to serve will be part of a historic process on the final leg where the country of Sint Maarten will be established, Governor Franklyn Richards, told the Government Information Service (GIS).
On January 22, do your part. Exercise your democratic right to vote. Actively participating is a social duty, an obligation we owe not only to ourselves, but to our fellow citizens.
Philipsburg:---The Democratic Party of Sint Maarten thanks the people of Sint Maarten for their support as expressed in the election of January 22, 2010. The 3645 voters who voted for the Democratic Party have our utmost admiration for their loyalty and support.
To all 11.505 voters, thank you for exercising your right to vote and voting for the party of your choice, DP, NA or PPA.
We have expressed to the leader of the National Alliance our sincerest congratulations for the overwhelming victory attained at the polls and we wish the NA much success in the negotiations for a central government.
For the 2032 persons who voted for me individually, thank you for the confidence placed in me. The Democratic Party will continue to represent the people of this island as we have been doing unselfishly for the past 55 years.
The road ahead is quite challenging, but we must embark on it with the hope of being able to conquer any obstacles in our path.
These coming months will be quite testing for Sint Maarten, reason for us to be even more determined that we will remain vigilant as a people to ensure St. Maarten gets its rightful share from the dismantling of the Netherlands Antilles.
Philipsburg - While we have shifted into first gear on the "paved" road to country status, the dust has not settled on the back roads, where day to day challenges remain a balancing act for local government officials. Officials who should give sufficient attention and public accountability on various tasks that affect our (business) community directly. This is no different for St. Maarten's Local Chief of Police, Lt. Governor Franklin Richards, who recently received a request for more clarification on the recent rise of criminal activities, from Island Council Member Maria Buncamper-Molanus.
In a letter to the Chief of Police, Buncamper-Molanus asked for statistical information to clarify whether an increase in crime has indeed occurred, in particular the ones of a more violent nature that have resulted in the deaths of local business men, in comparison to previous years. While she acknowledged that the responsibility of Justice falls under the Central Government, she also questions if we including the Office of the Local Chief of Police should be viewing things differently considering that the challenges we face with crime seem to be escalating.
Various efforts to combat crime were highlighted in Buncamper-Molanus' communication to the Chief. Including: The Central Government's proposed reorganization and coaching of the Windward Islands Police Management Team, an ongoing campaign to recruit new police officers, an established cooperation between the police forces of the Windward Islands and Rotterdam and various project proposals submitted by St. Maarten, to ultimately improve the police force as a whole and provide the St. Maarten citizens and visitors alike, with a sense of higher security and peace of mind. Mrs. Buncamper-Molanus requested more clarification on what exactly the agreement is between Rotterdam and St. Maarten and more facts and figures on the current recruitment status. Basically, she is requesting an update on the aforementioned initiatives and an explanation on the results of all these efforts, negative or positive.
After a list of eight queries, Buncamper-Molanus stated: "More police presence and proper equipment appear to be the recurring calls from those involved. If this is indeed the main issue, why are these issues not given priority? Yes indeed the Central Government is responsible for Justice. We have had Justice Ministers come and go and we have the same problems recur. The constant factors in this equation are the people of St. Maarten, crime and the responsibility of the Local Chief of police on the island. So should we be doing things differently leading up the constitutional reform? Should there be more involvement from the Island Government and the Local Chief of Police?"
The Island Council Member concluded by stating that fighting crime is everybody's business and requested a prompt response from the office of the Local Chief of Police as this issue is a critical concern and would benefit the people of and the visitors to St. Maarten.
MARIGOT---The gendarmes arrested a 20 year old man for whom a warrant was out from the Courts of Saint Martin. According to a press release the man was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment for violent robberies. he was tranferred to Guadeloupe where he began serving his time.
The gendarmes also apprehended a female who was caught stealing items from an abandoned hotel. A press release from the gendarmes states that the security guard on duty contacted them when he noticed a male and female were stealing from the hotel. The male culprit managed to escape while the female was apprehended. The woman was released after being warned about her actions.
Philipsburg:----Several St. Maarten Academy PSVE students were honored on Wednesday for their Academic achievements during the first half of the academic year. In commenting on yet another positive showing of by our youth, the Council lady Sarah Wescot Williams said that we often complain that not enough is publicly said about the positive sides of our youth in general.
'We need to continue to "big up" our young people when they excel, achieve or even when they give their best efforts. Equally important is to give them a chance to do all the above, at the same time teaching them that success does not come easy; that life's path can be a treacherous one, and many more of the lessons that we were taught as youngsters ourselves."
"As former commissioner of education, it is satisfying to see our students excel and given the recognition for such."
"In this light, I congratulate the St. Maarten Academy PSVE students who have excelled during the first half of the 2009-2010 academic years. I encourage them to set an even higher standard towards the end of the school year. To challenge themselves even more. Positive peer pressure works."
To the students directly: "It is my hope that the pressure to excel will rub off on many of those around you".
Philipsburg:--- A few extraordinary police officers took the oath on Friday. Reading the oath was chief of the governor's cabinet Ligia Stella, while the oath taking was done in the presence of Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards. Richards admonished the civil servants who have been in the civil core for some time now to make sure they do not buckle to any type of pressure, neither should they be carried away with the extra power granted to them.
Airport:---"I beckon on each employee to give more, do not be contented with what you are giving as we should continue to aspire for greater and higher performance. In 2010 I would like to urge you all to let us raise the bar of our customer service even more," Managing Director of Windward Islands Airways told a large gathering of employees.
Mr. Hodge was at the time delivering the feature address at the airline's Activity's Club end of year dinner which was attended by employees and family members. The event which was held at the Diamond Chateau in Cole Bay attracted a significant number of employees. Hodge said that while he has the detailed figures regarding the company's performance in 2009 he refused to disclose same noting that the event was geared at recognizing some employees who he said went beyond the call of duty so as to ensure the continued growth of the airline.
He reminded employees that while the airline paid out its symbolic bonuses for 2009 that they should not become complacent as 2010 will be as tough as the previous year. He admitted that since taking over the reigns as managing Director of Winair 2009 has been his most difficult and challenging year.
The MD declared that every area of service is critically important if the airline which have been in existence for the past 48 years is to continue growing. He urged his employees to be more involved in lending what he called a 'helping hand' in ensuring that Winair remains viable, reliable and accountable. Hodge said that while he and his Management Team have been able to confront the many and increased challenges during 2009 it was characterized by a constant need to respond to the many growing challenges in effectively running an airline company. "It is important to note though that we were never caught off guard as the level of service delivered by you kept us on guard thus being able to confront the difficulties," he said.
He told staff members that as the company move forward with yet another uncertain year that is of paramount importance for the survival of the airline will the initiatives and systems that are introduced to the public. He said that these initiatives and systems are geared towards remaining competitive and ahead of their competition. He demanded that employees must be able to enhance their productive capacity and also the capacity as an airline thus being able to thrive successfully.
"We must recognize that the way we did business in 2009 cannot continue any more as with each passing day so must our level of service and competence increase as the challenges face both competitively and economically continues to increase," he said
He added, "I urge each team member to recognize that he/she will certainly have to raise their production level of service thus ensuring that Winair can compete properly". He went on to point out that on the issue of eradicating incompetence and lackadaisical approach to responsibility he made mention some employees who he said affected the overall performance if the airline during last year. "You the one who are carrying your fair load and even extra you have to pull them along and tell them that they are affecting the improvements of your company," he said. He stressed the need to continue promoting the airline as one for the people of the region noting that if employees are going to increase the company's revenue and job security they would need to give high service and productivity thus leaving an indomitable impact on customers. "We must carry out our daily tasks with urgency, pride, dignity and most importantly professionalism," he reminded staff members.
St. Peters: --- Students of the Starlight Education Foundation are again in limbo since they are once again out of school. SMN News learnt from a few parents that they were called to the school on Monday morning to get their children because there is huge lock on the school doors and gate. "I have not been able to attend school because our school door is locked and our teachers were in a workshop for two days and now when we go to school on Monday we are locked out", said one student.
SMN News learnt that the director of Starlight Education, Carmen Hodge is once again in trouble with her landlord and she has not paid her monthly rent since the beginning of 2009-2010 school year.
The source said last school year; Caribbean Liquors and Tobacco came in to rescue the students attending that school when they learnt that the students were locked out due to unpaid rent. However, they paid the monthly rent for remaining of the year at a reduced price since the property owner took off Naf. 2000.00 as her donation to the school. According to information received the monthly rent for the building housing Starlight Education Foundation was rented for Naf. 8000.00 but Hodge it is understood never paid her rent, reasons why the property owner moved to court and Hodge was convicted by the courts to pay the rent, and be evicted.
The businessmen of that company made an agreement with the landlord to pay the rent for the remaining of 2008-2009 school year which ended in July last year but since then the Starlight Education and Foundation has not paid any rent and its arrears of Naf.100,000.00. Currently the foundation owes the property owner over Naf.150,000.00.
SMN News understands that the only monies the property owner received were that which was paid by Caribbean Liquors and Tobacco.
Early last year when the students were locked out of the school it is understood one of the reasons the company who never released their identity assisted is because government has agreed to subsidize the school, but so far the undocumented schools are not being subsidized by the island government. SMN News learnt a research was held and a panel discussion is scheduled for this week.
SMN News further learnt that Starlight Education received monies from AMFO (Dutch Financing Agency) during the month of December, 2009. The source said when Hodge received that money she went to make a rent payment of Naf.19, 000 but the property owner refused the rent since it is not the amount she was expecting. SMN News learnt that the property owner had only given the businessman the discount for the period to which they had agreed to pay the rent. Furthermore, Hodge was supposed to be paying Naf. 8000.00 as stated in her contract beginning this school year.
This media house also learnt that a pastor from Global Mission Church are currently negotiating with the property owner and Starlight Education since the property owner does not want to conduct any business with Hodge any longer neither the Starlight Education Foundation that does not have all the required board members on board.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—On Wednesday, February 3, at the Sonesta Great Bay Hotel, members of the Island Council and the Executive Council among Sector Directors and the staff of the Island Secretariat attended, Workshop Dualism in Country St. Maarten 10 10 10.
The workshop consisted of an explication of the concept of dualism by VNG experts and later interactive philosophical discussions on the topic.
The program was opened by Cassandra Janssen, Quartermaster for the set up of St. Maarten's Parliament, who welcomed everyone and provided some historical points on the Parliamentary system of the Netherlands Antilles and explained the dual nature of the government, something that we have had for over 70 years. She pointed out that there were members of the Island Council who visit the Netherlands and who got hands on experience about the system.
Dennis Richardson, Project Director at the Department of Constitutional Affairs, was the next speaker who gave a short deliberation on the topics as well. He said that as we approach 10-10-10, every part of government is intensely working towards getting ready for the constitutional changes.
He explained that Dualism is a political and constitutional concept that has the division of powers embedded into the system the separation of powers, also known as trias politica, among the three branches of government, namely the Legislative, Judicial, and Executive.
This will lead to a more open and transparent government. Though in practice, there is the reality of the situation, which he said, is reflected in the electoral process—voters get to choose.
However, he said, there is never one factor, but others, such as the different circumstances, place in history, how the electorate reacts, among other factors.
The workshop was given by the VNG International which executes the program Municipal Cooperation with the Netherlands Antilles based on the resolution of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Kingdom Relations since 2006.
The program offers primarily civil servants of the islands of the Netherlands Antilles the opportunity to gain experience working within municipalities in the Netherlands as well the ability to use experts from Dutch municipalities to work in addressing specific questions and problems facing the islands.
The organization provides organizational support to the Island Territories in preparation for the new status within the Kingdom.
Other objectives are to strengthen the local administration by means of skill enhancement of the civil servants and administrators; cooperation in building relationship between the Dutch municipalities and the islands; sharing of knowledge and experiences among the islands and municipalities.
The VNG International has also visited the BES islands and has had similar workshops on Curacao.
Philipsburg: ---- The Win Win Agreement signed by former Minister of Justice David Dick and the management team of the police force KPSSS has failed said members of the unions attending a transitional meeting on St. Maarten. Vice President of NABP Philbert Llewellyn said they have great concerns regarding the implementation of several projects that has been agreed upon in the Win Win Agreement. A meeting was scheduled to be held on Friday where the concerns of the unions and its members will be discussed.
Llewellyn said the agreement the unions was with former Minister of Justice David Dick and former chief prosecutor Taco Stein. He said since the persons who signed and the agreement they are having problem with the implementation on what was agreed upon. Llewellyn and Ronald Ignacio said even the reports they were expecting to get from Police coach Ronald Dongor has not been forthcoming.
Ignacio said the KPSSS did not get the added value by bringing in someone from the outside who was suppose to have more experience than the local guys. The unions said when they agreed with the former Minister of Justice to bring in the coach it was for him to assist in building up the KPSSS. The union members said the they felt the monies that was given by Holland to enhance the police force was used for other purposes such as travelling expenses and compensations to those in management.
Ignacio said currently the officers in the police force no longer have confidence since the agreement was not upheld. He said the union is not amused with the way in which the Minister and the management team executed the Win Win Agreement.
The unionist said they lost lots of time and monies when they were negotiating the agreement. Ignacio said they already threatened and even took actions to get the management team and minister's attention on proper implementation of the agreement.
Ignacio said one of the reasons they worked and signed the Win Win Agreement was because they wanted to protect the entire police force.
Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police Panneflek
Ignacio said that even though they worked an agreement that would have protected the entire police force Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police Richard Panneflek went on his own and asked the former Minister to put him to the disposition of the island government. He said after the coach arrived Panneflek decided to go on another track and it was in consultation with the Minister, so far the unions he said does not have all the details on what really they agreed upon.
However, Ignacio said that Panneflek rights have to be safeguarded and if at any point his rights are trampled upon then the union would take the necessary measures. He said if there are parts of the agreement that can be applied to Panneflek then that too will take place. He said if Panneflek was not treated fairly by the Minister based on the rules and procedures then that too has to be ironed out. Ignacio and Llewellyn said they are scheduled to meet with Panneflek and the management team sometime on Friday.
He said one of the main reasons the union worked so hard on the agreement was to make sure all officers working in KPSSS got equal opportunity and they the available positions would have been reserved for them. Ignacio said they are also currently working on the grievances regarding detective Carlton Philips. Ignacio said that they do not believe that Philips was treated fairly especially regarding the prosecutors office that has refused to work with Philips.
Ignacio said they are currently looking into the interest of the community of St. Maarten and not the prosecutor whose ego was bruised. He said Philips is a police officer who is of value to the entire community of St. Maarten and right now all the valued resources have to be used in order to repress the rising crime rate. Ignacio said right now St. Maarten does not have the time, neither resource to exclude valuable police officers who have proven their skills in the St. Maarten community. Ignacio said after meeting with the police management team on Friday they would take a decision on how they would proceed with the grievances of their officers.
Another burning point on the agenda of the unions is the role of the RST. He said this matter will be discussed with the public prosecutor's office. Ignacio said based on information given to them is that the relationship between the local police force and the RST has deteriorated. He said currently they are currently on the look out because the local officers must be given full opportunity to serve their community.
GREAT BAY:– Governor and Local Chief of Police Franklyn Richards has expressed grave concern with regards to the crime situation on the island, and is of the opinion that the crime wave has to end.
The Local Chief of Police also admonishes residents and passer-by's for not alerting the Police to the burning of several stolen vehicles in bushes in Dutch Quarter over the weekend as well as persons verbally threatening Police officers while they were carrying out their investigation in the area.
"The Police are reliant on community assistance in the fight against crime. A person not alerting the Police to two vehicles on fire in the bushes is a derelict of civic duty and responsibility towards society. Evidence was probably destroyed in the fire.
"Threatening Police officers while they carry out their crime scene investigation is also not acceptable behaviour coming from what we assume were law abiding citizens. These actions do not overshadow the contributions that have been made to law enforcement on the island, and I continue to encourage law abiding citizens to help the Police because it's a community effort in fighting crime," Governor Richards observed.
Richards says that he will be looking into additional law enforcement measures that can be implemented as a consequence of the recent increase in crime. These measures would include extended and far-reaching authority to the police and the prosecutor's office.
Some of the measures that could be implemented are the closure of businesses, offices or homes that violate public order; the temporary detention of a person or groups of persons who ignore specific law and order rules; when there is a serious indication of wrongdoing in a certain neighbourhood; police searching vehicles and persons as well as instructing drivers to open enclosed packages.
Governor Richards added that the additional measures should not have the semblance of becoming a police state. "The Police are legally obliged to take all reasonable steps to protect people and property where there is a real and immediate risk to them from the acts of another.
"The most recent event and a point of grave concern is the incident involving shots being fired from a school bus transporting students. Incidents involving the loss of life are to be condemned and cannot be tolerated under any circumstance.
"Several robberies of homes and businesses are also a matter of great concern. An integral approach is needed to combating crime considering the situation is made more complicated because of the island's geographical location and open borders," Governor Richards told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Monday.
Governor Richards says combating crime is not only a task for Police and the Justice system, but also for parents, schools, the church, social institutions, the business sector and the average citizen.
"As we prepare to become a country, aspects of security become our collective responsibility. Government is also ultimately called upon to dedicate the necessary attention to fighting crime. An example of this is adequate street lighting which still has to become a reality in some areas," Governor Richards Local Chief of Police pointed out.
At the initiative of the Local Chief of Police, the Safety Plan St. Maarten was developed in 2007. The plans listed a number of recommendations to contribute to a safer community.
One of the recommendations is the development of a qualitatively and quantitatively strong (criminal) justice and law enforcement system and this is one of the key areas of constitutional renewal and a priority for Country St. Maarten.
Philipsburg:--- Former Democratic Party commissioner of labour, social and youth affairs Louie Laviest is to know his fate on Thursday February 11. Laviest's appeal case was tried on January 28 where he pleaded with the judges to acquit him of all charges.
Laviest also told the panel of three judges of the joint court of appeals that he was willing to do community service should the court find him guilty as charged.
The island council member was charged with forgery, bribery and the hiring of an illegal employee. He was sentenced by the court of fist instance to 18 months imprisonment and has been banned from public office for the next five years.
Philipsburg:--Police have arrested the eldest son of Senator Erno Labega on Thursday as a suspect in a drug trafficking case. The suspect is 27 years old Erno Labega Jr confirmed Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos. Mos said Labega Jr. was taken off American Airline at 5 pm Thursday as he was on his way to the United States. SMN News learnt that police was in search of Labega Jr. since he was involved in a brawl in Soggy Dollar Bar. Sources say that the suspect that was arrested on Thursday was convicted on numerous occasions in the United States.
On Christmas Day 2008 Police arrested the senator's second son as he was wanted in Holland for a drug trafficking case. That son was extradited to Holland confirmed the Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos.
In an invited comment his father Senator Erno Labega Sr. who is currently in Curacao said he did not have much information on the case as he is in Curacao working. He said he received a phone call informing him of the arrest and he is currently trying to obtain information from his son's lawyers on St. Maarten.
Marigot:--- A Haitian woman and her two children are now homeless after fire engulfed their wooden apartment in Agrement. SMN News learnt that the fire took place on Thursday evening while the woman was at a next door neighbor. On the scene on Friday the entire apartment was destroyed. So far the gendarmes neither the fire services have not released any information pertaining to the fire. The woman and her children could not be found by SMN News yesterday for a comment.
Grand Case: --- Some 43 construction workers took industrial action on Thursday protesting what they said is constant labour abuse. CGTG union member Rudy Hyman in an invited comment said the workers are not being paid on time and they are basically robbed each month.
Hyman said today (Thursday) is 18th day of February and the workers are still not paid for the month of January. He said besides that the construction workers are being penalized when they try to obtain their rightful pay regarding over time and other benefits. Hyman said the person that is managing Kapro Construction is some sort of dictator since he would infringe on the workers basic human rights. The strike is expected to continue on Friday.
Philipsburg: --- The six political parties of the Netherlands Antilles that was elected during the January 22 parliamentary elections managed to form their new government in record time says informateur Pedro Attacho. During the historic signing at the Great Bay Sonesta Resort on Friday the political heads signed off on the Philipsburg Akkoord 2010. Signing the agreement were the leader of the PAR party Emily de Jongh-Elhage , leader of the National Alliance William Marlin, the UPB Mr. Ramoncito Booi, Faroe Metry PNP Curacao, Mr. Julian Woodley Democratic Party of St. Eustatius, and Mr. Rolando Wilson of the WIPEM.
The central government formed on Friday is scheduled to last a period of seven months and is expected to be the last for the Netherlands Antilles. Also signed on Friday is the governing accord which is called the PhilipsburgAkkoord 2010. Attacho said an agreement was also reached on the division of portfolios which consisted of only three and half pages and gives and indication that the main purpose of this new government is to focus on the dismantling of the Netherlands Antilles and to support the upcoming new entities of the Kingdom, to care for the well being of the people of the Netherlands Antilles until 10/10/10. Attacho said this new government would also finalize the current affairs. Attacho is expected to present his governing accord and final report to the governor general of the Netherlands Antilles next Sunday instead of March 3. Attacho said after that the governor general would decide on the formateur to form the new cabinet of Ministers.
Attacho said based on the law and the formation of the federal government the PAR the largest party will get five ministries that will be occupied by four ministers. The Prime Minister in the capacity of General and Foreign Affairs, Minister of Finance, Minister of Justice, Minister of Education and Public Health, and Plenipotentiary in the Hague as well as the Chairman of Parliament. The National Alliance from St. Maarten has two ministries which are Ministry of Constitutional and Domestic Affairs and Ministry of Traffic and Communications, the deputy Minister of Plenipotentiary in The Hague, and the vice Prime Minister. The UPB has the Ministry of Economic and Labour Affairs, the State Secretary of Domestic Affairs and the second vice Prime Minister. The Democratic Party of Eustatius has the State Secretary of Justice, while the PNP would also hold the State Secretary of Justice, and the vice chairman of Parliament, while the WIPEM party has the State Secretary of Constitutional Affairs.
After the signing Emily d Jhong Elhage felt the decision taken to sign the agreement on St. Maarten was a good one, she said four years ago those that signed the agreement on Friday have worked together for the past five years. D Jhong Elhage said while there were several discussions during that period there was never a crisis in the Antilles. She felt the agreement will last for the couple of months but felt that whatever happens when the Netherlands Antilles is dismantled it will meet what the people have asked for. D Jhong Elhage said her hope is that the six islands would stay together as friends since their families and friends living on these islands.
The Prime Minister also promised that the PAR will finish what they started with the dismantling process also they would make sure the islands get what is best for the people on each of the islands.
National Alliance Leader William Marlin in his statement said the signing on Thursday is indeed a historic moment for the National Alliance since they managed to capture all three seats through the voters on St. Maarten. He said during the discussions for the formation of the new government focus was on achieving the best for St. Maarten. He said the best for the National Alliance is to make sure the agreements made thus far will be realized and that St. Maarten will get the necessary support to become country on the scheduled date 10/10/10. Marlin said part of the agreement that was signed clearly stipulates that the Central Government will give the agreed support that was signed on June 23 2009.
This agreement he said is where the Central Government has agreed to give the necessary support to St. Maarten so that it can build the necessary infrastructure to take over country St. Maarten by 10/10/10.
Marlin said this is not the first time the people have heard that this is the last Government of the Netherlands Antilles but while in the past they have had target dates, this is the first time they have a signed agreement with the other island with a date attached when St. Maarten and Curacao would become countries and the other islands BES islands. He said has no doubt that it would be realized. He said already a law was passed where the task and the responsibilities can be passed on to Curacao and St. Maarten respectively and the Dutch government for Bonaire Saba and Statia. He said currently they are awaiting the law which would permit the islands to have their elections earlier and for St. Maarten to expand its island council to 15 members and the executive council seven members all of which are important aspects leading up to St. Maarten becoming country later this year. Marlin said the discussions that took place these past days can be considered a walk in the park since the governing accord is three and half pages compared to those in the past. St. Maarten leader of government said that alone goes to show that those elected are focused on the dismantling process and building the new countries.
The UPB of Bonaire said his island has issues that they would have to address which they are committed to doing. Mr. Booi said they felt getting closer under the Netherlands would be more beneficial to their island and they are committed in working together to accomplish the goals of the people. The UPB leader said he has left a space open for the Democratic Party of Bonaire to join if they so wish. Booi said he went as far as offering the position of State Secretary to the DP of Bonaire without even consulting with his own party. Booi said for him it is more important for him to finalize the work he is currently working on rather than to play local politics.
The DP of Eustatius also felt the discussions to form this government went well compared to the others that had wars, he said this alone gives them the indication that the dismantling process would go quickly and smooth. One of the objectives of the Democratic Party is to further meet with St. Maarten and Curacao to discuss matters that concern them since the two islands have much more than the three smaller islands. One of the concerns to be discussed the free movement of people from all of the islands that would be going their separate ways come October 10, 2010.
Also witnessing the historic signing was Will Johnson from Saba as leader of the WIPEM made his statement Mr. Wilson said when men and mountains a lot can be accomplished. He said the slogan used for the January 22 election campaign was "no turning back" and with the signing of the accord shows that there would be turning back regarding the dismantling. Wilson felt that Saba will be able to counter all problems they face during the coming months. He also requested from the people of the Netherlands Antilles to pray since the decisions that has to be taken will not be easy ones.
Distinguished Toastmaster Rolando Tobias was recently appointed as Area 7 Governor by District 81. As Governor of Area 7, Tobias now bears responsibility for clubs operating in St. Thomas, St Croix, Tortola, Virgin Gorda & Puerto Rico. He was appointed to the post following challenges that made it impossible for the previous Area Governor to continue in the position.
The main responsibilities charged to DTM Tobias are the guiding and supporting of the Clubs thru trainings. He is also required to identify and help develop prospective leaders to take up the Area Council duties as of July 1st 2010.
For the past two weekends, Tobias has spent time on St Croix and Tortola respectively. During these visits, he has conducted trainings for the Club officers with the aim of having them better understand their roles and responsibilities. Workshops on the importance of a proper Mentorship program and effective evaluations were well received by the Clubs. The Leadership and members of the Virgin Gorda Pioneers Club also attended the trainings in Tortola this past Saturday. Good use was made of the first visit to also assess challenges within the clubs and to discuss ways in which to tackle these.
DTM Tobias, who successfully took Area 6 (the four Clubs on St Maarten) to Select Distinguished Status last year was appointed based on his leadership skills and his experience as a Toastmaster for the past 15 years. As part of his duties, he will be required to travel monthly to the islands to guide, support and develop members and leaders in Area 7. Tobias stated that it is a privilege for him to have been appointed and that he looks forward to achieving great things along with the Clubs in Area 7.
Great Bay:--- Shemar Abdul Hamid, 11 years of age, of the Rev. John A. Campus, Methodist Agogic Center, (MAC), has been selected as the second place winner in the junior division (ages 12 and under) at the 2010 FCCA Foundation Children's Environmental Poster Competition which was held recently.
Announcing the results, George Orellana of the FCCA disclosed that 15 nations participated in this year's poster contest.
"As you can imagine, it was very difficult for the Member Lines (of the FCCA –ed.) to choose the overall winner in each age category," the FCCA official said.
"All the posters we received exemplified Caribbean excellence and expressed useful depictions of ways in which to preserve the environment," Orellana said, adding that Shemar's
"Excellent poster ...truly exemplifies Caribbean excellence and creativity."
As the winner in his age category, Shemar will receive a cash scholarship of US$1,500 while his school would be awarded the same amount in lieu of art supplies.
Commissioner of Tourism, Frans Richardson, was among the very first to congratulate Shemar and his school. "You have done us proud, and I'd like to encourage you to continue to reach for excellence in everything that you do," the commissioner said.
According to Regina LaBega, Director of Tourism, for Shemar to come second out of 15 participants from around the region who were chosen as the best in their respective countries is indeed a very good achievement.
"As organizers of the local competition, we are very pleased to congratulate Shemar, his art teachers, his school and his parents for a job well done," LaBega stated.
Noting that "the competition seeks to promote and stimulate environmental awareness among Caribbean students, while effectively educating our younger generation on the importance of environmental protection," LaBega expressed the hope that Shemar's win would further serve as an encouragement to other students to strive for excellence.
Shemar himself was elated at the news. "I feel very happy that I came second in the entire Caribbean," he said of his achievement.
"All the hard work that went into the contest has finally paid off," he said while thanking all his teachers and parents who assisted him.
What will he do with his cash prize?
"I would like to save some of it," he replied. He also added that he has a passion for drumming and would therefore use part of the money to buy himself a drum set, and since he loves drawing, another part of the prize would go to buying art supplies.
In congratulating Shemar, Vice-Principal of the Rev. John A. Campus of the Methodist Agogic Center, (MAC), Mr. Richard White said the school "feels honored to have him as a student who can perform at that level and bring joy to our hearts."
The winning entry for the junior category came from Nevis, while Jamaica won in the senior category (13-16 years old).
The posters depicted three ways in which the student's destination can make a difference in preserving the environment.
Philipsburg:--- Commissioner of Education William Marlin and USONA Director Reginald Doran signed off on two contracts on Wednesday. One of contracts is for the new secondary school, which is to be built in Cay Hill. USONA is providing 5.6 million guilders for the construction of the school while the island government of St. Maarten has to provide the other 5 million guilders to fulfill the entire construction cost. On display were some drawings, which depict the SBO School, which is to be built later. Marlin said 4 million guilders are for the construction of the school while 1.6 is for the preparation of the teachers that would be teaching at that school when it is completed. Marlin said while the agreement was signed off on Wednesday the four million will be released when St. Maarten has air marked the remaining funds. Marlin said it is important for government to identify and air mark the monies because unless that is done the Dutch Government will not release the four million guilders.
Marlin and Doran also signed off a 2.6 million guilders contract, which is, go towards the training of teachers and to buy materials for the PSVE schools on St. Maarten. Marlin said the monies will not be used to build new classrooms but instead some of it will be used to also improve some of the structures that are already in place. The duration of this project is to last two years and is intended to raise the level of education in the PSVE stream.
GREAT BAY,– Disaster Office Coordinator Paul Martens recently returned from Martinique after attending a Regional Risk Reduction Initiative meeting early February which is part of a European Union (EU)/United Nations Development Program (UNDP) development project.
The meeting was for Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) and was held under the theme, "Sharing of Knowledge, Tools and Experiences for Building Capacity in Disaster Risk Reduction in the OCTs."
Besides Sint Maarten being in attendance, representatives of Saba, Sint Eustatius and Bonaire were also in attendance.
"The objective of the meeting was to share best practices and expertise; the presentation of capacity assessment tools; and charting the next steps.
"One of the main results of the meeting was to have a common understanding of effective systems and methodologies operating in Martinique, Anguilla, British Virgin Islands and Cayman Islands.
"It is important that we learn from other islands since we mostly experience the same types of disasters with the exception of a volcano within the Caribbean Basin.
"The meeting overall was very informative and much progress has been made on what steps need to be taken in future where comprehensive disaster management is concerned," Sint Maarten Disaster Office Coordinator Paul Martens told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Sunday.
The UNDP is committed to areas of disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation, both being very crucial for small and highly vulnerable islands of the Caribbean.
A World Bank 2006 report noted that there was a more than 15-fold increase in the real cost of disasters since the 1950s, and the number of persons affected also rose dramatically from 1.6 billion in 1984 to 206 billion in 1993 with substantial further increases since. Hurricane Ivan in 2004 resulted in over US$3 billion in total losses of both assets and income in Cayman Islands and Grenada alone.
Speeches and statements at the start of the meeting were made by President of the General Council of Martinique; UNDP, the EU and the Martinique Disaster Management.
The delegations from the various islands were given several tours that entailed one of the General Council of Martinique's Operations Room – Concorde Building; a landslide stabilization project at Fonds Saint Denis; a visit to the Morne des Cadets Volcano Observatory.
Martens and other attendees were hosted by the General Council of Martinique.
Great Bay– Commissioner of Tourism, Mr. Frans Richardson is urging all hoteliers on the island to take full advantage of the photo and video shoot which the island's marketing firm, Tambourine, will be carrying out prior to the start of this year's Heineken Regatta to upgrade their respective photo libraries.
"We are extending the opportunity of having custom photos and videos produced for each of the hotels at a special package rate," the Commissioner stated.
"It is a great opportunity that the hotels have to their properties photographed by professionals who are experts in this field. This will guarantee that the hotels will have up-to-date, high quality video and photo images of their properties which will cost them much less than if they had to bring down the crew themselves," Commissioner Frans Richardson said.
He continued: "It is a win-win-win situation for everybody: the island will benefit from top quality video production and high resolution photos of the hotels; the hotels will benefit since they can use these images in their own promotions and marketing, and since it is a package deal, everyone will save quite a lot of money because these things are usually very expensive."
According to Regina LaBega, Director of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, under whose auspices the video and photo shoot is being undertaken, it will cost each hotel only US$1,700. "It costs much more just to bring down the crew," she noted.
Participating hotels will each receive high definition video fly-overs from sea to beach, beach to sea, parallel to its shoreline and hover shots over the property. In addition, they will receive the corresponding high-resolution images.
Tambourine is the marketing firm responsible for the creative new branding strategy the island launched towards the end of last year.
Hotels and resorts that wish to take part in this photo shoot must register latest by Tuesday, March 2, 2010. They should contact Lisa Coffi at the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, Telephone: 599 542 0685.
Philipsburg:--- The police department KPSSS has lost officer Elbert Felipe Schoop who passed away on March 3. Officer Schoop passed away on his native island Curacao. According to information released the officer fell ill last year and was receiving medical treatment up until he passed away. The management team as well as colleagues of the late Schoop would like to express their sincere condolences and sympathy to the bereaved families of the fallen officer.
Philipsburg: --- The management team of KPSSS has arranged for the funeral arrangements of their fallen colleague Elmert Schoop to be held on St. Maarten this Saturday. Members of the community of St. Maarten would get the opportunity to pay their last respects to the family of the late Schoop. The body of the late Mr. Schoop will be flown in to St. Maarten on Insel Air on Saturday and will be taken to the St. Maarten of Tours Catholic Church on Front Street for viewing which will begin at 2pm.
The church service will commence at 03.00 p.m. The body will there-after be taken back to the morgue where it will be held until Sunday March 7th 2010, on which date it will flown back to Curacao. On Monday March 8th, a church service will be held at the Catholic Cathedral in Pietermaai on Curacao. After this church service, the body of the late Elmert F. Schoop will be laid to rest in the Catholic Cemetery at Berg Altena.
Philipsburg:----The Rotary Club of St. Maarten installed its first couple. Maria Hovius a lawyer by profession and Theo de Kluijs with a background industrial medicine and who worked for Hydroshop Design both left their former employers after 15 years of hard work and went into business for themselves. Having been entrepreneurs for six years, retirement became the next logical step. St. Maarten is where Maria and Theo call home for several months of the year, particularly the cold months.
What can new members expect from being part of this international organization?
W hat Rotarians get out of Rotary depends largely on what they put into it. Many membership requirements are designed to help club members more fully participate in and enjoy their Rotary experience. Attending weekly club meetings allows members to enjoy fellowship, enrich their professional and personal knowledge, and meet other business leaders in their community. If members miss a meeting of their own club, they're encouraged to expand their Rotary horizons by attending a meeting of any other Rotary club in the world. By participating in local and international service projects, club members can volunteer their time and talents where they're most needed.
The four Avenues of Service are Rotary's philosophical cornerstone and the foundation on which club activity is based: Club Service focuses on strengthening fellowship and ensuring the club's effective functioning. Vocational Service encourages Rotarians to serve others through their vocations and to practice high ethical standards. Community Service covers the projects and activities the club undertakes to improve life in its community. International Service encompasses actions taken to expand Rotary's humanitarian reach around the globe and to promote world understanding and peace. More information is available on www.rotary.org.
Rotarian Fred van de Peijl sponsored the Hovius and de Kluijs couple bringing the club to 41 members strong. The members of The Rotary club of St. Maarten welcome Theo and Maria to this great service club.
Philipsburg:---On Tuesday morning March 9th, the Minister of Justice, Mrs. Magali Jacoba, visited the Foundation Justice Institutions Windward Islands. The Minister was given a presentation of the successful project "From Criminal to Entrepreneur." 73 prisoners participated in this project. 36 prisoners followed an advance course, where they learned to write a business plan. Of the 36 participants, 12 continued working on their idea to start a business.
At the moment there are 4 prisoners who are running their own businesses. This project is another proof that with guidance and perseverance, the youth who gets him /herself into problems with the justice system, can do well and maintain themselves in the community after they have done their time. This project has now been officially closed on Tuesday morning.
The next project that SJIB will guide is the project "Not in jail but at work." This project will teach the prisoners different skills, such as socials skills necessary to brace and make themselves competent in the community once they have done their time. This project is financed by USONA.
Philipsburg: ---A pregnant mother of three was released Monday March 15, 2010, after spending more than 10 days on the floors of the police cells in Philipsburg.
The mother was arrested at the airport on March 4 because it was discovered that her passport and that of her three children were false. Her husband, a local St.Maartener that had been married to the young lady for over 4 years saw his wife being locked up and his children sent to the local orphanage. After 4 days in pretrial detention, the woman was released only to be immediately rearrested for immigration reasons.
The family contacted attorney at law Remco M. Stomp who immediately filed an injunction. The hearing was held on Friday, March 12, 2010.
Stomp argued that the only thing that was wrong with the situation was the fact that the passports were false, which in itself indeed was a crime. From that perspective, it was understandable that an investigation was launched, Stomp said. However keeping a pregnant young mother of three sleeping on the floor of the local police station was an obvious irresponsible thus unlawful measure taken by government. Especially since there was no question about the identity of the mother and the children and the fact that she was lawfully married to a St. Maartener who also happened to be the father of the children, Stomp said. Furthermore, the mother had no criminal record. The passports from both the mother and her children were arranged by an acquaintance of the family in the Dominican Republic This acquaintance obviously turned out less reliable than thought. The unfortunate happening was particularly sour for the family for if the family had applied for their passports themselves they would have had no problem getting them.
The main legal technical argument however, that was presented to the judge, was the fact that the mother was officially still in possession of a valid residence permit and the law does not permit detention for immigration reasons if one is legally residing on the island, Stomp said. As a result, the judge immediately ordered the release of the young mother.
Although the Governor initially intended to deport the young mother and revoke her residence permit, he has launched an official investigation in the matter.
Philipsburg:--The St. Maarten Lions Club hereby makes known that due to an unfortunate incident involving the theft of ticket books for the upcoming car raffle on March 28th, a number of books will be null and void.
The ineligible tickets for the car raffle are 8860-8869, 8890-8899, 8920-8929, 8950-8959, 8970-8979, 8980-8989 and 8990-8999. Person holding tickets from these number ranges should contact the Detective Department at the Philipsburg Police Station as an investigation has been filed concerning these stolen tickets.
Holders of the 17 tickets numbers from 8900-8909 and 8910-8919 should immediately contact before the raffle any of the following persons: Lion Eldert Louisa 520-0070, Lion Carl Thomas on 520-0883 or Lion Paul Marshall to verify their ticket purchase.
The club apologizes that it had to take these measures before the raffle date but it had no choice than to do this in order to guarantee the fair play of the raffle game on March 28th.
The general public can still purchase car raffle tickets on Saturday and Sunday from any Lions Club member, at the Health & Wellness Fair, ACE Colebay, Le Grande Marche, Cost U Less and Sunny Foods.
St. Louis,— A new educational and informative TV-forum in which propositions and solutions are made towards issues of our society on all levels, by and with the community at large, will be launched within soon. Pepper Pot, "Projects within a vision" is the brainchild of Fabrice 'Faby' Baly, a young entrepreneur with a clear mission on contributing to the betterment of St. Martin.
The concept is to have for one month, weekly discussions on a topic with guests and panel members as well as the audience at home. "By involving different disciplines, expertise and knowledge, the TV-platform strives to deliver information in a neutral, fair and integer way", althus Baly. After a month, the team behind Pepper Pot translates the input of the discussions and the solutions proposed to concrete and attainable objectives that will be executed as joint ventures between the community, government and all other relevant stakeholders.
The program is aired (live) on a weekly basis on MSR TV-channel 15 French St. Martin, Tuesdays from 8 – 9 PM and will be within short also available on www.msrtv6.com. The program will also be shown in its entirety on Youtube, SXMtube and Facebook.
The TV-forum is just one of the endeavors the non-profit Foundation (PPPWAV) will approach in the concept of society building and society seeking solutions in an impartial and integer manner. More information on the first project of Pepper Pot will follow soon as well as on the team behind the vision. Questions and inquiries can be send to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Facebook (Pepper Pot SXM).
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Cay Hill: --- St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) is pleased to announce that gynecologists dr. Marieke Houwert-de Jong and dr. Gerard Wennink started practice April 1, 2010 in the new office facility for Obstetrics/Gynecology at the SMMC. This is part of the plan to strengthen the availability of specialists in this field. Along with dr. Petit who is now working part time and is not on call, the visiting specialists will also provide support to local gynecologist dr. Friday who has his office in the Yogesh building.
Dr. Houwert-de Jong will be here for 4 months, while Dr. Wennink will be here for the coming 3 months. Each bring with them over 27 years of international experience in the field of Obstetrics and Gynecology and have worked in various hospitals in different parts of the world including, the Netherlands Antilles. "I'm really touched by the warm welcome that I received here on St. Maarten." dr. Houwert-de Jong said "everyone has been so helpful I can see why St. Maarten is called the friendly island."
The Medical specialists will be located in the Policlinic section of SMMC in the newly renovated office facility, designed to add to patient comfort. The renovated facility is outfitted with two separate consultation rooms each with its one treatment room and bathroom. Patients will also be able to wait in an air conditioned seating area. "I'm impressed with the level of the facilities and services offered considering the population size" dr. Wennink said "and feel very fortunate that I can start in this new and modern facility," he added .
Patients who wish to see one of new the Gynecologists are advised to contact the nurse station Obstetrics/Gynecology at 543 1111 ext. 1316 for an appointment. Appointments can be made between 8:00 – 13:00 and 14:00 – 16:30. Patients are also advised to obtain a referral letter from their family doctor before visiting the gynecologist.
To guarantee quality women's health care SMMC made arrangements for a number of gynecologists to be stationed in St. Maarten on a rotating schedule till the end of the year while more permanent solutions are being developed.
In addition, SMMC is in the process of attracting two additional midwives. SMMC has received quite some response from potential candidates and is currently engaged in the selection process.
Willemstad:---Staff of the U.S. Forward Operating Location (USFOL) in Curacao donated 430 English bibles and bible study aids to the El Bethel Church in Mahaai, on March 24. Chaplain, Captain Brad Phillips from the Chaplain's office at the USFOL presented the Bibles to the pastor of the El Bethel Church, Norvell Fornerino in a special presentation ceremony. Pastor Fornerino was very grateful and said, "We thank the U.S. Air Force for these bibles and study guides.
We will use them to teach the Word of God to all our members in the days and weeks to come as we build the kingdom of God." Pastor Fornerino has been the pastor of the El Bethel church for the past 7 years. The church has approximately 100 members who attend services each Sunday at 10:30 as Pastor Fornerino preaches and teaches the Bible in an "English speaking" service.
Pastor Fornerino has also preached in the "English speaking" service held at the Holiday Beach Hotel, where Chaplain Phillips preaches each Sunday morning at 9:15. This bible donation illustrates a perfect pairing of faith and community involving the USFOL service man and women located here in Curacao and the El Bethel Church of Mahaai.
Amsterdam/ St. Maarten:---The Island Government of St. Maarten on Monday received a response from the Committee for Financial Supervision CFT on its budget 2010 says leader of government William Marlin.
In its response, the CFT has requested that certain information be provided and certain adjustments be made to the budget within 14 days. The Island Government is currently working diligently to provide the necessary information and make the necessary adjustments.
Being in The Hague, Marlin said he immediately discussed the issue with Finance Minister Ersilia de Lannooy, who has agreed to make a three-man team of experts available to work along with the civil servants of the Island Government of St. Maarten on this issue.
This same three-man team had worked with the Island Government of Curacao, when that Island Territory had had a similar assessment from the CFT for its 2010 budget.
Directives have already been given to the administration to begin preparing the necessary information for the team to be able to begin its work.
According to the Minister of Finance there should be no problem in getting this issue resolved, as the team she is making available to assist St. Maarten is used to doing this kind of work. Once they get the necessary information St. Maarten should be able to comply within the given deadline of two weeks, the Minister said.
The Island Government of St. Maarten is working to provide the necessary information as this issue is of pivotal importance to government.
Philipsburg:---The St. Maarten Tourist Bureau hosted Edward Glazarev, Senior Production Editor and Feature Writer of the New York Daily News from April 9-12.
The New York Daily News is the fifth most-widely circulated daily newspaper in the United States with a daily circulation of 632,595.
Mr. Glazarev was given an island tour and was impressed by the developments he saw.
Mr. Glazarev was part of the Celebrity group that recently visited St. Maarten which included Anneline McCord of 90201, Kellan Lutz of Twilight, D.J. Williams of the Denver Broncos and Robert Iler of the Sopranos.The group stayed at the Westin Dawn Beach while on-island.
Philipsburg -- The St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) recently held auditions for the second consecutive year for the Youth Extravaganza show 2010. "We have seen the best of the best in talent for our very own St. Maarten youth," remarked Stuart Johnson Vice President of SCDF. "We are elated with the kind of high caliber talent we've witnessed, in categories ranging from modeling, dancing, singing, and rapping," Johnson added. "I am extremely proud of our youth, and we will continue to maintain the policy of no international acts for this particular show as our youth deserve to remain the only focus of this show," Johnson concluded.
The auditions took place on Tuesday afternoon between 4pm and 6:30pm by the Cultural Center located on Backstreet.
All of the registrants were judged and the results are as follows:
Rap (solo) Rappers Dancers
1. En 3 1. 682 Crew 1. Amaze
2. Cryptic C 2. Dirty South boy'v 2. All above
3. Lil Terror 3. TRB 3. Rebelz
4. Platinium Boyz 4. X-Clamation
Singing (solo)
1. Baby Thug
2. Benjamin A
3. Keyah
Group singing
1. Cartel
Retail Banking Director from the First Caribbean International Bank Marcia C. Harrison paid a courtesy call on Governor Franklyn Richards on Thursday.
On Thursday afternoon April 15, 2010 a total of 25 pensioners came out to a general meeting called by the ABVO-Council of Pensioners with the support from WICSU/PSU, WITU, ABVO-SXM, WIFOL and UFA, to discuss their issues pending with FZOG and SVB.
INDIVIDUAL RESTITUTIONS
Most pensioners complained about pending restitutions. Individual amounts of Naf 3.000 to Naf 150.000 were mentioned. Some retirees were waiting more than four years now on the restitution of their medical costs paid cash which until today were not refunded. Representatives of the ABVO-Council of Pensioners will follow up on these individual claims to speed up the restitutions to the pensioners.
SERVICE COMPLAINTS
All agreed that it takes too much time in getting an answer from FZOG in Curacao on requests for referral to specialists, requests for glasses, etc. When finally you get an approval for further medical treatment although the French side could provide these treatments and is nearby for pensioners on Sint Maarten, decisions of FZOG oblige pensioners to wait to be send to Curacao or Aruba for treatment. And then when sent to Curacao the daily allowance you get to pay the hotel, transportation form the hotel to the doctor or the hospital is too low. You end up to pay from your own savings to cover all the costs incurred, which is not fair compared to pensioners on Curacao who do not have to leave their island for further treatment and who do not have these extra costs and discomfort.
IMPLICATIONS OF DECENTRALIZATION FOR FZOG-CARDHOLDERS ON SINT MAARTEN
With the announcement that the tasks of the central government are being transferred to the island territory pensioners want to know if they still will depend from FZOG Curacao or if the decisions concerning their requests now will be made in Sint Maarten.
DECENTRALIZATION OR SERVICE LEVEL AGREEMENTS WITH SVB-CURACAO
Some questioned the fact that the island government has informed the Island Council that Sint Maarten will enter into service level agreements with SVB until the National Health Insurance System is being introduced on the new date mentioned 1-1-2012. Why entering a service level agreement with SVB Curacao, if Sint Maarten can take over SVB-Sint Maarten and equip it as soon as possible to improve the services? Why not integrating the offices, the workers, and the services from BZV in Sint Maarten with those from SVB in Sint Maarten like was done already in Curacao? Why cannot BZV and SVB in Sint Maarten be made independent from the integrated BZV and SVB from Curacao? This waiting for decisions from Curacao takes too long, why not having all decisions being taken immediately here in Sint Maarten?
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GREAT BAY,– Commissioner of Personnel Affairs Xavier Blackman, is currently in Tallahassee, Florida on a working visit which entails meetings with Sint Maarten students studying in Florida and other officials of government and government bodies.
Blackman has already met with Sint Maarten students and representatives of the Sint Maarten Tallahassee Student Association at the Tallahassee – Sint Maarten Foundation office. The commissioner spoke about the importance of returning home to the island to help with building country Sint Maarten.
Blackman gave a historical perspective on constitutional affairs leading up to the recent passing of the Consensus Laws by the Dutch Second Chamber of Parliament thereby paving the way for the island to become a country on 10-10-10.
Commissioner Blackman encouraged students to be pro-active in applying for job openings within the public sector. His overall message to the students was, Sint Maarten needs you!
Commissioner Blackman left the island on Monday accompanied by Head of Study Financing Calvin Mardembrough, Claudette Charles Hassell, Advisor to Commissioner Blackman on Personnel Affairs, and Rodney Richardson Head ai of the Government Information Service (GIS).
Blackman and his delegation are being guided by Sint Maarten Student Florida Coordinator Arthur Lugisse who has also organized a number of meetings with City of Tallahassee and Leon County government officials.
Commissioner Blackman expressed his satisfaction with the Tallahassee-Sint Maarten Foundation and their ongoing efforts based on the City of Tallahassee – Sint Maarten sister agreement which is beneficial to the islands public and private sector development.
Blackman and his delegation are scheduled to return on Thursday, May 6.
GREAT BAY--- A number of Sint Maarten students studying at various educational institutions in Florida graduated from college over the past weekend.
Leader of Government Commissioner of Education William Marlin told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Tuesday that he is very proud of what Sint Maarten students have been able to accomplish on their journey of life long learning.
Commissioner Marlin added that the educated youth are the vanguard of the nation who will be leading country Sint Maarten.
Those graduating over the weekend were Tamara Groeneveldt (Masters of Social Work), Tashira Richardson (Bachelor of Science) and Sade Hodge (Associates of Arts). Rox-Anne Hughes, Jose Brown and Eljah Gipson all made the honors list with a grade point average of between 3.0 – 3.49, also graduated, but were not present for the ceremony.
Sint Maarten Student Coordinator for the State of Florida Arthur Lugisse, told the GIS that he is looking forward to many more Sint Maarten students getting the opportunity to get their higher education at one of Florida's colleges and universities under the City of Tallahassee – Sint Maarten Sister City agreement.
Tony Award winner and Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) Alumna, Anika Noni Rose was the keynote speaker. In 2006, Rose starred in "Dreamgirls," as Lorrell Robinson. Her career includes notable performances on television and in film. Her role in Disney's latest animated feature, "The Princess and the Frog," makes her the first black-animated princess, Tiana.
Students in the College of Arts and Sciences, FAMU-Florida State University (FSU) College of Engineering, College of Law, School of Journalism and Graphic Communication, Environmental Sciences, and Tallahassee Community College graduated over the weekend.
The graduation ceremony took place at the Florida A&M University at Alferd Lawson Jr. Multipurpose Center Teaching Gymnasium FAMU and at the Tallahassee-Leon County Civic Center.
Philipsburg:--- The Philipsburg Cultural Center was packed to capacity on Thursday night as members of the St. Maarten community paid their tribute to the late Sir Ian Michael Valz.
Sir Ian as he is known was described by many to be a perfectionist, dedicated and one that love theatrics. Valz was also accredited to being a man who strived for the best and one that demanded the best from his actors.
Speaking of his sternness when training actors for plays was Claudette Labega Foresight, Acting Lt. Governor Millicent De Weever, Erno Labega, Richard Gisbson Sr, Jerry Sardine, The St. Maarten Guyanese Foundation, PJD2 Radio and several others who were fortunate to have worked with Sir Ian Valz.
Valz was also known to be a confidant and mentor to many people both here on St. Maarten and Guyana his native country. Many said Valz devoted his life on St. Maarten to nurture arts, theater and culture even though he knew that there were not much financial benefits for him.
Funeral services for the late Sir Ian Michael Valz will take place at the Emerald Funeral Home on Friday.
Marigot:---J & J Productions & Uprising Star Promotions announces the hosting of 'St. Maarten/St. Martin International Fashion Festival' - an amalgamation of the Miss Model International and the newly established St. Maarten Fashion Week.
Fashion Festival will consist of two major components, namely St Maarten Fashion Week which will be held from July 5 to July 9 (at a venue to be announced), and The Miss Model International Contest which will be held at Festival Village on Saturday, July 10, starting at 8:00pm.
The "Miss Model International"™ pageant was introduced in 1990 on St Maarten in order to foster and facilitate valuable interaction among world youths to promote a better understanding of the different cultures and way of life in different parts of the world.
Over the years, this contest has been held between St Martin and Martinique. It is not a beauty contest, but a modelling contest involving some of the upcoming and most outstanding models who will be able to use it as a platform or passport to new and exciting opportunities.
Some of our past participants include Lara Dutta of India, who won Miss Universe 2000 in Cyprus and Miss Katarina Stocesova, of the Czech Republic who won Queens of the World 1998 in Bonn (Germany).The contest has been featured on many television programmes in the Caribbean, North and South America, Europe (France 3, Outremer) and Asia.
We are expecting more than fifty models to participate in "Miss Model International"™ each representing their country of origin.
We also expect the fashion component to cater to more than thirty (30) local, regional and international designers and models (Including from Asia, Africa, Europe, The Americas and the Caribbean). The Designers will exhibit their clothing through fashion shows, over a number of days. This will culminate in a final event, which has been dubbed the 'Fashion Extravaganza'.
This event will feature the creations of top designers participating at the Fashion Week. Awards – including "THE SOULIGA FASHION AWARD" - will be presented to the most outstanding designer(s), and the best model(s).
At the Fashion Festival, other players from the fashion sector – including stores, boutiques, and clothing distributors and agents - will have prominent roles. The rational underpinning this idea is to create a major marketplace, where buyers and sellers can meet, and interact and conclude business deals.
Celebrities and media houses from The United States, South America, Europe, Africa, the Caribbean and Asia have shown interest in the Fashion Festival. Moreover, a two-hour television programme will be produced and broadcast on CaribVision and RFO Satellite. This programme will include all of the activities of the Fashion Festival during the six-day period.
This event will be produced, directed and choreographed by world renowned fashion guru, Travis Winkey, who is an icon in the fashion industry. He has choreographed a number of events over the years, including a luncheon for Donald Trumps' Miss USA Pageant and the Congressional Black Caucus. He has also worked throughout the world directing and producing Fashion events.
The St. Martin Fashion festival is an eye opening event. It is expected that this event will serve as an engine for the development of the creative sector, which will ultimately contribute to the further diversification of the local economy.
It is also expected that as a result of the festival, St. Maarten/St. Martin, will be able to better leverage itself, not only as a destination where sea, sun and sand reign supreme, but also as a fashion capital and the centre of commerce for the entire Caribbean region.
In summary, these are some of the benefits that will result from Fashion Week:
• Niche event for the island, which can be used as a marketing tool;
• This will help to create parallel commercial activity;
• This will help to provide greater impetus to the creative sector;
• This will help establish St Maarten as a major Fashion Capital;
• This is not only a fashion showcase event, but rather, this is in the mode of a trade event, which culminates with a fashion showcase. In the medium term, this event will bring together both buyers and sellers, who are involved in the fashion industry.
• Through this event, it is expected that synergies will be created with other sectors, such as tourism; apparel; commerce etc; etc.
One of the by-products of this event is the creation of an "International Market Place" where designers, buyers, stores, and boutique owners can meet and interact, with hopes of establishing and nurturing business contacts throughout this global village. We've invited buyers and sellers from across the globe, in an attempt to create a much more amicable and reciprocal atmosphere for those patrons of the fashion industry.
The Miss Model International will be broadcast via CMC Television Network, RFO Tv
France Antilles News Papers, Amina Magazine, Creola Magazine, and host of international, and regional Press will be covering this event.
PHILIPSBURG - The University of St. Martin (USM), will be holding a lecture with the theme "How Prepared are we?" tonight from 7pm to 10pm with Minister of Constitutional and Home Affairs Roland Duncan and ministerial attaché and advisor Terry J. Peterson being the main speakers.
This lecture hailed as the 'Duncan Lecture' is free to the general public and is part of a series of lectures, of which the main objective is to inform the community and bring about more consciousness on the constitutional status.
According to USM President Josianne Fleming-Artsen, the lecture series will be offering the community of St. Maarten an opportunity to hear from government officials and other experts in their fields who are participating in building country St. Maarten.
Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles recently passed the 'Duncan Law' or the Transition Regulation Early Elections which paves the way for St. Maarten to move closer to Country status. Minister Duncan is expected to address the finer details of 'Duncan Law', and the preparedness of country St. Maarten, as we step out of the Netherlands Antilles.
Minister Duncan was also a delegate to the second Chamber discussions where St. Maarten and Curacao were given the green light to become country by 10.10.10. He was instrumental in the entire dismantling process and will be updating the public on this matter.
Accompanying Minister Duncan is his special advisor Mr. Terry Peterson and his presentation is entitled "Country St. Maarten: Forging New Alliances."
" Country St. Maarten is well positioned to be a catalyst in fostering new relationships and forging creative alliances of functional cooperation, coordinating policies, establishing treaties and exploring other models of integration with regional and international entities such as the OECS, CARICOM, ACP, OAS, EU, UN and their respective agencies," Peterson states in his summary.
USM President Fleming said she is very enthusiastic about the lecture series and hopes that the members of the general public come out in large numbers to attend these.
All the lectures are free. The USM lecture hall has a seating capacity for about 200 people and attendants are urged to be on time.
GREAT BAY,– Commissioner of Public Health Hyacinth Richardson says government is committed to a healthy environment and strong communities, and therefore will be embarking on a two-week mosquito fogging campaign.
Mosquitoes are nuisances to humans and they transit diseases. Some of these diseases can kill. To prevent these diseases such as dengue fever and dengue haemorrhagic fever, the mosquito population must be kept at a low level at all times. The most effective way to control the mosquito population is to get rid of their breeding sources.
A vehicle –mounted fogging system will start on Sunday, May 16 for two weeks. One machine can cover up to 1500 houses. The vehicle will be driving at approximately 10 miles per hour. This is necessary in order to ensure good fog penetration and coverage to achieve the desired results.
Commissioner Richardson pointed out that to achieve sustainability of a successful vector control programme, it is essential to focus on larval source reduction and to have complete cooperation of the community.
"In order to adopt an integrated approach to mosquito control by including all appropriate methods which are safe, cost-effective and environmentally acceptable, the support of the community is a pre-requisite.
"This is necessary to achieve long-term, sustainable control of the Aedes Aegypti mosquito. House-holds and businesses need to continue to take their own preventive actions as well in order to prevent mosquito breeding," Commissioner of Public Health Hyacinth Richardson told the Government Information Service (GIS).
The Collective Preventive Services (CPS) of Sector Public Health, Social Development & Labour, is coordinating the two week vector control campaign.
GREAT BAY:----The first poster printed for the 8th annual St. Martin Book Fair, June 3 – 5, 2010, was presented here on Monday to director of tourism Regina Labega (R), said book fair coordinator Shujah Reiph. Book Fair Committee (BFC) member Ari Sutton (L), made the presentation of the poster at the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau (STB), headed by Labega. The STB is the steadfast partner of the book fair, which has "Nativity" as its theme this year.
The poster lists the main parts of the literary festival and highlights the featured authors: Gerard Jadotte (Haiti), Lori Tharps (USA), Christian Campbell (The Bahamas), Lasana M. Sekou (St. Martin), M. NourbeSe Philip (Canada), Verene Shepherd (Jamaica), Raphaël Confiant (Martinique), and Carolyn Cooper (Jamaica). Reiph said that the entrance to all book launches, book selling exhibitions, workshops and general sessions "over three exciting days," will be free to the public. This opening ceremony takes place at the University of St. Martin on June 3, at 8pm. The Conscious Lyrics Foundation and House of Nehesi Nehesi Publishers organize the St. Martin Book Fair in collaboration with the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, the Collectivity of St. Martin, and the University of St. Martin.
GREAT BAY:--- The workshops at the 8th annual St. Martin Book Fair, June 3 - 5, 2010, are again going to be informative and so exciting, said book fair coordinator Shujah Reiph. http://www.houseofnehesipublish.com/book_fair2040.html
The Aruban poet/novelist Quito Nicolaas is one of the visiting authors. His workshop topic is "How to identify Aruban literature today," which naturally touches on what is the Aruban identity. Living in the Netherlands and working in the legal field, Nicolaas will lecture on Saturday, June 5, at 9 AM, at the University of St. Martin (USM).
Nicolaas said that he will analyze "Aruban literature in a socio-historical context. Works by Aruban writers Ernesto Rosenstand, Frank Williams, and Jossy Tromp will be analyzed by using the concept of Imagology; the study of national characterizations and national, cultural or ethnic stereotypes."
"Work by Aruban writers living in the Netherlands writing in Dutch and Papiamento will also be included," said Nicolaas. Once in St. Martin the writer, who edits a dedicated blog journal Gedachten en gedichten, will visit Leonard Connor School; recite at the Public Library in Marigot on Friday evening; and sign his books at USM during the opening ceremony on Thursday at 8 PM, and after his workshop.
Nicolaas is the author of Destino (Fate), Gerede twijfels (Reasonable doubt), Atardi di Antaño (Afternoon's Gone By) and Alameda — all poetry books. A fervent Papiamento advocate, he also writes in Dutch, English, and Spanish. His first Papiamento novel Tera di silencio (Land of Silence) was published in 2004.
Taking on the daunting topic of "French nationality and Caribbean Identity," Raphaël Confiant will have his workshop at the Public Library in Marigot on Saturday, at 11 AM.
A leading author from Martinique, where he is a professor at the University of the French Antilles and Guiana, Confiant is considered a co-creator of the Créolité, where like many of his works, he explores the memory, culture, language and history of Martinique.
The essays and novels of Confiant include" Les Ténèbres extérieures (2008), Kod Yanm (1986), Eloge de la Créolité (1989), Eau de Café (1991), Aimé Césaire, une traversée paradoxale du siècle (1993), Le Meurtre du Samedi-Gloria (1997), Nuée Ardente (2002), La Panse du Chacal (2004), and Nègre Marron (2006).
Confiant, whose work is not unknown in St. Martin, will visit the College de Quartier d'Orleans on Friday morning. He will be available for book signings at the book fair opening on Thursday, June 3, at 8 PM, at USM.
All book fair activities "for the whole family" are free to the public, said Reiph. The St. Martin Book Fair is organized by Conscious Lyrics Foundation and HNP in collaboration with St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, the Collectivity of St. Martin, and USM.
MP Hamilton calls on government for FULL explanation.
Basseterre, St.Kitts,– The Sunday Times has alleged that six small countries, including St Kitts - Nevis, have been accepting bribes to support Japan's highly controversial pro-whaling position.
The widely read and respected British Newspaper conducted an undercover investigation that exposed Japanese officials' unethical bribery tactics. The startling revelation came ahead of a meeting of the International Whaling Commission (IWC) scheduled for June 21st to 25th in Agadir, Morrocco, where Japan will be aggressively lobbying for an end to the 24-year moratorium on commercial whaling.
According to the newspaper, the government of St Kitts and Nevis among 5 other small countries all entered negotiations to sell their votes. The newspaper said that reporters, posing as representatives of a billionaire conservationist, approached officials from pro-whaling countries and made various offers to change their vote including envelopes of cash, prostitutes, plane tickets, all expense paid stays at high-end hotels in addition to some aid.
The Times said it had filmed government officials making several admissions about getting something in return for taking a pro-whaling stance.
It did not specify the amount of cash, number of prostitutes or the particular aid that St Kitts-Nevis received.
However, the newspaper article states that fisheries officials in other countries admitted they received aid from Japan and had received huge cash payments in envelopes at IWC meetings from Japanese officials including up to US$1000 per day spending money and all the expenses of the government officials or delegates at the IWC were taken care of by the Japanese.
Deputy Political leader of the Opposition party the People's Action Movement the Hon. Eugene Hamilton has called on the St.Kitts-Nevis Denzil Douglas led Labour administration to indicate to the nation which Minister was involved in the negotiations and what exactly did that Minister receive on behalf of the country and on his own personal behalf.
"I am concerned about the negative press our country is receiving over this matter of our government officials accepting bribes for our country's vote at the International Whaling Commission," said MP Eugene Hamilton. "What is more concerning to me, my party and frankly the entire nation is what exactly did our Ministers negotiate for and exactly what did they receive on behalf of the country or on their own behalf for that matter, in return for their vote. It is well known that our fisheries complex' was built as a result of Japanese aid. However the undercover operation by the Sunday Times revealed that government officials not only received aid but also envelopes of hard cash, the immoral use of prostitutes, all- expense paid hotel stays and free plane rides and who knows what else . So I am of the view that our country is owed an explanation about exactly what our country received and what our government officials received in return for our country's support of Japanese Whaling. Japanese whaling is a highly controversial issue and incidents of bribery involving our minister of government and officials puts our country in a very negative light internationally," Hamilton continued.
In an effort to introduce the Active Parenting Program to all parents on Sint Maarten, DERPI continues to take the program to the private sector.
This week the employers of Diamond Resorts International and Royal Palm Hotel will join the ranks of Nagico ,Telem and Windward Islands Bank , as they cooperate and make it possible for the first sessions of the Active Parenting Now in 3 (for parents with children between ages 5 – 12) and the Active Parenting of Teens (for parents of Teens) to be provided for their employees.
Both of these programs are introduced to the parents of students in both the FBE and PSVE (VSBO) schools on the island during the school year. However, there are some parents for whom it is difficult to follow the sessions at the schools during the evening hours. After realizing this situation DERPI decided to take the program to the private sector and has started facilitating various businesses with the Active Parenting Program.
Earlier this year, the Director of Personnel/HR Generalist at Diamond Resorts International and , management agreed to allow their employees to attend these sessions during their working hours. "It is a perfect time, because we are now in the off season" stated the Director of Personnel.
This is a win-win situation. Parents who were not able to attend the sessions of the Active Parenting Program at their child/ren school will now have the opportunity to do so during their working hours.
DERPI would like to thank and congratulate the Management of Diamond Resorts International for allowing the program to be run during the working hours of their employees and encourages all the participants to make use of this opportunity and fully participate in the sessions.
This program is a way to improve Parental Involvement in Education as part of the Innovations in Education in FBE and PSVE (VSBO) schools, known as "Opvoeding Ondersteuning" financed with Dutch Development Funds channeled through USONA.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—The Insular Department of Education, section Study Financing would like to inform all study financing recipients and their parents that the deadline for submitting grades is July 15.
In connection with the extension of study financing for the upcoming school year 2010/2011 all study financing recipients are required to submit the following information:
1. Official transcript is required for the 2009/2010 school year
2. 2008 filed tax papers of parents
Students who fail to meet the abovementioned deadline will be given the opportunity to submit their information by July 31, 2010 with the understanding that they are late and as such payments cannot be guaranteed in a timely manner.
Those who fail to submit the required information will not receive any payments for the upcoming payment period.
The following information should also be submitted by all students:
1. Local address and contact number
2. Address and telephone number at place of study
3. Email address
4. Expected graduation date
In accordance with the regulations under which study financing has been granted, students are required to keep their information current at all times.
Failure to do so may result in the delay of study financing payments.
Students may update their contact information by sending an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by visiting the Study Financing section.
Simpsonbay, (Red Cross SXM) - Red Cross Sint Maarten has filled two critical positions to ensure a proper organizational structure is in place to handle the day to day functions of the Red Cross. The board of Red Cross Sint Maarten has appointed Ms. Julia Boasman as Brigade Commander and welcomes back Mrs. Marjan van der Steen as manager of the renewed chapter.
Commander Julia Boasman, daughter of the late Captain Gaston Boasman was born in Aruba, is a mother of three and has served in the Red Cross Brigade for 15 years. Ms. Boasman says "she is very happy to serve in her new position." Ms. Boasman no stranger to Red Cross, she has been responsible for the Red Cross medical department, shelters, she has served as field commander and is presently a First Aid Instructor. "I'm looking forward to taking the Red Cross to new levels" said Ms. Boasman.
Meanwhile the Red Cross SXM board is pleased to welcome back Mrs. Marjan van der Steen as the Chapter's new Manager. "I am happy to be back. After a break of 3 years I got the opportunity to return to the Red Cross organization and it feels great!" said Marjan, who came to St. Maarten in 1997 after working fifteen years for the banking industry in Holland.
"While the work was steady and often intriguing, I did not find it completely fulfilling. I longed for a greater challenge, a challenge that was rooted in helping others and when presented a job opening as Assistant Rehabilitation Coordinator for the Netherlands Red Cross Delegation after hurricane George in 1998, I accepted it. I worked 4 years for the Delegation because after hurricane George we had to deal with the damages caused by Jose and Lenny in 1999. The next 4 years I volunteered my time as Board Secretary for the Red Cross St. Maarten and as Project Coordinator for the Saba and Statia Red Cross. Unfortunately I had to leave the organization in 2007."
When asked what she like most about working for the Red Cross Mrs. van der Steen said "that it is such a strong international body that doesn't discriminate and it's not politically connected. These are two of the seven Fundamental Principles on which the International Red Cross Red Crescent Organization is build on. In essence, there is no bureaucracy to tangle with when emergencies arise. Instead, help and services flow freely to those who need it most."
As it relates to Red Cross functioning on a local level Marjan says, "Locally we need to remain focused on Vulnerability in our community and work more with our youth. Additionally, we need to update the training of our volunteers, interact with the other islands and bring more Red Cross awareness into our own volunteer groups and the community."
For more information on how you can become an active member of Red Cross St. Maarten, please call 545-2333/2304 or send an e-mail to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
SINT MAARTEN– Despite a variety of angry accusations unleashed recently at Royal Resorts Caribbean from Board members, Union workers and others, the company, which manages the Pelican Resort Club, continues to have the financial success of Pelican as its primary objective. To this end, in early 2009 the company moved its Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to be based at the resort to personally oversee the management and operations as well as to continue to implement appropriate cost savings for the resort.
"In order for Royal Resorts to continue to manage Pelican Resort Club we must first ensure the financial stability of the resort, therefore anything other than our interest in seeing success for Pelican is completely ludicrous," said Richard Corso, CEO of Royal Resorts Caribbean. "If Pelican fails, we are out of a job and therefore only financial success will enable both Pelican and Royal Resorts to continue together," he added.
Royal Resorts has a 13-year history of implementing cost savings for Pelican, many dating back to August 1997 when the company first came on the scene to manage the property. At the same time, the company has continued striving to improve the guest experience at the resort. Royal Resorts brings 35 years of resort management experience to Pelican Resort Club.
Royal Resorts added new machinery to provide a Reverse Osmosis system in order to serve the needs of guests at Pelican, and, at the same time, saves more than US$300,000 a year. The company purchased and installed a trash compactor which saves the resort US$25,000 a year. And when Royal Resorts installed an industrial laundry, the annual savings increased another US$100,000 a year.
Additionally, Royal Resorts retrofitted 100 villas with central air conditioning saving US$25,000 a year and implemented a "Going Green" program which reduced costs by US$30,000 annually.
Royal Resorts Caribbean, as the management company for Pelican, also got insurance costs reduced which produced an annual savings of US$150,000 and managed legal issues which saved another US$250,000 a year and provided many IT (Information Technology) and Property Management System (PMS) resources for free.
Royal Resorts has also moved management offices out of the Great House which saves Pelican US$264,000 per year in rent.
These cost savings, instituted over the past 10 years, amount to a reduction of expenditures of more than US$1.1 million each year.
Some of the recent complaints have centered on the need to operate Pelican at a drastically reduced budget which the Board of Directors of the Tenants Association Pelican Resort Club (TAPRC) ordered earlier this year as a result of the continued economic downturn. Royal Resorts instituted requested budget cuts, which resulted in additional aggravation from Union officials as some of the regular workforce had to cut back hours.
A major issue arose when some of these Union workers retired or took other jobs and was replaced, by outsourced workers at a cost savings to the TAPRC of 50% or more.
"We had no choice but to follow the wishes and orders of TAPRC and take every opportunity to cut costs, but only did so when it did not impact a current employee," Corso said.
Additional complaints by some of the new TAPRC Board members indicated that they were upset with what some have termed "a cozy relationship between the old Board and Royal Resorts."
Corso's answer is simple: "We have always tried to maintain a good relationship with the Board of Directors because we work for TAPRC and it is not in anybody's interest to have an adversarial relationship with the Board of our owners' association. But that does not mean that there were any improprieties or irregularities. We did what we could to keep everyone happy."
Corso added: "We still attempt to make everyone happy, but occasionally some of the Board members have their own personal agenda and that often is contrary to the interest of TAPRC and we then find ourselves at differences."
Royal Resorts has been managing and protecting the interests of the owners of Pelican Resort Club in a variety of ways over the past 13 years including deferring management fees so the resort can stay open. Royal Resorts has also provided the resort millions of dollars in interest free operational loans and have used its position in the global marketplace to secure additional lenders to cover operational shortfalls over the years.
For example, in 2008 Royal Resorts renegotiated the Long Term Lease for Pelican Resort saving US$30,000 a year and extending the lease term from the year 2050 to 2068. At the same time, Royal Resorts renegotiated the Union Worker contract to get performance based pay increases rather than automatic increases, thus protecting the resort financially.
Corso also notes: "At the same time, we strongly support our workers as can be seen from our recent payment, from Royal Resorts' own funds, of US$9,000 to help the uninsured mother of one of our workers when she had a brain aneurism that required an air ambulance from St. Kitts to Puerto Rico. We also found medical support for her."
With more than a decade of management experiences with Pelican Resort Club there are many other stories that demonstrate Royal Resorts' unending support for Pelican owners and workers including:
When Royal Resorts took the management contract in August 1997 there were 32 villas on the first floor of 'B' building that were completely out of service and neglected by the previous management. Royal Resorts put them back into operation by 1999. In addition to those 32 villas, the company also put Villa A-11 back into operation with funds personally invested by Richard Sutton, Chairman of Royal Resorts, from the purchase of 40 weeks for that villa.
In 2000, Royal Resorts helped to sell off 4,004 non-performing Pelican Resort Club intervals at no cost to the current Pelican owners or TARPC. Funds from this sale were used to help resort reach financial stability at that time.
In 2004, Royal Resorts found a lender to bail out the resort from operational shortfalls despite the fact that TARPC had no credit worthiness.
In 2005, Royal Resorts voluntarily transferred a Tax Holiday to Pelican Resort Club at no cost providing significant annual value to the timeshare owners to this day.
Also in 2005, the resort would have been closed with significant negative impact on the timeshare owners if not for the needed emergency loan of US$3.185 million found by Royal Resorts to protect the resort and owners. TAPRC attorneys Roozen & Matsunaga reported that "the risk was quantified by a threat from Vlietman entity to force the Resort into an involuntary bankruptcy. The risk could have added up to US$6 million and for less than that amount, the settlement gave a release of those issues and cleared the way for the resort to go forward financially."
In 2007, when worldwide oil prices spiked at US$150 a barrel, Royal Resorts volunteered to defer US$700,000 of payments interest free so the resort could stay open.
Royal Resorts also funded and opened the first computer training room on the island to benefit employees of Pelican.
Royal Resorts Caribbean operates four resorts in three destinations with more than 400 employees. The company manages more than 49,000 timeshare intervals for nearly 25,000 families. The management company provides a variety of services for resorts including full operations management, vacation ownership sales and vacation rentals.
The Royal Resorts Group was founded in 1974 in Cancun, Mexico. Now with over 60,000 members, Royal Resorts has been rated among the top-rated resort companies in the world since 1975. The resorts have received the coveted Five Star Rating from Interval International every year since 1983 when the rating was first established. Since 2008, they have also been classified as Premier Resorts in the Interval International Resort Recognition Program, the highest distinction awarded to resorts that offer an outstanding vacation experience.
Philipsburg;--- Chief of Police Peter De Witte in an interview with SMN News said on Tuesday July 13 th 2010, during breakfast, as he opened the newspaper, and his eyes immediately fell on a page size advertisement, as the story goes by the police corps chief of St. Maarten.
In this advertisement interested persons were asked to react to vacancies at the police corps of Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba. Police corps chief, Peter de Witte, of course whishes the BES islands, a first class and professional police corps.
St. Maarten also is facing the challenge to make 10-10-2010 a success and with that date the police corps of St. Maarten is an independent police organization just as the police on the BES islands, with responsibility for safety and maintaining the law and regulations on the island.
All of this is not a small challenge, and that is why we have the plans ready to develop and strengthen the police corps these coming years. The plans have been presented to the island government and are awaiting the formal approval.
1. The plans contain a personnel as well as a financial growth;
2. The St. Maarten government has reacted positively toward these plans.
The Police Commissioner would like to lift a little more of the veil and give some more information and explanations. The Corps will increase in size and expand even more and because of that, many new employees are needed. The Police will have to reflect on her task and role in the community and should want together with the inhabitants effectively take care of the safety of St. Maarten and finally the Corps has the ambition with the use of modern means and methods to achieve a "securer" St. Maarten.
The Corps cannot attain this on its own. Everyone who can and wants to contribute is most welcome to do so. Being active in the sense to supplying information to solving crimes and also to preventing them from happening.
The Corps is investing much into steps to be taken to the new future. That is the reason why the Corps chief is requesting everybody to think good in which way the inhabitants of St. Maarten can be helpful by realizing a safer island.
And of course he hopes that with the growth of the Corps the inhabitants, the young as well as those some of the older, will think about their responsibility for the community and show their interest for a function in the new Corps within the new country. It is a guarantee that possibilities will be created for attractive positions.
The coming years we will grow with surely 150 new employees in various capacities and roles. We will also appeal to new workers who not necessarily have to go through the complete police training. These persons will be put in a new service department who will take in reports and give support to the emergency service in the form of "call-takers". Also we would like to welcome many new workers who will be put in for "detention care" for arrested persons and these workers can eventually stream through to the function of police-officer.
In short, much is going to happen and there are just as many possibilities. All these possibilities can be filled by the children of the soil.
The Corps Chief fully supports the words of the acting lt. governor Groeneveldt, who commented earlier this week in the newspapers, that "nobody should be excluded", for we need all hands on deck.
We will have to work on many areas when it comes to security. At schools with attention for the youth and the possibilities for them. On the streets where it regards their behavior and their social interaction in the neighborhoods and districts, where they know well what is going on and the things that can be achieved.
Of course we have to look at ourselves as Police. We want to be more service minded and public oriented. To make clear what the St. Maarten public can expect from us and count on when it comes to our responsibilities.
The plans that are made with support from experienced advisors, look good and should enable us to become THE POLICE, that the island deserves.
At the moment that the plans are approved by the relevant authorities, we can start with the execution of the activities. The public at large will notice it and that is what I promise. Of course by then I will tell exactly what the police are going to do. Until that time I am asking everybody who thinks they can contribute towards a safer St. Maarten, to seriously consider this and to support all the plans that are later made known.
The police commissioner is very optimistic with the new possibilities created for country Sint Maarten.
St. Maarten Pride Foundation delivered a letter to the Department of General Affairs this week in which the Foundation urged Government to provide for the protection of the environment in general and beaches in particular in the Constitution of Country St. Maarten. The core of the letter reads as follows:
"Considering that the health and overall well-being of a people is closely interlinked with their surroundings; the Foundation strongly urges your Council to ensure the protection of the environment in the Constitution of Country St. Maarten.
In addition to the aforementioned the Foundation also urges your Council to provide for the protection of- and secure public access to St. Maarten's beaches. St. Maarten advertises the island's beaches as public, yet over the past decade there have been Court cases, public debates and even group confrontations between developers and residents about access to and ownership of beaches.
As St. Maarten's beaches form part of the people's patrimony Pride Foundation strongly believes beaches should never be sold nor leased out to third parties. The Foundation therefore advocates that St. Maarten's beaches be mentioned in the Constitution as protected, public and belonging to Government and by extension thereof are owned by the people of Sint Maarten.
The protection of our beaches and the rights of the people to access our beaches can be enforced by updating the currently existing Beach Policy, by converting it into a Beach Ordinance and by zoning beaches as public and protected".
Philipsburg, At the request of Minister Duncan the Ministry of Constitutional and Home Affairs hereby releases the following statement by the Minister:
The Curacao daily newspaper "Ultimo Noticia" on page 10 of its July 20, 2010 edition published an article titled "Minister Duncan Antias a "rip off" St. Maarten pa mas ku 50 ana". A majority of the quotes were correctly attributed to the undersigned, although the article contains several errors and fails to provide the full story.
The Curacao political party MAN has rushed today, July 21, to issue a note on Facebook, signed by its president, Mr. Eugene Cleopa and general secretary, Mr. Giovanni Atalita - its extra-judiciary representatives - titled: "Partido MAN ta rechasa deklarashon di minister Duncan ku Korsou a "rip off" St. Maarten" . The MAN's note is an emotional diatribe aimed at inciting the people of Curacao against the undersigned.
Some pertinent facts
- The acronym MAN of this party stands for "New Antillian Movement" ("Movimento Antiyas Nobo"). The party has stubbornly continued to hold on to this name despite the demise of the Netherlands Antilles.
- The party further deliberately - and erroneously - confuses and personifies Curacao ("Korsou") with the Netherlands Antilles.
- Contrary to the nonsense that Curacao politicians feed the people of Curacao, St. Maarten contributes more than its fair share of tax revenues to the Government of the Netherlands Antilles. Since January 1, 1997 a Turnover Tax of 3% on gross receipts of businesses has been levied and collected by the Antillian government on St. Maarten. The Government of the Netherlands Antilles has collected each year more than 80 million guilders PER YEAR from 1997 until today! (St. Maarten gets 1/3 of these taxes back). Additionally, the Government of the Netherlands Antilles collects (a) gasoline excise, (b) transfer tax, (c) succession tax, etc. The Bureau Telecommunication and Post collects license fees in the millions annually. Then, St. Maarten - the tourist island - provides the Central Bank of the Netherlands Antilles millions annually in foreign exchange license fees. Social security premiums are also levied on St. Maarten.
- Anyone living on St. Maarten can attest to the fact that the services of the government of the Netherlands Antilles have been deficient. Most services and departments of the Netherlands Antilles Government are not enough staffed or existent on St. Maarten. In short, St. Maarten contributes MORE to the Government of the Netherlands Antilles than it receives in services from the Government of the Netherlands Antilles.
- A "rip off" is when the provider does not provide or deliver the services or goods that it has contracted to or is bound to provide or deliver! Fact is that the Netherlands Antilles have failed not only St. Maarten, but all of its constituent islands it is bound to service! This is logically the primary reason this "country" has fallen apart and the islands are going their own ways!
Some 'ad hominem' statements by the MAN party
- The MAN party has accused the undersigned of "living a life of luxury on Curacao from the tax payers of Curacao" and finds it a shame that I should therefore dare say what I said;
- The MAN party further alleges that the undersigned does not like Curacao and its people.
Not only are these allegations false - as the undersigned is entitled to the same privileges that all ministers enjoy (Curacao has 6 Ministers to St. Maarten's 2) - but assume that the undersigned would therefore not be free to speak his opinion. In short, I do not have the fundamental freedom of speech. The MAN party is therefore typically trying to "kill the messenger" but cannot successfully refute the message! Moreover, the MAN party has proven its undemocratic nature and attitude!
The MAN party is highly insulted by the statement of the undersigned that the police department and prison on St. Maarten are deficient. But is that not true? What contribution has the Government of the Netherlands Antilles made to the infrastructure of St. Maarten in the last 50 years? Before they say that such is the responsibility of the island territory, I humbly refer to the many infrastructural projects and funding the government of the Netherlands Antilles has carried out on Curacao! Then, the MAN party alleges that the taxes of Curacao have covered the budgets of St. Maarten. This dribble does not merit much of an answer. When and how so?
The MAN party then shirks the responsibility of the Netherlands Antilles to its constituents by blaming Holland for putting the capital in Curacao.
It is logical that - if Curacao politicians (like those of the MAN party) wish to assume responsibility for the running of the Netherlands Antilles - then they must also carry the responsibility for their failed management and leadership. By the way, who incurred a 5 billion guilder debt? And where were these funds spent? Let us compare Curacao's and St. Maarten's shares in this enormous debt!!
It is evident that the MAN party is deliriously yet holding on to the defunct political system called "Netherlands Antilles" and continues to cry and lament its demise and - thus - also fight the constitutional process and the end it will bring to mentioned political system. But then again, the MAN party is itself in an identity crisis, with a party board (President and General Secretary), Party Leader and now also 'Number one on the list", all representing it. We wonder who represents what; especially now that the board also makes 'political' statements, as in the note referred to.
In light of the aforementioned, I need not apologize to the people of Curacao. Neither do I have to prove my love and ties to Curacao, as well as the other islands, including Aruba. That's not for the MAN party to judge! Ta fei su kwenta!!
What the article in "Ulitimo Noticia" failed to mentioned was my further statement that I believe and maintain that once the islands have left the Antillian political system, they shall be able to cooperate and functionally cooperate much better, more efficient and beneficial than before, because they shall be dealing 'one on one' and not in an undemocratic political system dominated and run by (politicians from) one island. I always use the European countries as examples to justify cooperation. They have put aside a 1000 years of wars and dominance of each other to bind themselves to a union in which they act as a group, 'one on one' and based on agreements reached voluntarily! St. Maarten and Curacao - and for that matter - none of the Dutch islands in Caribbean have never fought a war against each other. We can cooperate on a voluntary and mutually beneficial basis, if we are sensible and rational.
I further maintain that the Netherlands Antilles and its government have also failed the island of Curacao, with its inefficient, deficient and stifling governmental double political layer.
Philipsburg: --- Commissioner and grandson of the late Dr. Claude Wathey, Theodore Heyliger captured the attention of a large group of people when he launched his new party the "United People's Party or the UP party on Saturday afternoon.
Family members, supporters and candidates of the new kid on the block first gathered in front of the government administration building where they lay wreaths in memory of the late Dr. Claude Wathey marking his birthday on Saturday. Heyliger laid the wreath on behalf of the executive council, while the party's president Franklin Meyers and its vice president Josianne Fleming-Artsen laid the wreath on behalf of the UP and two great grandchildren of the laid Dr. Claude Wathey laid the wreath on behalf of the Wathey family.
The crowd then moved over to the boardwalk where the official launching took place. It was clear that Heyliger a veteran politician made sure he mingled with his supporters before officially launching his new party which has been in the making some years now. While the Barefoot Terrace was decorated in green and orange a clear signal that the People's Progressive Party (PPA) and the UP has come together there was no sight of Drs. Gracita Arrindell PPA leader. SMN News learnt that Arrindell and one of her biggest supporters Dr. Ruth Douglas already took photo shoots to appear on the posters of the UP list. Visible was some supporters of the PPA among the gathering in their green shirt. Among the supporters backing Commissioner Theo Heyliger were several long time supporters of the Democratic Party. They were Rene Richardson, Attorney at Law Cor Merx. Toochie Meyers, Jerry Sardine, Commissioner of Police Richard Panneflec, Invocation was conducted by Eualie Meyers.
Several persons were heard expressing their frustration with the current state of government and the constant bickering taking place with the two oldest parties on the island the Democratic Party and the National Alliance.
Board members of the UP are President- Franklin Meyers, Vice President Josianne Fleming Artsen, Secretary—Miss Rosina Romeo, Treasurer, Mrs. Joyce Wathey Yee, Board members also include Ms. Tamara Leonard, Mr. Cleveland Bresford, and James Roidis. At the launching the official notary paperwork were signed in front of the gathering in the presence of notary Gijsbertha. The UP's theme for this year's election is "teaming up for a country we all love so much."
UP Party President Franklin Meyers told the crowd that the party started with him and Heyliger when they began discussing the "should, would, and then could". Meyers said the UP party is no longer a dream but is now a reality and something the people of St. Maarten want. He described the UP –Party as a party of the people, by the people and for the people of St. Maarten. Meyers also confirmed that Gracita Arrindell is with the UP party even though she was not present at the launching. He said Arrindell and members of the PPA has shown that for them it is country above self when they were able to put aside all differences and come together to form a new party for the unity of St. Maarten. Meyers further explained that St. Maarten is going down a road where they would need all hands on deck and politicians should stop their fighting and put their hands together and begin fighting for the people of St. Maarten.
Party leader Theo Heyliger in his address said the UP party was created to meet the challenges of the 21st century. He described the UP as modern with the vision to work in a complex global economy, an organization that is based on timeless values which would be in keeping with the everyday needs and concerns of the people. Heyliger said it is the belief of the UP that country St. Maarten would require decisive leadership in the new era. "St Maarten cannot afford the old and divisive politics of the recent past that at time have crippled government and cast serious doubt on the ability to govern."
Heyliger said the people of St. Maarten need and deserve a viable alternative compared to the tired politics of ego and pride currently on offer. He said he has left that kind of politics behind simply because the people was forgotten therefore he is calling on the people to also leave that type of politics behind and join him as they move St. Maarten forward.
Some of the concerns of the UP are the alarming rise in crime and the enormous challenge placed on St. Maarten in a globalised economy. He said St. Maarten needs people who could provide solutions, such as ensuring jobs, providing stability in the economy's growth, affordable housing, safety and security must become a priority, while everyone must have access to proper health care. The tax system he said needs to be reformed, while the youths of St. Maarten must be able to get a sound education.
While Heyliger did not announce the candidates that will be contesting the election on the UP slate, the community can look forward to seeing people like veteran police officer Johan Janchi Leonard, Sylvia Meyers, Gregory Richardson, among others who are eager to lead St. Maarten to the next level.
Stealing the show on Saturday afternoon was Janchi Leonard who tried to convince the people that St. Maarten is in a desperate need for change as the island is facing serious troubles such as crime, and the lack of jobs. He said the UP is the start of a new era where the "boy and his dream' has become the Man on a Mission. Referring to Heyliger as the youngest island council member who has cemented his name in politics over the past years.
Leonard said the people have a right to be angry and frustrated and the members of the UP are deeply concerned and it is time for them to win back the confidence of the people. He said St. Maarten is hungry for new ideas, mostly for a new kind of politics and with the launching of the UP is what the people would get. Leonard described the UP as a mix of new blood and maturity, a formula that would create immediate impact. One of their missions he said is to create more jobs which will ultimately decrease crime, come with structured solutions to take better care of the elderly who has carved the road for this generation. Leonard said the UP will make sure they put in place a better system to fight crime and to root out the cancer, while investing more in the youths will be a priority. Leonard also reminded the public that they should not look for Janchi on the ballot instead they need to look for his correct name which is Johan Erwin Leonard, he said is bringing with him 41 years of policing, a former island council member, former chairperson of the domestic committee of the island council, former state secretary of justice, while his mission is to serve what the others have ignored.
Philipsburg:--- Some six construction companies submitted their bids to construct the new elementary school in Cay Hill which would consist of 16 classrooms and a gym hall. The bids submitted are from six major contractors. Present to open the sealed envelopes from each bidder was commissioner of education and leader of government William Marlin.
The companies that submitted bids are as follows:
A B Total NAF
Betonbouw Caribbean Construction N.V. 7,889,000.00 1,007,000.00 8,896,000.00
ALTERNATIVE 7,589,000.00 1,007,000.00 8,596,000.00
F.M. Contracting N.V. 7,622,531.40 850,421.90 8,472,953.30
K.S. Construction & Maintenance Services 8,115,600.02 3,046,733.62 11,162,333.64
LICCOM N.V. 8,750,000.00 1,098,000.00 9,848,000.00
ALTERNATIVE 8,110,000.00 978,626.00 9,088,626.00
M.N.O. Vervat- St. Maarten N.V. 9,583,005.00 989,457.00 10,572,462.00
TALIESIN Construction N.V. 7,291,364.00 1,388,701.00 8,680,065.00
Commissioner Marlin said Pream Consultants has been given the task to study the bids and to send an advice to the executive council. Marlin said as soon as the advice is received it will be signed off and the contract will be awarded to the company that is selected. He said however, this is not the only project government is working on and as soon as this one is finalized then it would pave the way for them to work on another project.
Philipsburg:--- In response to the article of Tuesday August 3, 2010 in which the private sector was accused of delaying deliberations for political reasons, the SHTA is offering clarification on the series of events leading up to the association not attending the scheduled meeting.
The labor tripartite committee was instituted by Government in 2006 and had been meeting on a monthly basis since then. Members met on a voluntary basis, investing countless hours in the numerous issues affecting the current labor market. Before the new NA/ Heyliger government took office, it was agreed that the committee would meet again in 6 months to evaluate the consequences and impact of the new amended policy.
This meeting never took place. Therefore, the SHTA, along with the other tripartite members, felt that the original task of the tripartite committee should first be completed before the committee is restructured.
SHTA clearly understands that it is government's right to decide the membership of the work that was put in by the original tripartite committee.
GREAT BAY,– To participate in the sessions planned for the Sint Maarten Information & Communications Technology (ICT) Week: the 6th Annual Caribbean Internet Governance Forum starting Monday, August 16 at the Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa until August 18, take the opportunity to register now.
The ICT Road Show and ICT Training Camps run from August 18 to 20.
Persons and businesses interested in the use of technology to advance in business/job opportunities or businesses seeking to optimize the use of technology for efficient and effective service offering can register for a number of seminars to be held during the course of Sint Maarten ICT Week.
Interested businesses and persons can request the registration form from This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
There will be a number of high-profiled speakers and participants who will be taking part in the forum related to the development and evolution of the internet in the Caribbean.
The three sessions scheduled for Monday, August 16 are: The Global and Regional Internet Governance Agenda 9.00am; Designing A Caribbean Information Society – The Government 11.00am; and Designing A Caribbean Information Society – Intellectual Property 15.30.
On Tuesday, August 17 the sessions are: Designing A Caribbean Information Society – Business 9.00am; and Designing A Caribbean Information Society – Group Work 15.15.
"Sint Maarten ICT Week is a great opportunity for our local community as experts in the field of Information and Communications Technologies from the region and beyond to come together on Sint Maarten to discuss, exchange views, inform, and bring awareness of the developments and opportunities through ICT use.
"This week offers an opportunity to access information, and expertise relevant to our growth as a people and our national development. This will be a worthwhile exchange open to all within our society," Peggy-Ann Brandon, a member of the local organizing committee told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Thursday.
The event is being hosted by the Island Government of Sint Maarten and the Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU) and the Geneva-based non-profit ISOC Internet Society.
GREAT BAY,– The Civil Registry Office has set aside four days where Dutch nationals can come in to apply for an Identification Card (ID) or for renewals in connection with the September 17, 2010 elections.
The days set aside for only Dutch nationals are Saturday, August 21, August 28, September 4 and September 11 from 9.00am to 1.00pm.
For the Brooks Towers Accord (BTA) applicants and other persons, you can visit the Civil Registry Office from Monday to Friday during office hours. Only 75 ID-cards will be issued each day.
Customers for services at the Civil Registry Office should also take note that on Thursday, August 19, the office will not issue any ID cards since it's the sign-up of the political party lists of those parties participating for the first time in the elections.
For further information you can call the Civil Registry Department at 542-2457.
Philipsburg: --- The newly form political party (CPA) Concordia Political Alliance headed by Jeffry Richardson is fighting to keep his party afloat by trying to meet the necessary requirements to submit his list on Wednesday. In an interview with SMN News Richardson said three of the four candidates he introduced to the media on Sunday cannot contest the election.
Richardson said the acting head of the census office informed him that Denicio Wyatte is not registered at the census office and for that reason he is not allowed to contest an election. Richardson said Wyatte was living in Holland and since he returned he never registered, while Leo Richardson said he registered on July 16th but the census office has no records of the registration. Party leader Jeffry Richardson said he will be returning to the census office on Wednesday with the paperwork to show that Leo Richardson registered before the August 8th deadline.
As for Natasha Chumney, Richardson said she got discouraged and decided to drop out. "This does not mean I would not have a list on Wednesday, I will be submitting a list at 2:30pm and I urge you to be there", said Richardson. The CPA intended to be the voice of what they described as the voiceless, the native and grass root St. Maarteners.
GREAT BAY:--- Regional telecommunications regulators must demonstrate a massive shift in their approach to the regulatory function, if the Caribbean is to take full advantage of the advances in information and communications technology (ICT). Respected Caribbean technology expert, Mr. Bevil Wooding, speaking at the 6th Caribbean Internet Governance Forum in St Maarten, said "Regulators across the region must move to regulating based on clearly articulated development goals".
Wooding, Chief Knowledge Officer of international non-profit, Congress WBN stated "The philosophy underpinning regulation in the Caribbean has to evolve from a liberalization model to a model that better supports innovation and social and economic development".
Citing examples from St Maarten, Belize and Guyana, speakers at the regional event highlighted the unevenness of the Caribbean telecommunications landscape. Some countries, like Belize, still block common internet-based communications tools such as Skype which are based on a technology known as Voice over IP (VoIP). In other countries, the cost of internet services is so prohibitive that most consumers cannot afford the high-speed or broadband connections that are so common in other parts of the world.
Speaking on the topic The Elusive Information Society, Mr. Wooding's presentation highlighted some of the key issues developing states need to overcome if they are to realize the benefits of the internet age.
According to Mr. Wooding, "A new form of digital divide is emerging in terms of the difference in quality and speed of access to ICT in developing countries." He highlighted the fact that in developed, high-income economies, the average cost of a broadband connection is significantly less than in developing countries, both in nominal terms and as a percentage of the average monthly income.
Bernadette Lewis, Secretary General of the Caribbean Telecommunications Union highlighted the absence of hard data in the region that could provide the indicators needed to measure progress towards achieving the development targets. "There is still limited awareness of benefits of information and communications technology among government officials and key decision makers in the region. The Caribbean ICT Roadshow is our response to this challenge", Ms Lewis added that the Roadshow is designed to raise public awareness and to educate on these ICT issues.
The Caribbean Internet Governance Forum is being held in conjunction with the St. Maarten ICT Week currently underway at the Westin Dawn Beach Resort and Spa. The event has attracted a high profile cast of international speakers and admission is open to the general public at no cost.
"Information and the appropriation, dissemination, consumption and control of information have become central to the organisation of society, the economy and our individual experience." Ms. Lewis stated. She also emphasized that citizens of St. Maarten should avail themselves of this opportunity to learn how information and communication technologies may transform, lives institutions and Caribbean societies.
About Bevil Wooding.Bevil Wooding is a technology pioneer in the Caribbean, and a strong advocate for the use of Internet technologies in industrializing nations. He has facilitated seminars and workshops on e-government, ICTs and national development and in the US, Africa, Europe and the Caribbean. A tireless technology evangelist, Wooding works with US-based non-profit research organization, Packet Clearing House to the design capacity building workshops and support critical internet infrastructure for Governments, ISPs, policy-makers, and research communities regionally and internationally.
As Chief Knowledge Officer at Trinidad-based non-profit, Congress WBN (C-WBN), Wooding's reach extends far beyond his home base. C-WBN operates in over 95 countries, assisting organizations in the private, public and non-profit domain to leverage the power of ICTs. C-WBN is focused on nations-development programs, and Wooding is responsible for technology component of this mandate. An authentic Technology Ambassador, Wooding has been a strong advocate in developing countries for the adoption of Internet and internet-based technologies as a tool for government, corporate and social transformation.
The unique perspective afforded to Wooding through his global responsibilities has made him a sought after resource and speaker. To keep his finger on the evolving pulse-beat of technological change, he continues to work with governments and the private sector to directly shape and direct e-government implementations, information management, business process design and ICT service delivery strategy.
Philipsburg:--- In regard to the many recent serious criminal investigations and increase in different criminal activities taking place on the French and Dutch Side of the island, a very important meeting was held at the Philipsburg Police Station on Monday between the Commander of the Gendarmes, Major Stephane Brunet assisted by captain Antoine Cuignet
and Colonel Jean Pierre Chenel and the Chief of Police from the Dutch side Commissioner Peter de Witte assisted by the deputy Chief of Police Commissioner Carl John.
During the meeting essential information was shared by authorities from both sides of the island in connection with major joint controls that will be held to combat crime in general and weed out those criminals busy with their criminal activities and then going into hiding among the citizens in the community. The Custom Department and Coast Guard will also take part in these controls. The controls started today August 23rd at 07.00 a.m. and will continue indefinitely.
Philipsburg:--- The autopsy report that the public prosecutor's office was awaiting about the sudden death of Bart Pasman the former director of USONA is now available. The Public Prosecutor at that time ordered that the body of the deceased be examined in order to determine the exact cause of death.
Recently the Public Prosecutor's Office received the full results of the autopsy and the toxicological investigation. The pathologist and toxicologist have come to the conclusion that Mr. Bart Pasman died as a result of a heart attack. After the receiving the reports the public prosecutor's office has established that Pasman died of natural causes. Bart Pasman passed away on April 10th at his home.
Philipsburg:--- Students attending primary and secondary schools on the Dutch side of the island has at least one more day at home since the EOC is yet to take a final decision as to when school would reopen. Acting Lt. Governor and Chairman of the EOC Reynold Groeneveldt said one of the main reasons a final decision was not taken on Tuesday was because the island is under storm watch as tropical storm Fiona approaches the island. St. Maarten and the neighboring islands just experienced the passing of hurricane Earl on Monday morning. While the damages were not catastrophic the cleanup crew including police had quite some work to do in preparation for the category 2 hurricane when it passed. Groeneveldt said school might reopen on Thursday but that decision will be taken in their next meeting on Wednesday. He made clear that so far St. Maarten is under storm watch and there is no curfew in place. Residents are asked to exercise caution during the passing of the storm.
However, an assessment was carried out on Tuesday with respect to the situation at schools on the island.
Teachers are hereby requested to report to their respective schools on Wednesday morning in order to prepare their classrooms.
Schools are to reopen on Thursday, September 2nd.
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Philipsburg:--- Island council member Frans Richardson has submitted a request to the main voting bureau to recount all the ballots that were cast on Friday at all the voting districts. Richardson motivated this request based on the amount of invalid votes. The public meeting was adjourned pending the arrival of the ballots.
SMN News will bring you more on this story later today.
GREAT BAY:--- Sector Public Health, Social Development & Labour (VSA) Inspectorate of Public Health Pharmaceutical Department, is urging any establishment selling unregistered pharmaceuticals and pharmaceuticals registered as pharmacy or prescription only other than local pharmacies, to cease the sale of these pharmaceuticals immediately.
During the past months the Inspectorate of Public Health has come across the illegal sale of pharmaceuticals by establishments such as supermarkets and cosmetic stores on the island.
The Inspectorate is also aware of individuals approaching supermarkets and other establishments selling pharmaceuticals.
Please be aware that these persons are operating illegally and that the quality and safety of these pharmaceuticals cannot be guaranteed in the interests of public health. Only licensed pharmaceutical wholesalers are allowed to import (registered) pharmaceuticals (medicines/drugs).
The Inspectorate of Public Health will continue inspecting establishments for the sale of pharmaceuticals on a regular basis and will take the necessary measures if infringements are encountered.
All pharmaceuticals that are imported by licensed pharmaceutical wholesalers come directly from the manufacturer and must undergo evaluation on efficacy, safety and quality by a group of experts prior to import. This process is called the registration of pharmaceuticals.
There are three registration categories for pharmaceuticals;
- Over the counter: These drugs can be sold freely by anyone under the condition that they are bought from a licensed pharmaceutical wholesaler.
- Pharmacy only: The sale of these pharmaceuticals are restricted to only pharmacies.
- Prescription only: These pharmaceuticals can only be sold in pharmacies, upon receipt of a valid prescription from a registered physician on the island of Sint Maarten
Pharmaceuticals that have not undergone this registration process are not allowed to be imported or sold anywhere on the island!
If you have any questions or would like a list of the registered over the counter pharmaceuticals and where these can be bought, please contact the Inspectorate of Public Health at #542-3579/80 or visit the office at Kanaalsteeg #1, third floor of the Diamond Casino building at the head of town.
St. Maarten Youth Development Program organized violence prevention weeks for students in the preparatory phase of its program. The program solicited the assistance of the PEACE IS foundation which is a non-profit organization promoting non-violent solutions within the school system. PEACE IS conducted workshops for students where students were exposed to gang related issues, controlling one's own temper and discussing recent violent incidents occurring in the community to name a few. For the workshops, students from the SBO Maritime and Carpentry courses were also in attendance.
Additionally, PEACE IS provided the program with DVDs entitled "Conflict Resolution for Students" that dealt with issues such as peer conflict and sexual harassment. These were shown and discussed during the students' Social Skills class and provided students with skills needed to address dilemma-filled situations effectively and in a non-violent manner.
The St. Maarten Youth Development Program and SBO are part of the Education & Youth program project. It is a corporation program between the island government of St Maarten and the Dutch government and funded by USONA. The Youth Development Program is especially for youngsters between the ages of 16 and 24 years who were unable to finish secondary education. With this program youngsters obtain the basic qualifications needed to enter the job market at an assistant's level or further their studies at the SBO schools. SBO is mainly for PSVE/VSBO graduates who wish to continue their education to achieve professional vocational qualifications however SBO level one is available to youngsters who did not complete secondary education. Both YDP and SBO are executed by the Department of Educational Research, Policy and Innovations (DERPI) of Island Government which forms part of the Ministry of Education, Youth, Culture and Sports.
For more information on YDP or SBO, please feel free to call 543-0497 or 543-0498. For more information on PEACE IS foundation, please contact Peta-Gaye Harriot at 542-2739 ext 232 or visit their website www.peaceissxm.org
Philipsburg:--- Two staff members of the Mental Health Foundation (MHF) received training and were certified as Crisis Prevention Instructors by the Crisis and Prevention Institute (CPI), in order to provide care, welfare, safety and security to staff and patients, by being able to properly contain uncontrollable patients found on the premises as well as off-site.
In addition to the training received, the two staff members, Nurse Shineca Carty and Psychologist Aisheline Maduro, will in turn train the rest of the MHF staff on proper non-violent crisis prevention and intervention methods, disruptive behavior management and personal safety techniques.
Consequently, various areas (care products) of The Mental Health Foundation (MHF), such as Psychiatric Care and the Faraja Center, will benefit as a result of the training obtained.
Such training is crucial in cases pertaining to Crisis Intervention patients and handling clients who visit the Faraja Center.
The program was a four-day training, and was held from September 28th to October 1st at the Crisis and Prevention Institute (CPI), an international institution that works along with many companies, foundations and school organizations to train in nonviolent, and personal safety methods.
In the first session the CPI participants received an introductory course into Crisis Intervention emphasizing on early intervention and non-physical methods for preventing or managing disruptive behavior.
On Day two they were given a more in-depth look at Crisis Intervention focusing on restraint positions, transport techniques and team strategies
Revision of the past knowledge and skills learned earlier were tested on Day 3 after evaluations were given out as well as role play assessment.
Our two Staff members received Certifications after successfully passing evaluations with a passing rate above 96%, and also participating in an extensive train-the-trainer program in order to train staff within MHF base of employment.
The MHF Certified Instructors are currently busy setting up policies and procedures pertaining to care, welfare, safety and security of both Clients and staff based on the training received.
Philipsburg:--- Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams told reporters on Wednesday that the Minister of Finance is busy discussing the 2011 draft budget as was presented to them earlier this year. The Prime Minister said the 2011 budget has a deficit of 100M guilders. Wescot Williams also indicated that the council of ministers are looking to have an amendment for the 2010 budget to accommodate country St. Maarten.
While the council of Ministers held their first live press briefing on Wednesday, three of the seven ministers did not show up for the press conference including the Minister of finance Hiro Shigemoto.
Listen to the First Council of Ministers:
The Prime Minister said the Minister of Finance is trying to secure a different type of agreement with the CFT compared to the one that is currently in place. She said the government of St. Maarten is trying to secure a transition agreement with the CFT since something has to be done with the 2011 budget since they are not able to wipe away the deficit of that draft budget. "We cannot take a pen and erase a 100M deficit... absolutely not."
The Prime Minister said this has nothing to do with the CFT giving St. Maarten advice on policies since that is not their job. Asked if the current Minister of Finance and the staff of the finance department are not the ones that prepared the draft 2011 budget, the Prime Minister said that while there are discussions taking place the draft budget is not being reworked but the Minister of finance is the one leading the discussions so as to come to an agreement with the CFT as to how to proceed with the draft that is on the table. Asked if the council of ministers have accepted the 100M deficit, the Prime Minister said the council of ministers did not discuss the deficit in the draft budget but they have agreed that the needs for country St Maarten are huge compared to the expected revenue and as such there needs to be a transition agreement with the CFT.
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St. Maarten born Shawn York, who is currently a student at the Grafisch Lyceum Art School in Rotterdam, embarked on a project to highlight St. Maarten both locally and abroad through the use of promotional shirts containing a text design: "37 Square Miles" in the colors of our flag: red, white and blue. Basically the message the student is sending is that our 37 square miles island, has a lot to offer in relation to its size. At the same time the recent constitutional changes call for the implanting of national pride in our people, and to some degree redefine who are as a country within the Kingdom. The shirts will be available in black, on sale at the Upholstery World on the Bush Road 53.
Shawn's aunt June Peters and cousin Tamara Vanterpool have been jointly assisting with the distribution and promotion of the shirts. NAGICO's Marketing Officer Jimmy Challenger accepted a shirt on behalf of the company: "We must as individuals, through our workplaces or volunteer work, promote and build our island nation in every sense of the word. There are many challenges ahead for our government and people. NAGICO recognizes the importance of nation building and will continue to support sound projects that support this cause."
Philipsburg:--- Two police officers, a VKS officer and civil servant attached to the St. Maarten Police Force will have to brace themselves for the decision that will be taken by the prosecutor's office in the near future. SMN News learnt that the Chief of Police Peter de Witte has handed over the report of an investigation that was conducted by Police Internal Affairs to the prosecutor's office for them to take a decision on whether or not they would prosecute the cops for selling their votes to the United People's Party. Chief of Police Peter de Witte confirmed on Friday that the report has been completed and it was turned over to the prosecutor's office. The top cop said he will not discuss or release the contents of the report, but one should be able to read what might be in the report if it was sent to the Prosecutor's office for further evaluation.
According to reports reaching SMN News is that the four officers took a police car and went to the United People's Party head office in Pointe Blanche claiming they were called to restore order. However, it turned out that the two cops, VKS and civil servant went to the UP office seeking money in exchange for their votes. Other sources say some officers requested television and other electronic gadgets from the leader of the United Peoples Party Theo Heyliger.
The source said those at the UP main office told the cops they would call them when their envelopes were ready. Later that day the officers were called at the police station and told that the envelopes were ready and the VKS was sent to pick up four envelopes containing $300 for each of the officers. However, the VKS officer got greedy and he opened one of the envelopes and shared the monies in that envelope among the three others. SMN News learnt that the civil servant is the one who did not get the envelope that was sent to her and she created a commotion inside the police station which sparked the investigation. The officers are C.L.R.C and A.M with VKS R.J Sr. and civil servant G.W.
De Witte said based on the rumours where police personnel had been involved in taking monies from political parties a fact finding investigation was conducted by Police Internal Affairs and the results have now been forwarded to the Prosecutor's Office for further evaluation.
Based on article 126 of the penal code any person who offers a bribe is equally responsible as the person or persons who accepted the bribe. If proven guilty the culprits can face as much as six months in jail for bribery.
Philipsburg:--- Great chefs from around the globe come to St. Maarten to be part of the most important culinary event in the Caribbean. Flaavors will showcase the best that St. Maarten has to offer, in combination with visiting chefs that are eager to be part of this grand event and its culinary excellence.
Chef Ken Frank who has spent more than two-thirds of his life in the kitchen will come down to St. Maarten to participate along side Luna Vineyards to create a delighting dinner on Saturday night (Nov. 13). He will share his tricks and culinary knowhow's with you during his cooking demonstration on Saturday morning. Also sharing his culinary secrets will be Chef Wayne Nish and his assistant Chef Doug Psaltis. They will both prepare several dishes for the crowd to see and taste. Both cooking demonstrations are open to the trade (Chefs, Sommeliers, Students and Restaurant Owners) free of charge. There is limited seating and only those who call in and reserve a spot will be signed up to attend.
Chefs Nish and Psaltis will participate in the Winemaker Dinner taking place at Temptation Restaurant on Thursday, November 11. In collaboration with local chef and restaurant owner Dino Jagtiani; Chefs Nish, Psaltis have all created a fantastic menu around the wines of Oakville Ranch. This will be an amazing event not to be missed.
In addition, five chefs from the Netherlands will be forming part of the Celebration Dinner and Benefit Auction. Chefs Jan Klein, WicherLohr, Niven Kunz, Gerard Wollerich and Gerrit Graveling will be participating in this year's Fete de la Cuisine will be forming part of this Flaavorsevent along side Nish, Psaltis and Frank to create an unforgettable night to benefit the Sundail School and the St. Maarten National Culinary Team.
During the Celebration dinner, a live auction will take place giving back to the St. Maarten community. The Sundail Students and the Culinary Team will be receiving these funds to take local students and prep them to keep up with St. Maartens gastronomic reputation and keep it as the culinary capital of the Caribbean.
To start up all the Flaavors Festival, Iron Chef Contestant Marc Forgione will be participating in the Champagne Tasting to take place at Porto Cupecoy on Wednesday, November 10.Forgione is known as one of the rising stars in the culinary industry and is stunning audiences around with his incredible recipes in The Next Iron Chef.
For more information on Flaavors of St. Maarten please visit our website www.flaavors.com or call 523-1491/520-7067. Where you will find a detailed schedule of events and how to purchase tickets.
Maho:--- Guyanese Minister of Health Leslie Ramsammy was elected chairman of PANCAP's Regional Coordinating Mechanism RCM at their 10th annual meeting held on St. Maarten. Ramsammy will take up his new post immediately which will run for one year.
Shortly after being elected Dr. Ramsammy told reporters that the Caribbean should no longer focus on reducing the problem of HIV/AIDS instead they should now focus on eliminating the transmission from mother to child. Dr. Ramsammy said the trajectory of reduction which they focused on in 2001 should now be replaced with a trajectory of elimination. He said the Caribbean now stands as the first region in the world that has an opportunity to eliminate mother to child transmission by 2015. He said he believes that this is an achievable target and that is what he believes PANCAP should focus on as a priority. Another priority for Dr. Ramsammy is the issue of human rights legislations. He said while people do things in good faith it would never work if there is no legislation in place to support them.
Commodities he said is another aspect that has to be looked at and the Caribbean must keep a tune to the development to topical gels and new technology. He said they also have to look at things that are related such as diseases that arise because of HIV/AIDS. He said tuberculosis (TB) is on the rise which addresses a major public health challenge. This he said must be addressed. HBV vaccines that are used to reduce and eliminate cervical cancer is another area that has to be explored. Dr. Ramsammy said he believes that health information has been withheld for too long which represents a weakness. For him it is totally unacceptable for those countries that do not have a strategic plan for HIV/AIDS. He asked how would one establish a priority if there is no plan in place and how would funding be sought.
Asked if too much focus is placed on HIV/AIDS while other diseases are neglected, the incoming RCM chairman said that attention to chronic non communicable diseases must be placed at the top of the agenda, including violence, injuries, traffic accidents all needs attention and can't be addressed with the limited funds that are available.
Select the audio below in the list to listen:
Marigot:--- Several reporters on the French side of St. Martin met last Friday to discuss how to handle the statements that were made against reporters by territorial councillor Sylviane Judith during the last territorial council meeting held on October 26th 2010.
Judith read a prepared statement addressing members of the council. However, she also made some irresponsible, disrespectful and offence remarks discrediting all journalists on St. Martin. The reporters who met last week represent each of the media houses on the French side, thus they have agreed to send out a press release to the President of the Collectivity of St Martin, while making the release public for the general public. Below is the English version of the release.
Ms. Sylviane Judith, a Territorial Councilwoman, made irresponsible, disrespectful and offensive remarks discrediting journalists in Saint-Martin at the Territorial Council meeting of Tuesday, October 26, 2010.
The local press only relays statements made by elected representatives during press conferences. If journalists cannot write and analyze without being subject to the wrath of certain elected representatives, then it is the FREEDOM OF THE PRESS which is threatened.
The press in Saint-Martin does not "relegate to the level of trivial events the good things carried out by the Collectivity", because the Press Service of the Collectivity floods us with information and press conferences on these "good things".
The press in Saint-Martin is impartial and if articles and journalistic analysis disturb Ms. Judith, she can just content herself to gather her information from the excellent institutional monthly Point.Com.
Ms. Judith in her intervention advised that "the pedigree of the pseudo journalists should be checked". We would like for Ms Judith to explain her statements. Besides, did she follow any training as a veterinarian to justify this request?
We wonder about the silence of the Territorial Councilors who "must not think" as Ms. Judith put it, and who did not comment on these remarks incriminating the press.
To conclude, we are willing to meet with Ms. Judith for her to make us benefit from her expert knowledge in matter of local politics. Remarks that will not be relegated to the level of trivial events.
We assure Ms. Judith of our congenial regards.
Signed: Faxinfo
St. Martin's Week
InsulR
The Daily Herald
Le Pélican
SMN News
France Antilles
The release in the French Language which was sent to the President of the COM.
Liberté de la presse
Les journalistes de Saint-Martin font une mise au point
Les journalistes de Saint-Martin se sont réunis la semaine dernière dans le but de réagir ensemble contre les propos de la conseillère territoriale Sylviane Judith, prononcés lors du dernier conseil territorial devant l'assemblée des élus. En réponse à ces attaques injustifiées, un communiqué a été rédigé, il rétablit le rôle de la presse et défend la liberté d'expression :
"Lors du conseil territorial du mardi 26 octobre 2010, Mme Sylviane Judith, conseillère territoriale de la collectivité, a tenu des propos irrespectueux et insultants à l'égard des journalistes de Saint-Martin. En relayant et analysant les différents propos des élus, la presse locale ne fait tout simplement que son travail. Et c'est précisément lorsque les journalistes ne peuvent plus faire ce travail d'information sans subir le courroux de certains élus, qu'un pan de la liberté d'expression s'effondre.
Lorsqu'elle évoque les tensions politiques entre les élus, la presse locale ne fait que refléter la réalité du moment. La presse saint-martinoise n'est pas le faire-valoir de l'Institution, n'en déplaise à madame la conseillère territoriale. La collectivité édite le mensuel institutionnel Point.Com qui remplit parfaitement cette mission.
Madame Judith a suggéré qu'il « faudrait vérifier le pedigree des pseudos journalistes ». Nous aimerions qu'elle précise son propos. La profession de journaliste est protégée et régie par des règles strictes, si madame Judith considère que certains supports d'information ne rentrent pas dans ce cadre légal et discréditent la profession, il fallait qu'elle ait le courage de les nommer, sans jeter l'opprobre sur l'ensemble de la profession. Sur ces faits, le silence complice des conseillers territoriaux nous interpelle fortement.
Nous sommes prêts à rencontrer Mme Judith pour qu'elle nous fasse profiter de son expertise en matière de politique locale, et de politique européenne.. Qu'elle se rassure, ses propos ne seront pas relégués à «la rubrique des chiens écrasés".
Nous assurons Mme Judith et tous ceux qui l'ont soutenue dans la rédaction de cette déclaration injuste, de toute notre écoute."
Les signataires :
FAXinfo - France Antilles - Insul'R – Le Pélican - Saint-Martin's Week - SMN-News - The Daily Herald
Philipsburg:--- President of the Parliament of St Maarten Gracita Arrindell announced at a press conference on Friday that the second meeting of parliament is scheduled to take place on Monday at the AC Wathey Legislative Hall.
Arrindell said the agenda points for Monday's meeting with be the establishment of the rules of order which was passed by the former island council and the election of a vice president of parliament. Arrindell said based on article 66 of the constitution of country St. Maarten gives parliament the rights to establish their own rules of order. Arrindell said that even though the island council has approved the rules of order and the current members of parliament did not have chance to go through these rules she felt obliged to have the members of parliament review the rules of order and to either establish them as is or to make proposals to amend these rules of order. The president of parliament said her intention is to install an adhoc committee who would be charged with reviewing these rules of order. She said the committee will then prepare an advice which will be sent to the Central Committee. She said once the advice is seen by the Central Committee then it will be forwarded to parliament to either debate or to be approved. Arrindell said the second agenda point is to elect the vice president of parliament which will be done by secret ballot.
Arrindell said even though they have to elect the vice president of parliament they are currently facing a quagmire since the incoming members of parliament are yet to be sworn in. Those members are Dr. Ruth Douglas, Johan Janchi Leonard and Roy Marlin. Arrindell said she is aware that the process has started since the main voting bureau has been established. She said she already signed off the relevant documents (the resignation for Rhoda Arrindell, Theo Heyliger and Sarah Wescot Williams) which were sent off to the main voting bureau on Friday morning. Arrindell said doing so means that there are three seats of parliaments that has to be filled.
So far parliament did not receive the credentials for the incoming members; however, she is expecting that the main voting bureau to respond shortly so that she could add the credentials as incoming documents for Monday's meeting.
Listen to the audio broadcast:
Philipsburg:--- The newly established parliament of St. Maarten has had at least three central committee meetings these past weeks. SMN News has been informed that five of the six members of the National Alliance faction have not been receiving their convocations to these meetings, thus they did not attend the meetings. On Tuesday SMN News was invited to take a photograph of the closed door central committee meeting and it was evident that only one member of the National Alliance faction received his convocation by email along with the parliamentarians from the United Peoples Party faction and the Democratic Party their coalition partner. When contacted on Tuesday leader of the National Alliance faction William Marlin confirmed that he did not receive his convocation from parliament and he was not aware that there was a central committee meeting. Senators Frans Richardson, Louie Laveist, Hyacinth Richardson also shared the same concerns saying that while the interim clerk has their email addresses they too are not receiving their convocations.
SMN News contacted one of the interim staff of parliament and we were told that those persons who are not receiving their convocations should send their complaint in writing to the president of parliament. On Wednesday, SMN News posed the same questions to chairlady Gracita Arrindell and she said that the convocations (hard copy) are placed in the letter boxes and that parliamentarians should check their mails daily to see if they have mails. Arrindell said the current parliament building is not fully equipped yet she and her staff are making an effort to work since they are all being paid to do. Arrindell said that during both meetings all factions were represented meaning that Dr. Lloyd Richardson represented the National Alliance even though he is not the faction leader. SMN News also learnt that the parliamentarians present during the meetings of the 15th and 16 asked Arrindell about the absence of the other parliamentarians and she told them that she did not receive any type of notification from the absentees. Arrindell in her response to SMN News said that the convocation was done on November 10 which confirms that they were within the legal time frame of notifying the parliamentarians about the scheduled meetings. She said even if though some parliamentarians did not receive their convocation electronically they could have checked their mail boxes for the hard copies. When pressed for answers if these convocations can be sent electronically Arrindell said parliament is encountering household impediments by not having adequate tools. She said unless parliament can get a scanner and other equipments which would allow the clerk to scan the convocations that bears her signatures to send it then they would have to make do with the hard copies that are placed in their letter boxes.
Arrindell was asked when the new parliament building will be made available to her she said they are expecting to have the building before December 15, Kingdom Day. Arrindell said when the new building becomes available they would begin public meetings. She was also asked if the meetings currently taking place are being recorded as stipulated in the law. Arrindell said the meetings are not taped but minutes are taken by the clerk.
Central Committee Meetings.The chairlady told reporters that Professor de Boer was present during these central committee meetings and he gave the parliamentarians that were present information on the four draft ordinances. She said they are 15 draft ordinances but de Boer gave first hand information on the ordinances he drafted. Arrindell said a public meeting will be held on a later date on the same subject matters in order to give the public the opportunity to participate in the draft ordinances.
Philipsburg:--- In its continuous effort to educate the population of St. Maarten, the Chapter of Professional Young People will be presenting a lecture on the dualistic system of government.
This system is based on the total separation of the legislative (Parliament) and executive (Council of Ministers) branch in government. As citizens of Country St. Maarten we should all be aware of the structure of government after 10-10-10 and its implications.
The presenter of the lecture will be Mr. Dennis Richardson, former project leader of Constitutional Affairs. Mr. Richardson is St. Maarten's candidate member of the Council of State.
Make use of this opportunity to come out and inform yourself about the changes in government.
This event will be free of charge and will take place on November 22nd, 2010 at the Philipsburg Community Center at 7:30 p.m.
The objective of C.P.Y.P is to create awareness among the public of St. Maarten of issues affecting their daily lives. An informed people are an empowered and enlightened people. The Chapter of Professional Young People is looking forward to welcoming you there.
GREAT BAY:--- Honorable Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams on the occasion of International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development, would like to congratulate all Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) on the work that they do, Wescot-Williams said in her message issued on Sunday.
The United Nations (UN) General Assembly invited Governments to observe annually December 5 as International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development, and urged them to take measures to heighten awareness of the important contribution of volunteer service, thereby stimulating more people in all walks of life to offer their services as volunteers, both at home and abroad.
The international theme for the day is: "Share the Story: Volunteering for the Millennium Development Goals-MDGs."
"Our island nation has a diverse NGO field that has been volunteering their time and effort, some for decades, based on (com) passion and dedication for their fellow human-beings. These individuals are champions in their area of volunteerism and I would like to congratulate them for the work that they do for our community's day in, day out.
"The various organizations that exist play a role in the promotion of the MDGs and their contribution makes a positive impact on our national development as a society.
"The journey of NGOs has been challenging yet rewarding. Starting out as small groups of like-minded individuals, NGOs have become an active voice in the community and it is promising to see how they have grown and some taking a leading role in matters that affect us all.
"NGOs are true catalysts that play valuable roles in the socio-economic development of any country. I would like to encourage other members of our society to get involved in volunteerism by joining one of the many community organizations that make a difference on the island," Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams, who is also responsible for the country's MDG program, told the Government Information Service (GIS).
Sint Maarten is committed to being a global partner, and as such needs to comply with UN conventions and treaties with MDGs being one of the major global efforts to eradicate extreme poverty and hunger; achieve universal primary education; promote gender equality and empower women; reduce child mortality; improve maternal health; combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases; ensure environmental sustainability; and develop a global partnership for development.
...
Philipsburg: --- The president of the Democratic Party Michael Ferrier and Andy Wescott, son of Democratic Party leader Sarah Wescott Williams has reacted very sternly to an email sent out by the founder of the People's Progressive Party Donald Hughes. Hughes sent out an email on Thursday urging the recipients to go a website and learn more about two of the PPA candidates that have teamed up with the United People's Party for the 2010 country election. In the email Hughes said "
As we approach 10-10-10 our focus is on who we will be electing to represent St. Maarten in Parliament. A serious matter is now at hand. We cannot continue to handle this as Business as usual. Stop and think before you vote and choose the best candidates to form our next Parliament. I am introducing you to DR. Ruth, a medical Doctor by profession and a hardworking woman who can face tomorrow's challenges in the next Parliament. Visit this website and learn more about "Dr. Ruth."
Andy Wescot and recipient of the email responded to Hughes by saying "Thanks for the link; unfortunately we're not interested in any of UPP's candidates for this upcoming election; frankly, we think you and PPA stood a better chance running on your own and not with T.O. This is the very same Theo that you, Gracita, and the PPA publicly labeled corrupt; Gracita, in her departure from the DP, publicly chastised T.O. and his wheeling and dealing as her main excuse to leave the Democratic Party. What is really taking place at this time? Do you and your former PPA followers expect the people of St. Martin to forget the dislike and distrust you had all these years for Theo Heyliger?
We and by extension, the people of St. Maarten, can't and won't.
And why now? Are the rumors that the UPP paid big money to the PPA to "Team-UP" for St. Martin true?
No, Don, we urge everyone copied to VOTE RED, VOTE FOR EXPRIENCE, and VOTE DP!
Shortly after receiving the response Hughes responded by saying "Thanks for responding, however only "Time will tell!" As her majesty's loyal opposition in Government the PPA under the leadership of Gracita made every effort to do her job to the best of her ability. She preached Transparency, good governance and she constantly urged those in the position of power to try and better the lives of our people. As the number 2 Candidate on the UPP slate, she will maintain her position on these issues and based on that simple facts, I will support her candidacy....You will undoubtedly follow your leader and I will follow mine. On September 17th, I am voting Green.
Wishing you all the best in this campaign. There is one fact that I must before ending DP's Slandering tactics will get you nowhere this election. Neither Gracita nor any member that followed her lead can be bought for any price. Please remember these words: Slander is the revenge of a coward, and dissimulation of his defense. People are tired of those same old dirty DP tactics. May the best team win!"
Philipsburg:---Terry Peterson believes the most pressing issue facing the Netherlands Antilles and the Island Territory of St. Maarten is the issue of Poor Safety and Security. According to Peterson, over the last decade, crime-the so-called nagging Central Government responsibility-has ripped through the very soul of our communities. Communities which were once peaceful and safe are now "no go" areas. Many of our citizens are afraid to venture out of their homes and some feel incarcerated in their own homes. In addition to this we have become saturated with news of one scandal after another and reports of wrongdoing among some of our elected representatives and civil servants. Accountability, Integrity and Transparency apparently have lost all meaning.
However, with the establishment of Corporate Governance Council, the office of the Ombudsman, and the dismantling process and transfer of responsibilities to Country St. Maarten now on track, I believe together we can return decency, good governance, transparency, integrity, law, order and justice to our society, and provide for the safety and security of all citizens and visitors. I believe we can achieve the feeling of peace and tolerance again in our community by restoring confidence in the justice system; by strengthening the institution of the family and by enlisting the support of all stakeholders, including religious groups, in ensuring that our justice system has all the resources and support to be quick, responsive and accessible to all. We can have safer homes, safer schools and safer streets.
If elected, I will continue dialogue with our Justice Minister to promote our national vision for responsible family and community life, safer schools and neighborhoods, and invest more in modern policing methods, surveillance equipment and new technologies to ensure that the police are adequately trained and equipped to detect, solve and prevent crimes. In addition to this, I will explore ways to:
-Work with social partners to establish a new facility for juvenile offenders.
-Increase the number of police officers to provide the police with the capacity to reintroduce a properly coordinated beat and patrol program.
-Invest in and set up Crime Scene Investigation Units (CSI) or Crime Investigation Units (CIU) units.
-Implement a new forensic lab and require better evidence handling.
-Increase training of police officers at all levels particularly in Human Rights and Criminal Investigations.
-Revise or introduce new laws with stiffer penalties for antisocial behavior such as littering, noise pollution, degrading of public spaces, abandonment of derelict vehicles and buildings which can serve as precursors to more serious crimes and can engender the perception of a lawless society.
-Reverse the years of neglect of the police and improve the conditions of work of the police by providing adequate incentives, promotions etc. thereby enhancing career development, job satisfaction and performance standards.
-Strengthen significantly the public prosecution service to ensure a more efficient and effective prosecution of criminals.
-Initiate social-skills building programs and Security Awareness and Sensitization programs that will help to reshape the minds of our young people so that they develop a greater appreciation of societal values, life, their own worth and their contribution to society.
-Recognize, expand and support youth NGOs and uniformed groups such as the Boys and Girls Brigades, Girl Guides, Scouts, Pathfinders, and VKS to promote life skills and community values.
-Reduce dropout rates among our youth through mentorship.
-Institute adequate compensation for victims and witnesses of violent crime and abuse, and provide legal aid so that persons who are financially unable can be assured of legal representation.
-Institute an independent police complaints commission to resolve or address any grievances or complaints against the police.
-Revamp the penal system to allow for better correctional services, rehabilitation and vocational training for specific offenders, and the establishment of a proper probation service that can track repeat offenders.
-Expand small business opportunities and create new jobs
Terry J. Peterson has served as the executive assistant to two State Secretaries For Public Health and Social Development and as a consultant to Caribbean governments on Youth Entrepreneurship and Poverty Reduction. He is also a part-time Lecturer in Philosophy and Sociology at the University of St. Martin. He presently holds a LL.M: Masters of Law in International Law and Human Rights from Coventry University, United Kingdom and a Bachelors of Arts from Andrews University, Michigan, USA. He also possesses a certificate in International Criminal Law from the Grotius Center for International Legal Studies, Leiden University, The Netherlands. He has also pursued professional development studies in Drugs, Alcohol & HIV: Policy and Intervention with Imperial College, University of London, UK, and was the community coordinator for Drug Prevention at the Turning Point Foundation. Terry J. Peterson is #10 on the National Alliance list for the Federal Election.
Paris/ St Maarten:-- While crime might be rising and residents of St. Maarten are on the verge of losing hope the police department is doing their best to solve several murders which to date are still fresh in the minds of the citizens.
Normally each year St. Maarten would receive added manpower during the Christmas season, which is aimed at reducing crime during the holiday season, however in 2009 the St. Maarten Police Force was forced to do it alone since they were not given the required assistance from Curacao.
It has been years now the KPSSS has been operating with limited manpower and an estranged management team and to date nothing concrete has been done to reinforce the local police core. While crime is on the rise and St. Maarten on its way to country, safety and security is left behind as there is limited resources and manpower. Speaking anonymously to SMN News a long time officer told us that they have been working tirelessly to reduce crime in schools as well as armed robberies that are plaguing the community. The officer said they are called to neglect their families in order to reduce crime. "The men and women in blue are called to work overtime on a daily basis and they are forced to leave their families behind. Many of us did not even get to do our regular Christmas Shopping because we were all working overtime."
The officer said they are of the opinion that the community is not grateful for the sacrifices they are making since the only serious crime committed during the holiday season was the murder of Eric Sam. "This was one of the safest Christmas season on St. Maarten even though there were limited resources."
The police management requested more manpower from Curacao for months and to date the extra men in blue were not sent to assist the drained officers on St. Maarten.
The officer said suddenly a decision was taken to send a large group of officers from the "Special Task Force Curacao" who would be assigned to assist with the ongoing murder investigations on St. Maarten. The Police Department he said need men in blue on the streets, most of all they were needed during the Christmas season. He said St. Maarten does not need extra police officers to sit in air-conditioned offices to do nothing. He also called on the Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba to take stock on what Ronald Dongor has done for St. Maarten since he took office. "The so-called coach has a huge salary , and other benefits that is not available to locals, yet he does nothing for St. Maarten." While there is talk that St. Maarten does not have qualified officers, they are the ones keeping the people safe while those coming in are for their own interest. The officer said if they had reinforcements during the Christmas season the senseless killing of Eric Sam would not have taken place and now they are coming here to either harass the population with unnecessary traffic controls so that they can get the fame and recognition when the murders are solved.
The officer also called on local politicians to do what is necessary for St. Maarten and not to use the state of affairs of the police department to gain political mileage.
Philipsburg: ---FirstCaribbean International Bank has expressed disappointment at the surprise industrial action, which impacted its business on St. Maarten and Statia on Monday January 11 2010
FirstCaribbean very much appreciates its customers' patience during this surprise industrial action. The union did not provide any prior notification of its intended actions. The Bank was therefore unable to inform the public and our valued customers about any potential disruption to customer service.
FirstCaribbean continues to be committed to resolving any union negotiations in the normal practices. It is not the Bank's practice to discuss details of such negotiations in the public domain.
GREAT BAY– An "Election Window," will be open at the Civil Registry Department for persons who still have not received their voting card through the postal system.
Persons should visit this office as of January 18 up to January 21 from 8.00am to 8.00pm.
The Post Office has returned 1231 voting cards to the Civil Registry Department.
The Civil Registry Department has identified 16 polling stations for the upcoming Netherlands Antilles Parliamentary elections scheduled for January 22, 2010.
The total number of persons eligible to cast their vote on January 22 is 19,355.
Of these, 10.006 are persons born in the Netherlands Antilles, which also includes those born on St. Maarten (5,841).
For further information you can call the Civil Registry Department at 542-2457.
Philipsburg -- On January 22nd 2010, the people of St. Maarten will be asked to elect representatives in the Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles to defend and work on behalf of our interest. Stuart Johnson, who is twenty-five (25) years old, is running as the youngest candidate in the entire Federal election. Johnson is running on the Democratic Party of St. Maarten as the seventh candidate on the slate of the party.
Johnson, being one of the few candidates, has now officially launched his web-site www.wevotingjohnson.com which clearly outlines his active community involvement, biography and a video message, just to mention some of the content which could be found on it. In addition to countless media interviews in the printed media and broadcast media, Johnson felt it imperative to inform voters both locally and abroad through his own web-site. "The web-site is a welcome addition to the campaign, as we approach Election Day, but it will updated continuously even after Election Day" Johnson said. The web-site was created by a young professional named Glenton Pantophlet, who Johnson considers to have exceptional skills in web-site design and construction.
"We are approaching the finals days of this campaign and so voting is the only option as not voting sends the wrong message at this stage in St. Maarten's constitutional quest," Johnson said. "It cannot be business as usual, as we need to address not only our new constitutional desire, but also many of the social and educational issues affecting us all daily," he concluded. "It's time we place our confidence in young professionals, who are ready to take up the challenge of building and propelling our island into new frontiers."
Basseterre, St.Kitts:-Leader of the People's Action Movement, Lindsay Grant at a massive meeting in Market Street launched his party's Manifesto on Tuesday evening. The 34 page document was launched under the theme, Platform for Change and saw several of the candidates speaking on various issues that has been addressed in the the manifesto.
Grant declared that his party has a track record of delivering to the people noting that they are not a party of promises as is being promoted by the Labour Party. He pointed out that under a PAM administration young people would be able to own a piece of the rock'.' Grant told thousands of his supporters that while the Government continues to boast about their housing policy it is nothing more than them giving with one hand and taking with the other.
Owning a piece of the rock is pivotal to the self determination of our people. It does something to our psyche as a people when we live like huddled masses and in turn watch foreigners come from the four corners of the world and buy our birthright for a penny and a son," Grant noted. He declared that this will not and must not continue, giving the assurance that under his administration it will not continue. Pointing to his land policy he told supporters " Within the PAM governments first 100 days in office, we will sell Government land to locals, in particular the youth, at the price of $0. 99 cents per square foot for all sizes of residential lots,". This announcement was met with a massive roar or appreciation from a very jubilant and enthusiastic crowd
He went on to stress that within its first year in office, individuals who paid what he dubbed as Labour's higher land prices will be refunded in the form of duty free consumption taxes when constructing their houses. "Owners of the so called affordable homes' will receive a 25% reduction in monthly payments. This too will result in the lowering of the cost of living. Nationals will get preference over non nationals when purchasing government lands," he said.
Grant went on to stress that the housing policy of the People's Action Movement will be built on fairness and transparency. He noted that his party guarantees the people of the federation that government properties will be allocated by an independent committee free of political interference and election manipulation. He stressed that the youth will be able to own a plot of land and obtain special incentives to build their first home.
He added that his party's manifesto seeks to create a new transformation of the people of the federation. The Harvard trained lawyer said that the manifesto is the new vision for St Kitts and Nevis. "These are not promises. They are serious commitments and this PAM team is a serious team. I urge each and everyone of you to read this document set for yourself, make the comparison and I am sure you will find that you want to be a part of this platform for change," Grant said.
He urged supporters to embrace a new future filled with hope and inspiration stressing the need for them to take a bold step with him as the Leader so that together they can build a brighter future for the federation's children and their children. A number of other issues were addressed at the launch which according to Grant is geared at ensuring that the people of St Kitts and Nevis are able to recover from the high crime rate, high cost of living and corruption that he said have plagued the federation for the past 15 years.
Rotary Club of St. Maarten during its last meeting discussed the efforts being made by Rotary to assist victims of the recent earthquake that hit Haiti.
Rotary and ShelterBox are joining financial and logistical forces to provide temporary relief and shelter to the victims of the Haiti quake.
The Rotary Club of St Martin Nord is coordinating the project for all three islands of St Maarten/St Martin, St Barths and Anguilla.
Because of the lack of access to the airport in Haiti, a ShelterBox technical group, landed in the Dominican Republic on Jan 14, and are heading toward Port au Prince using trucks and cars.
Meanwhile, Rotary with the help of the Red Cross (France) have received 200 ShelterBox in Chalon-Vatry (Champagne area) and this shipment will leave today Friday and is expected to land in Haiti early Saturday the 16th. There are also 224 ShelterBox in Curacao being transported to Haiti by the Dutch Navy 200 other ShelterBox are being sent from England while 75 ShelterBox Stocked in El Salvador are also on their way.
Rotarians are working hard to collect funds and Rotary Club of St. Barths must be commended for reaching their USD 100.000 target which translates into providing housing for 1000 people as each box can accommodate 10 people. Thus far 3300 ShelterBoxes have been made available providing accommodations and needed facilities to 33000 people.
Reports reaching our ADG Louis Wever reveal that Rotary is assisting the Red Cross with getting their material into Haiti and delivered to their organizations. CNN also showed the delivery of the Shelterboxes, while Rotary is now also being asked to assist with the removal of bodies from destroyed houses.
Asked "How might Rotarians best respond" Barry Rassin, FACHE, RI (Rotary International) Director 2006-08, responded as follows:
"You ask a great but very big question which, as you said, many are asking. What is the best thing to do? As each day comes our needs change and we are now going through some transition. We have been providing medical supplies and teams up to now. WE have sent in portable x-ray and have just located a sterilizer for the instruments to send in. Food, water and shelter are ongoing.
Many Rotarians and clubs are donating Shelterboxes. It is my understanding that 3,000 have already been commissioned.
Locally we have divided the funds between immediate relief and long term rebuilding. We have been paying for fuel for the 57 airplanes that have taken our supplies down to our Haitian Rotarians on the ground. We have received significant donations from our medical suppliers in Nassau and then purchased antibiotics and other supplies to send down. Tortola has two Rotarians with planes flying back and forth with supplies. USVI has sent a ship of supplies. St Maarten has 40,000 pounds of supplies on the way. All these are our district helping our friends in Haiti. We have a direct conduit to the head of medical activities, Dr. Claude Surena, who is a Rotarian. He guides us as to the needs each day.
With the migration away from PAP the needs in all the other regions have grown enormously. We have had our success going to airports outside of PAP where our Rotarians meet the planes and drive the supplies to where they are needed.
Food, water and shelter will be needs for a while but now that "search and rescue" is officially over there will be an effort to clear areas to find bodies. Control of disease is going better than expected as the tent communities are extremely close quarters but there is some clean water and they keep it clean.
I believe that our greatest needs will be going forward in helping them to rebuild their country. Our DAF will primarily be used for that effort, I believe. Our district fund may still provide some of the immediate relief but will go significantly to helping the rebuilding efforts. Our funds in Nassau will probably continue going to immediate needs as we are doing the coordinating with the local Rotarians from here.
The clubs in our district have already committed close to $1M to the cause which is incredible as many of our countries are poor. Rotary has stood up to be counted here and are working side by side with our Rotarians in Haiti. Of course, in our efforts to help rebuild the need for cash to spend in the right projects will be the greatest need.
I probably have not answered any of your questions yet. Already many thousands of ShelterBoxes have been sent and many have been donated and we still don't really have a good count so premature to ask for more in my opinion. Perhaps later when the needs are more focused.
In my humble opinion clubs should donate to the DAF in order to be able to magnify the impact Rotary can make by pooling our resources and picking projects that will make a major difference in the years to come. Also they should plan on doing their own projects when we are able to start putting the "big plan" together as to what the rebuilding needs are. Meantime if they wish to contribute to immediate needs then we still need antibiotics, pain killers, antiseptics and bandages. Down the road there will also be opportunities for hands on projects.
I can assure you that we are very close to the Haitian community and whatever we send in to help gets to the people who need it. I know of the horror stories of the well intentioned who have sent items that have gone astray in one manner or another and they are probably true. However, with the Haitian Task Force that we created for Rotary we have been able to control all items that we have sent through them and gotten the biggest success. This has created a joint responsibility with the clubs for any TRF projects so that we have oversight of the activities. It will always be of some concern but we are feeling very comfortable with this infrastructure we have put in place. Our Caribbean Partnership www.caribbeanpartnership.org has also worked very well with enabling quick communications and assistance between clubs within zones 33 and 34.
Sorry to be so long but this is a major effort with many pieces to it. Some of us have done nothing but focus on this effort since January 12 and will continue as long as it takes. We need all the help we can get for as long as we can get it."
The president of the United Haitian Community Dutch St. Maarten, Mr. Castin Ironce informed members of the Rotary Club of St. Maarten about efforts being made by the organization to assist those affected by the earthquake. A fact mission to Haiti is also being organized to assist where possible and to assess the situation in order to determine what type of assistance can best be provided.
Rotarians on St. Maarten/St.Martin, St. Barths and Anguilla continue with efforts to assist the victims of Haiti. The general public can be certain that we will continue knocking on their doors and that their charitable contributions will effectively and efficiently reach those in need.
Philipsburg: --- Police removed the body of Christian Lloyd a well-known pageant trainer from his Watermelon Road home early Monday morning. According to reports, the man was found on his bed covered in blood. Eyewitnesses say that it appeared as if Lloyd was shot in the head, however, SMN News was not able to confirm whether Lloyd was indeed shot.
SMN News learnt that when police reached the scene they found Lloyd on his bed covered in blood with a severe head injury. One eyewitness said the body was in its first stage of decomposition and it was clear that Lloyd died more than a day ago. SMN News also learnt that the neighbors and friends of Christian Lloyd saw him late Saturday night as he was going home.
At the scene police and other law enforcement officers were seen wearing mask as they enter the home where the body was discovered. Also on the scene were a number of bystanders including neighbors who were wailing as they heard the news of Lloyd's demise.
Prosecutor Rienk Mud confirmed that police found the body of C.L in a house on Watermelon Road St Peter. Mud said that due to the ongoing investigation he is not able to confirm neither deny if the dead man had severe head injuries. The Public Prosecutor said the body of Christian Lloyd has been confiscated pending an autopsy.
Philipsburg:---Friends of the St. Maarten 12 Metre Challenge have responded to a call of help from the victims of the Haiti Earthquake by participating in a charity regatta on Sunday January 31st 2010. The St. Maarten 12 Metre Challenge will be 'donating' three America's Cup boats for this special occasion, with all proceeds going to Haiti Disaster victims.
The goal of the HAITI DISASTER RELIEF REGATTA: To provide Disaster Relief Housing with basic life sustaining implements; cooking and eating facilities for 200 disaster victims.
So far nine generous donors pledged their support. Avalon, Budget Marine, Caribbean Liquors and Tobacco, Electec, Learning Unlimited, MNO, Soualiga Waste Management, Windward Roads have donated $1500.00 each to this worthwhile cause and will be racing in the blue waters and brisk trade winds of St. Maarten.
After the race participants are invited to the Tiki Hut in Little Bay. Tiki Hut staff will be preparing a BBQ, sponsored by Grand Marche; Caribbean Liquors and Tobacco; Heineken and B&C Beverages Distributors N.V.
To help us reach our goal of 200 homes and learn how YOU can help please call Hiltsje van Dijk at 542 0045 / 542 0046 or email
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
GREAT BAY ---At the Parliament Building on Backstreet, the Justice Committee of the Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles met with members of the Crime Task Force St. Maarten to discuss solutions to the crime situation on the Windward Island, and more specifically on St. Maarten.
The Justice Committee is scheduled to meet with two other groups on Friday, after which they will draw up a report to bring to Parliament.
Acting Chairman Senator Reginald Zaandam opened the meeting and welcomed everyone on behalf of the Chairman Pedro Atacho.
Present at the meeting were St. Maarten's Crime Task Force Vice Chairman Lenny Priest and member Sydney deWeever Jr. and Wally Havertong as Judge of Instruction in the Court of First Instance.
PHOTO: Acting Chairman Senator Reginald Zaandam of Justice Committee of the Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles and St. Maarten's Crime Task Force Vice Chairman Lenny Priest holding discussions.
GIS
Willemstad, Curacao--- Minister of Constitutional and Home Affairs, Roland Duncan, today released to the media, the draft ordinance to amend the Island Regulation in connection with the transition of the islands of Curacao and St. Maarten to country status. The draft federal ordinance has been submitted to the Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles on January 26, 2010, under the responsibility of Prime Minister Mrs. Emily de Jongh-Elhage and Minister Roland E. Duncan.
The draft ordinance pertains only to the island territories of Curaçao and St. Maarten and contains several important and noteworthy amendments to the Island Regulation 1951:
a)
Dissolution of island councils and early elections: One-time dissolution of the island councils and scheduling of elections within three (3) months.
b) Expansion of the Island council of St. Maarten. The island council of St. Maarten is to be expanded to fifteen (15) members after the election resulting from the dissolution of the island council. (The island council of Curaçao will not be expanded)
c) Expansion of the Executive Council of St. Maarten. The maximum allowed amount of Commissioners in the Executive Council of St. Maarten will be increased to seven (7), with the provision that the number of commissioners that are also members of the island council cannot be more than half of the number of island council members. In other words, the maximum number of Commissioners that are also members of the island council shall continue to be five (5).
d) Dualism. After the aforementioned elections, the functions of island and executive council members will be separated. In other words, a commissioner cannot be a member of the island council at the same time or vice versa.
e) Other technical amendments. The draft ordinance also contains necessary technical amendments to the island regulation.
By increasing the number of commissioners, the Executive Council of St. Maarten will be better able to handle the additional authority, powers and workload resulting from the transfer of powers and authority to the territory from the Central Government. In country St. Maarten there shall be seven (7) ministries, which can be mirrored before the new status goes into effect because of this amendment to the Island Regulation.
The increase of the Island Council of the island territory of St. Maarten to fifteen (15) council members is in conformity with draft new constitution of country St. Maarten, which prescribes a parliament of fifteen (15) members.
Minister Duncan will be available during the course of the coming week to answer any pertinent questions and provide further information is so desired.
For more information please contact Ms. Ari Sutton at the Ministry of Constitutional and Home Affairs at Brooks Towers, Phone 542-9081.
SABA—Mr. and Mrs. Cornell Johnson of The Bottom repeated their win in the Saba Christmas Lighting Competition. A new entry, Stanford Johnson of Zion's Hill, made an impressive display and won Second Place as well as Best Newcomer to the competition. Winning Third Place was Mrs. Jerry Hassell of Zion's Hill. Mrs. Hassell also received the most votes in the online and newspaper poll and walked away with the Most Popular Prize as well.
Philipsburg – TelEm Group is putting the final touches to its preparations to host this year's Capacity Caribbean 2010 Telecommunications Conference at the Westin Resort & Spa.
This is the second year in a row that up to 200 top Telecommunication Executives will be coming to St. Maarten to exchange ideas and information about the telecommunications industry. It's also the second year in a row that TelEm Group, through it's international carrier, Smitcoms, will be the main sponsor of the event.
Capacity Caribbean 2010 brings together wholesale voice and data providers to talk about the latest developments in the telecommunication industry. Last year the event welcomed 170 executives from telecom providers and government agencies representing 20 islands and countries.
This year's event kicks off on the evening of Monday February 9, at the new venue of Westin Resort & Spa, with a welcome party hosted by TelEm Group.
Business sessions begin first thing Tuesday morning with a keynote panel discussion entitled: "Incumbent vs Alternative operators: Is there real competition in the Caribbean wholesale market?"
The opening keynote panel at the conference will feature Brian Mingo, Chief Commercial Officer, TELEM GROUP, David Shaw, CEO, LIME, Paul De Geus, CEO, UTS, and John Echeverri, Vice President, Americas – International Markets, SPRINT.
Final sessions will be held on Wednesday afternoon when participants will have a final opportunity to network before taking some time off to enjoy some of the sights and attractions of what has become a favourite destination for Capacity Conference members.
"The main purpose of Capacity Caribbean 2010 is to bring the Caribbean and international carrier community together at an executive level to learn about the latest market developments, hear from the leading industry experts and at the same time conduct business," said CCO, Brian Mingo, who is one of the opening panellists.
"There is a lot to discuss this year and we are pleased that St. Maarten and the TelEm Group will be playing an important part in fostering these discussions as host and as delegates," said Mr. Mingo.
He said since the Conference is being hosted locally, TelEm Group and other locally-based telecommunications companies will have an opportunity to have their personnel attend an event that would otherwise be held in another destination overseas.
" We decided to return to St Maarten because it is a good flight hub for other Caribbean islands and for international attendees who are flying into the Caribbean for the conference and we are delighted that Telem Group will be our host sponsor again in 2010" said Rachel Jones, Managing Director at Capacity Media, the group organizing Capacity Caribbean 2010. She said the event last year attracted the highest number of attendees since the event was launched in 2007 and there are signs there will also be high attendance also this year.
"We are really looking forward to returning to St Maarten and I know the attendees are too" said Claire Porter, Head of Conference Sales from Capacity Media.
This year's event will feature executive level speakers from COLUMBUS NETWORKS, GLOBAL CARIBBEAN NETWORK, SCARLET, TELEBARBADOS, ATLANTIC TELE-NETWORK, ISLANDNET, TELEBERMUDA INTERNATIONAL, THREE SIXTY COMMUNICATIONS, TRITON, CARIBBEAN CABLE COMMUNICATIONS, WINDWARD
TELECOM, TATT, ECTEL, BERMUDA CABLEVISION.
Philipsburg: --- Members of the committee working on the discussions of the transfer of civil servants when the Netherlands Antilles is dismantled told members of the media that they are progressing well as they continue to discuss the transfer based on a federal legislation on Collective Bargaining. Minister of Home and Constitutional Affairs Roland Duncan said the central government has to reach an agreement has to reach with the unions representing the civil servants. Duncan said they discussed during the meetings held at the Great Bay Hotel was the Social Charter. Also discussed is the transfer of civil servants to the BES islands. Minister Duncan said the meetings were fruitful and the other follow up meeting is scheduled for March 11th.
Chairman of the Dr. Marcha said one of their tasks are to make sure the rights of the civil servants are safeguarded but they have to make sure the future entities are functional. Marcha said these meetings are one more step in creating future countries St. Maarten, Curacao and the BES islands. Marcha said he felt they are on schedule in realizing the wishes of the people of the Netherlands Antilles. Marcha said he is impressed with the dedication and seriousness shown by the participants when discussing the matters of concern. He said the next meeting it is expected that they would deal with all outstanding matters that are pending. Marcha said the issues they are discussing are complex since its dealing with people's rights and their interest. He said they are dealing with transfers from one country to another they have to make sure that no one gets hurt or lost benefits. He said the meetings are a joint effort which projects the hallmark of democracy.
President of the Windward Islands Civil Servants William Reed said the meetings are much more complex and difficult than predicted. Reed said when they embarked on the new status they did not envision the difficulties they are encountering along the way. Reed said only now things are starting to shape up, he said they are moving along slowly but as unions they are cautious and careful because if there is one oversight can be detrimental to the civil servants.
Reed said at times they do not worry about the date 10/10/10 instead they focus is the make sure the rights of the civil servants are protected.
Philipsburg: ---The detective department is currently investigating a shooting incident which took place early Monday morning in Madame Estate. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said police patrol responded to Paradise Island road in Madame Estate around 12:05 am after residents in the area heard a number of gunshots fired. Henson said on the scene eyewitnesses told them they heard the shots but they did not know who fired them neither could they say exactly from where the shots were fired.
The police spokesman said the police were also directed to Grenada Drive because they received information that the shooting took place there. He said after an intense search no one was found there. Shortly after police were called to the St. Maarten Medical Center where they encountered a man identified as F.A who told police that some unknown persons fired at least three shots at him as he was leaving his house on Grenada Drive. The victim told police that one of the bullets penetrated his car and hit in his left leg. He said that he does not know who fired the shots and why he became a victim of the shooting.
During the investigation the Forensic department located three bullet holes in the body of the vehicle. The car has been confiscated for further investigation. This case is under investigation by the Detective and Forensic Department.
GREAT BAY– Governor and Local Chief of Police Franklyn Richards says that a number of initiatives are currently underway to improve the Police Force and reflect on the core work of fighting and preventing crime.
A phased plan is being worked on to increase the number of positions within the Police Force from 205 to 384.
There are also ongoing consultations with Dutch Police experts to transform the law enforcement body into a more professional institution for country St. Maarten. Within short five police experts will be made available to strengthen the force.
Local Chief of Police Governor Franklyn Richards says that policing should be driven by core values and guiding principles which would be more effective than one guided solely by rules and regulations.
"Our Police Force has to continue to employ a diverse and effective set of crime fighting strategies to accomplish the mission of keeping our communities safe. Innovative policing has resulted in the apprehension of murderous criminals during the past months.
"With the various strategies already being implemented, additional support and resources can only further enhance the war on crime," Governor Richards pointed out.
The Police are expected to play a more meaningful role in neighbourhoods. The upgrading of skills of the motor brigade is being explored to enhance visibility and to be able to respond and access areas quickly during an emergency – quick response teams.
Various educational projects have been established for supervisory and top management positions within the force. Specialization in areas of criminal investigation and forensics are part of those training programs.
The Police Biker Patrol Team established in August 2009, has been able to make a valuable contribution to public order and safety for residents and visitors.
The new Police Holding Cell Complex is expected to be completed in April and the expectation is that the detention centre for undocumented persons will be ready by the end of 2010. This facility will be able to accommodate 40 male and 20 female detainees.
In order to improve intelligence gathering, an information post was established in September 2009. The pool of police vehicles have been considerably improved with a second batch of new vehicles expected some time this year.
The new pool will comprise of eight transport busses, 12 motorcycles and five cars.
A communication plan is being drafted to improve internal and external information dissemination.
"The Police Force finds itself at a crucial juncture. I express deep appreciation to the personnel and management of the Police Force who notwithstanding the challenging times and the lack of resources, have upheld the basic tenets to protect and serve their community.
"At this time I would like to recognize the contributions being made by, among others, community councils, the Crime Task Force and concerned citizens offering tangible solutions to deal with the crime situation on the island.
"The business sector has to continue to be pro-active by taking preventive measures. Fighting crime is, after all, a community effort, and everybody has a role to play," Governor Richards told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Tuesday.
GREAT BAY– The Preventive Health Department Section Youth Health Care (YHC) is encouraging parents to come to the office on Monday and Tuesday February 15 and 16 during the mid-term school break to check if their child is up to date with their vaccinations. All children have to be properly immunized.
All parents/guardians should take some time and visit YHC especially parents who have not received a notice from their school to have their child vaccinated.
YHC has an on-going campaign to promote a culture of prevention against vaccine-preventable diseases and the mid-term school break gives parents an opportunity to bring in their children for vaccinations and updates.
Persons can visit the offices of Youth Health Care in the Vineyard Building from 8.30am to 4.30pm.
YHC's aim is to promote general information on the vaccination program to the reasons why we vaccinate and stimulate the participation of parents in the vaccination program. The ultimate aim is to increase the vaccination coverage by getting more children on board as an act of love. In addition parents can also use the opportunity to address their concerns on the change of the vaccination schedule that was approved and implemented in 2009.
All children between four and nine-years of age will now get their second Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine at four years of age.
The DTPolio vaccination will continue to be given when the child is nine-years of age.
Other changes in the vaccinations schedule concern children between two and 12 months of age.
Parents are reminded to make sure that their children between the ages of 0-17 are up to date with their vaccinations which are necessary in order to reduce the risk of vaccine-preventable diseases.
DTP, MMR and catch-up Hepatitis B vaccines will be given to children who may need any of those vaccines.
Immunization is a way of protecting children against serious vaccine preventable diseases. Once a person has been fully vaccinated, their bodies can fight those diseases if one comes into contact with them.
Vaccinations have proven to prevent outbreaks and the spread of contagious diseases and as such every parent is urged to ensure that their child's vaccination is up to date.
The Island Government has its own vaccination program which is provided free of charge for all children on Dutch St. Maarten. A combination vaccine of MMR as well as other vaccines is offered.
Vaccinations are given starting with the first one when the child is two months of age and finalized at age nine when the last series are given unless for whatever reason a child needs to catch up on his/her immunizations.
Vaccines have been proven to be the key factor in preventing childhood diseases, disability and death.
Parents should bring along with them their child's vaccination booklet/card. If you are not sure of the status of your child, you should contact either your general practitioner, your paediatrician, YHC or the White & Yellow Cross Baby Clinic for children up to four years of age. Parents who are unable to make it can send another 18+ adult with their child along with the signed consent form.
Philipsburg:--The show organized by Andrew Dick on Friday night February 13th 2010 was not properly organized said police spokesman Ricardo Henson. Henson said from the inception police were having problems with Dick since the lighting was not very good. Henson said police almost stopped the show because of the poor lightening but Dick managed to fix the problem so the promoter was able to start his show. However, during the show the misconduct, vulgarity and misbehavior by the patrons caused police to stop the show a bit early. Andrew Dick had a permit from 18.00 p.m. to 01.00 .am. After warning Mr. Dick several times of the bad image his show had and also the misconduct of the those present, shortly after some of them present started pushing and fighting on the dance floor.
Henson said it was clear to the officers that they could not allow such misconduct to take place and they immediately stopped the show. Henson said when the show was stopped Andrew Dick expressed his displeasure about the actions police took. The police spokesman who is currently off island on family business said he received a video the very next day displaying all that Mr. Dick was warned about during the show.
The police spokesman said police also found some weapons that were hidden and to be used after the show. He said police also recovered some other weapons that were hidden in the vicinity of the University all of which were confiscated. Henson further explained that police received information that persons who attended the Andrew Dick show were planning to fight after the show.
Philipsburg:---The number ten candidate of the Democratic Party Jeffry Richardson has submitted his letter of resignation to the Democratic Party after serving for eight years. In a press release Richardson said he was a candidate in the 2007 and 2010 elections for the Island Council and the Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles respectively and was also a member of the Board in the past.
In ones life there comes a point when one must take decisions in order for one to move forward and make room for being able to work in an atmosphere where you can better serve your people. One needs to feel a sort of comfort to decide to continue working with persons that you feel does not have your best interest which is the case in this instance.
As a politician he said he believes that it is fair and ethical to inform the public that he has tendered his resignation from the Democratic Party in a letter that was submitted to the leader of the party. Running for public office is a public issue and all major decisions that a politician takes should be transparent by informing the population of those decisions.
After giving this situation a careful thought this decision was taken and he hopes that it will be understood by all his supporters. There's an old saying that goes: "Who in the kitchen feels the heat".
Richardson said he has worked also as a support staff of two different Commissioners of the Democratic Party which he enjoyed and it was an honor to do so because he had the opportunity to serve the people of St. Maarten by assisting those Commissioners with their daily tasks. Having done that, Richardson said he was able to experience the way Government functions. This experience allowed him to better serve the public with the experience that he gained. Richardson said he also obtained a bachelor degree in Public Administration.
He also thanked the leadership of the party and all the Commissioners that he has assisted in office for the past 14 years for allowing him to serve the people of St. Maarten. Being a part of the Democratic Party was the right thing to do at the time he said. However he believes that it is imperative for him to move on, but he intends to serve the people of St. Maarten from another perspective which he intends to make public in a subsequent press release.
Great Bay:---The earthquake that has claimed some 200,000 lives in Haiti and left that Caribbean nation in ruins has evoked quite some artistic response as the whole world rushes in with an avalanche of humanitarian aid. But few artists have captured on canvas, the depth and spiritual dimension of this incredible tragedy as Mosera has done in "After Shock", an imposing painting that grabs the viewers' attention for its size as much as for its thematic content and treatment.
Like a mural, "After Shock" dominates the walls of Tropisme Gallery in Grand Case, where Mosera is showing some of his latest works alongside a curious set of African masks from the private collection of entrepreneur and connoisseur, J.C. Huet, who came from Paris precisely to participate in this exhibition titled, "Linkage".
The masks, generally from East Africa (although a few originate from West Africa), are displayed almost as ornaments, and remain unobtrusive, although their spirit seems to permeate the paintings, imbuing them with a mysterious and ominous air. It is as if they were placed as iconic reminders of Mosera's artistic roots.
Red is the dominant color in the about a dozen paintings in this exhibition. Perhaps, appropriately so. In this "Red Period", Mosera employs this primary color as a backdrop that allows his main subjects to stand out in sharp relief. It is also used as a symbol of passion, tragedy, and even of a fiery sunset by the Lagoon. For Mosera, red is the color of quiet but tortuous contemplation, as in "Contemplator" or even in "Femme sous Grenadiers". It is the color of inspiration as in "Muse" and to a lesser extent, in "Violin Player". Red is also the color of a peaceful sip of black coffee, as in "Coffee". All these acrylic paintings, however, combine the three primary colors – red, yellow and blue - in varying degrees, to offer a complete and very striking palette that is as attractive as it is defining.
Nowhere is this combination of primary colors more shockingly effective than in "After Shock", Mosera's soulful depiction of the horrors of the earthquake that turned Port-au-Prince into a massive graveyard. Hell could not be more bloody red.
It was Pablo Picasso who once said, "There are painters who transform the sun into a yellow spot, but there are others who with the help of their art and their intelligence transform a yellow spot into the sun."
In "After Shock," Mosera has transformed the grief, the pain and sorrow, the harrowing, nightmarish Armageddon of Haiti's apocalyptic earthquake, into a statement of solidarity and universal empathy just as Picasso himself transformed the ugliness and barbaric carnage of the Spanish Civil War into Guernica, his most celebrated anti-war painting.
Almost every face in "After Shock" is turned skywards, as if asking the heavens "why?" It is a question that the whole world is still pondering as the survivors are caught in that region between life and death where suffering stifles hope, where each breath is an unsure step out of the clutches of the grave into the stench of survival. "Why?" "Why, Lord?" The survivors cry, mouth agape, tears and sweat dried up on their mask-like, awe-stricken faces.
At one end of the canvas, a man seems to be holding his private part with one hand, as if to reassure himself that he has not been castrated, while with the other he clutches a cellular phone to his ear, screaming into it for help or simply informing some distant relative that he's alive?
At the other end, is the figure of Christ nailed to the cross, with the text "Way to El Dorado" floating nearby, while we read the incomplete name of "Texas" with the logo of oil giant, Shell, affixed in the lower left-hand corner of this signboard. This should not be seen as a fortuitous, disjointed reference in view of reports of the alleged involvement of big oil in causing the earthquake. As wild and "off the hook" as such allegations might sound, the magnitude of the tragedy goes beyond human comprehension, thus requiring that our imagination be stretched beyond all known limits.
The main figure in "After Shock" is a tall, sinewy, man, pushing a wheel-barrow as ambulance full of injured, dying and dead victims of the earthquake, the only siren being his anguished wailing and the unrestrained howling of tearful dogs. Interspersed with newspaper clippings in both English and French, apparently to draw us into attempting to decipher the text, the full impact of the painting is however gleaned from a distance. Mosera succeeds in turning Haiti's tragedy into a personal experience for the viewer, as he tries to make sense out of a senseless, helpless, and hopeless descent into a monumental abyss. We are all in this together; we have all become Haitians in what seems to be end-time.
The other paintings in the exhibition are thematically different, each one bearing the unmistakable imprint of Mosera, an artist who is forcing us to see beyond our mundane existence and interpret reality from a more spirit-filled perspective.
The exhibition is open daily from 10:00AM to 1:00PM and from 5:00PM until 9:00PM and continues until February 21, 2010. It is a must see for all lovers of good art.
Great Bay: --- St. Maarten's commissioner in charge of economic affairs, is clarifying an apparent mix-up which was at the core of an article published in the Today Newspaper of Wednesday, February 17. The article in question mentioned that data on the government website, investsxm.com, is heavily outdated and how island council lady Maria Buncamper-Molanus stresses the importance of economic indicators.
According to the commissioner, however, the article is not only inaccurate but also incomplete.
The website currently used by the island government is stmaarteneconomy.com and not investinsxm.com. The information on the current website is up to date and all current economic indicators are posted on the site.
The website, stmaarteneconomy.com, was launched on March 20, 2008 and it is rather peculiar that council lady Buncamper-Molanus would be unaware of this, since she, as former commissioner had played an intricate role at the time that the site was being developed.
The site in question was refreshed and given a face lift in 2009 and re-launched on May 14, 2009.
The website investinsxm.com, referred to in the article, has been inactive for sometime.
Commissioner Richardson explained that the department of economic policy and research has been experiencing some of the same problems that the tourism bureau currently has with their old site.
In both cases, the island government did not own the domain name and neither was it controlled by the department in question.
The economic policy and research department has however rectified the situation with the developing of a new website. The island government now owns the domain name and has a higher level of control.
With the launch of the new government website, plan is to deactivate www.stmaarteneconomy.com, to avoid confusion.
The page dedicated to the sector Economy and Tourism will have all of the same features currently available on the stmaarteneconomy.com website. These include publications, policies, legislation, comments and job applications.
Until a new integrated government site goes live, the department continues to update and keep the department website current.
The Civil Registry Office is requesting that all persons who have applied to obtain or renew their passport can pass by the office to pick it up. These passports must be picked up within three months from the date of the application. This is in accordance with the Passport Law. Passports not collected after the three-month deadline will be taken out of circulation. The public is also hereby informed that the office does not accept any laminated documents. Laminated documents do not allow the office the opportunity to verify the authenticity of the aforementioned.
For further information, you can call the Civil Registry Department at 542-2457.
Philipsburg:---The Island Receivers' Office hereby makes it known to the general public that in view of approaching deadline for paying motor vehicle taxes (February 28th 2010), we announce the dates and times of extended opening hours.
The opening hours are:
Thursday and Friday, February 25th, and 26th, 8am to 6 pm.
Saturday, February 27th 9 am to 2pm.
Monday, March 1st to Friday March 5th, 8 am to 6 pm.
Saturday, March 6th, 9 am to 2 pm.
Monday, March 8th to Friday, March 12th 8am to 6 pm
Saturday, March 13th, 9 am to 2 pm.
Please note that taxpayers who have not paid the 2010 motor vehicle tax by Saturday, March 13th will lose the rights to the current number that they have. As of Monday, March 15th, 2010 these plates will be issued to other motor vehicle tax payers who do not yet have a number plate.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—On February 25, Commissioner William Marlin celebrated Mrs. Martha C. Connor Duzanson's 102nd birthday with family and friends at the White and Yellow Cross St. Maarten's Home in St. John's Estate.
Her daughter-in-law, Ms. Ruth Connor, welcomed everyone and said that we are grateful for being here today to celebrate this privilege. I am also thankful that government, in the name of Commissioner Marlin is here for this special occasion. She welcomed the Pastor to say a few words.
Seven Day Adventist Church Pastor Royston Philbert said a few words and a prayer. He complimented her, saying that the quality of life of Mrs. Connor remains better than others who are 80. It seems to me, he said, that she was doing something that made life profitable up until today. Grateful for years, Mrs. Connor remains alert and focused.
More than ever before, Mrs. Connor is fully conscious and God has brought her this far. In the Caribbean, Pastor Philbert said, after checking around, that Mrs. Connor is the only 102 year old with the Seventh Day Adventist Church Community.
Commissioner Marlin followed with a few words to the small gathering. "Good morning to one and all, especially to the Birthday lady—Mrs.Connor. Every time I get the opportunity to celebrate her birthday or to be part of the celebration in some way, I feel honored.
"When I see you, I am reminded that it is more than possible to live long years. You are setting a trend, the commissioner told Mrs. Connor.
"I want to say, on behalf of the Government, I would like to extend a blessed happy birthday to you. We wish you God's blessings and may He continue to bless you and your family with long life and happiness.
"We often pray for our parents and grandparents to be with us, and we hope they are able to enjoy the quality of life.
After Commissioner's Marlin short speech, he presented Mrs. Connor with a new wheel chair that folds.
"Now you are more mobile," Commissioner Marlin said, after demonstrating folding the wheel chair and carrying it by the handles. "Now you can take your wheels with you. I hope it will bring some joy and comfort. May God continue to bless you."
Mrs. Connor thanked her family members and others for the special morning, their kind gestures, and Commissioner Marlin for coming and spending time with her and the family and for donating the wheel chair.
After the short addresses, a short video were shown of an interview Mrs. Connor had with the Government Information Service, in which she talked about her life, growing up in St. Maarten, and her message to the youths of St. Maarten.
MARIGOT—The gendarmes have detained a man for attempted theft on Tuesday. The man attempted to rob someone in the Marigot area under the threat of a knife the gendarmes reported. After an investigation it was determined that, the suspect is also responsible for three other armed robberies all of which occurred in the Marigot area.
The gendarmes also managed to arrest an illegal resident in the Sandy Ground area during an immigration control. The man was also in possession of illegal substance when he was arrested. He will be prosecuted for drug possession and is scheduled to be deported to his native country.
Philipsburg: --- Police are currently investigating a robbery that took place at the Touch of Gems jewelry store on Friday. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said the manager of the store identified as S.P.M.M told police that just around 11:30 am that day two men entered the store and asked to see a gold chain. The manager told police when they gave the men the gold chain to inspect both men took off running out of store. Descriptions of the suspects have been provided to the investigating officers.
In the meantime, police also reported that their officers are constantly being battled with stones as they investigate cases in Dutch Quarter and Union Farm areas. The police spokesman said on February 27 police patrol from Philipsburg was sent to Union Farm to investigate the case of a stolen vehicle with license place 9652 ZZ 971. Henson said based on their information the vehicle was driven by unknown persons in the area. Henson said police found the vehicle, which was later abandoned by the suspects, however, as the officer began to investigate persons started throwing stones at them, which hampered the investigation.
Due to the darkness, the officers could not determine which direction the stones were coming from or who the culprits were. The patrol immediately informed the Central Police Dispatch of the ongoing situation and requested additional back up and a tow truck. For their personal safety the patrol retreated from the immediate area. The patrol that arrived as back up also stated that on the way to the scene they too were battled by unknown persons. An intense search in the area to locate the culprits had no results. The stolen car was towed by a towing company and an investigation is ongoing.
It has become quite frequent lately that when police officers are patrolling or conducting investigations in the Dutch Quarter/Zorg en Rust/ Union Farm areas they are being verbally threatened and or battled by a group of unknown persons. The situations are un-acceptable. These threats and armed attacks are serious criminal acts and the police department has started an investigation to locate and arrest the persons responsible for these acts and to make sure they are prosecuted.
Philipsburg:---Established with the view of ensuring that relationships among staff members are much closer while bringing abut a much closer relationship the Winair Activity Club has promised that this year will be one that is packed and active for staff. This was the revelation made by President of the Club, Lisa Brooks who said that her group's responsibility is to ensure that there are sufficient activities to ensure that staff can be able to build and establish stronger, closer and a more enhanced relationship with each other.
She said that since their formation last year there have been significant growth noting that the relationship between management and employees have also been enhanced as they have gotten much closer. "We now have a much closer and better relationship with management as they have been very supportive and helpful in so many ways and we are really grateful for that," Brooks said.
She pointed out that a number of activities will be held noting that three of the major activities planned are a Karaoke night, which she said would showcase employees singing ability while testing those who are aware of their ability. She said that their annual staff sports and family fun day is an eagerly looked forward to event owing to what she said was the overwhelming success last year and a party, which she noted, will be unique. She noted that all the activities are geared at sensitizing the employees firstly on what goes on within the airline thus ensuring that they become knowledgeable and cognizant.
Brooks said that while the group is not bent on making a profit they are seeking to strengthen the relationship among employees as their primary objective noting that once this is achieved the company will see enhanced and improved performance and production, he said that the group's primary responsibility is to ensure that through the staging of activities and events that employees can come together while it allows each employee to get to know the family of their colleagues much better. "Today we are able to know the people that we work with much better as before while we saw them we never knew them and that is why we are not focusing on making a profit but rather to strengthen and build closer relationship," she argued.
Meanwhile, Managing Director of Winair, Edwin Hodge assured that his management team would continue to be supportive towards the initiatives and programmes of the activity club. He stressed that he and his management team recognizes the importance of staff coming together thus they will continue to seek ways and means of ensuring that the club's objectives are achieved. "We recognize the great work and importance of such a group and as the Managing Director of this company let me assure all that we will give whatever support and assistance needed to ensure that this is achieved," Hodge said.
He added that since the formation of the group there have been mark improvement and enhancement of the performance and production of some employees noting that management have also seen a greater effort on the part of employees to adapt a more professional and family oriented environment thus working much closely and unified so as to achieved the company's work programme. "We are pleased with the progress made thus far by the Activity Club and therefore would urge them to continue bringing about development and growth," the MD declared.
The countries of St Maarten, St Kitts and Jamaica are the leading countries that are able to comfortably host major conferences within the region. This was the disclosure made by Ackroyd Birmingham, Treasurer of the Caribbean Confederation of Credit Unions and Conference Chairman. Birmingham made this disclosure in an exclusive interview while on a two days visit to St Kitts to evaluate the country's conference facilities.
He pointed out that despite several countries being regarded as prime tourist destination and demonstrating an interest in hosting several regional and international conferences they are 'handicap' with regards to properly hosting major or massive conference numbers. "It's really sad to know that only about five countries in the region as the ability and facilities to host conferences of about 400- 600 persons as all of the other countries are unable to do so," he said.
The Dominican Director said that one of the organization's biggest and greatest challenges is to get venues for their yearly rotating convention. "We have had to resort holding our conventions via cruise, visiting non member countries and repeating certain countries regularly because of this challenge. For instance we are staging this year's conference in St Maarten who is not a member because there are very few countries that has the capacity for such a conference," he said.
The Conference director was very high in praises for the governments of St Maarten, St Kitts, Jamaica noting that it will help to facilitate growth and advancement of those countries economies. He pointed out that he is exceptionally impressed with St Kitts noting that it's the smallest country and has demonstrated its ability to host these conventions. "I must note that I am really impressed with St Kitts as while you have much bigger countries like Trinidad, Barbados and other top tourism related islands like Antigua and St Lucia they are of no match to what this little country has been able to achieve via its facilities to host such major events like these," he declared.
He said that while many may be surprised with especially Trinidad and Barbados they shouldn't noting while these countries posses hotels that accommodate such a number having everything hosted in one hotel is what brings about the bottle neck. "Trinidad and Barbados do have more hotels than St Kitts but having a hotel that can host everything in one place is what brings about the difference," he said.
Birmingham said that St Kitts last hosted the convention in 2005 stating that they did an exceptionally good job at it with the assistance of Nevis Cooperative Credit union. He said that this year's 53rd annual international convention and 39th Annual General Meeting will be held from June 26th to June 30th at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort and Casino. Exploring the prospects as to which country will host next year's convention; Birmingham admitted that St Kitts is a front runner noting that the winner will be announced sometime soon. He added that while several countries have requested to host the convention meeting the criteria has been their difficulty. "we would really like to ensure that each member country gets n opportunity at hosting this prestigious convention however the reality of the situation is that only a small few qualifies for the opportunity to host and among these countries are St Maarten, St Kitts, Jamaica, Bahamas and a few others," he reiterated.
GREAT BAY,– The Lt. Governors of the Netherlands Antilles would like to congratulate Gerald Berkel who has been approved as Lt. Governor of the Island Territory of Sint Eustatius as of April 1, 2010.
Berkel has been acting Lt. Governor of Sint Eustatius for the last eight years. The Kingdom Council of Ministers accepted the proposal of Dutch State Secretary for Internal Affairs & Kingdom Relations to appoint Gerald Berkel to the position.
Lt. Governor of Saba Jonathan Johnson told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Friday that his colleagues congratulated Berkel on his appointment and wished him much success with his tasks.
The five Lt. Governors have been meeting on Saba since Wednesday as part of their quarterly Governors executive meetings which also concluded on Friday.
The areas that the five Lt. Governors have been discussing is the financial situation of the islands, political restructuring process within the Netherlands Antilles that will lead to dissolution of the Antilles, criminality, maintenance of public order and safety, and the national ordinance on admittance and expulsion.
Netherlands Antilles Justice Minister Magali Jacoba was also in Saba on Friday where she met with the Lt. Governors regarding various policy areas related to their areas of responsibility that fall under them as Chief of Police on their respective islands.
Governor-General of the Netherlands Antilles Frits Goedgedrag was unable to attend the quarterly meeting due to prior engagements.
The Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba together with the State Secretary of Justice Ernie Simmons met on Monday with director of Turning Point Dr. Lloyd Richardson to discuss a request of Turning Point to be eligible to receive subsidy from the federal Government . After that Turning point has made different adjustment to the building, they have delivered a request to the Federal government to see if they will be eligible to receive financial support. The Minister of Justice has promise that she will do her best, to bring more light to the request of this organization.
Philipsburg:----The SHTA believes that the Executive Council has set a dangerous premise by stating that the State and Church are not separate. Furthermore, Government has opened the door for every denomination (Catholic, Hindu, Jewish etc) to seek similar funding for their establishments. The SHTA tried contacting Commissioner Frans Richardson and Lt. Governor Richards to get some insight into this decision, but they were both unavailable.
Secondly, the reasoning behind this action is questionable. Based on publications in the media, Government followed proper procedure by putting a stop to the construction of the church, where no permit had been issued. Therefore, the need for compensation remains questionable. Under normal terms, this would have had to be dealt with by the courts.
Lastly, the SHTA is concerned about the lack of fiscal responsibility. Recent meetings with the CFT and the Executive Council revealed that Government needs to increase its revenue stream in order to balance its budget and thus all Capital expenditure needs to be prioritized.
The SHTA understands that this decision has not been approved by the Department of Finance and plans to follow all available avenues to have this decision questioned.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—Due to unforeseen problems during work on the Bush road on Wednesday night the contractor and NV GEBE were not able to complete the planned work. The Bush road was to be closed on Wednesday evening until Thursday morning 6:00 AM.
Because of the problems and delays, the Bush road will remain closed this afternoon until 3:00 PM in the direction from Sint Bernard Bridge to Zagersgut Road.
Furthermore, due to the delay in the planned work,onThursday March 11, 2010 from 8:00 PM until Friday March 12 at 6:00 AM—the Bush road remained closed to allow the work to continue.
The Sector of R.O.B., department of maintenance, Traffic Police of St. Maarten and NV GEBE informs the general public that Bush Road will be completely closed on 10th of March, 2010 starting at 8p.m. in the evening throughout the night until 6a.m.on Thursday 11th of March, 2010. Only residents of the Bush Road will be allowed to enter during the above-mentioned time.
During this timeframe, General contractor Windward Roads Infrastructure will be laying the new High Tension cables in the trenches alongside the Bush Road, from the entrance of Blijden Drive until the Prins Bernard Bridge.
Due to the needed workspace, the temporary bridges accessing the properties over the open trench will be removed in order to lay these cables.
Residents living along the Bush Road needing to use their transportation during this time frame are urged to park their vehicles on the other side of the road.
During this timeframe, residents will not be able to access their property with this vehicles.
Full access to the properties will be restored at 6.00am on Thursday morning.
This small inconvenience will allow us to execute the necessary upgrading of the Utilities on the Bush Road.
During this project, Windward Roads will accommodate the residents anyway as possible.
The Sector of ROB, N.V. GEBE and Contractor Windward Roads apologizes for any inconveniences this may cause.
For more information regarding the above-mentioned work, interested persons can contact the Sector of R.O.B. department of New Project Development and infrastructural Management (Mr. C.A. Buncamper or Mr. B. Ortega) or NV GEBE Maintenance and Execution Department.
GREAT BAY,– The island of St. Maarten will begin serving as home port for the cruise vessel Star Clipper, as of December 20.
That is according to tourism commissioner Frans Richardson, who has been attending the 2010 ITB Berlin trade show in Germany.
In making the announcement on Friday, Commissioner Richardson said that he is very encouraged by the news and that he wholeheartedly welcomes the decision taken by Star Clipper.
"This choice offers our island an opportunity to welcome additional numbers of visitors to our shores while complimenting other tourism efforts which are already underway", he said.
Commissioner Richardson said that the decision is "is certainly gratifying and represents a commitment by both parties".
The tourism commissioner said that this is certainly good news where it concerns prospective visitors from Germany and other parts of Europe. He said that he looked forward to the Star Clipper service having a spin-off effect for the U.S. market as well.
"I have no doubt that all stakeholders will work together, hand in hand, to make the Star Clipper venture a success for St. Maarten", said commissioner Richardson.
He said that St. Maarten would continue with endeavors to "retain St. Maarten as a competitive cruise ship destination and a convenient base for home porting, given its strategic location."
The idea is that the Star Clipper will leave from Phillipsburg and sail to Anguilla, Virgin Gorda, B.V.I., Norman Island, B.V.I., Jost van Dyke, B.V.I., St. Kitts, Antigua and St. Barths, before returning here.
The Star Clipper is described as a "modern cruise ship in every way, created for comfort-loving passengers who also love the traditions and romance of the legendary era of sailing ships".
The vessel is some 360 feet long and carries 170 guests.
Commissioner Richardson remarked that St. Maarten's participation at the 2010 ITB Berlin event is significant considering that it provides an excellent opportunity to meet business partners and to do business.
ITB Berlin is not only the leading travel industry show in Germany but it is also the perfect place to learn about new trends, concepts and cooperation possibilities – and to deepen existing business relations, he said.
According to Commissioner Richardson, "this is where you meet hotel managers, tour operators, travel agency owners, travel agents, journalists and operators of cruise vessels such as the Star Clipper".
With more than 180,000 visitors, among these 108,000 trade visitors, and over 10,000 exhibitors, ITB Berlin is the leading B2B-Platform of all tourism industry offers.
St. Maarten has been among a total of over 11 thousand exhibitors at ITB Berlin.
Represented at ITB Berlin are some 187 countries.
St. Peters: ---The students of Milton Peter College are in the process of chartering their first Interact Club.
In coming vice-president, Celine Verheij stated, " As you may know Rotary Interact Club is a junior form of the well-known Rotary Club International. Our soon to be established Club consists of students from Milton Peters College ages 13 to 18. As you may have heard and seen there are three other Interact clubs on the island, namely at Learning Unlimited, St. Maarten Academy and St Dominic High School."
The main goal of MPC Interact club is to support the community and also to bring awareness to the
community in general, to show the positive side of MPC. The official installation night of the new club, will take place on Friday March 26 2010 from 6:00 pm till 8.30 pm at MPC. Rotarians, Interacters of other schools and Roteract members are welcomed to share in this wonderful occasion. "We are very excited about starting this new club as we will be able to support the community and help them. We will be hosting
many events in time to come, our first event are a car wash at Kooyman. This fundraising event is being sponsored by Kooyman and it includes the products and space where the car wash will be held on Saturday March 20, 2010 from 10 am till 3 pm. The money raised will go towards the establishment of the MPC Interact Club and hopefully if enough funds are raised to allow the club to get their first project started," says Celine. Tickets will be available from the incoming members of the MPC Interact club for a contribution of $10. "You don't have to buy a ticket in advance so you can also turn up on Saturday 20th March, the car wash starts at 9 am."
The planning of the official installation has been on going for some time now; the incoming-board has come
together a number of times to discuss different ideas. Great effort is being put into making this installation night special in order to show everyone that MPC can deliver many good things to the community.
On the program for the March 26 is an auction, several interesting items will be available such as a selection of electronics and jewelry to help raise money for upcoming projects. This will really be a special evening for us at MPC and we feel that this night will be a great success, as we will receive our official Interact club pins, bell, and banner. It gives us great pride to tell the community of this success. Of course we
would not be able to have done this without the support of several MPC staff members and help from members of the St. Maarten Rotary Club as this Rotary Club is sponsoring the Milton Peters College Interact Club. On behalf of all the students of MPC who are part of this event, we would like to thank you all for your help and care concludes Celine Verheij.
The St. Maarten Rotary Club will be having "The Great St. Maarten Bazaar" at the parking lot of Le Grand Marche (Bush Road) this Sunday March 21 from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. This is a fundraising event and all proceeds will go towards the St. Maarten Medical Center's Pediatric Unit and the Rotary's Haitian Relief efforts.
This event promises to be "a garage sale to end all garage sales, this one will uphold the adage that one (wo)man's junk is another (wo)man's treasure!" says Rebecca Low vice president of the club who is spearheading this grand fundraiser.
The St. Maarten Rotary Club will happily take donations of unwanted, new, and gently used household items, books, toys, tools, decorative items, plants, working appliances and small pieces of furniture. "Chances are if you liked it and bought it, someone else will too!" say Rebecca.
Please contact the club at 520 4275 or any member of the St. Maarten Rotary Club. Arrangements will gladly be made to collect items being donated.
The general public is invited to come out on Sunday March 21 at the parking lot of Le Grand Marche to contribute towards this worthy event.
Philipsburg:---On Monday March 15, the process has begun where all undocumented Haitian Nationals that failed to comply with the BTA and those who have never went to register with the BTA accord.
Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba along with the local government of St Maarten has decided that all undocumented Haitian nationals residing on Dutch St Maarten should get a chance to register to avoid deportation when the immigration controls start, reason for this is because of the devastating earthquake that struck Haiti last January 12, 2010 that caused massive damage in the capital of Port au Prince, Haiti.
On Monday March 15, 2010 a total amount of 167 persons were registered, 98 persons were granted permission to stay till August 2010, 50 were granted permission to stay until December 2010, seven person had to check back with the office the following day Tuesday March 16, while two other persons were denied as they were registered on the French side of the island and 7 other persons were unaccounted for.
On Tuesday March 16, 2010 a total amount of 213 persons were registered, 131 persons were granted permission to stay till August 2010, 69 persons were granted permission to stay until December 2010, two other persons were denied reason were that they came in after January 12, 2010 and 1 other person was unaccounted for.
The Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba would like to remind all Haitian National living on the Dutch side of St Maarten that Wednesday March 31, 2010 will be the last day to register.
The registration will take place from Monday through Friday from 8 in the morning non-stop till 4 in the afternoon at the Conference Center of the Salvation Army on the Union Road #59 in Cole Bay.
The registration is only for the following groups of illegal Haitians who live in St. Maarten:
- Those who as per the Brooks Tower Accord must have left St. Maarten already before March 1, 2010. This relates to Haitian nationals who entered the Antilles between January 1st, 2006 and January 12th, 2010. January 12, 2010 is the day the devastating earthquake took place in Haiti.
- Those who applied via "Steering group" and who entered the Netherlands Antilles between January 1st, 2006 and January 12th, 2010. This is because they are not eligible to receive a permit via the "BTA" as they are not special cases.
- Those who entered before January 1st 2006, but who did not register for category 1 or 2 of the "BTA". By not registering, they automatically become illegal equal to category 3 "BTA".
By registering the illegal groups 1 and 2, the right is obtained to continue living in St. Maarten till the 31st of December 2010. Those of category 3 will get the right to stay till August 31, 2010. The registration does not give the illegal any other rights.
All Haitians mentioned above will receive a copy of the registration form to have in their possession at all times. No photograph is on this form, only the signature of the illegal person who registered.
The illegal immigrant must show this form to the Dutch authorities during controls. This form indicates up to which day their stay is allowed on Dutch St. Maarten. Before said date they can always leave St. Maarten of their own will. After said date they will be deported. The Minister want to stress that this documentation is only for the Dutch side of Sint Maarten and does not have any validly on the French St Martin.
Haitians who register for category 1 and 2 of the Brooks Tower do not need to register again.
The registration will not take more than 5 minutes, as long as the illegal immigrant brings his / her passport and a (good quality) copy. A copy machine is available at the venue and it will cost only 25 US cents per copy.
It also applies here that if the illegal immigrant supplies information that is not based on the truth or makes use of a false passport, he / she commits a crime and will be deported immediately.
Philipsburg:--- The faction leaders namely leader of the Democratic Party Sarah Wescot Williams, Leader of the National Alliance William Marlin , leader of the UPP Theo Heyliger and independent Island councilman Louie Laviest was invited to the chambers of the Lt. Governor to caucus on the proposal submitted by the executive council for the 2010 budget.
In making his presentation finance commissioner Xavier Blackman said the draft budget of 2010 is ready including all the amendments. Blackman also indicated that this is the first time the CFT fully scrutinized the budget as they did this time around and that the 2009 budget was only balanced on paper while it was not in reality.
The commissioner also said that based on the agreements signed in July and December last year on the transfer of tasks the budget was drafted, however the CFT did not agree with what was included in the budget regarding the dismantling of the Netherlands Antilles. The 2010 budget has a net value of 323.6 million guilders with 1.7 million in surplus.
Blackman made clear that in the past government did not follow the laws when it comes to proper financial management and one of the rules they never adhered to was article 110 of the ERNA that states that budgets must be ready and submitted to the island council by May 1 of the preceding year. The commissioner agreed that the CFT did point out some valuable points to them during their discussions on the 2010 budget.
The commissioner said that the CFT had sent several suggestions to the executive council in May 2009, none of which were applied while the Democratic Party was in government. Blackman said while the executive council is responsible for the daily affairs of the island and to make sure that there is proper management they are supposed to also make sure that the right people were in the right positions. Blackman said that since taking office ten months ago he was confronted with several situations regarding civil servants some of whom were even told they were over qualified. Government had to also provide the proper tools for their civil servants including giving them the necessary opportunities for their career development.
While the commissioner presented the budget and took some shots at the previous government the Democratic Party members posed hundreds of questions on the draft budget that was given to them on Tuesday.
Leader of the Democratic Party outlined several areas of the budget that is still questionable to her faction. Wescot Williams gave an outline on the dates on which the budget was to be handled in the central committee and had to be canceled, she said her faction still does not know if the draft budget presented to the council is the one approved by the executive council on November 10 and was submitted to the CFT or if is the one they approved on November 17.
The Democratic Party leader said her faction wants to know when the executive council approved the draft version that was submitted to the council on Tuesday, she made clear that Tuesday's meeting was not about an amendment instead it is a debate on the overall 2010 budget.
The Democratic party wanted the list on immovable properties, settlements that were made by government as well as long term agreements and non public bids. Wescot Williams said they also asked for copies of all agreements that would have financial consequences to government for more than year. She said the executive council had promised to disclose the list on the day the budget will be debated but that too was not upheld.
Island councilman and former finance commissioner Roy Marlin asked for clarity concerning the statements made by commissioner Blackman. Marlin said he wants to see the letters to prove and to support the statements he made regarding that people that were told they were overqualified. Marlin further asked for an explanation as to why the executive council took 36 days to pass on a letter they sent to the council regarding the budget.
Independent Island Councilman Louie Laviest suggested that government take an inventory on its long lease land which was leased out to citizens as well as established businesses. The island councilman said that government should also consider selling the land to the persons who have been occupying the land and make them landowners. Laviest said if government does that then they would have millions in their coffers while they would at the same time empower their people.
The meeting has been adjourned to Thursday where the debate will continue.
Philipsburg: --- A delegation comprising of several members of the State Judicial Committee of Curacao visited St. Maarten over the weekend and met with schools and other foundation in order to gather information. The committee members are Mr. M. Jamalodin, (PAR) Mrs. M. Louisa-Godett (FOL) Mr. E. Eisden,(MAN) Mr. M. Navarro,(Forsa Corsow), Mr. C. Janga,(P.A.R.) Mr. D. Lucia, (P.N.P) Mr. A. Nicolas, (Independent) all of whom were invited by senator Rudolph Samuel of the National Alliance.
The working visit of the Judicial Committee was mainly to gather information and to get a clear picture and the nature of the actual problem with the youths on St Maarten.
Chief Inspector Carl John and Inspector Ricardo Henson provided a guided tour to various neighborhoods and areas of interest. On Sunday, the committee visited the Belvedere Community, where they were met with representatives of the Belvedere Home Owners and Tenants Association, The Belvedere Community Council and the Sint Maarten Housing and Development Foundation. Mrs. Jessica Richardson, the founder and president of the Belvedere Community Center. A walking tour inside the Belvedere housing complex was also given to the Judicial Committee.
On Monday March 22, the Judicial Committee met with a committee formed by directorate of the schools for Secondary Education, which took place at the Sint Dominic High School in South Reward, which turned out to be very informative and successful. On Tuesday March 23rd the Judicial Committee met at the Parliament Building on Backstreet with several other organizations such as, the Court of Guardian, the School boards and UJIMA. A complete report with regard to the findings of this committee during this working visit will be forwarded to the Minister of Justice for review. The committee is scheduled to leave Sint Maarten on Tuesday evening March 23rd back to Curacao.
PHILIPSBURG:--With a grand kick-off party on Friday March 19 the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise and the Philipsburg Jubilee Library started the READERS ARE LEADERS program. Leader of Government and Commissioner William Marlin officially opened the program and emphasized the importance of literacy and reading. He encouraged all the young people on St. Maarten to join the program and start reading books.
The program aims at students on the secondary schools. The goal is to stimulate reading by teenagers and to show that reading is fun! Reading is important to develop yourself, to develop imagination and curiosity and it let's you think outside the box. The children are challenged to read at least two book per month for the next half year. Besides fun books of your own choice, you should at least select and read about or from leading persons of St. Maarten, the Caribbean and the world.
The most active readers will be awarded with a prize. For more information there is a library page on Facebook as well as a Readers are Leaders fan page. The next coming weeks staff of the library will visit the schools and explain more about the program but you do not have to wait for that to join. If you want to register for the program and also join the online Book Club, visit the library website www.stmaartenlibrary.org or contact the library by phone : 542 2970 or e-mail:
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GREAT– Parents can get their children vaccinated this Saturday at the 2nd Sint Maarten Lion's Club Health & Wellness Fair.
Youth Health Care (YHC) representatives will be manning a booth with reps from the White & Yellow Cross Baby Clinic from 10:00am to 6:00pm at the Sint Maarten Festival Village.
Vaccinations will be available for the age group 0 through 17.
YHC will administer vaccinations to four-year olds and older whether they are in school or not. The Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) and DTPolio will be given, and for children born as of January 1st, 2000 who did not complete their Hepatitis B will also receive the latter.
Parents and guardians are urged to make use of this opportunity and to bring along with them their child's vaccination cards/records even if they were given out by another organization.
YHC has changed its vaccination schedule and all children between four and nine-years of age will now get their second MMR vaccine at four years of age.
The DTPolio vaccination will continue to be given when the child is nine-years of age.
Other changes in the vaccination schedule apply to children between two and 12 months of age.
Parents are reminded to make sure that their children between the ages of 0-17 are up to date with their vaccinations which are necessary in order to reduce the risk of vaccine-preventable diseases.
Immunization is a way of protecting children against serious vaccine preventable diseases. Once a person has been fully vaccinated, their bodies can fight those diseases if one comes into contact with them.
As the economic situation in Haiti continues to worsen a number of women are leading the charge in making something positive of their lives despite the evident challenges. Haiti which is known as the world's poorest country because of its economic situation as been at the bottom of the social and economic ladder was further cemented when the country was hit by a devastating earth quake on January 12 which left thousands dead and many more displaced and homeless.
However, being also known for its resilience and determination a number of women are determined not to give up while also has no intentions of surviving through begging or theft. Thirty two year old Darline Exantus - Srery is one such woman. Exantus – Srery who speaks English very well said that there were justifications for her to give up and join a life of crime and other ills but opted to continue trying due to the fact that she have two kids to live for.
Exantus – Srery lost her husband of two years as a result of the earthquake. Recounting the ordeal an emotionally looking young lady said that a few days prior to the incident, she and her husband had a misunderstanding and in an effort to 'cool', himself off he went to his brother's home where he was staying.
Darline recalled that on the day of the earthquake she had spoken to her husband as is customary. "I had spoken to him on some issues that we needed to have addressed and like every other day it was a normal conversation that we had," she said. Pausing for a few minutes with a blank look on her face Darline said that she wished if she knew that it was going to be the last time that she spoke to her husband as forever she will always remember the last moments. "I am still sad over his death as now I know how hard my husband really worked for us. He worked very hard each day to feed us and now he is gone. Maybe if we hadn't had the argument and he moving out maybe he would have still be alive," she said.
She said that while her husband and some of his brothers were in the house talking the earthquake came knocking the house with its occupants down. Her husband was instantly killed after he was crushed under the weight of the roof. She said it was a miracle that no one else died as all the brothers received were injuries, non life threatening. "He died instantly as he was crushed by the weight of the roof, strange that no one else died," Darline said.
She said that her daughter who was four months at the time will now grow up without a father noting that while some visitors to the country have requested that she gives them the child she has refused. She said that she would love the assistance and help being given but noted that she cannot part with her child stressing that her eldest child is with another man and should she part with the baby it would be like throwing away everything of her husband. "I need to keep her (daughter) so that I can continue to remember what good husband and friend I had while both of my children had a good father as he worked for all of us," she said.
Pointing out that her options for gainful employment are very limited owing to the devastation to both businesses and lives that the earthquake has caused, Darline journeys every morning to the makeshift airport from 5 am leaving her home some two hours early so as to be able to be the first in line for business. She said that while there are other women in the taxi industry they are forced to compete fiercely with their men counterparts for business. "I leave my home as early as 3am in the morning so that by 5 am I can get here as getting around is so difficult and stressful," she said.
She disclosed that she would work until. 9 to 10 pm in the evening based on the traffic at the airport after which she would return home so as to spend at least a four to five hours with her children. Darline noted that having to work very hard means that most of the time her children are without her however she said that she leaves her children in the care of her mother who she noted does a very good job at ensuring that they are well taken care of. "I have to worry about nothing as my mother do a good job with them so that I can make the money that I need to make to take care of them," she said. She expressed a desire that the situation in Haiti will change one day noting that all are affected either directly or indirectly. "This is really bad but we just have to make use of whatever opportunities that they are," she noted.
GREAT BAY– Former Lt. Governor Dennis L. Richardson left St Maarten on Saturday for further medical treatment in Colombia. Richardson was involved in a freak accident on Thursday April 1st. SMN News has learnt that he is currently in stable condition and is no longer in the Intensive Care Unit.
Richardson suffered internal injuries while parking his car at home. His injuries include: six broken ribs, two punctured lungs and a broken collar-bone. Information reaching SMN News states that the former Lt. Governor is in severe pain but the healing process has begun.
Members of the Executive Council and the Island Council have been in contact with Richardson and his family and have expressed their best hope and prayers for his recovery.
Dennis Richardson, who is part of the core team charged with the constitutional process of Sint Maarten becoming a Country, was scheduled to travel as part of a government delegation on Tuesday, April 6th.
As a well-known and much respected member of the Sint Maarten community both privately and professionally, the Government Information Service (GIS) will provide periodic updates on his condition.
GREAT BAY,– The "2010 Business Outreach and Placement Program" known as the Summer Job Program will take place from July 5th through August 13th 2010.
The program consists of an application period, trainings, pre-selection for interviews and final selection for a job within the Government Administration or the Private Sector.
Students wishing to apply for a Summer Job can do so by contacting the Department of Social Cultural Development or their school office for an application form.
To apply, students must be:
- 16 years or older;
- in the pre-exam or exam class of Secondary Education;
- attending College or University.
Applications must be submitted to the Department of Social Cultural Development located in the Vlaun Building, across from the Post Office by and no later than Friday May 14th 2010.
To be eligible applicants must submit besides the application form;
- An application letter directed to the Island Government of St. Maarten,
- A curriculum Vitea
- A copy of a picture I.D.
- Proof of School/University attendance
For further information the Department can be contacted at phone 542-2056 or fax 543-1172 or e-mail address This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
GREAT BAY Due to the continued increase in oil prices internationally, the price of the unleaded gasoline has increased while the price of diesel has shown a slight decrease. The price of oil is influenced internationally by supply and demand, seasonality, and speculation.
Currently, due to speculations that the economies around the world are rebounding, the expectation is an increase in demand for oil. In addition, the price of gasoline has increased because of the expected high demand for gasoline in the US market for the summer months. Vice Versa, the price of diesel has shown a slight decline due to the termination of the winter months when diesel is more widely used.
Based on the afore-mentioned, the Executive Council of St. Maarten hereby informs the general public that as per Saturday, April 10, 2010 prices of petroleum products have been adjusted as follows:
New Consumer Price as of April 10, 2010:
Unleaded gasoline (ULG) 203.50 Ang. Cents/Litre
Gasoil 169.00 Ang. Cents/Litre
Current prices are:
ULG 193.00 Ang.Cents/Litre
Gasoil 170.00 Ang.Cent/Litre
GREAT BAY --- The Department of New Works and Infrastructural Management has a number of projects that are ongoing, from the L.B. Scot road resurfacing to the ongoing infrastructure maintenance of public areas.
The department of the Government Information Service recently spoke to project manager Benjamin Ortega, who pointed out the main tasks of the New Works and Infrastructural Management department and provided an update on the latest developments.
We have to maintain the district roads, try to solve the traffic congestion, provide garbage disposal, and maintain the sewage lines, operating the main water pumps in Sucker Garden, beach maintenance, welding work for various entities within government, maintaining the burial grounds, recapping/repaving of roads, emergency works during hurricane or storms, getting rid of car wrecks, maintaining the sewage plant, among other types of works.
Ortega said that the L.B. Scot road resurfacing project is ongoing, and there are some delays with reference to the laying utility lines, but no extra cost to the project itself. The project will not be totally completed before the carnival period. Although the final layer of asphalt will not be in place before the carnival, the road surface will be smooth and they are hoping to have temporary road markings in place. This project is part of the AJC Brouwers road upgrade, with a total of 3.6 million guilders.
Concerning the Bush road project, which is being carried out by GEBE but supervised by the department, one part will soon be completed, and the road will be clear for the carnival period, Ortega said.
Some projects that are in the works to keep the public safer are: installing more speed bumps, repainting more pedestrians crossings (zebra/white stripes) especially around schools, installing cat eyes, the reflectors in the middle of the road. As well on L.B. Scot road, the "divider island" is safer, with a sloping edge and a walk path through the island.
In the end, Ortega said that they are doing their best with what they have. There is a backlog, so we have to deal with this. He also asked the public to bear with the department, for the work is being carried out on the community's behalf. There might be many projects ongoing at the same time but this little inconvenience for much more years of pleasure, Ortega said.
Philipsburg:--- Island Council lady Maria Buncamper Molanus said the National Alliance/ Heyliger and Laveist executive council lacks vision and simply does not know how to handle the people's business. The island council lady said the former executive council headed by the Democratic Party had all the necessary paper work in the pipeline for the National Health Insurance take over. She said a complete policy was prepared and St. Maarten was ready for the changes prior to them leaving office but today all of this was put on hold and the current executive council is busy signing off on Service Level Agreements (SLA).
The island council lady said she wants to know what is government's position on the National Health Insurance. Buncamper Molanus said just recently the executive council said that SVB employees will be taken over when St. Maarten achieves its status change. However, based on the calculations done their will be a surplus to provide health care and she wants to know what and how government will deal with the surplus.
She wants to know who would be controlling the Telecommunications and who would be collecting the fees on telecommunication according to the SLA signed.
Buncamper Molanus went on to say that the members of the Democratic Party believe that the amount placed on the budget for additional taxes was not a reliable figure.
During the budget debate, the executive council said they were going to take additional measures to collect some 33 million guilders in back taxes. She said she does not know if the executive council is aware of the effects this would cause on businesses, unemployment, and people of St. Maarten. She called on the residents of St. Maarten to seek professional advice when confronted by the island receivers and they should seek a payment plan if they are not able to make the payment in full.
Also commenting on the collection of the taxes and the measures that will be used by the executive council was the leader of the Democratic Party Sarah Wescott Williams. Wescot- Williams said in her opinion the executive council is looking to milk blood out of stone to collect the 33 million guilders. She said she would be asking the executive council to provide the island council with the collection policy.
While island councilman Roy Marlin said, the government is looking to place additional burden on the people of St. Maarten. He said he hoped that government would not force the small businesses on the island to close down. Marlin said while the commissioner of finance is focusing on collecting back taxes he should also make sure the business on St. Maarten remains here. As for the SLA's Marlin said, he is calling on the Minister of telecommunication Patrick Illidge to bring back the over qualified that the Democratic Party turned away and set up the necessary departments rather than signing SLAs.
Philipsburg: --- The Police Department KPSSS has lost another colleague who was serving in Saba at the time he passed away. A press release from the department states that officer Siegfried Cerilo MARIA, better known as "Fichie," passed away early Wednesday morning at the A.M Edwards Medical Center in The Bottom, Saba.
The late Sigfried Cerilo MARIA better known as "Fichie" was born on the 30th of July 1950 on the island of Curacao but served most of his police career with the Police Force on Saba. Condolences goes out to his family, friends, and the entire Police Force of the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba, who are left to mourn. May he rest in peace.
Details on funeral arrangements will be announced as soon as it is made available.
GREAT BAY,– Leader of Government Commissioner William Marlin who is currently in Holland on a working visit, would like to wish Carnival revellers and visitors a happy Carnival.
Carnival season festivities kick off on Thursday evening with a jump-up to the Festival Village where Governor Franklyn Richards will open the gates and declare the season open. Carnival runs until April 2.
"As you immerse yourself in 'Sweet Revelry for Carnival 2010,' celebrate, have fun, but be safe and responsible," Leader of Government William Marlin told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Thursday from Holland.
GREAT BAY:--- Leader of Government and Commissioner responsible for Constitutional Affairs William Marlin says that history was made on Thursday in Holland when the Kingdom Parliament approved the changes to the Kingdom Charter and the different Kingdom Consensus Laws, making possible for Sint Maarten to become a country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands on 10-10-10.
"The challenge is ours to make it happen as promised on 10-10-10. For that to happen, much work still needs to be done, not just by the team of advisers, the Commissioners and Island Council Members, but also very much so by the civil servants and the people of Sint Maarten. It is most appropriate to borrow a line from the song writer as we sing in unison, ain't no stopping us now."
"The past days have been hectic and challenging. There were moments when we thought the process may be in danger. But we never lost focus of the mission we came to accomplish; convince the Members of the Dutch Second Chamber that they had a responsibility towards the people of Sint Maarten and Curacao. We told them that they had an obligation to respect the will of the people, and support them in their quest for constitutional change. We have constantly been told that the members of the Dutch Parliament were not convinced that Sint Maarten was able to become country this year. We had our work cut out for us and at the end of the debates we were convincing and victorious," Leader of Government and Commissioner responsible for Constitutional Affairs William Marlin told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Thursday evening from Holland.
Commissioner William Marlin was full of praise for Team Sint Maarten which was made up of advisors, Drs. Eugene Holiday and Richard Gibson, who both worked all hours of the day and sometimes very late at night with the rest of the Antillean advisors in order to get the job done.
I feel blessed to have been given the opportunity to represent Sint Maarten at this time. I also commend my colleague Drs. Rodolphe Samuel for the role that he has played during this historic moment." Chief of Staff/Island Secretary Joane Dovale-Meit who has always been on the Team had to stay on Sint Maarten to man the fort as much work needed to be done these days as well. Work in preparation of the dismantling of the Central Government and the transfer of tasks to Sint Maarten.
Congrats and a big thank you is in place for project Director Dennis Richardson who has been aboard Team St. Maarten from the very beginning. He has worked tirelessly, advising, negotiating, battling and compromising on behalf of country Sint Maarten.
But at this historic time he was not able to be present in The Hague with his team. He was greatly missed by all the delegations, including the Dutch delegation. But he was there with us in spirit and at times even on the phone or via email. Dennis thank you and we wish you a speedy recovery.
"I have noted increased enthusiasms among the civil servants as concrete plans are being put in place to set up our ministries and institutions. I like that "all hands on deck" attitude and hope that soon all other civil servants are infected by the 10-10-10 bug. We can and must get it done, Together for Sint Maarten," Commissioner William Marlin pointed out on what has been described as historic Thursday.
Commissioner Marlin added that while in The Hague, his thoughts and prayers have been with Iliana Schotborg-Pasman and her family because of the sudden passing of her husband, Sint Maarten USONA Director Bart Pasman.
His sudden passing was not only a great loss to Iliana, their children and the rest of the family, but also to Sint Maarten. Bart was a fine, hard working person who always wanted the best for Sint Maarten and worked diligently to get our projects approved. He will be greatly missed.
"Iliana has also been a strong pillar in the process towards constitutional change as she played a pivotal role in the preparation of needed legislation," Commissioner Marlin said on Thursday.
Leader of Government Commissioner William Marlin says that congratulations are in place for St. Maarten, for 100% of Sint Maarten.
"Those who can vote and those who didn't vote, those who voted for other options as well. For in country Sint Maarten, every citizen and resident has a right to police protection, proper health care, a clean environment and quality education for all.
I want to thank all of you who have sent a short message, an email, made a call, to offer your moral support, words of encouragement and to extend your congratulations to Team Sint Maarten. Your support has been a source from which to tap the needed strength from to continue the battle.
"There is still much work ahead of and for all of us. Let us all join heads and hands together for Sint Maarten. Let us all look towards 10-10-10 with great anticipation," an enthusiastic Leader of Government Commissioner William Marlin told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Thursday.
Great Bay– A group of 7 journalists from Belgium and Holland arrived here Sunday, April 11 for a six day visit at the invitation of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau.
The theme of this press trip was "Romance in St. Maarten." The objective was for the writers to experience and further explore the romantic getaways, honeymoon as well as spa and wellness options the island has to offer.
During their stay, the writers undertook an island tour with stops at various historical sites and other points of interest, explored some of the island's beaches and excursions and attractions such as the Golden Eagle, Lord Sheffield, the Nature Park and Loterie Farm. The group sampled our culinary delights and were very "The food here is soooo good" said Bart Schuller of the St. Maarten Tourist Office in Holland.
"The idea was to give the writers a first-hand experience of what makes St. Maarten so unique as one of the Caribbean's top tourist destinations," Director of Tourism, Ms. Regina LaBega disclosed. She said the main focus of the visit was romance and the island's famed gastronomical offerings.
"We wanted them to find out first-hand why St. Maarten is the gastronomic capital of the Caribbean. We are also hoping that their visit will generate quite some exposure in the European market where we are working very hard to carve a niche and increase our market share," LaBega added.
The group consisted of Kim van Dam - Zin Magazine, Marieke Brouwer - Ze.nl, Ank Herstel- Mostert - Uitgeverij Groot Hellevoet, Lieve Claeys - Goed gevoel, Sanne van Kuijck - Talkies Magazine NL, Muriël Swartenbroekx - Talkies Be and Bart Schuller of the St. Maarten Tourist Office in the Netherlands.
The group was to leave on Friday, April 16. However, due to the closing of the European airspace due to the volcanic activity in Iceland, the group was not able to return to Europe until Wednesday April 21.
A special thanks goes out to the Sonesta Maho Resort and Casino who accommodated the stranded writers during part of their stay.
Saint Lucia – Officials of the four Windward Islands discussed a number of wide-ranging issues, aimed at the overall improvement of the Annual Windward Islands School Games.
The meeting which was held at the Bay Gardens Hotel, saw the brief opening ceremony addressed by Donovan Williams, the Permanent Secretary in Saint Lucia's Ministry of Youth and Sports, who called on participants to take the hard decisions necessary, for "this meeting cannot be business as usual."
While the meeting of the officials from the Windward Islands is an annual event, the Permanent Secretary saw this year's meeting as a special event.
He noted that while there are ongoing deliberations in all of the islands on what ways to get young people to engage in more positive activities, persons must remain cognizant that central to that is the role of sports, especially school-base sports.
The Permanent Secretary told the participants that he cannot see how the young people can be engaged in sporting activities, without the involvement of school-base sports.
He admitted that in the current economic and financial climate in which governments have to make hard choices, the social sector gets the least of the pie, and out of that social pie, sports get an even smaller slice.
In this regard, according to Williams, "We have to think very seriously about a new platform for school sports."
He said that this new platform would also make the Games more attractive to the corporate sector. This is critically important for in today's economic climate, the corporate sector is very concerned in the manner of their investments.
Therefore the Permanent Secretary said that the decisions taken must be inclusive of providing the young people with new avenues in sports which would excite them, through which more students would be attracted to sports.
These decisions also must take into account giving greater exposure to the Games sponsors, through a more vigorous marketing campaign, along with increased media coverage.
This new platform would result in a new brand of athletes emerging, for use of the platform of school sports is the way to move forward.
He said that persons must look critically at all factors, for through this new way would be looked at towards improving upon the old ways things are done.
Permanent Secretary Williams called on all participants to work towards making the Windward Islands School Games becoming "a real flagship event in the sub-region."
The support from all individuals and agencies are critically important, for after a close look at all of the factors involved towards making the Windward Island Games to be what many envisage, in which the Saint Lucia Ministry of Youth and Sports Permanent Secretary said "we have no choice." (Robertson S Henry/www.sportcaraibe.net)
French Quarter: --- The director of the Reserve Naturelle and its President Frank Viotty aborted a meeting that was scheduled with the Traditional Fishermen Association on Monday at the Maison du Quartier in French Quarter.
President of the Association Bernard Hyman told SMN News that he personally called the Director of the Reserve Naturelle who told him that because of the people of St. Martin he has to leave the island.
However, Hyman said he does not know what the statements of the Reserve director have to do with the concerns of the fishermen on St. Martin. Hyman said the fishermen on St. Martin needs to get permission from the Reserve to catch "Jack fish" when it is in season. He said sometime last week one of the fishermen was on Flat Island to see if Jack fish is in the area and the gendarmes stopped the fisherman telling him that the Reserve has to allow them to fish there since that island is part of the Reserve. The fisherman Elie Bryan who was also present said the gendarmes told the Reserve Director that he was fishing with a net on Flat Island that day, something he refuted saying his net was in his yard at the time of the incident. Bryan said he was on the island looking to see if Jack fish was in port since that particular fish is a seasonal fish to the island's people. The fisherman said if he had seen Jack fish that day he would have caught one to present to the Reserve who would have to give them the permission to fish. He said the Reserve told them the fishermen are allowed to fish on Gallion Beach which is also part of the Reserve for jack fish but not at the other locations. Hyman said jack fish is seasonal and it does not have a particular area it would come in to St. Martin.
The Association President said the Natural Reserve has been making promises to the fishermen on St. Martin and they would not live up to the promises or commitments. He said right now the association is collecting signatures from the population to present a petition to the Prefecture of St. Martin. He said he intends to go to all offices whether on St. Martin, Guadeloupe or France to seek justice since the Association is fully registered. Hyman said he is related to the President of the Collectivity of St. Martin Frantz Gumbs whose folks were fishermen but each time he would call the president to intervene in their concerns the president he said would push him off by saying he would call back. "I gave the president my phone number about six times and to date he never made an effort to call me back" Hyman said those in charge have to do something about their predicament because this cannot continue. "The Reserve prefers for the fish go away to Anguilla or other islands and the local fishermen should follow it if they so want it or the fishermen on that island should sell it on St. Martin."
SMN News later learnt that the President of the Collectivity Frantz Gumbs as well as members of the Naturelle Reserve is expected to meet with them on Wednesday at the Maison du Quartier.
Philipsburg:--- Saturday, May 1, 2010 has all the potential to go down in history of St. Maarten/St. Martin as a fundamental milestone in the awareness and pride of native-indigenous St. Martiners.
On that day, a ceremony will be held in honor of the contributions made to the St. Martin nation building process by a number of our deceased St. Martin ancestors.
This event has been put together over the period of a number of weeks by a number of very conscious and concerned St. Martiners under the initiative of the undisputed St. Martin grass root nation building and unifying movement, the SNBF and the Association L' Esprit de Concordia.
After having had to deal with ongoing public debates questioning the identity and rights of the native-indigenous St. Martiners, as well as the threats to the oneness of the St. Martin people, this group has decided that the time had come to put an end to this 'back and forth' rhetoric and to take the identity and the rights of the native St. Martiners to the 'next level'.
Consequently, the group has decided to organize a number of public activities to be guided by its mission statement; 'Strengthening & preserving our St. Martin identity, unity & way of life'.
Because of the respect for the contributions made in the past by a number of St. Martin ancestors, the movement has decided that the 'first order of the day' , would be to recognize those persons in a fitting manner and at an appropriate and historical site.
Therefore the group has organized for that occasion a ceremony entitled; 'Honoring our deceased ancestors'.
During this first initiative under the mission statement, a number of persons have been invited to accept on behalf of their deceased family-member a symbolic token of appreciation.
Also invited to attend this historical event, are representatives from the Collectivite, the Island-Government and a number of other local native- St. Martin dignitaries.
Due to the tremendously positive feedback thus-far, the group plans to have similar ceremonies on various occasions, in order to be able to honor as many of our deceased ancestors as possible on an ongoing basis.
While this ceremony is expected to create a new found pride and consciousness of the native St. Martin people, it is to be followed by more ground-breaking initiatives.
One being the printing and issuing of a cultural native-indigenous ID-card.
This document, is intended to create the possibility for its native St. Martin card-holders to make use of every service and opportunity any side of this island has to offer.
In due time the public will be updated on the progress of the cultural native-indigenous St. Martin ID-card as well as its benefits.
Since at the ceremony slated for Saturday, May 1, there is only space for invited guests and their family, space for the general will be limited.
Philipsburg:---The members and management of District Band would like to make it clear to all of their fans that at no time did any member of the District Band attack members of St Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) as stated in an article published by the Daily Herald on Tuesday. As a matter of fact, members of management upon learning that Officials Band had won band of the year and seeing the reaction of other bands outside of the village decided to seek clarification from SCDF. The question posed by District Band to SCDF President and Vice President was: Were the rules changed and when were they changed? As a matter of fact, when District Band musical manager approached SCDF, no member of Official was present.
Contrary to what was also published in the newspaper, District Band did pass inspection and met the dress code requirement as stipulated by SCDF.
The issue at hand was that the bands were dumbfounded that the vice president of SCDF after making the rules could stand and announce Officials Band as the winner knowing that the band did not play at the opening of Carnival and as such did not meet the criteria as agreed upon by all bands in a meeting prior to carnival. It was not a matter of who should be band of the year, because District Band is a group of young people who were mentally prepared by management to go out there and have clean fun and make music that revelers would enjoy and talk about for the rest of the year. District Band achieved what they set out to do as they made a great impression on the people of St. Maarten and visitors alike.
It is quite unfortunate that this fiasco took place, leaving carnival with yet another black eye. We do maintain that the bands all rocked this year and we congratulate all of them on a job well done. Keep your head up and always remember to hold yuh balance and don't let SCDF put you down.
The Insurance Company of the West Indies (ICWI) Jamaica Ltd. has fallen in breach of insurance regulations in that jurisdiction, but President of the ICWI Group Paul Lalor has reassured policyholders that company branches in St Maarten and St. Kitts and Nevis will not be affected. This comes in the wake of recent statements made by a key official of another insurance company in St Maarten.
In a recent media interview published on www.sknvibes.com in St Kitts and Nevis it was noted that a recent Minimum Asset Test (MAT) carried out by the Financial Services Commission (FSC) in Jamaica said that to meet regulatory standards each insurance company operating within that jurisdiction must have assets representing at least 135 per cent of its liabilities.
The article pointed out that among the companies that were unable to meet this requirement is ICWI Jamaica Ltd. With the collapse of the British American Insurance Company still fresh in the minds of many Kittitians and Nevisians, concerns quickly spread that the Jamaica-based company would not be able to cover policies held at the local branch.
In the media interview President Lalor attempted allay concern and explained that the St. Kitts and Nevis branch is separately managed and therefore would not be affected by the FSC's recent report. "The reality of it is that ICWI Group is made up of four insurance companies: ICWI Cayman Ltd, ICWI Bahamas Ltd, ICWI Jamaica Ltd and Turks Insurance First Insurance Company. They are separate, individually capitalized companies regulated separately in each territory.
"The St. Kitts branch represents the ICWI Cayman Ltd and is simply an independent member of the group of companies. It has its separate board of directors. The St. Kitts ICWI branch is 100% fully compliant with all the regulations of the St. Kitts regulators and with [those in] the Caymans; that is not a problem at all," he was quoted as saying.
Lalor explained that each of the companies has its own reinsurance treaty and is specifically designed in such a way to protect policyholders of the separate entities against catastrophic events that may take place in other territories.
He acknowledged that the Jamaican company was unable to meet the minimum asset requirements, but explained that it was to be expected because of a new reinsurance treaty recently signed there.
Lalor explained, "ICWI Group accepts that its Jamaican arm didn't make the threshold, but understands the reason why and fully expects that it will meet the threshold in the very near future." The online media house noted that they contacted the representative of the local company, Michael Martin, who was tight-lipped about the matter. In a brief comment he told this media house, "I don't know if there are implications for the local branch. The matter is being dealt with by the Jamaican Financial Services Commission."
However it a statement from the FSC, issued in mid April said that while companies like ICWI failed the MAT and is in breach of insurance regulations, ICWI's MAT result of 130% provides a "relatively strong cushion" for the protection of the company and its policyholders.
"The companies should face no difficulties in meeting their normal claims obligation. The FSC has been in dialogue with the companies on the issue of the MAT and has decided to exercise forbearance in light of the global economic crisis which resulted in significant impairment in the fair values of certain investment assets of some companies.
"In the opinion of the FSC the insurance companies have adequate catastrophe reinsurance cover..." the press statement read.
ICWI President Lalor stressed that the MAT, as it currently stands, does not measure risk or take into account reinsurance. The article stressed that President Lalor informed that a minimum capital test is expected to replace the MAT by yearend and will more accurately reflect contingency preparedness for insurance companies.
Philipsburg:--- Members of KPSSS, the Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba and the local Chief of Police Franklyn Richards have said goodbye to Police Coach Ronald Dongor. Dongor is scheduled to leave St. Maarten on May 14 after serving the KPSSS for two years. At a small ceremony on Wednesday, Dongor was presented with a plaque expressing gratitude for his services to St. Maarten during the past two years. Expressing thanks on behalf of the St. Maarten community to Dongor was Chief of Police Franklyn Richards, and Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos on behalf of his office.
Certificates were also distributed to some officers who completed a training course.
The ceremony held on Wednesday was also intended for those officers who recently left the force on pension. They are Dafnis Francessca, Hildo Martina, Angie Fowler, Pricilla Gumbs, and Elgin Southborough however, none of the pensioners did not show up to the police station to attend the ceremony.
The bags that were prepared for each of the officers were left on a table with their name tags attached. Francessca however, sent a statement which was read by Spokesman for the Police Ricardo Henson.
Chief of Police Franklyn Richards said he would personally call Dafnis Francessa and Hildo Martina to express his gratitude to them for the services they provide to St. Maarten. Richards said those men did the best they could for the police force with limited resources.
It is understood that at least two of the officers who reached the pensionable age had requested to remain within the force but their request was denied, thus they have decided to silently protest by not showing up for the goodbye ceremony.
Great Bay:--- The buzz is out and all systems are GO! for the long, awaited 6th Annual Boardwalk Mas 2010 which starts at 5:00PM Saturday, May 15th from the Passangrahann Royal Guest House right up to the Sea Palace Hotel and back to the Square.
With some 40 groups and individual participants registered for this festive event, "we're indeed ready to roll," says Umain Dormoy, parade and concert manager.
The St. Maarten Tourist Bureau came up with idea of the Boardwalk Mas as a heritage event that evolved from the Tourism Master Plan (TourMap).
"The idea from the very start was to create a St. Martin experience that everyone would be able to enjoy together and that would continue to enhance the creativity of our people," explained Director of Tourism, Regina LaBega.
She pointed to the variety of participating groups and stressed the unifying strand that holds the whole folkloric and festive jamboree together while celebrating the very best of our culture.
"This year promises to be perhaps the best and largest ever in this young event which holds a lot of potential to attract participants from beyond our shores," LaBega further noted.
Indeed, there will be moko jumbies from Anguilla and St. Kitts/Nevis and already plans are afoot to bring in groups from Curacao for the next edition.
"There is a growing interest in the Boardwalk Mas from neighboring islands," added Dormoy. "Last year, Saba was represented and in future we hope to bring groups from Guadeloupe, St. Thomas, and other places to make this into the unique Caribbean celebration of festive mas it is meant to be."
Highlights of past Boardwalk Mas can be viewed on Youtube at the following links:
The Boardwalk Mas is coordinated on behalf of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, by Offshore Editing Services, a division of House of Nehesi Publishers Foundation. The parade manager Urmain Dormoy can be contacted at 542-2337, for groups and individual artists wishing to participate in the parade or concert of the Boardwalk Mas.
Philipsburg:---Former Commissioner of Public Health Maria Buncamper-Molanus is calling on Commissioner Hyacinth Richardson to let the population of St. Maarten know, which if any actions are being taken regarding the bacteria found in the ingredients of Tylenol products.
The US media reported that ingredients used by Johnson & Johnson in some of the 40 varieties of children's cold medicines recalled last week were contaminated with bacteria, according to the US Food and Drug Administration.
The DP Councilmember is urging the local government to look into this matter and consider removing the relevant products from the shelves in an effort to protect unsuspecting consumers. In addition Councilmember Maria Buncamper-Molanus is suggesting that the Commissioner discusses this situation with the recently transferred Inspectorate of Public Health and take immediate actions with respect informing the general population about the risks.
Buncamper continues to say that the US Agency officials said Tuesday last, that none of the company's finished products tested positive for the contaminants, though such testing is not definitive.
"I would like to advice the general public to do their own investigation. The FDA report, which was posted online, lists more than 20 manufacturing problems found at the McNeil Consumer Healthcare plant in Fort Washington, Pennsylvania, where the formulas were made. Information provided through the US media and online state that the recalled products include children and infant formulations of Tylenol, Motrin, Zyrtec and Benadryl".
J&J's McNeil Consumer Healthcare unit has said some of the recalled medicines may have a higher concentration of the active ingredient than listed on the bottle. Others may contain particles, while still others may contain inactive ingredients that do not meet testing requirements.
While the FDA reiterated that serious medical problems with the products are unlikely, they advised consumers to stop using the medicine as a precaution. Parents are instructed to use generic alternatives instead Buncamper stated.
The local government has the responsibility to inform the people of St. Maarten and to take the necessary actions to protect them. In this case it is the health of our people that we are dealing with, thus the government is expected to act decisively and not wait until a problem occurs, Council Member Maria Buncamper-Molanus concluded.
GREAT BAY,– Commissioner of Telecommunications William Marlin, would like to wish all those working in the telecommunications sector on the island a happy World Telecommunications & Information Society Day (WTISD), this Monday, May 17.
The theme of this year WTISD is, "Better city, better life." The theme represents the common wish of all humankind to achieve better living standards in future urban environments.
Information and communication technologies (ICT) play a catalysing role in achieving this goal.
The aim is achieving greener, safer, healthier, prosperous, inclusive and well managed cities where over half the world's population resides.
"It is government's goal to make use of ICT more in the future. The mobile phone and the internet and now the blackberry have reshaped the world.
"ICTs have helped billions of people to live, work and play. Today in some countries, you have smart buildings, intelligent traffic management and much more.
"ICTs have a huge potential to improve the lives of people by providing affordable and equitable access to information and knowledge to empower everyone to achieve their aspirations.
"On this special day, I would like to wish all telecommunication and ICT workers much success in their endeavours and to keep up the good work," Commissioner of Telecommunications William Marlin told the Government Information Service (GIS).
Philipsburg/ Marigot:--- French citizens have until July 7th to leave St. Maarten/St Martin with their French identification cards. SMN News learnt that the office of the Lt. Governor and the Sous Prefecture has agreed to give all French citizens that are currently on St. Maarten/ St. Martin two months to get their acts together to obtain a passport to enter or exit St. Maarten/St Martin.
SMN News learnt that the two heads of states have formally agreed to allow passengers currently on St. Maarten time to leave, so that they would have the time needed to meet the International Air Transport Association rules.
SMN News also learnt that Airlines in France and other airport officials have already been turning back passengers who are not in possession of a passport.
The Civil Registry Department hereby announces that the Passport Processing machine is currently out of service due to technical challenges until further notice. This applies to first time and renewal passport applications. Passports submitted prior to the malfunction can still be collected. The department offers its sincerest apologies for any inconvenience this may cause.
For further information you can call the Civil Registry Department at 542-2457.
Philipsburg:--- Members of the Lions Club who are currently on St. Maarten for their multiple district convention paid a courtesy visit to Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards on Wednesday. Among those that visited the governor is Ivor English Council Chairman from Guyana.
During a press conference English told reporters that the Lions is now celebrating its 30th multiple district convention. He said the members of these districts meet every year at a common venue to look at issues relevant to the development of Lionism. He said during this time they celebrate while reporting on the activities each district carried out over the year. English said one of their principle focus on is vision care because Helen Keller challenged Lions to be knights of the blind several decades ago. He said while vision care is one of their principal area of focus they also focus on other medical challenges and natural disasters since the Caribbean region is very volatile in natural disasters. English gave an example of how the region responded to Haiti when they were struck with earthquake on January 12. He said the motto of the Lion is they Serve not looking for anything in return, instead they serve out of love, compassion and a genuine concern for human needs. This week over 300 delegates from around the Caribbean Region are meeting on St. Maarten. The opening of the convention took place Wednesday evening at the Maho Convention Center.
English said the Lions on St. Maarten have been a beacon of light and hope in Lionism on St. Maarten which they all saluted the St. Maarten's leadership. English said this year's theme is "Move to Grow, Committed to Reach and Grow and Transform."
One of the beliefs and objectives of the Lions is to reach the less fortunate so they can grow as well as enrich as well as experience to help others. English said the Lions have been partnering with other Social organizations because they have come to realize that they are not able to do it alone.
Walley Haverthong of the St Maarten Lions Club said apart from the activities planned this week for the convention the Lions club would be focusing on men's health during the month of June.
Philipsburg:--- OECS Club Netball champions Elite Strikers of Saint Lucia continued their march towards retaining their title with a more clinical display this morning, as matches in the 2010 Courts-sponsored OECS Club Netball Championship continued.
One Court One, Vita Malt Maple of St. Vincent and the Grenadines began their campaign with a 62 – 26 demolition of Stoney Grove Untouchables of Nevis.
The quarter scores were 16 – 08, 31 – 14, 49 – 21, 62 – 26; all in favour of Vita Malt Maple.
Skiddy Crick was the lead performer for Maple with an 89-percent shooting average; netting 48 of 54 attempts.
Roseclair Hall had a 61-percent shooting average as she shot 14 of her 23 attempts.
For the Untouchables, Latasha Isles scored 23 of 29 attempts a 79-percent shooting average, Lydia Thompson Claxton had a 33-percent shooting average, scoring 2 of 6 attempts, while Shamyse Bartlette scored one of 4 attempts; a 25-percent shooting average.
Meanwhile in the morning's other game on Court Two, Elite Strikers was given a wakeup call when Fort Knox Aces of Dominica stormed to a 3-0 lead in the first quarter.
The defending champions replied in typical fashion, scoring ten unanswered goals and went into the first quarter, enjoying a 14 – 05 lead.
The Saint Lucians never relinquished the lead, as the remaining quarter scores were 29 – 11, 44 – 17, winning in the end 59 – 27.
Glatta Gabriel enjoyed a 79-percent shooting average as she netted 15 of 19 attempts, Shem Maxwell had an 82-percent shooting average netting 32 of 39 attempts, and Deidra Mathurin scored 12 of 16 attempts; a 75-percent shooting average.
For the Aces, Jennifer Nanton scored 13 of 23 attempts – a 57-percent shooting average, Rosemary Balson had a 71-percent shooting average as she scored 10 of 14 attempts; and Cynthia Joseph scored 4 of six attempts – a 67-percent average as the Dominicans struggled to come to grips with the speed and agility of their opponents.
Philipsburg:---After careful consideration and a review of the entire situation which has unfortunately been a drawn out affair, the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) has named No Limit Band as Band of the Year for Carnival 2010.
The SCDF acknowledges that there was an instance of miscommunication with announcing of the decision, and accepts responsibility for the uncertainties that followed. However, this does not negate the fact that the SCDF has criteria which must be adhered to and as such our decision was based on that.
The SCDF regrets the miscommunication in this matter.
Philipsburg:----Police tracked down two bandits who had just broken into a home on Sunday May 23rd at King of Seas Road in and arrested them on the spot. The duo was caught on Arch road in a rental car and bearing the number plate M -8751.
Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said the two culprits were seen by a resident of the neighborhood who gave police all the necessary information to track down their car and heist.
Henson police said police found a large amount of gold jewelry and other type of jewelry were found in the car. Both suspects were arrested on the spot and the car which later turned out to be a rental and the jewelry were confiscated for further investigation. They were taken to the police station and handed over to the detective department. The owner of the jewelry recognized the jewelry as her property.
Philipsburg: --- The joint court of appeals of the Netherlands Antilles upheld the verdict handed down by the court of first instance against Delano Richardson head of VROM.
Delano Richardson is sentenced to ten months conditional sentence, two years probation and 200 hours of community service. Richardson is also banned from working for the island government for the next three years.
Richardson was charged with extortion of monies in exchange for a building permit.
GREAT BAY:---The book party for Because of Prayer by Felecita T. Williams takes place on Saturday, May 29 here at the WIFOL convention center, at 7.30pm, said the book's publisher, House of Nehesi (HNP).
Former acting Lt. Governor Richard Luckert will introduce the new autobiography as the guest speaker, said Felecita Williams. St. Martin's newest author will also read selections from her own true-life story.
Dr. E.D. Wolff of the Sophia Kinderziekenhuis in The Netherlands, sets part of the stage for readers when he wrote about how he met the author over 25 years ago:
"There was a little girl on Curaçao (originally from St. Maarten) who was suffering from serious kidney failure."
"Moreover, it was revealed that she was seriously ill in an isolation room. ... Based on our experience with children with kidney failure we thought that perhaps we could offer some help and that is the way that Cita Williams came into our lives."
The slim and attractively designed hardcover book recounts childhood experiences of joy and tremendous pain that could make some readers wince, "especially when they realize that it was a small child going through the medical operations," said HNP president Jacqueline Sample.
Williams courageously and sometimes cautiously wrote about her birth at St. Rose Hospital, family sacrifice, the search for a new kidney, being a student at MPC, puppy love "attractions," questions about life, finding a church where "something" was not missing, and challenges on her job with co-workers, said Sample.
"Did Felecita name names? What did her parents do when they were told to prepare for the worst and a minister appeared at her hospital bed in Curacao? We all have to read the book for those answers," said Sample.
According to the author, it took nearly four years of writing Because of Prayer before she approached HNP in 2009.
The new book is available at Van Dorp and Arnia's bookstores and the author will be signing copies at the book launch on Saturday, said Sample.
Philipsburg:--- Island Council member and former commissioner of telecommunications Maria Buncamper-Molanus has submitted a number of questions regarding the amendment of the articles which makes issuing bonds possible for the government owned St. Maarten Telecommunication Holding Company (STHC NV).
According to the proposal presented by government the holding envisages entering into a bond issue for a maximum principal amount of USD 20 million plus interest and expenses, for which issue Scotiatrust and Merchant Bank Trinidad and Tobago limited will act as arranger (the "Bond Issues")
Buncamper stated that no public debate preceded the voting on the subject and as such neither the Island council nor the people of St. Maarten were informed about this proposal by the Government. In addition many important questions remain unanswered. For this reason the DP has submitted a letter to the Executive Council requesting answers to 14 questions on the telecom subject.
The proposal states that any one bondholder can hold the company in default if at any time the principal and or interest of the bond cannot be paid. Simply put: it takes only one bond holder for the company to be held in default.
- What is the status of the management at the company? Under normal circumstances management would have to be well established and have the confidence of the shareholder before such a tremendous risk is taken. Can we conclude that the Shareholder has full confidence in management?
- Is the underwriter assuming responsibility of the bond? If so please indicate how.Going to the third mortgage position indicates a concern. So what is apparent is that there is no intension to consolidate.
Council lady Maria Buncamper –Molanus continues: "As an example let's consider that another telecom company buys the bonds. If then this one bond holder calls default because of a payment not being made of the principal and or interest, it would mean that the entire bond and the company have a problem. A provide more clarity on this issue we have requested the T.O.R. of the bond arranger.
- Please provide the T.O.R. of the bond arranger.
- How will this bond affect the overall value of the company?
- Floating this bond will create additional debt as there is of course existing debt. Please provide the debt ratio at this moment and indicate how it will be affected after the bond is issued. Have the relevant discussions taken place and has the required permission been granted by the other debtors to accommodate the floating of the USD 20 million bond?
- We would like to ensure that the company remains solvent. Increasing the debt does not necessarily increase the solvency of the company. This then affects the job security as well. It is important to get an impression on whether or not this bond will have effects on the job security of those employed by the STHC NV and the subsidiaries.
- Resolution: What is the interest and what are the expenses associated with floating the bond of USD 20 million?
- Consideration b (i) of the resolution: It is stated that cross guarantees are part of this arrangement. In other words – the same assets are being used to guarantee more than one debt. What is the value of the pledged security and what is the value of the companies that have pledges their assets? This is important to know, because all companies are being encumbered.
- 1 b (ii) an (iii): What is the value of the equipment, the buildings and the real estate.
- What is the amount of the outstanding debt?
- Can we be provided with the existing debt structure?
- What are the terms? We know that the principal of maximum USD 20 million is established, but is this a short, mid or long-term bond.
- Can we please be provided with the underwriting agreement? The government refers to the "arranger". We need to know what that agreement entails.
- The proposal mentions the third mortgage. We can conclude that the most recently constructed buildings will be mortgaged. The fact that we are talking about a 3rd tight of mortgage is reason for concern and so we would like to be provided with a list of all assets held by the banks, other financial institutions at this moment.
"While clearly this matter has been approved by the Island Council, but for the sake of informing the members of the Island Council and the people of St. Maarten we look forward to the government's response": concludes DP Council member Maria Buncamper-Molanus.
Philipsburg: --- Leader of Government William Marlin has announced that St. Maarten has withdrawn its request from the Central Government for the 2% turn over tax increase. Marlin said the decision was taken after members of the island council who are currently supporting the current government met and they have decided to abandon the efforts to increase turn over tax. The island leader made clear than none of the members of the island council had really wanted to increase the TOT but they had no choice when trying to meet the deadline of the CFT and to avoid having to take instructions from the Council of Ministers.
Marlin when he met with the Prime Minister in Curacao last week he wanted to see if he could have reached an agreement to reverse the revenue sharing with the Central government whereby to have 2% of the said tax to stay on the island while 1% sent to Curacao.
Marlin said he did explain to the Prime Minister that he was trying to find a political solution to the current problem as the Prime Minister had promised to take up the matter with the Minister of Finance who was off island during his visit.
Marlin said so far he has had no communication with the Minister of finance but he was informed of the discussions that took place between the Prime Minister and Minister of Finance through the Minister of Constitutional Affairs.
Marlin said the proposal that was discussed during the meeting was that instead of reversing the TOT sharing agreement or to increase the TOT they are looking into securing at least 15 million of the BRK funds which will be sent to St. Maarten.
Marlin said to avoid any confusion since they had already sent the letter to the Minister of finance to increase the TOT and with the current discussion taking place to secure the monies through the BRK funds the executive council has decided to send a formal letter to the Minister of Finance telling her that St. Maarten has decided to withdraw its request of increasing TOT.
Marlin made clear that even though discussions are taking place and letters are going forward and backward there is no agreement with the central government on how the 13 million guilders needed to balance the 2010 budget will be covered. Marlin said even though time is of essence since St. Maarten has its final discussions with the CFT on June 12 the executive council of St. Maarten is trying to make sure there is full clarity with the sharing of the BRK funds since Curacao already is claiming 75% of the funds totaling 115 million Euros.
Marlin made clear that the National Alliance is not putting a gun at the heads of their coalition partners in the Central government however, they have indicated that if there is a political will the monies that St. Maarten need to balance its 2010 budget can be made available.
The island leader gave examples of the six million guilders that were given to an association created by one of its Ministers for materials for a hospital even though the Central government does not have a hospital.
GREAT BAY:--- Governor Franklyn Richards, Chairman of the Island's Disaster Emergency Management Organization, the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), says that the first Tropical Storm of the Eastern Pacific hurricane season Agatha, is a wake-up call for island nations in the Caribbean Basin including Sint Maarten in preparing for a busy 2010 hurricane season that starts on Tuesday, June 1.
The U.S. National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration Climate Prediction Center, last Thursday forecasted a busier than average hurricane season forecasting 14 to 23 named Tropical Storms of which eight to 14 could develop into a hurricane. Of those, three to seven could become major hurricanes of category three or higher with sustained wind speeds of 111 miles per hour and above.
"Over the weekend the first Tropical Storm of the Eastern Pacific Basin formed off the coast of Guatemala. Agatha left a number of persons dead in Guatemala due to torrential rains causing rock and mudslides. I once again appeal to the Sint Maarten population as the official hurricane season kicks off on Tuesday, June 1, to remember that it only takes one storm to make it a bad hurricane season.
"It is your responsibility to take every necessary precaution to ensure that this hurricane season passes without undue loss of life, human suffering and damage to property. It is our responsibility as members of our communities to prepare. We cannot stop a hurricane, but we can be better prepared for nature's fury," Governor Richards told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Sunday.
The 2010 Hurricane Season name list is: Alex, Bonnie, Colin, Danielle, Earl, Fiona, Gaston, Hermine, Igor, Julia, Karl, Lisa, Matthew, Nicole, Otto, Paula, Richard, Shary, Tomas, Virginie and Walter.
The 2010 hurricane season officially runs from June 1 through November 30.
In its continued efforts to ensure that air travel remains affordable for the thousands that continue to travel each month, WINAIR has once again implemented yet another special. This according to the company's Vice President of Marketing, Claudio Buncamper, forms part of its welcoming of three new routes that the company will add to its rooster commencing on June 14, 2010.
Buncamper said that WINAIR will continue to provide exceptionally low, low fares to travelers as it recognizes the importance and pertinent role of inter island traveling. "We are cognizant that with challenging and difficult financial times that ensuring that air travel is kept at its minimal will certainly help and therefore we have embarked on a holistic plan to ensure that airfare is very low thus ensuring that the traveling public can benefit from the well deserved ease," he said.
He pointed out that the current special fares being offered are St. Maarten to
Tortola US$ 49.00, Dominica US$ 89.00, St. Lucia US$ 109.00
Tortola to
St. Maarten US$ 49.00
Antigua US$ 89.00
Dominica US$ 109.00
St. Lucia US$ 129.00
Dominica to
St. Maarten US$ 89.00
Tortola US$ 109.00
St. Lucia US$ 79.00
St. Lucia to
St. Maarten US$ 109.00
Dominica US$ 79.00
Tortola US$ 129.00
Antigua to
Tortola US$ 89.0
The Vice President of Marketing noted that these fares are on sales until June 21, 2010 adding that travel is permitted until September 30, 2010. Buncamper stressed that tickets can be purchased at their favorite travel agency, any Winair agent or online at www.fly-winair.com.
He stressed that the fares quotes are one-way and exclude all governmental taxes. "It is important for the public to know that Winair fares includes all fuel surcharges, so no addition will be added to the base fare therefore I urge all to take advantage of these specials as while times are hard traveling doesn't have to be expensive also," he suggested
Buncamper went on to point out that the company is currently addressing a number of issues as it seeks to improve and enhance the performance of its airline service declaring that the public will continue to see the improvement on its delivering of service. "I must reiterate that safety and a high delivery of service will continue to remain the hall mark of our service to the public," Buncamper promised.
GEBE is organizing a Green Expo on Statia and Saba on June 4 and 5, respectively demonstrating different energy saving products that are available from local hardware stores that can save customers hundreds of guilders in electricity costs per year, but also help to save the environment by reducing carbon emissions. The Eco Expo for St. Maarten that was being organized by environmental organizations was cancelled in April and did not allow enough time for GEBE to organize for St. Maarten as well.
The Green Expo will demonstrate different areas of the household where electricity and water usage was the most and therefore where savings can be greatest through often simple techniques or affordable products.
GEBE has also organized a Change a Bulb pledge encouraging everyone to change their bulbs from incandescent to Compact Florescent Bulbs (CFL) or Light Emitting Diodes (LED). GEBE will be distributing energy saving bulbs to the Expo goers to get them on the right track.
The Green Expo will also have drinks and snacks as well as a jumping castle for kids. The Green Expo is being organized with as limited as possible impact on the environment. Snacks and drinks will be served in biodegradable plates and cups, bamboo forks and knives, napkins made from recycled paper, and trash will be collected in biodegradable garbage bags.
The energy saving items on display were donated by Ace Hardware Store, Electec, Kooyman, Luis Construction and E&H Home Center on Saba. The jumping castle on Saba was donated by Saba Groove. All the biodegradable products were donated by PDG Supplies. GEBE would like to thank all the sponsors for their contribution to helping customers save money and the environment.
Philipsburg:--- Acting Lt. Governor Mr. Reynold Groeneveldt receives a courtesy visit from incoming Police Chief KPSS Mr. Peter Witte, who was escorted by outgoing Police Chief Mr. Ademar Doran.
Philipsburg: --- The candidate that is expected to replace head of island labor Raphael Boasman has begun working at the island labor department as of Monday. SMN News learnt that Carmelita Smits-Rombley who is currently working at sector health care affairs is the candidate that was selected by commissioner Hyacinth Richardson to replace Boasman. It is further understood that Smits-Rombley began working at the department on Monday where she is working half a day to clean up the backlog and so called "mess" that is at the department. It is said that Smits-Rombley is working closely with the former head of labor and its director to begin the clean up.
It is not clear if Smits-Rombley would hold both positions or if she would leave sector health care to take up the new position at island labor permanently when the necessary paper work is completed.
It is further understood that Boasman will be sent to work in the department of policy making. Already Boasman had sent a letter to Leader of Government William Marlin indicating to him that he wants to head the section of policy making within the labor department, however, the source said Boasman would have to work under someone who is much more qualified than him. Boasman for some months now has been working diligently with the federal department on the transfer of the federal department to island labor.
SMN News also learnt that a mediator has been selected to replace Kenneth Lopes.
The source said that the executive council has two candidates in mind, namely Denis Philips and Errol Larmonie but the latter they said is much more qualified but will soon go on pension.
The source said Denis Philips has been selected to replace Lopes and the unions are planning to contest the decision since the civil servant has not reported to work for years. They said the unions do not want an alleged delinquent civil servant to be mediator. It is further understood that Philips was sent home by the Federal government and he was ordered not to enter the department of federal and island labor.
Other sources say that an investigation against Philips is currently taking place but that could not be confirmed on Monday.
SMN News also learnt that the unions are also not in favor of Larmonie and they intend to send Commissioner Hyacinth Richardson a letter sometime this week expressing their dissatisfaction with the candidates he selected to take up key positions at the labor department.
It is learnt that the Windward Islands Chamber of Labor Unions met with the executive council on Thursday to discuss the appointments of persons to certain positions. SMN News learnt that the unions were told that there are two members selected to take up the position but to date no names were given to them. The unions it is understood intends to ask the executive council to advertise the position so that a suitable candidate can be found.
PHILIPSBURG--Today is the last day for Brooks Tower Accord (BTA) applicants to pay for and collect their decrees.
The Immigration Department in Philipsburg Police Station and the Federal Receiver's Office will remain open until 6:00pm today, Tuesday to facilitate applicants.
Justice Minister Magali Jacoba urged BTA applicants who still have to collect their decrees so that they are documented as St. Maarten residents to make use of the extended opening hours today.
The Immigration Department will issue the last invoices to BTA applicants until 5:00pm to give applicants one hour to go to the Federal Receiver's Office to pay and return to the police station to collect the decree.
The minister reminds all applicants that the Federal Receiver's Office does not accept US $100 bills. Applicants are urged to have these bills changed at the local banks so they are not hampered by trying to pay for their decrees with these bills.
The Federal Receiver's Office is located a short distance from the police station on E. Camille Richardson Street (across from ECC).
Jacoba has organised for the Federal Receiver's Office to remain open for the extra hours so applicants have the opportunity to get their status on the island regulated. She thanked the office staff for their cooperation to ensure everyone gets a fair chance to pay for their documents.
The minister also thanked the staff of the Immigration Department in the Police Station for their cooperation today and for the past months of the BTA process.
Jacoba is on St. Maarten to sign the last decrees of the BTA process and for the opening of the new Immigration and Naturalisation Building on A.Th. Illidge Road. That office is closed this afternoon for the ceremony.
She will also travel to Saba and St. Eustatius this week with the recently appointed Chief Police Commissioner for the Windward Islands Peter de Witte and next new Chief Police for Bonaire (by July 1st) Jan Rooijakker who will become the new head of the BES (Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba) police force after 10-10-10.
Marigot: --- The members of the support committee for Robert Romney is calling on all parents and concerned citizens to attended an information session on Thursday afternoon at the Chamber of Commerce Building in Concordia. The aim of the meeting is to find ways of demanding answers from elected officials for an update on the Robert Romney case.
Aline Choisy in a press release said to date elected officials on St. Martin are still to inform the committee on the progress they have made to keep Romney at the department of education on St. Martin. Choisy said while they are hearing rumors within the community the committee has not gotten any official response from their elected officials.
"We are still awaiting answers from The President of the Collectivity pertaining to the motion that was sent to the Ministries of Education and Overseas since May 18th, 2010." Choisy further explained that senator Louis Constant Fleming has also promised us to meet with the Ministers in Paris. It seems as if certain individuals, Saint Martiners are out there discrediting Mr. Romney and that is very sad as he is a son of this land, she said.
The Support Committee believes that this whole affair boils down to the fact that Mr. Romney was appointed in 2007 on the insistence of the political leaders and that is something that the Rectorate does not accept.
Choisy said they understood that a letter was sent to the Senator by Mr. Romney and the answer was sent "by mistake" to the Rector in Guadeloupe which considered that as a lack of loyalty towards him.
She said the committee believes that is very futile and just pettiness. The Support Committee, cannot tolerate such arguments be used to get rid of someone who has always been an example as an educator throughout his entire life. What sort of gratitude does this show teachers or educators? She asked.
There are no concrete reproaches to be done to Mr. Romney so by all means he must be thrown in the lions' den! Saint Martin people must unite as any other people would do to defend their rights.
"We know of some individuals criticizing, as usual, all that is being done but we won't give up the fight and on Thursday, June 17th at 7.30 PM at the CCI an informative meeting will be held. We are inviting all parents, all concerned citizens to come out that evening massively."
They will be able to get all the information needed to understand what is happening in this affair. This is not the time to be politicking about each other! Saint Martin people need to get together and stop bringing down each other! The Rector and his staff will be in Saint Martin on June 30th and Saint Martin people need to demand to have a meeting with them. We won't let that what took place in St Barths happen here too!
GREAT BAY,–Sector Public Health, Social Development & Labour (VSA) Inspection VSA, has issued a public recall of Libby's Corned Beef 12 oz cans and 35 oz boxes of Seasoned Cooked Beef. Consumers are asked to immediately discontinue using the aforementioned products which may be contaminated with the animal drug Ivermectin which is used to de-worm live animals.
The 12 oz cans of Libby's corned beef have been distributed to retail locations with production codes 100222U, 100219U or 100224U.
The cans and packages are marked with "Brasil 337 S.I.F." on the top or side, as well as "Product of Brazil" or "Packed under Brazilian Government Inspection." Consumer should look out for the aforementioned markings.
Inspectors are busy visiting the various retail outlets to make sure that the product has been removed from store shelves after the recall was issued. Retailers who still have the product can return them directly to the wholesaler.
Consumers who have the product should return them to the grocery store where they purchased the product along with the receipt for reimbursement.
The wholesaler has been instructed to contact grocery stores on the neighbouring islands of Saba, Sint Eustatius and Anguilla that purchase food products via the wholesaler in Sint Maarten about the recall.
Persons who have in the meantime consumed the product should contact their family physician if they experience the following symptoms: itching, rashes, dizziness, sometimes fever and headaches, muscle pains and weakness at times, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, nausea, and sometimes constipation.
Other serious side effects are worsening asthma, lowering of blood pressure, seizures and damage to liver and skin.
For further information you can call Inspection VSA at 542-2059.
NAGICO Insurances, a St Maarten headquartered insurance firm and considered as the leading insurance company in the Eastern Caribbean on Friday last announced the launch of its NAGICARE Health plan for members of the public.
The simple but impressive launch took place at the company's St Kitts and Nevis main office and saw a number of agents, staff and members of the media fraternity in attendance. According to Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Imran Mc Sood Amjad, the new plan is expected to see residents and nationals' of the federation being able to access insurance to address their health. He said that for the past three to four years he continues to be bombarded by requests and questions as to when the plan would have been made a reality.
"This is a very important day as for the past three to four years I was constantly asked as to when such a plan would be made available and I am happy to say that it is being made a reality in St Kitts and Nevis while the training for Antigua has completed and the plan will be launch shortly there also," Amjad said.
He pointed out that the NAGICARE health plan program will see details of the plan being made available to businesses and the general public. "This plan is one of the leading plans within the Netherlands Antilles and the staff at the hospital in St Maarten has requested this plan because they are satisfied with what we have been offering for the past 20 years to a number of persons. As a matter of fact, doctors and pharmacies requests the NAGICO card whenever persons turn at them," he said.
He noted that the new plan is something that NAGICO had planned for St Kitts and Nevis for a while noting that they see it as being timely. "The time as come where Kittitians and Nevisians can access health care from us as we firmly believe that in this day and age having such a plan like what we are offering is critically important," Amjad said.
"I must say that today we are seeing tremendous interest being expressed in persons wanting to access our NAGICARE which indicates that the terms and benefits are welcome and appreciated by all," he reiterated.
Meanwhile, Manager of Group Life and Medical, Karson Bovell in commenting on the plan said that as the world moves towards universal health insurance coverage it provides an excellent opportunity for insurance companies to operate in an even more competitive marketplace where companies will have to offer quality products and services to take market share and increase revenue.
"It's no longer an easy road and we appreciate this as it allows us to compete for market shares which is very important in remaining competitive," Bovell said.
The Group Life and Medical Manager pointed out that the success of the plan has been as a result of his company focusing on winning market share and loyalty through adaptive and efficient sales processes and offering an exceptional customer experience. "NAGICO Insurances offers you solutions to medical coverage benefits tailor-made to your budget and preferences. We are guaranteeing that within seven working days of the submission of claims that we will pay them as we believe in timely and efficient turn around," he said.
Bovell in explaining what the plan offers said that it provides Worldwide Flexible Coverage Options, Up to 100% Reimbursement, Reliable Coverage for Every Budget, Air Ambulance Service Included, Includes Annual Preventive Care, High Maternity Benefits, Covers Organ Transplants, Dental and Vision (optional) and No Annual Deductible (optional).
He added that customer service representatives are eager to provide interested persons with information on their coverage options and assist them with their application also. He urged persons that the next time that they visit the doctor that they should rest assured that with this new plan that they are covered. "Listen to some sound advice...NAGICARE is of the best Medical Insurance plans your money can buy," Bovell declared.
NAGICO Insurances is found in 13 islands namely B.V.I. • Anguilla • St. Maarten • St. Eustatius • Saba • St. Kitts • Nevis Antigua • Montserrat • Dominica • Aruba • Bonaire • Curaçao.
Philipsburg: ---- The island council meeting that was requested by the executive council on Monday June 21 had to be rescheduled due to a lack of quorum. Acting Lt. Governor Reynold Groeneveldt opened the meeting then adjourned it for 30 minutes for a lack of quorum. Even though members of the Democratic Party faction were in their seats they did not sign in for the meeting.
The meeting was to discuss the sanitary landfill and the new government administration building. Absent on Monday was Leader of Government William Marlin who is currently in the Netherlands, independent island council member Theo Heyliger who notified the governor that he would be absent, Maria Buncamper Molanus and Leroy de Weever.
Just before adjourning the meeting when it initially opened Acting Lt. Governor and Chairman of the island council Reynold Groenveldt called on island council member Roy Marlin to make sure he is properly attired when the meeting reopens. Marlin was seated in his chair wearing a white long sleeve shirt and tie with his coat thrown over the back of his chair.
Marlin was also eating a sandwich when the chairman addressed the council.
The island council member with his mouthful asked the chairman where he could find the dress code for the island council. He also contested that the meeting was not in session at the time. Marlin felt since there was no quorum and the chairman was only following the rules of order when he opened and adjourned the meeting it was not necessary for him to have on his coat. Groeneveldt in response to Marlin's statement said that even if there was no written dress code it is customary that all members of the council are properly attired when the council is in session.
In the meantime, the island council meeting is now scheduled to be called on Wednesday.
GREAT BAY,– The Civil Registry Office would hereby like to inform the community that the Identification Card (ID) production machine is currently out of service until further notice.
The department offers its sincerest apologies for any inconvenience this may cause.
For further information you can call the Civil Registry Department at 542-2457.
Philipsburg:---Managing Director of the Christian Kingdom Cooperative Credit Union, Franklyn Bryson said that the hosting of the CCCU convention being held in St Maarten is a big shot in the arm. Bryson was at the time speaking at the opening ceremony of the CCCU convention taking place in St Maarten.
"We are hurting like other countries around the world with the financial crisis, however we are very excited that you (CCCU) selected us to host your convention here as it is a big shot in the arm," he said.
Bryson urged delegates attending to visit and explore other parts of the island noting that the country boost some excellent high standard restaurants which they would be impressed with.
"You can visit a very good restaurant each day of the year, 365 days of the year and you can visit a good restaurant each evening. I am not speaking about any mediocre restaurant but restaurants that are very good and are of a high standard so please visit the stores, restaurants and any the businesses on back and front street as we need this financial injection into our economy as it is hurting and we would greatly appreciate the finances that you the delegates would pump into our economy," he reiterated.
Bryson told some 400 odd delegates that the Christian Kingdom Cooperative Credit Union was established in 2002 after according to the organization it was impressed with the convention that was held in 2001 in their country.
"We were very impressed with what we noticed when the convention was hosted in our country in 2001 and so we decided to seek permission from the government here to start a credit union. We are very thankful and grateful again for CCCU granting us yet another opportunity to host the convention this year as it will certainly boost our economy and will help in growing and promoting Credit Union in St Maarten," Bryson said.
Philipsburg:---The Journey for Education Foundation held a short press presentation as they handed out U$ 12.000.00 in grants to 5 students.
Out of a total of 19 applicants, the following students were awarded funds to pursue tertiary education; Kevin Simon, Latricia Richards, Lakhsmi Hathiramani, Catherina Carbon and Gisella Hilliman. The students were all lauded by JFE President Rolando Tobias for their consistency in excellent academic performance. The majority of the recipients were repeat applicants. He encouraged them to return to St Maarten and to contribute in whatever way they could to the development of the island.
In explaining the Foundation's endeavor to add content to its selection process, in addition to the regular requirements, the Foundation also looked at other criteria. In the case of Lakshmi Hathiramani, she was lauded for her direct support to JFE by selling tickets at the walkathon. Gisella Hilliman was granted the maximum amount of U$ 5.000.00. Gisella, who serves as a role model for many youngsters on the island is pursuing her Doctorate Degree in Clinical Pyschology in Massachusettes and has maintained an excellent GPA during her previous studies. Speaking on behalf of the recipients, Gisella Hilliman expressed sincere appreciation for the fact that there is an organization that can assist students with the extra needed funds to realize their dreams. She pledged that indeed they will return and ensure they can contribute to the island.
In the presence of family members and JFE board members, the cheques were handed out by JFE Treasurer Steven Patrick.
Journey for Education Foundation is a non profit organization that raises funds by means of a gala dinner and walkathon. Funds are then distributed to students as supplementary funding.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—At the UTS Training and Development Center, the Socio-Cultural Development Department held a meeting with members of the press core and a representative of the Government Information Service to discuss the media policy, the advertising policy, and the media council.
Head of the SCD Department Neville York welcomed the organizational representatives and gave a short introduction.
Participants were given the opportunity as well to send in their comments and questions regarding the proposed legislation...
York said that the media is an important part of the functioning of society as a whole; as such it is key in maintaining a healthy, strong a vibrant democracy.
During the meeting, the initial discussion centered on the media council, which is to be tasked with:
- promoting fairness, accuracy, accountability and journalistic integrity in the content and presentation of media coverage, including news reports, comments, articles and pictures, through the creation of an independent Media Council; and
- Establishing standards/codes of conduct for the media and a mechanism for dealing with complaints of breach of those standards/codes.
York said that in some weeks the media policy and advertising policy will be translated, and a next meeting will be scheduled to have a short presentation and to discuss these policies in detail.
York in a comment after the meeting explained the power and influence of the Media Council and by extension the media through the code of conduct and its self regulatory function. The media plays a very important and constructive role by educating, entertaining, influencing the community and society. It could further help build bridges through awareness and understanding by promoting love, care, unity, closeness and togetherness between communities and all people. This is extremely vital for a good system and progress and prosperity of any democratic country.
Other topics include the code of ethics for the media, media policies in different countries, off-limit topics to cover, among different topics.
Minority Leader in the Trinidad and Tobago House of Assembly and political leader of the Tobago Organisation of the People (TOP), Ashworth Jack,is slated to be the Guest Speaker at this weekend's 45th People's Action Movement , PAM convention.
Jack, who also leads the Tobago United Force/Democratic Action Congress (TUF/DAC), successfully led his TOP Party in the recent historic Trinidad and Tobago General Elections in all the seats they contested .
The Jack led T.O.P Party is a part of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissesar's historic People's Partnership Coalition .
Mr. Ashworth Michael Jack is the parliamentary representative for the Trinidad and Tobago Providence/ Mason Hall/ Moriah Electoral District. He has represented this district for the last thirteen years as an elected member of the House of Assembly.
Mr. Ashworth Michael Jack has been involved in politics for 31 years and has participated and been the focal point in many historic parliamentary sessions, including events of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association and in many conferences around the World.
Jack has been Chairman of the Tobago Democratic Action Congress and Constituency Chairman of the National Alliance for Reconstruction, Tobago .
Jack along with Party Leader Mr.Lindsay Grant are the featured speakers at Sunday's event which is expected to draw thousands of party supporters, friends, and dignitaries to the People's Action Movement headquarters on Lockhart Street.
The convention has for the last 45 years been the highlight event for the party's faithful. It has also been a time of reflection and inspiration as members recall when in 1965 the four original PAM stalwarts (Billy Herbert, Kennedy Simmonds, Michael Powell, and Richard Caines) decided that for the love of country they would sacrifice their lives and challenge the dictatorial policies of the Labour Administration led by Sir Robert L. Bradshaw. Other pioneers included Colin Pereira, Cecil "Moonlight" Roberts, Joseph Sutton, Victor Maynard, Richard Shelford, Shefton Warner, and Courtney Dickenson.
The People's Action Movement 45TH Convention will be held on Sunday July 4th starting to 1pm.
Marigot:--- The members of the EPIC board that is governing the Office du Tourisme has voted unanimously in favor of Silvane John on Wednesday June 30th confirmed President of the Board Ida Zin Ka Ieu. John will be talking the helm of the French Tourism Office on September 1.
The EPIC president said that it is her belief that John and herself would bring about some changes to tourism. She said Silvane John has strong ties with the American market and she also has the charisma and diplomacy to attract more people to the destination.
Zin Ka Ieu said that some members of the EPIC board wanted to know why the former director of Office du Tourism Corrine Picaut resigned before voting unanimously for John. Asked about that she said that the director's job is to make sure they follow the rules and regulation that is set down by the EPIC as well as to execute the decisions taken by the board. She said when the director or any other employee does not do that then there is a problem. Zin Ka Ieu further explained that when one has to constantly remind people to do their work or what is expected of them then something must be done. The EPIC president said that she has in her possession the resignation from Corrine Picaut which paved the way for the hiring of a new director in the person of Silvane John.
...
"In the last week I have been shocked at the large volume of calls that I have received from terrified residents all over St. Kitts as the crime wave has made itself strongly felt in a wide variety of ways over just a few days," said St.Kitts-Nevis Senior Opposition MP Shawn .K Richards.
This week , like many others, has been littered with outrageous and serious incidents of crime. On Thursday 24th June there was the vicious beating of a couple in the Half Moon Bay area where robbers savagely vented their frustration at not getting the loot they were expecting. This was followed by the brazen daylight robbery of the breweries truck on its delivery route and several shooting incidents including the shooting of two men in the Soho area of Basseterre. The criminals then showed their contempt for law and order by attempting an armed robbery on the Cayon Police Station in the wee hours of Monday morning.
"The attack on the police station and the scandalous fact that there was only a lone female police officer, Ms. Diana York, on duty at the time who was violently attacked showed that the criminals have passed a terrible threshold. If police stations can be attacked where can anyone be safe?" said MP Richards
The week did not end before their was yet another brazen daylight robbery. This time it was the armed robbery on the Royal Bank next to Valu Mart at 9:00am on the first day of July.
"Even while we can say a silent prayer of thanks about the fact that there was only 1 killing for the month of June I must recognize that it was a lucky break because any of the shooting incidents or armed robberies could have had at least 5 killings. As I considered this state of affairs I could not help but reflect on the recent sitting of parliament just the day before the bank robbery. There we were as the lawmakers of this Federation talking about silliness while out on the streets those we are being paid to represent and ensure security and prosperity for are being traumatized by violence that is out of control," MP Richards lamented.
Richards went on to chastise the Prime Minister and the gov't who have been complaining of the constant criticisms being levelled at them in their handling of the crime issue.
The 2 term Parlimentarian Richards said "How can the Prime Minister or Minister of National Security complain about the criticism that they receive when people are increasingly afraid of doing ordinary things like going to the bank or even relaxing at home in the evening. The economic crisis will become much worse as people are afraid to conduct business and this will paralyze our economy further. Now that our detection rate has finally been recognized to be well below international standard, perhaps now something will be done about it."
Richards expressed the hope that the government does not try to throw the blame off of themselves either by encouraging silly and dangerous talk pretending that our criminals are not from St. Kitts and Nevis or that the real cause of crime is the fact that people are too scared to give evidence.
"We must accept the fact that just as our country has become the most indebted in the world due to labour's mismanagement the same can be said of our crime situation. Crime is out of control because of gov't mismanagement and inability to properly resource our security forces," said Richards.
Richards continued "In the first case if anything will be done then we must recognize that a murderous and crime ridden country is exactly what our country has become under Labour and we must also recognize that our police force has been seriously undermined and that has damaged the morale and professionalism of the officers".
In 2007 officers of the police force expressed grave concern about their living and working conditions. The officers complained and it is alledged that the mass sick-outs of officers back then was in protest over these concerns. The government responded with a Commission of Inquiry , report of which has not been released to date. In 2009 the Commisioner of Police Austin Williams told BBC news that his forces were under-resourced and "ill-euipped to handle the current crime situation". This was a scathing indictment on the gov't which is mandated to ensure that our security forces have the neccessary resources to effectively combat crime.
"The government was elected (it claims) to lead in precisely this kind of crisis and the lives of our children depend on effective leadership. The current situation is intolerable," said Richards
St.Kitts-Nevis has had an unprecedented 16 homicides for the first half of this year alone and has seen an increase in murders, rapes and robberies over the last 3-4 years.
The St. Maarten Youth Development Program is now registering youngsters interested in following one of the upcoming courses. These courses are Front Desk Agent, PC Repair & Networking and Cook of which the preparatory programs for these courses are set to begin in September.
The St. Maarten Youth Development Program is part of the Education & Youth program project. It is a corporation program between the island government of St Maarten and the Dutch government and funded by USONA. The program is especially for youngsters between the ages of 16 and 24 years who were unable to finish secondary education. With this program youngsters obtain the basic qualifications needed to enter the job market at an assistant's level or further their studies at the SBO/ASVE schools. The Youth Development Program is executed by the Department of Educational Research, Policy and Innovations (DERPI) of Island Government which forms part of the Sector Education, Youth, Culture and Sports.
The preparatory program is a three month phase in the program where the students focus on developing their social skills, computer skills and if needed English reading and writing skills. Students need to complete this phase of the program before being able to move on to their career courses that they have chosen. The main goal of the preparatory program is to provide the youngsters with not only the knowledge but the social skills needed to succeed in the workforce.
The Front Desk Agent and the Cook course will take 6 months to complete and will be taught by the Caribbean Institute for Social Education Foundation (CIFSEF). The PC Repair and Networking course will take one year to complete and will be taught by the Computer Institute of the Caribbean, directed by Daniel Berry. All courses include mandatory job training.
Registration for the above- mentioned courses will take place throughout the entire month of July. Interested persons are asked to please bear in mind that there are a limited amount of spaces available for these courses. All you need to register is a copy of your St. Maarten identification (I.D) card. Registration will be held at the Youth Development Program office upstairs of Carl and Son's Bakery on the Pondfill Road in Philipsburg. The office is open Monday thru Friday from 8 am to 5 pm. For more information, you can contact Janelle Presentacion at 543-0497 or email her at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
GREAT BAY:--- Due to maintenance works activities that need to be carried out, the Department of New Projects Development and Planning, is informing the public that parts of the L.B. Scott Road will be closed to vehicular traffic as of Monday, July 12.
Directional signs will be erected to indicate how the diverted traffic will flow and motorists are asked to pay attention and drive carefully.
Traffic will be disrupted at the intersection of L.B. Scott Road/Boulanger Road, as of Monday, July 12 at 7.00am until Wednesday, July 14 when the road will be re-opened for vehicular traffic.
L.B. Scott Road will be closed between St. Peters Road and Messapple Road as of Tuesday, July 13 at 7.00am until Thursday, July 15 when the road is re-opened to traffic.
The execution and completion of the maintenance works are conditioned on weather conditions.
The Department of New Projects Development and Planning apologizes to the public for any inconvenience that these necessary activities will cause.
Philipsburg:--- In just a few weeks half a decade will have passed since the at that time unregistered Emilio Wilson Estate B.V. submitted its planning permit request for the subdivision and development of the Emilio Wilson Estate in August of 2005. August 2010 will therefore also mark five years since the Emilio Wilson Estate Foundation, the Emilio Wilson Cultural and Historical Park Foundation, the Heritage Foundation and a large number of concerned residents launched renewed efforts to protect the Emilio Wilson Estate.
From 2005 through 2008 Government implemented a number of basic measures towards the protection of the area, including placing the entire Estate on the monument list.
In its verdict on the court case between the Emilio Wilson Estate B.V. and the Island Government, regarding Government's decision to deny the planning permit request submitted by the B.V., the Court of first instance advised the Executive Council to draft a comprehensive conservation zoning plan for the Emilio Wilson Estate to ensure the legal protection of the area.
In 2008 the VROM department of Sector ROB compiled a "draft preparatory resolution Conservation Areas" which includes what is in essence the first step towards the aforementioned zoning plan for the entire Emilio Wilson Estate. Two years later in July 2010 the Zoning Plan for the Emilio Wilson Estate has not yet been completed. The Foundations are concerned that not enough is being done to legally ensure the protection of the estate.
Information reaching the Foundations revealing that Estate shareholder and initiator of the much disputed plans for the development of the Estate, Mr. Henri Brookson has partnered with a Realtor and former Commissioner in the drafting of new plans and strategies for the development of the area only adds to the Foundations' concerns.
The Foundations do not wish to be confronted with a situation whereby the Courts decide to grant developers permission to develop the estate because Government did not take sufficient measures to protect the area.
Emilio Wilson Estate Foundation and St. Maarten Pride Foundation once again urge Government to pursue all possible legal and financial means necessary to realize its commitment to the people of St. Maarten to secure the Emilio Wilson Estate as the Island's first protected area.
Philipsburg:--- Since Sunday July 11th 2010 a group of 20+ members of the Voluntary Corps of Curaçao (VKC) has been on Sint Maarten. Together with members of the Voluntary Corps of Sint Maarten (VKS) they have been very active executing the announced joint training. The main focus of this training is to prepare both groups for possible hurricane situations and to forge a closer cooperation. Furthermore advanced military training skills are being instructed.
Some of the highlights of this week's training so far have been the rappelling of the high Blue Mall building in Cupecoy, target practice on the Emilio Wilson Estate's shooting range and the riot drills executed on Pond Island. Instructors from the VKC were instrumental in making sure these drills were successful.
The Commander of the VKS wishes to thank the community, businesses and other entities on the island that are making this joint training possible.
In the pictures scenes from the riot drill, the rappelling and the target practice.
GREAT BAY,– Contractors and builders are requested to have a plan in place to prepare and secure their job sites as the nation approaches the peak months of the 2010 hurricane season.
Even though the season has been quiet so far, every effort should be made to be prepared in the event of a threat.
Contractors and home builders during severe weather are responsible for securing job sites for the protection of the public, property and surrounding areas.
Materials such as plywood, shingles, zinc, and scraps of 2x4s could become flying missiles capable of impaling brick walls or anything in its way.
Construction debris can cause severe damage to property and cost lives. With building and construction activity still taking place on the island, every construction site supervisor or foreman is advised to have a plan in place with respect to what action they will be taking.
A tropical storm system could form during any part of the hurricane season and not necessarily during the peak months of mid August to mid October.
As a general rule, all jobsites should be kept clean. Arrange of timely pick up of trash dumpsters, and only keep materials on the job site you actually will utilize at any given week, and keep construction equipment secure. Any planned supply deliveries should be postponed if the possibility exists of a hurricane threat to the island.
When a hurricane warning is issued, remove all scaffolding, and remove, or safely secure, all building materials and equipment. Sub contractors should also be alerted to their responsibilities as well with respect to securing or removing their materials and equipment.
Stop job processes that will likely become damaged by the hurricane, such as window installations, house wrap, or landscaping. Complete those construction tasks that will likely prevent damage, such as concrete work, closing in a house, or filling in foundation excavations.
Follow through with a quick inspection of your job sites. Do not wait until the last minute to inspect your job sites, as you may need that time to go home and secure your own family home. Employees will need to also do the same.
Once the hurricane is over, return to the job site for damage inspection only when the all clear sign has been given by the Emergency Operations Center headed by the Acting Lt. Governor of the Island Territory of Sint Maarten. Keep in mind that damages from the hurricane may impede efforts for immediate attention of job sites.
Philipsburg:--- Commissioner of Tourism Frans Richardson in a press release said he is gravely concern regarding to the present crime situation on St. Maarten. Richardson said he is of the opinion that the crime wave has the potential to harm St. Maarten's tourism product.
"No one would want to visit a destination that is not considered safe."
While St. Maarten has been reaping the fruits of a re-branding effort and increased airlift possibilities, crime may hamper the island's efforts to make more money in hard times by enticing visitors to St. Maarten.
Even minor crimes like pick-pocketing and harassment of visitors can have a disturbing effect on tourism for the island – since it is not uncommon that incidents are widely publicized on, for instance, internet sites.
"We cannot afford to lose our edge over other destinations, simply because of a small group of individuals choosing to target both resident and visitors in acts of crimes." Richardson said.
As a community, everyone must place a higher priority on stamping out or, at least, curbing criminal behavior in St. Maarten.
Everyone have to also understand how tourism accounts for most of the economy, and it is still the largest foreign exchange earner and employs many people in tourism related sectors.
Reports of the past few days indicate that St. Maarten is positioning itself to do well in the upcoming important winter travel season.
But, if crime is not brought under control soon, travel agents and tour operators will begin worrying about rising crime and will have a difficult time selling St. Maarten as a destination.
Violence and crime rates will always be a consideration for tourists when choosing a destination.
While some may not consider violent crime as a high-level concern for destination St. Maarten right now, we cannot idly sit by and ignore the situation until it is too late.
On crime in general, we have to recognize that incidents involving the loss of lives are to be condemned and cannot be tolerated, under any circumstance.
The public needs to understand though that the combating of crime is not only the job of the police and the justice system. It is also a task for parents, social institutions, the church, schools, the business sector and the average citizen.
As we are weeks away from becoming a country, aspects of security has to become our collective responsibility, recognizing that we no longer have a Central Government to blame or call on.
We must join hands and support efforts aimed at stopping criminal offenders from terrorizing residents and visitors alike and find strategic partnerships focused on the safety of our community.
It is left to each and every one of us to join the fight against crime, to recognize the effects of crime on our community and how this threatens our economy.
Philipsburg: --- Members of the executive council and the relatives of the late Dr. Claude Wathey boycotted the 12th annual wreath laying ceremony organized by the Democratic Party on Saturday.
Deputy Leader of the Democratic Party Erno Labega said that it's a pity these persons who were part of the ceremony for the past years did not show up to lay their wreaths that were at hand. Wreaths were laid by the President and Leader of the Democratic Party, the University of St. Martin, the AC Wathey Political Awareness Foundation and the Democratic Party Youth Wing. The wreath that is normally laid on behalf of the executive council over the years was done by Commissioner Theo Heyliger, grandson of the late Dr. Claude Wathey, but Heyliger did not show up for the event on Saturday morning.
In an invited comment after the ceremony leader of the Democratic Party Sarah Wescott Williams said parties that are normally part of the ceremony are the executive council, the foundation, the USM, the Democratic Party and the Democratic Party Youth Wing. She said they had expected that the same pattern of the past twelve years would have been followed and it is a pity that the members of government did not show up because over the past years they have always honored the legacy of the late Dr. Claude Wathey despite the composition of government. Wescot Williams said despite the no show from several persons the Democratic Party are humbled at being able to recognize the late Wathey on his birthday.
Also looking on at the brief ceremony was Senator Will Johnson from Saba who bluntly refused to part take in a photo shoot with members and supporters of the Democratic Party around his statue. When asked by Erno Labega to join them in taking the photo Johnson said he will be there later in the afternoon supporting commissioner Theo Heyliger who would laying a wreath during the afternoon hours prior to launching his own political party.
Johnson told reporters that he is on St. Maarten to support Commissioner Theo Heyliger. He said he likes Heyliger even though they have their differences about GEBE. "Heyliger has never denied his heritage because he has linage from Saba. I would like to see what Theo will do in this election on his own because for year's people thought he would have been the natural successor and leader of the Democratic Party." Johnson further said he believes Heyliger will do well in the election even though he has some controversial ways of doing business. He said despite Heyliger's business attitude he has done some good things in moving St. Maarten forward especially with his beautification projects. "Let's say I am not only supporting his endeavors but I am an interested onlooker since he is partly my countryman."
Philipsburg:--- The second State Secretary Dudley Lucia paid a courtesy visit to the acting Lt. Governor Reynold Groeneveldt on Monday with his assistants.
Philipsburg:--- Judge C.T.M Luijks took the oath of office on Wednesday in front of fist assistant governor Reynold Groeneveldt at the A. C Wathey Legislative Hall. The new judge is came from Aruba. Groeneveldt welcomes the new judge and his family to St. Maarten. He said he was given the authority to swear in the judge by the governor general of the Netherlands Antilles. Groenveldt also advised the judge to make sure he enjoys the beautiful things the island has to offer. The acting Lt. Governor also informed the judge that he will be returning to his law profession when his time at the governor's office is over.
Philipsburg:--- The staff of Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba will begin the extension of the Brooks Tower Permit on Monday August 2 2010 at the Salvation Army Building in Cole Bay and will end on September 18th 2010. Minister Jacoba told members of the media on Thursday that had they abandoned the entire BTA process then a number of those persons who received the BTA permits earlier this year would not have been able to acquire a regular permit through the normal process. Jacoba said that was one of the reasons the new policy was not published while she had to wait on the decisions of all the islands and their stakeholders before announcing the new strategy.
The Minister said that persons who qualified for the category 1 permit would receive a three year permit at no additional cost. After the three years is over in 2013 the intention is to grant those persons permanent residency because many of them have been living on the island for a number of years now. Persons falling under Category 1 are for those that have been residing on the islands from 2001 to 2005.
Tiara Hasselhoef, head of the BTA project said that the Category 1 has been divided into two groups. The first group which is called Category 1 (A) is for persons who are working with companies or private individuals. These persons she said can begin picking up their employer's declaration form and the list of requirements as early as Sunday at the Philipsburg Police Station at the BTA window.
Hasselhoef said the application forms will be filled out by attendants on Monday in the presence of the applicants. Information she said will be taken directly from the applicant's passport and temporary BTA permit. Applicants are asked to make sure they walk with all the required documents when going to file for the permits. Hasselhoef made clear that the attendants will not be accepting incomplete files and this is once in lifetime opportunity. Persons who do not have all the documents on hand will be sent away and asked to return when they have all that is required to for the processing of the BTA Residency permits.
Hasselhoef urged the BT applicants to make use of the time allotted for the renewal of these permits because the Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba can only sign these permits up to October 9th 2010. She said currently the BTA project team is aiming to process at least 200 applications each day since they are open from Monday August 2 at 8am to 6pm. The processing of these permits is expected to last a maximum of two weeks since the procedure has been simplified. Applications she said is available in English, Spanish and Creole.
The Minister said persons who fall under the steering group would also fall under the Category 1 A and B. Jacoba said the project team is still working on the appeals case and many of them may also receive their permits during this period.
Documents that have to be provided by the applicants are a valid and authentic passport of each family member, A complete BT Application form which must be filled in and signed at the location, copy of the current temporary Resident Permit (BTA) of each family member, declaration of work of the employer, together with a copy of the employer's passport, extract from the Chamber of Commerce of Company, (if the applicant is working for a company), Personal crib number of the main applicant, Official entry statement from school of school aged children (4-18 years) and children above 18 years that are still studying.
Applicants that fall under Category 1 group (B) are for persons who are self supporting. These persons Minister Jacoba said has to register at the Chamber of Commerce as small business entrepreneurs (Sole Proprietorship). The Minister said these persons must go to the Chamber and register and when the registration is complete they can then proceed to the Salvation Army Building as of August 9th. Hasselhoef said the Chamber of Commerce is currently making preparations to have a separate window in place to handle the BTA candidates. Hence there is a short delay in accepting the category 1 (B0 forms. Hasselhoef said that persons who registered for the sole proprietorship cannot sign for any other person. Persons such as gardeners, cleaners and other workers who are working petty jobs for several persons or entities are the ones that fall under this category.
The Minister said for persons who were given the Category 2 BTA permit they would receive a standard one year permit which is renewable and the applicants will be subjected to pay the normal processing fees as stipulated by the island government. The applicants that fall under Category 2 group "A" have to submit the following documents. A complete and signed BT application form, copy of a valid and authentic passport of each family member, copy of the current residence permit BT of each family member, declaration of work of employer (s) together with copies of passport, proof of payment fees at labor department, signed guarantee by the employer, when family members statement of guarantee for each must be signed by the employer of the applicant, extract of chamber of commerce of the company, personal crib number of the main applicant, official entry statement from the school of the school aged children (4-18 years) and children above 18 that are still studying.
Persons falling under group D are for those persons currently studying on St. Maarten.
These applicants would have to submit a complete and sign BT application form, copy of valid passport, copy of current Temporary BT permit, official entry statement from the education institution the applicant is attending, statement of guarantee signed by the guarantor or proof of sufficient financial resources.
State Secretary for Justice Ernie Simmons has called on the BTA recipients to monitor the news and to make sure they follow instructions in order for them to get their status regulated. Simmons said the BTA procedure is a once in a lifetime process and everyone who has been living on the islands illegally should take the opportunity to now and regulate themselves now. He cautioned that the opportunity given now by the Minister of Justice cannot happen after 10/10/10 when the Netherlands Antilles is dismantled.
La Savanne: --- The gendarmes have arrested the father of an 18 year old girl who officially filed a complaint against her father on August 11 2010, alleging that her father has raped her since she was 14 years old. The information was provided the gendarmes section for juvenile delinquency.
In a press release the gendarmes said in light of the evidence, investigators of the brigade arrested the individual the same day. The suspect is now being held at the Baie Mahault penitentiary.
POINT BLANCHE:--- Supporters and sympathizers of the United People's (UP) party are invited to come out and Team UP on Wednesday, August 18 to witness the UP party presenting its lists of candidates to the Chairman of the Main Voting Bureau at the Dr. A.C. Wathey Legislative Hall.
Leader of the UP party Theo Heyliger along with 22 members of Team UP will be marching to the Government Administration Building, Clem Labega Square from the parking lot across from the Methodist Cemetery near the Sonesta Great Bay Beach Hotel, where Heyliger will present the UP lists of candidates and their credentials to the Chairman of the Main Voting Bureau.
Gathering time at the parking lot across from the Methodist Cemetery is 8.00am.
"Interception of Communications" Bill or eavesdropping and wiretapping legislation may just be a means to legalize the clandestine activities of the government," said Peoples' Action Movement Deputy Leader Eugene Hamilton.
Basseterre:--- People's Action Movement Deputy Political Leader MP Hon. Eugene Hamilton is expressing grave concern about the proposed Interception of Communication Bill which was announced through a press release dated August 12th 2010 from the Communications Unit of the Prime Minister. The release stated that the Cabinet earlier in that week discussed and approved The Interception of Communication Bill for introduction into the Parliament for the creation of a single legal framework within which the interception of communications on private and public networks would be responsibly authorised by a High Court Judge.
The Constituency#8 Representative was particularly concerned by the present state of affairs with regards to the technology of Communications Interception and whether the government has such equipment and technology already operational and in use.
"With the announcement of this proposed wiretapping legislation it begs the question whether the government is already currently indulging in such activities to monitor citizens of this country including political opponents," said MP Hamilton. "We have certainly seen over the last few months where many incidents have been exposed which involves the use of high-tech, interceptory type equipment in various clandestine activities of the Labour Party government. It is certainly not far-fetched to imagine that the government has already been indulged in this sort of acivitiy and the legislation may just be a means to legalise it," the first term MP Hamilton, opined.
Many citizens have been questioning the proposed bill and have proclaimed that the bill may be a serious impingment and violation of the rights of citizens and also an invasion of privacy. The Labour government's moral authority to properly implement and maintain such a legislation without abusing it has also been heavily questioned.
"I have been listening to my constituents,the people of St.Kitts-Nevis and the overwhelming majority shares my concern over this proposed draft legislation," said Hamilton. They all express concern not only of the legislation and the possible privacy rights implications but also the government's moral authority to properly oversee such a legislation and not abuse it", Hamilton continued. "Frankly this labour government's track record when it comes to the privacy of citizens is not a very good one as we can recall as far back as 1994 when the labour party circulated tapes of a supposed conversation involving then Minister of Womans Affairs Constance Mitcham. This was before they even got into office. So one can only imagine what they are doing or are planning to do now that they hold the reins of political power."
Reference was made to the controversial Patriot Act passed by President George Bush amidst much opposition by scores of civil rights organizations including the ACLU which saw the legislation as a violation of the constitutional rights and an invasion of privacy of American citizens.
Hamilton said "Indeed, I am reminded of the controversial Patriot Act passed by President George Bush. I am very deeply disturbed at what appears to me to be our government's hell-bent intention to rummage through the private affairs of citizens of this country. This seems to be an effort to not only monitor the activities of persons through the interception of their communications but also to control persons through the monitoring of their personal day to day activities. In the hands of any government such as the Denzil Douglas-led administration this type of Bill is a very slippery slope, as any right-thinking citizen would agree."
The Interception of Communication Bill is setting the stage for a new and comprehensive regime of interception of communications or eaves-dropping and wiretapping of mobile phones, fixed line phones, cell phones, telegraphs, internet wireless networks and devices, mailing systems including parcels and couriers, and other means of communication.
GREAT BAY:--- Executive Director of the Tallahassee-Sint Maarten Foundation (TLH-SXMF) Arthur (Arturo) Lugisse, has joined up with PEECC Foundation to work together in promoting a customized cultural exchange program in the area of architecture.
PEECC (Progressive Educational Experiences in Caribbean Cultures) Director Sara Stone says the project that her foundation is promoting entails to connect University age students from the Netherlands Antilles and those studying in Florida, to come together for a series of workshops instructed by various academic scholars, historians and architects.
"The purpose of the exchange is to examine varied contextual projections of contemporary Caribbean spaces and circumstances with respect to a historical frame. Participants will exchange ideas and observations of the island and design an architectural drawing of an urban island community suitable to replace one of the select groups of debilitated building(s).
"The plan must consider the surrounding architectural characteristics and respect the preservation of any historical properties and or environmental areas. I believe this is a great opportunity and a great experience for students culminating into the presentation and design being put forward to the public.
"I look forward to working with Arthur Lugisse Sint Maarten's Student Coordinator in Tallahassee, Florida in getting this project off the ground with the support and collaboration of local stakeholders on the island," PEECC Director Sara Stone told the Government Information Service (GIS).
"I think this is a great project and the collaboration with the Tallahassee-Sint Maarten partnership will further strengthen what PEECC is trying to do. This is a mutually beneficial relationship which is for the benefit of Sint Maarten's young professionals and youth studying in the field of architecture as well as promoting the preservation of the island's cultural-architectural heritage," Lugisse told the GIS.
Architectural students, graduates, historians, cultural icons, monument preservationists, architecture bureaus and other interested persons can contact Sara Stone at 5871636 or send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
GREAT BAY:--- The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is urging residents to prepare for tropical storm/hurricane conditions as Hurricane Earl approaches the island chain from the East.
The EOC was activated at midday. An update was provided on national preparations for the passing of Earl and a number of decisions have been taken in the interests of public safety and security to prepare for the passing of Hurricane Earl with respect to the clearance of trenches etc.
Residents and contractors must use the remaining day-light hours to complete preparations for the passing of Hurricane Earl.
Weather conditions are expected to deteriorate on Sunday night. Hurricane Earl is forecasted to pass approximately 40 miles North of Sint Maarten on Monday morning as a Category 1 hurricane and possibly a Category 2.
Schools: By order of the Acting Lt. Governor, schools are closed on Monday, August 30 until further notice.
Businesses: By order of the Acting Lt. Governor, businesses are to remain closed on Monday, August 30 until further notice.
Government Offices: All government offices including federal government offices will be closed on Monday, August 30 until further notice. Only emergency services and other related services to disaster management will be on call.
Curfew: A strict curfew will be enforced at 12.00am tonight until further notice. Residents are requested to remain indoors until the all clear sign has been given by the EOC in the interests of personal and public safety.
Hurricane shelters: Information related to this will be released later today based on the latest hurricane forecast to be issued at 5.00pm.
Airport Operations: Normal flight operations will continue up until this afternoon 5.00pm. All evening flights are cancelled.
Hotels & Guesthouses: Hotels and guesthouses are recommended to execute their hurricane plans to protect guests and staff during the passing of Hurricane Earl.
Road Closures: The following roads could be closed by the Police if the need arises with respect to street flooding, rock falls and storm surge; Zagersgut Road; L.B. Scott Road; Bishop Hill Road; Cake House Road; Point Blanche Road; and Beacon Hill Road. The Traffic Police as well as the Public Works Department will continue to monitor the situation with respect to the aforementioned roads. In the event the Beacon Hill Road has to be closed due to storm surge, for emergency purposes, the emergency gates at the airport will be opened by the relevant authorities to allow access (in and out) to the Beacon Hill residential area. Heavy equipment will be available to reopen any roads that are closed due to debris as Hurricane Earl passes the island.
Garbage removal: The Public Works Department is coordinating the pick-up of household garbage by waste disposal companies and small items. Residents are hereby urged to secure any other large items they may have in their yards.
Construction sites: Contractors need to secure small and large building sites immediately. Anything that can blow away should be properly secured. The Public Works Department will be conducting spot checks with respect to building sites.
Political Campaign Signs etc.: The Office of Disaster Management would like to commend the political parties for heeding the call and removing political billboards. By the end of the day, all political billboards, unsecured containers and plywood sheets used for posters should be removed as a precautionary measure to protect life and property.
Types of preparations that residents should take immediately are:Residents should take all necessary preparations to secure property in the event Hurricane Earl reaches Category 2 status when passing the island on Sunday night and into Monday morning.
The types of preparations entail at this point in time:
- check storm shutters or/and pre-cut ply wood for window's and doors;
- bring in outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans, and anything else that is not tied down;
- secure outdoor objects;
- check your battery-operated radio, flashlights;
- coastal residents should remove outdoor furniture, place indoor furniture up high so it doesn't get wet if storm surge enters your home;
- secure personal papers;
- avoid driving in low lying areas due to street flooding;
- if you live in a hillside area, avoid going out due to possible rock falls;
- shut off gas bottles;
The EOC will continue to monitor the progress of Hurricane Earl very closely and will issue advisory notices via radio and the internet with respect to what further actions are required.
GREAT BAY:--- The Main Voting Bureau will be meeting on Wednesday, September 1 to discuss the validity of the lists of candidates.
The meeting is open to the public. It will be held at the Dr. A.C. Wathey Legislative Hall at the Government Administration Building 11.00am.
This report outlines the activities of the Nature Foundation post hurricane Earl and tropical storm Fiona.
On Tuesday August 31st the Nature Foundation Chief Marine Park Ranger was contacted by the Air Traffic Control Tower of the Princess Juliana International Airport concerning a possible oil spill in the Simpson Bay area. The report was radioed in to the tower by a pilot of a landing aircraft. An on-water survey was subsequently carried out by the Nature Foundation and no oil was found in the water, although significant debris and runoff was detected. Surveys concluded that the pilot possibly mistook runoff and dislodged particles as a result of the passing of hurricane Earl as an oil slick. Follow up surveys were conducted on Wednesday September 1st and Thursday September 2nd with no oil being present in the area.
On Thursday September 2nd Nature Foundation staff carried out a survey of the mooring installations of the Marine Park. All moorings were found to be intact with the exception of the newly placed Isabella Reef (N 18̊̊ 01.119' W 063̊ 07. 039', working depth 93 ft). Some minor maintenance of dive moorings was conducted by Nature Foundation staff.
Nature Foundation Staff carried out an in water survey of Great Bay Beach and the Capt. Hodge Pier as per the request of the St. Maarten Harbour Master. Some debris was found and cleared by Nature Foundation divers and a report was sent to the St. Maarten Harbour Master.
Once visibility clears the St. Maarten Nature Foundation will assess the damage caused to the island's offshore coral reef ecosystems due to the passing of hurricane Earl. Surveys will be conducted and subsequent cleanup efforts will be initiated on offshore reefs once deemed necessary. Surveys are scheduled to commence on Monday, September 6th 2010. Coral Reefs act as a buffer, protecting coastal areas from severe flooding caused by storm surge.
The Junior Chamber International St. Maarten had their official visit of NOM President Mr. Dave Martinus, of the JCI Dutch Caribbean, from Aruba. During his visit, Mr. Dave Martinus attended the installation ceremony of 5 new members (Chantal Daniel-Lake; Roxana Williams; Samantha Hassell; Alice Peterson; and Georgino Barnes) to the organization. It was also an honour for him, along with JCI local President Ms. Corinne Isaac to award JCI Senatorship to four local members (Jerome Chittick, Maria Henry, Cordella Joseph-Brooks and Sandra Hazel).
Mr. Martinus will also met with local JCI Board members
We are a membership-based nonprofit organization of 200,000 young people ages 18 to 40 in 5,000 communities and more than 100 countries around the world. Each JCI Member shares the belief that in order to create lasting positive change, we must improve ourselves and the world around us.
We seek targeted solutions to the unique problems in our communities to build a better world, creating global impact.
Philipsburg:--- The annual International Coastal Cleanup is set to kick off this Saturday, September 25th at the Mullet Bay Beach from 7am-10am.
St Maarten PRIDE foundation invites everyone to this annual event that is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year around the world. Yearly many volunteers take part, which also includes students who receive community service hours for their participation in the 4 hour cleanup event.
Each year hundreds of volunteers come out to take part in this beach clean-up and we are hoping for an even better response this year' says UTS Marketing and Communication Officer, Ivy Lambert. 'We try to assist the Pride foundation in their efforts as much as we can. We donated funds earlier this year but we can collaborate in different ways as well. This time we took a different approach. Our beaches are our islands' gems and we need to do all we can to keep them beautiful. UTS is trying to do its part to encourage people to get involved as well. The amount of trash collected will be weighed and recorded, so we wanted to reward the person(s) whom collect the most trash on Saturday with a free Chippie phone.'
The International Coastal Cleanup is the largest volunteer one day event worldwide, with over half a million volunteers in over 100 countries taking part last year.
The International Coastal Cleanup is not only about cleaning up our marine trash and keeping the oceans clean, volunteers must record every piece of trash on a special data card, this detailed information is sent on a later date to the Ocean Conservancy to be compiled in a worldwide report. Upon arrival in the morning, volunteers sign in at the beach and to collect a ICC data card which will be given out along with the cleanup tools.
All over the world, biological diversity, or biodiversity is under serious threat. According to some recent studies on a global scale 13.6% of bird life, 22% of mammals, 31% of amphibians, and 27% of reefs are threatened or in danger of extinction. This is as a result of the impact of several areas of human activity, including tourism, on the ecosystems found in forests, wetlands, savannah, jungles, coral reefs, mountains, seas and polar zones among others. The World Tourism Organization's "Vision 2020" estimates that this year alone, international travel will reach the 1.006 billion mark and will jump to 1.561 billion by 2020 at an annual growth rate of 4.1%. These figures show a strong growth of the tourism sector that has a significant effect on the conservation and sustainability of biodiversity, and the resulting danger of this translating into serious environmental challenges – particularly as it concerns the inordinate use of limited resources like land and potable water. Add to these, the huge pollution and waste which activities in this sector generate, exceeding the quantities that a particular area might be able to withstand, and the relationship between tourism and biodiversity could be seen as antagonistic.
The picture becomes even gloomier if we consider that tourists are more and more attracted to destinations where Nature and the environment have remained relatively untouched. Although this attraction could be fatal, tourism and biodiversity are not foes unto death. To the contrary, for tourism to continue to grow in a sustainable manner, it has to assume its responsibility in defending, preserving and ensuring a critical balance with our biodiversity. Let me put it bluntly: tourism needs biodiversity; but biodiversity does not necessarily need tourism. However, the more we respect and take care of Nature, the more we would be able to enjoy its beauty and guarantee our survival as a species.
The United Nations General Assembly declared 2010 as the "International Year for Biological Diversity". The theme of this year's World Tourism Day is in recognition of this proclamation that arose from the deep concern for "the social, economic, environmental and cultural implications of the loss of biodiversity, including negative impacts on the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals, and stressing the necessity to adopt concrete measures in order to reverse it."
The Secretary-General of the UNWTO, Mr. Taleb Rifai, in his World Tourism Day address, noted that "Recognizing the value of Earth's natural capital to its long-term sustainability, the tourism industry is called upon to protect and sustainably manage biodiversity. A healthy tourism industry depends on a healthy resource base, and sustainable growth in tourism means increased funds for conservation."
He further added: "Safeguarding biodiversity is an urgent challenge that concerns us all – the international community, governments, companies and travelers – but it is not too late to act."
Action, indeed, speaks louder than words, and it is in this respect that the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau has been partnering with environmental protection groups such as the Nature Foundation, and EPIC to disseminate information and educate particularly our youth about the importance of biodiversity to tourism and the delicate balance which should be struck between both. It is also in this vein that I would like to acknowledge the efforts of Pride Foundation which has organized the International Coastal Clean-up campaign scheduled to commence at Mullet Bay on Saturday, September 25th, with more clean-ups planned for the rest of the month and the first two weeks of October. May I seize this opportunity to urge everyone to find time to participate in these clean-ups as a demonstration of their awareness of the need to care for our environment.
However, I would like to stress that private sector initiative alone is not enough; government must enact legislation to protect and strengthen biodiversity, maximizing the benefits and minimizing as much as possible the environmental costs of tourism. Of course, this calls for planning, education and financial support for NGOs dedicated to the noble cause of conservation.
Those businesses operating in the tourism sector also have a responsibility to ensure that our biodiversity is not compromised as a result of their operations. It is morally, ethically and it should be legally wrong for businesses to set up shop with utter disregard for the impact their operations would have on our biodiversity. Such impact studies should be mandatory before they can be issued operating licenses.
Also, tourists need to be educated in ways of achieving sustainable tourism and about the real benefits that can be derived from the conservation of our biodiversity. Respect for the nature and culture of the host destination should be paramount for a rewarding tourism experience.
The paradox that tourism offers by, on the one hand growing rapidly due to the attraction of natural and cultural sites, while on the other hand, posing a dangerous and even deadly threat to the same attractions, can be resolved through the concerted effort of all stakeholders.
We need to urgently find ways to strike a balance between tourism and biodiversity in such a manner that economic development and the protection of the environment would no longer be viewed as mutually exclusive, incompatible and in opposition to each other, but as two sides of the same coin. Happy World Tourism Day, St. Maarten!
The New Structure in Country St. Maarten
Philipsburg:--- Area 6 Toastmasters is pleased to announce that it will host the Area Fall Speech Contest to be held on Tuesday, October 5, 2010. The Area Fall Speech Contest is a semiannual event of Toastmasters International's. Area 6which covers the clubs on St. Maarten and Puerto Rico. The purposes of the speech contest are to show-case the mastering of public speaking skills in competition, and to recognize the best exemplary achievers in this field in the public sector.
The contest features evaluation and humorous speeches – demonstrating the uniqueness of Toastmasters' success in speaking skills learning, and the special techniques of incorporating humorous and entertaining elements in public speaking. Contestants are selected after winning in their respective club, area level and consequently on District level. The district contest will take place on St. Vincent and the Grenadines on October 16, 2010 during the Fall conference.
The theme of this year's Conference is "Teamwork makes the Dream Work.
Area Governor for Area 6, Emilia Thomas says that "from the Conference we hope that each one will be empowered and motivated to further advance our skills in communication and leadership, to foster a better community relationship with our fellow Toastmasters, and to reinforce our common bond with each others for personal growth and success together. These skills are especially in these critical times. The community is welcomed to attend the Evaluation speech contest, schedule to take place on Tuesday, October 5, 2010 at 7.00 p.m. in the A.C.W. Legislative Hall, in the Administration Building.
PHILIPSBURG:--- St. Maarten's Tourist Bureau just completed a week-long exercise in which it brought together its veteran team of marketing experts from around the world to share ideas and collective experiences on how to promote the destination. These firms are the Tourist Bureau's contracted marketing, advertising and public relations experts from the U.S., Canada, Holland, Puerto Rico, Brazil and South America, which met and planned strategies to promote tourism to the destination from the various markets across the globe.
"We have been working with most of these companies for the past year or more and felt that we could all gain from each other's expertise if we could sit down in one room and strategize together," said Regina LaBega, Director of Tourism for St. Maarten.
"The synergies that we just developed among these independent companies from around the world was amazing to see and we are confident that this meeting will result in an increase in activity among our marketing team members and ultimately an increase in visitor arrivals to St. Maarten," she added.
The companies meeting together included:
Tambourine Creative, a Florida-based brand marketing and advertising agency with Rafael Cardozo, president, Joe Grasso, Advertising Creative Director and Shannon Defries, account executive.
KTCpr, a New York-based public relations firm with long ties to the Caribbean with Richard Kahn, president and Kelly Graham, account executive.
Cynthia Miller Aird, a sales representative covering the U.S. travel industry.
energi, a dual Toronto and Montreal-based public relations firm with Esther Buchsbaum, Partner and Julie Lepsetz, Director and Anne Brobyn for travel industry sales.
Lydia Haveman, Director for Interreps, a Holland-based marketing firm which oversees the public relations for the Benelux countries with Susan van Egmond, the online marketing and sales from Laura Boldingh, Leads2Travel, and the advertising from Wouter Leydes, Managing Partner, for Thielenpeters, the Holland-based advertising agency.
Ricardo Roman, Vera Achcar and Danielle Clouzet Roman, with Interamerican Travel Industry Network, covering marketing, branding, advertising and public relations for Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Columbia and South America in general.
Guillermo Ramis, President and CEO of Puerto Rico-based Paradigm Associates along with Francisco Ramis and Inez Ramis, covering advertising and public relations for the Puerto Rico market.
Each of the companies presented reports on activities and accomplishments from the past year in which a new brand awareness campaign was launched with television advertising in key markets and public relations across all markets. This campaign resulted in the 7.9% increase in arrivals for the first quarter of 2010 and an overall 2.1% increase in visitors in the first six months of the year.
But more crucial to the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau was the creation of a expanded marketing strategy in which all markets from Holland to Brazil, from the U.S. to Canada and Puerto Rico, would be working together with the same messages in five different languages to drive year-round tourism business for the destination.
Tambourine presented two innovative tools that will help expand awareness of St. Maarten. First there is an iPad that sales representatives and public relations firms could use to educate and inform travel agents, tour wholesalers and media about the destination in a unique format using the latest technology.
Second, Tambourine demonstrated a smartphone optimized mobile website version of the www.vacationstmaarten.com web site and iPhone application which, once fully populated with detailed information about St. Maarten, will enable both cruise passengers and land-based visitors to use their personal mobile smart phones (iPhone app pictured right) to view attractions, shops, restaurants, hotels and anything else that the Tourist Bureau includes. Use of the information on the mobile telephones will facilitate more activities and spending by visitors on island, even when just for the day during a cruise stop.
KTCpr presented several innovative ideas that are designed to attract attention on major nationwide television shows in the U.S. as well as a sweepstakes plan using short free stays to draw visitors through morning talk shows on both radio and television and departments stores and other retail outlets in the U.S.
There is also an on-island cuisine promotion planned that will help target restaurant usage and drive further awareness through viral marketing online and across social media.
A series of press trips will be held throughout the year bringing appropriate writers for the Heineken Regatta, a food writer's trip, a bridal and romance press trip, a travel trade media trip and others. Individual writers will also be brought down based on assignments. Canadian travel and food writers will be included in the U.S. organized press trips.
Cyndi Miller Aird, presented her sales and education plans which includes attending travel industry trade shows across the U.S. as well as focus sales presentations for individual travel agents and tour wholesalers and online sales representatives from Expedia, Travelocity, JetBlue, Travel Impressions and others.
The Brazilian team presented a balanced marketing plan focused on increasing flight schedules from South America to St. Maarten and supporting these flights with sales, advertising and public relations. Ricardo Roman and his team have been working with Copa Airlines to launch expanded service via Panama to St. Maarten. They have also orchestrated several promotions with GOL airlines out of Brazil which have been successful in increasing arrivals to St. Maarten.
Ricardo's team has been using games online to generate interest and usage of the website plus press trips and fam trips for agents. Most of the vacationers from South America travel to St. Maarten in the Spring, Summer and Fall months which fills in for the low season out of North America.
The Canadian marketing focus from energi also includes sales representation via Anne Brobyn. The Canadian team has also developed several innovative public relations plans including promotions which focus on the niche markets such as dining, shopping, outdoor activities, sightseeing and more.
In the short period that energi has been working with the Tourist Bureau they have generated a quick large response from media including some well-place features in major newspapers and consumer magazines. Social media is a primary focus as well as using virtual online opportunities to show and promote the destination, the hotels, attractions, restaurants and shops.
Planning from energi includes taking social media to the next level by using individual influencers such as personal trainers, hair stylists etc. to create a "buzz" about the destination following their own vacations to St. Maarten.
Anne Brobyn, who has been training travel agents for years, will head up the collective marketing team to create a travel agent education and accreditation program that can be used in all markets and all languages.
The Holland team under Lydia Haveman, a 30-year veteran in the Caribbean market, presented research into the travel purchasing habits of the Dutch vacationers and utilized the new experiential branding campaign with a Dutch twist to fit the differences of language. This team focuses on the Benelux countries with advertising, marketing, public relations, sales and a concentration with online promotions and direct sales.
A lot of what they do in the Benelux market stems from co-op funds with tour operators and public relations. They have promotional partners for culinary websites which draw consumer interest. They also are sending out a regular newsletter to more than 21,000 consumers.
Their public relations efforts use social media and all press releases are sent out via Twitter with links to the full release for further information.
The Paradigm team has been doing a lot of co-op promotions with Telemundo, the primary television network in Puerto Rico, in particular on Verano de Pelicula. Advertising funds have been moved from newspapers to Internet opportunities and the company has created several movie-like trailers to promote vacationing in St. Maarten.
Paradigm has also been working on the first Flaavors of St. Maarten Food and Wine Festival which will be taking place November 10-14, 2010. They are bringing in wine experts from the Napa Valley in California to participate in the hopes of elevating the respect for cuisine choices in St. Maarten.
The entire St. Maarten Team Marketing group also met with the private sector to share the destination's plans and obtain feedback as well as develop a closer working relationship with as many of the private sector participants as they could. Reaction from the private sector including hotels, attractions, ground operators, restaurants and shops has been very good and they appreciate the willingness of the St. Maarten Team Marketing to learn how to better promote their products.
"It was really great hearing all the plans for ongoing promotions to make St. Maarten stand out among the destinations in the Caribbean," said LaBega. "We are now seeking the funding to enable St. Maarten to achieve the goals of increasing tourist visitors which will, in turn, raise the level of visitor spending on island and improve the economic atmosphere for all our residents," she added.
Her Ladyship Justice Indra Hariprashard- Charles is expected to hand down judgement in the Cedric Liburd vs. Hon. Eugene Hamilton Election petition case on Wednesday October 13th 2010 . Justice Hariprashard-Charles will deliver her judgement via tele-conference from Tortola, British Virgin Islands.
In February defeated labor candidate for constituency# 8 Cedric Liburd filed a petition claiming that Hamilton was ineligible for election on nomination day January 15th and further asking the court to declare his election null and void and of no legal effect.
The basis of Liburd's petition was that Hamilton was the holder of a US Passport which made him a US citizen and as such in violation of the consitution which states that one cannot stand for nomination for election if they hold citizenship of another country. Despite claiming that they were in possession of documents to confirm the allegation made in the petition, Liburd failed to present any such evidence.
The Attorney Generals office intervened in the case on behalf of the petitioner Cedric Liburd according to the government "in the interest of the public". This means the taxpayers of the country are baring the burden of the bill on behalf of Liburd. After it was revealed that Liburd in fact had no evidence to support his allegation of a Hamilton US Passport or citizenship his legal team and the Attorney General;s office shifted the claim and focus of the petition from US Citizenship to the pledging of allegiance and adherence to a foreign power which they claim was applicable in Hamilton's case. Hamilton voluntarily declared to the court that he in fact holds a US Green Card and the argument of his legal team was that the holder of a US Green CARD does not have any adherence or pledged allegiance to the United States. Hamilton's argument was well supported by expert witnesses including noted US Immigration Lawyer Sherfield Bowen as well as Liburd and the government's own star witness Mr. Ted Sciapari who both declared that the holder of a US Green Card DOES NOT have any adherence or pledged allegiance to the United States of America.
The Hon Hamilton had contended since day one of the petition that it was nothing more than the labour party's continued and sustained smear campaign. During the lead up to the January 25th elections Hamilton was the focus of the most vicous smear campaign ever unleashed on a political candidate in St.Kitts-Nevis. Hamilton was not only the victim of character assassination and defamatory statements but was also physically attacked when an unknown assailant struck him in the face with a rock which resulted in him having to travel overseas for medical treatment.
The respondent Mr. Hamilton was represented by the Hon. Vincent Byron Jr. and Terrence V. Byron.
Liburd was represented by the Attorney General's office through Dr. Henry Stogumber Browne and noted Jamaican Lawyer Dr. Lloyd Barnet.
GREAT BAY:--- The Department of Internal Affairs and Kingdom Relations (BAK) is busy drafting a plan of action related to country Sint Maarten's role in the process of the Millennium Development Goals (MDG). Sint Maarten's Prime Minister will be most probably the political representative on MDG's.
In 2000, 189 states, members of the United Nations (UN) adopted the Millennium Declaration, 147 of which were represented by their Head of State. This was a defining moment for global cooperation in the 21st century.
Holland signed the agreement with the UN and Sint Maarten now a country within the Kingdom, the agreement is now applicable to the country and the Government has to put mechanisms in place to comply with the MDG.
Loekie Morales of the department BAK is the Government's representative on MDG's for Sint Maarten.
Morales told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Tuesday that together with the MDG Work Group comprising of representatives from different ministries, representatives of Non-Governmental Organizations, and representatives from the private sector, will address the MDG issues and see to it that they form part of the police plans at ministerial level.
The MDG declaration brought together past agreed goals on international development, and gave birth to a set of concrete and measurable development objectives known as the MDG.
Leaders from both developed and developing countries committed to achieve these goals by 2015.
The MDGs are the highest profile articulation of the internationally agreed development goals associated with the UN development agenda, representing the culmination of numerous important UN summits held during the previous decade, including summits on sustainable development, education, children, food, women, population and social development.
The aforementioned are tied to targets for addressing extreme poverty, hunger and disease, and for promoting gender equality, education and environmental sustainability.
They are also an expression of basic human rights: the rights of everyone to good health, education and shelter. The eighth Goal, to build a global partnership for development, includes commitments in the areas of development assistance, debt relief, trade and access to technologies.
The MDG promise is not based on pity or charity, but on solidarity, justice and the recognition that we are increasingly dependent on one another for our shared prosperity and security.
Marigot/Basse Terre:--- The court of grand instance Basse-Terre will give its ruling on December 15 in the case initiated by former president of the Semsamar Louis Constant Fleming. The injunction hearing was presented on Wednesday October 13.
Director General of Semsamar Marie-Paule Belenus Romana said in a press release on Thursday that the legal representative of Semsamar has requested a postponement during the hearing on Wednesday.
According to information reaching SMN News Fleming is contesting the validity of a proxy vote that was used against him on September 10th when he was ousted from the Semsamar board.
The judge will have to determine if the municipal councillor in Basse Terre whose proxy was used on September 10th still has voting rights since she has resigned and if the proceedings is in compliance with the law.
Sources close to Fleming said that the motion to vote against Constant Fleming's dismissal on Semsamar board was added the same day of the meeting and the proxy vote was only issued to vote on the points on the "orde du jour" agenda points.
The administrative board of Semsamar took a decision on October 7th by 10 votes out of 11 that the general director of the company will mount a defence in the case initiated against them. The board also voted 8 votes to 11 to request that the court include on the agenda for the next board meeting which is scheduled for October 29th the official dismissal of L.C Fleming and the nomination of a new president.
Philipsburg:--- On Thursday Minister of Justice Roland Duncan visited the Immigration Administration Office on the A.T. Illidge Road as part of his orientation of the various departments that fall under his responsibility as Minister of Justice.
GREAT BAY:--- Registration for the Grand Unity National Parade to celebrate the achievement of country status is now open.
All uniformed groups, schools, interested persons, foundations, organizations, service clubs are invited to register to participate in the event. Due to a number of factors including the bad weather and partial flooding of Philipsburg and surrounding environs, the parade had to be postponed and other activities for 10-10-10 had to be scaled down.
All interested entities are to contact Ms. Jennifer Thomas at the Bureau for Foreign Relations (former Bureau of Constitutional Affairs) located at the Imperial Building #23 on W.J.A. Nisbeth Road next to the Police Station or call Tel: 542-0640 or Cell: 523-2585 or Mr. Urmain "Youmay" Dormoy at Cell: 522-1647.
Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten Youth Development Program is now registering youngsters interested in following one of the upcoming courses. These courses are Room Care Attendant (Maintenance) and Bartending (which includes training for Waiter/Waitress) of which the preparatory programs for these courses are set to begin in January 2011.
The St. Maarten Youth Development Program is a program (funded by USONA) for youngsters between the ages of 16 and 24 years who were unable to finish secondary education. With this program youngsters can get the start qualifications needed to enter the job market at an assistant's level or further their studies at the SBO/ASVE school. The Youth Development Program is executed by the Department of Educational Research, Policy and Innovations (DERPI) of Island Government.
The preparatory program is a three month phase in the program where the students focus on developing their social skills, computer skills and if needed English reading and writing skills. Students need to complete this phase in the program before being able to move on to their career courses that they have chosen. The main goal of the preparatory program is to provide the youngsters with not only the knowledge but the social skills needed to succeed in the workforce.
The Room Care Attendant course aims to train youngsters in the maintenance field in the hospitality industry. The Bartending course aims to train youngsters as certified Bartenders and also provide training in becoming a professional Waiter or Waitress. Both courses will take 6 months to complete and will be taught by the Caribbean Institute for Social Education Foundation (CIFSEF). All courses include mandatory job training.
Registration for the mentioned courses will take place throughout the entire month of October and November. Interested persons are asked to please bear in mind that there are a limited amount of spaces available for these courses. All you need to register is a copy of your St. Maarten identification (I.D) card. Registration will be held at the Youth Development Program office upstairs of Carl and Son's Bakery on the Walter J Nisbeth Road in Philipsburg. The office is open Monday thru Friday from 8 am to 5 pm. For more information, you can contact Janelle Presentacion at 543-0497 or visit the program's Facebook page; SXM YDP.
Philipsburg:--- Minister of Health Maria Buncamper Molanus told reporters on Wednesday that the council of Ministers have made the medical coverage and other benefits including that of the employees of SVB (Social Insurance Bank) their number one priority. Minister Buncamper said while she met with the SVB representatives from Curacao on Tuesday no definite agreement has been made. "We are not where we ought to be yet but we are making progress. Information still has to be provided from the main office from Curacao." However, the services that SVB provides to the people and its clients have been guaranteed and also the employment for those persons working at SVB St. Maarten.
The Minister said she will continue to gather information as well as further work on the relationship they have with Curacao for a limited period of time. The Minister said St. Maarten is looking into ending its formal relationship with Curacao by the end of this year. "While this is a tall order for us all parties have expressed their willingness and are conducting themselves in such a manner that they can conclude that all hands are on deck properly resolving the issue of SVB coverage and its employees.
Minister Buncamper said St. Maarten has to establish an organization to take over the responsibilities that SVB is carrying out. She said right now the government of St. Maarten is getting the necessary cooperation but there is need for more information for this organization to be established. She said with respect to the monies that are to be invested, St. Maarten could have claimed it since October 10th but a safe place had to be found which would generate an income.
Philipsburg:--- Tee shirts that are being used as a promotional item and was designed by one of St. Maarten's students Shaun York was presented to members of the council of Ministers on Wednesday. Presenting the tee shirts was York's aunt Ms. June Peters.
Philipsburg:--- Last Saturday, close to 170 seniors took to the waters for an afternoon of fun courtesy of the Rotary Club of Sint Maarten. In its 22nd annual Senior Citizen's Cruise, the island's seniors were treated to a sumptuous luncheon served by representatives of the Milton Peters College, Learning Unlimited and St Maarten Academy Interact Clubs. Following lunch, guests took to the dance floor and enjoyed to the music of Tanny & the Boys. The lagoon cruise was held on the Ocean Explorer. President Kishore Idnani explained that the cruise is one of the Club's signature events and is a way to say 'thank you seniors for all that you have done for us.'
Later that night, Rotarians, their families and friends braved the rains to raise money to cover the costs associated with hosting the afternoon cruise. Guests danced the night away to the Control Band and enjoyed a buffet dinner that featured cuisine donated from a variety of local restaurants.
The Club wishes to thank everyone for their generosity in making this event such a success!
Plans for the 5th Annual Crystal Pineapple Awards are moving along smoothly with just over 50 nominations in and 10 silent auction items confirmed thus far. Efforts to secure sponsorship are also on track with GEBE paving the way as the first platinum sponsor of $1000.
Since the Crystal Pineapple Awards is also the SHTA's fundraiser, keeping costs down by way of sponsorships is key. Therefore the CPA committee hopes that other large organizations would follow in GEBE's footsteps by supporting this event which recognizes and honors individuals for their outstanding performances.
Organizations willing to sponsor can do so through one of our sponsorship packages: Platinum $1000, Gold $750 or Silver $500. Depending on the level of contribution, the organization will either receive complimentary tickets to attend the event or name recognition for a particular award. Sponsorships 'in kind', such as discounts on products, services or donations to the silent auction, are also appreciated. Each contribution will be recognized in all promotional activities, the SHTA Awards ceremony booklet and during the evening.
Companies interested in sponsoring the 2010 Crystal Pineapple Awards can call the SHTA office on 542-0108 or send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.
Guana Bay:--- Well known businessman Michel Deher was the latest victim of robbery and ill treatment by bandits. On Friday midday residents of Guana Bay alerted police as well as the businessman that bandits were busy invading his home. According to police spokesman Ricardo Henson when the suspects realized they were caught in the act of breaking and entering they tried to flee in a small car.
Deher who was nearby then used his jeep to block the suspects in their path as they attempt to flee the area. Henson said when the suspects realised they were not able to go any further, they jumped out of the car they were driving and attacked the businessman. The bandits pulled Deher out of his jeep and seriously ill treated him.
The suspects then jumped into jeep belonging to the victim and fled the scene leaving him at the scene. Shortly after the suspects lost control of the jeep on the Guana Bay road and struck a light pole causing extensive damage to the vehicle which could not drive any further. The suspects then abandoned the jeep and fled into the nearby Guana Bay hills. Several police patrols and detectives were sent to the area in search of the suspects. However, the search did not yield any positive results. Michel Deher was treated on the scene by paramedics and then taken to the St Maarten Medical Centre for further treatment. The vehicle the suspects used was confiscated for further investigation. The investigation is ongoing.
Maho:--- Dignitaries from across the Caribbean region gathered in the Royal Islander room at Maho Sonesta on Sunday evening for the official opening of the 10th annual general meeting of PANCAP. Several dignitaries that were expected to attend the meeting could not make it due to the passing of hurricane Thomas.
Speakers include Prime Minister of St Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams, the honorable Prime Minister of St Kitts Denzil Douglas, Mr. Michel Sidibe, Professor Michel Kazatchkine, and H.E Carrington the general secretary of the Caribbean Community with keynote speaker Kofi Annan.
Annan the former general secretary of the United Nations is known for his work and dedication in the fight against HIV/ AIDS. In his keynote address he urged nations to be more proactive in their fight against HIV/ AIDS and felt there is urgent need to fight against discrimination and stigma of the disease. Annan said while the PANCAP is a model for others to follow they were crucial in mobilizing a broad and effective regional response towards the disease, while their work has helped the prevention of tens of thousands of new HIV infections and have saved thousands of lives.
However, he made clear despite the accomplishments there is no room for complacency in the region since too many people are still getting infected and too many lives are being lost to the epidemic. He felt that discrimination, including the flouting of the most basic widespread human rights, is still widespread for those living with HIV/AIDS.
"While there have been real progress across the board, five more people still contract the virus for every two who start treatment." Annan said despite the efforts of PANCAP the Caribbean region has not been spared since they face the greatest challenge with the exception of the sub-Saharan African region.
There is an estimated 240,000 people live today with HIV in the Caribbean twenty thousand more are newly infected each year. The former UN General Secretary renewed his call for global common strategy to fight the disease with the underlying need for greater prevention and access to better treatment, gender equality and to put an end to discrimination to stem the tide of the epidemic. He said there is a greater need to build stronger partnerships between the stakeholders and government, including multilateral agencies, donors, philanthropic organizations and pharmaceutical companies, to defeat this scourge.
Annan said the infection rate has dropped by 17% worldwide since 2001 with over 5 million lives saved because of its financing of programmes. He considered the global fund to be one of the greatest success stories in the past decade. With the work of the PANCAP and the expansion of the antiretroviral treatment the annual number of deaths related to HIV/AIDS has dropped by 40% since 2000.
While PANCAP has identified the need for more approach in the fight against HIV/AIDS one, that involves greater participation of the private sector, vulnerable groups and NGOs.
Annan said women and girls are particularly at risk since too many women suffer from sexual abuse or they feel unable to insist on protected sex. AIDS he said is the number one killer of women of childbearing age. There is a need to empower women to speak up and to protect themselves and children, which can only be achieved through gender equality and enforce the discriminatory laws and cultural traditions. A known fact is that sexual minorities, drug users, and people infected by HIV/AIDS suffer from daily discrimination and prejudices discouraging them from seeking help and treatment.
In this region, as with many other places there remains widespread homophobia and violence against gay men. This is he said is not just a breach of their human rights but, by making it more likely they will engage in high-risk behavior, it impedes the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Punitive laws and policies that stigmatize particular individuals and block effective HIV/AIDS strategies must be rolled-back.
Below is the full audio of the opening ceremony.
Philipsburg:--- Nominations are continuing to pour in for the 5th Annual Crystal Pineapple Awards. The SHTA to date has received just over 40 nominations in the 16 award categories and as a result has closed nominations for most categories early. The SHTA is still, however, welcoming nominations for the following categories until November 15, 2010:
- Rookie of the Year
- Employee of the Year
- Supervisor of the Year- Hospitality
- Manager of the Year- Trade
- Outstanding Employee Training
- Outstanding Journalism
The St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association honors individuals for their outstanding performances. The organizing committee is calling out to the community of St. Maarten to nominate an individual or organization they know is truly deserving of an award. Click the 'Crystal Pineapple Awards' tab on www.shta.com to view the award categories and download the nomination form or send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
Nominations must be accompanied by a brief explanation of why the individual/ organization deserves the award and a picture.
Philipsburg:--- The Minister of Education, culture and sports Ms. Rhoda Arrindell has announced that she has ordered the Secretary General to lift the moratorium placed on the hiring of workers for her Ministry. Minister Arrindell said that after taking stock of the current situation, she has decided to lift, as of this Monday, the moratorium on the hiring of staff to allow for some critical functions to be filled.
The Acting SG has been authorized to re-open the process of recruitment and the vacancies that are considered of high priority will be advertised not only on the Government website, but also in the daily newspapers, in English, so that more St. Martiners would be able to apply for the jobs.
The Minister also announced at Wednesday's press briefing that the first phase of the familiarization exercise, which has been characterized by meetings upon meetings, is now winding down. She said she has met with the department heads of her ministry as well as the Acting SG in what you can call fact-finding talks.
Minister Arrindell said she was impressed by the open-minded and frank manner in which the discussions took place. She readily agreed that she has learnt a lot and is still learning more about the challenges the workers face on a daily basis.
Thanksgiving Service.
The Culture Minister said the annual thanksgiving service will be held on Sunday December 5th. The thanksgiving ceremony is to mark the official end of the hurricane season. Arrindell said the Ministry through the department of culture is working closely with the Council of Churches on the preparations for the multi-denominational Thanksgiving Service held traditionally in front of the Government Administration Building. The service will be followed by the Lighting of the Christmas Tree to usher in the festive season.
GREAT BAY:--- The Collective Preventive Services (CPS) is advising persons at risk to get their flu shot from their family doctor.
It is documented that one of the best ways to protect against the flu is to get vaccinated each year. Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses, and people of any age can get it.
It can be a mild to severe illness which at times can lead to death. One of the best ways to reduce the chances of getting seasonal flu and lessen the chance to transmit it to others is to get a 'flu shot.' Other ways are to take preventive measures or good health habits.
The influenza vaccine protects against seasonal flu. Influenza is not just a common cold. The 'flu shot' is given with a needle, usually in the arm.
Like with all vaccines given, the body develops antibodies when one gets the flu vaccine. These antibodies provide protection against infection with the only viruses that the vaccine is made of.
Persons who are at risk and should take their seasonal flu vaccine include: person's 65-years and older; pregnant women, persons with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease, and persons with immune compromised conditions.
Persons who live in nursing homes and other long term care facilities and health care workers should also get their flu shot.
Good health habits that are essential and protect against the flu include covering your cough and washing your hands often which can help stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses like the flu.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick, and keep your distance from others to protect them from getting too sick. Follow your doctor's advice; stay home when you are sick. It helps prevent others from catching your illness.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or cough in your elbow, when you need to cough and sneeze, it may prevent those around you from getting sick.
Germs often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
Practice other good health habits such as getting plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage stress, drink plenty of fluids, and strive to maintain a nutritious diet.
Persons are recommended to check with their family doctor concerning the flu vaccine and any additional information that you are interested in receiving.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto signed a number of study assignment agreements with Sint Maarten students at the end of his working visit to Holland over the weekend.
A study agreement and employment contract was signed with Charna Pompier. Pompier will continue with her studies to get a Master's Degree in Fiscal Economics from the Erasmus University in Rotterdam.
The employment contract binds Pompier once she completes her studies to work with the new tax bureau for at least five years.
Janio Chayadi also signed a study assignment and an employment contract to obtain a Master's Degree in Fiscal Law, and five-year tenure at the tax bureau after completion of studies.
Philipsburg:--- Reliable information reaching SMN News states that the members of the United Peoples Party and their coalition partner the Democratic Party in parliament has agreed to appoint Amador Muller, former island secretary to the position of assistant griffier. The source said the Members of Parliament are expected to vote on this issue as early as Wednesday in a public parliament meeting.
SMN News learnt that while Cassandra Janssen re-applied for the position the two political parties finally agreed that appointing Muller will solve the current problems Parliament is encountering while it will end the conflict between the chairlady of parliament Gracita Arrindell and Janssen. The MP's are also expected to vote on the appointment of Franklyn Hanze the interim griffier for St. Maarten's Parliament.
PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Drs. Gracita Arrindell on Thursday got an update from the Ombudsman Dr. Nilda Arduin with respect to the establishment of the Office of the Ombudsman.
Arrindell said that according to the National Ordinance Ombudsman, Government has the responsibility of making sure that the Ombudsman has an office and resources in order to carry out its responsibilities given according to the Constitution.
"We had a good meeting. Dr. Arduin has to present her formation plan and after consultation with her on the aforementioned, parliament will move forward in handling the document.
"Such an institution is essential in a good functioning democracy. I am looking forward to seeing the office up and running in order for the public to have access to such a critical and important institution," President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell said on Friday.
The Ombudsman according to the Constitution shall undertake investigations, if requested to do so or on his own initiative, into the conduct of administrative bodies of the Country and of other administrative bodies designated by national ordinance.
The Ombudsman is appointed by Parliament for a period of seven years and shall be eligible for reappointment on one occasion.
ST. MAARTEN (Dec. 3, 2010) – Royal Resorts Caribbean, management company for Pelican Resort Club and Pelican Marina Residences, is sponsoring Kingdom Day with a Toys for Tots program in support of St. Maarten's underprivileged youth. Royal Resorts is continuing this vital program, first launched in 2008 for the children of St. Maarten who would otherwise go without that special Christmas feeling and the joy of giving (and receiving a toy for Christmas). This year's Toys for Tots program will take place at the Pelican Resort Club on Dec. 15.
"On the initiative of Royal Resorts Caribbean, the management company, Pelican employees and timeshare owners express their support by giving to the children in our community and we commenced the Toys for Tots program in 2008," said Jules James, general manager for Pelican Resort Club, pictured below with the children at last year's annual event.
"As we are all aware, Christmas is a time where people from all around the world spend time with family and friends and show they care by sharing gifts. With Royal Resorts Caribbean's support, we are able to put smiles on the faces of little children who would not ordinarily receive any gifts for the Christmas holiday season.," he added.
More than 60 children from foster homes and other children's organizations will be invited to Pelican Resort Club. With several employees serving as volunteers, the children will be treated to an afternoon of gifts, snacks and fun. As always, Santa Claus will be on hand to present the gifts ranging from educational materials and clothing to dolls, board games and sports equipment such as basketballs, footballs and volleyballs.
The event will be held on Pelican's tennis courts with large inflatable games for the children to play, followed by snack time and the gift presentation.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Representatives of the Sint Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA) led by President Emil Lee paid a courtesy visit to the President of Parliament Drs. Gracita Arrindell earlier this week.
Topics discussed during the meeting were the proposed increase in Turn over Tax (ToT) and the 2011 budget.
Arrindell also explained to the SHTA board the process of handling the national budget for country Sint Maarten under the new system and the procedure to handle the draft ordinance for the proposed increase in ToT.
"It was an informative exchange of views and ideas and we both recognized the importance of meeting on a regular basis.
"I am also encouraging other groups within our community to visit Parliament where we can also exchange information. It is important that we have an open and transparent relationship with all groups as Parliament is the peoples House," President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell said on Thursday.
During the courtesy call, board members signed the official guest book.
Philipsburg:--- The coalition government that was formed just over two months ago would now have to swear in a new Minister of Health and labour to replace Minister Maria Buncamper Molanus who resigned on Thursday night after she was confronted with a motion of no confidence presented by the National Alliance Faction.
Buncamper Molanus and her husband have been making the news these past three weeks when media reports showed that the Buncampers sold the economic rights of long lease land granted to them. The Minister from the Democratic Party was asked by her party as well as by their coalition partners to resign after the scandal broke but she refused saying she did nothing wrong and resigning would be admission of guilt.
Member or Parliament and faction leader of the National Alliance William Marlin outlined the ongoing saga regarding the sale of the economic rights for a parcel of land the Minister and her husband received from the former executive council in which she was a commissioner. Marlin also explained to the members of parliament that he had authorized several persons who owned heavy equipments to fill in land on Pond Island to park their heavy equipments with the intention to grant them long leases for the land they filled in. Marlin said by the time he left government the subdivision plan for Pond Island was not ready but several departments of VROM knew of the agreements he made with the businessmen. He further explained that Minister Maria Buncamper Molanus and her husband Claudius Buncamper a section head at VROM knowingly and intentionally took away the land from Elmer Mardenborough when they obtained their first lease for the island. Marlin said not only did the Buncampers take away the land but they subleased the land on that same day to St. Maarten Building Supplies. Marlin said when the Buncampers acquired the long lease they sold the economic rights to the property to ECO GREEN for a whopping three million dollars. ECO Green he said was established just three days prior to the sale of the economic rights. Marlin said it is clear that the Buncampers scheme was to enrich themselves instead of representing the people of St. Maarten when she was elected to public office.
Minister Maria Buncamper Molanus in addressing parliament said what was done to her family this past three weeks was inhumane and while she is accused of money laundering and forgery she still does not know what crimes she committed. Buncamper Molanus in the second round made her position available.
Marlin then said this was déjà vu because the Minister faced a similar situation in 2008 and she resigned and was subsequently re-appointed. Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams then confirmed that Minister Buncamper Molanus has tendered her resignation and that the coalition would deal with it appropriately. At that point Marlin said his faction would withdraw the motion presented to parliament in the hopes that the coalition government would do the honourable thing and sign in a new Minister.
Draft Motion
The Parliament of Sint Maarten, in its meeting of today, December 23, 2010, considering;
- That the objective of politicians seeking public office, and politicians holding public office, should never be with the intention and or objective to enrich themselves, through decisions of the government they form part of.
- That in the period of January 2008 through January 2009, Mrs. Maria Buncamper-Molanus was a member of the Island Council of St. Maarten and also served as a Commissioner in the Executive Council of St. Maarten.
- That during above mentioned period, the Executive Council of St. Maarten in its resolution #129 of February 14, 2008, granted a parcel of land of 4623 m2, further described in Certificate of Admeasurement 230/2007, in long lease to Mrs. Maria Buncamper-Molanus and her spouse, Claudius A. Buncamper.
- That the annual "canon" for the parcel of land was set to Naf. 18.492,00.
- That the Deed was passed at the offices of Notary Gijsbertha on April 1st, 2008.
- That on April 10, 2008 the Deed was registered in the Public Registers of Sint Maarten in Register C, Volume 244 number 8.
- That on December 19th, 2008 Mrs. Maria Buncamper Molanus and her spouse Claudius A. Buncamper, sold the Economic Ownership of mentioned parcel of land to Eco Green for an amount of 3 million US Dollars, with a down payment of $1.631.297.00 and monthly installments of $18.750,00 as of January 1, 2009.
- • That on this same date, December 19th, 2008, Eco Green signed a commercial lease agreement with St. Maarten Building Supplies for the lease of mentioned property.
- That Eco Green was registered at the Chamber of Commerce of St. Maarten on December 16th, 2008, 3 days before the sale and purchase agreement was signed.
- That it is clear, that Mrs. Maria Buncamper-Molanus and her spouse, Claudius A. Buncamper, had significant financial gain through obtaining a parcel of land in long lease, of which they sold the economic ownership for 3 million dollars, 8 months later.
Resolves;
- To condemn the actions of Mrs. Maria Buncamper-Molanus, who presently serves as Minister of Public Health and Labour, as described in the considerations mentioned above.
- To declare that the actions of Mrs. Maria Buncamper-Molanus, described above were not in keeping with the principles of good governance and transparency.
- That Minister Maria Buncamper-Molanus, therefore, no longer enjoys the confidence of the Parliament of Sint Maarten.
And goes over to the order of the day.
Copies of this motion to be sent to:
The Governor of Sint Maarten.
Philipsburg:--- Minister of Justice Roland Duncan and Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams confirmed on Wednesday that they met with the President of the Collectivity of St. Martin Frantz Gumbs on December 24th. Minister Duncan described the meeting as fruitful. Duncan said some of the highlights of the meeting were that they have agreed to relax the mandatory passport requirement to enter St. Maarten via the Princess Juliana International Airport. Duncan said they have decided to relax the passport for entry for a period of six months which would give them enough time to deal with the matter.
The justice Minister said French residents and or citizens who are holders of Dutch side Drivers licenses would also be able to renew their licenses. The issuance and renewal of these drivers license will be for a period of one year which would enable both sides government to arrange and structure the matter. One of the hindrances facing the French side residents and or citizens who holds Dutch Drivers license is that they are not able to transfer their Dutch license for a French license if these licenses are expired. Also present during that meeting was head of the Census Office Leona Marlin Romeo.
Another agreement reached during the Christmas Eve day meeting is that the two sides would begin the execution of the Franco/Dutch treaty. Duncan said the Franco/Dutch treaty has been agreed upon a few years ago after years of discussion. He said the treaty calls for joint controls at the airports which mean that there will be French Immigration officers at PJIAE and Dutch Immigration officers at Grand Case (L'Esperance) Airport.
Philipsburg:--- Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams confirmed on Wednesday that she is yet to receive the official resignation letter from Minister Maria Buncamper Molanus and as such she could not submit it to the governor's office. Asked by SMN News if her party or faction has chosen a candidate to replace the Minister when she decides to resign the Prime Minister said they have not yet started such a process and as such the screening cannot take place.
The Prime Minister further explained that now that St. Maarten is no longer an island territory the part where a commissioner stays on until her successor is appointed is no longer the case in country St. Maarten. Asked how long does the office of the Prime Minister intend to wait on Minister Maria Buncamper Molanus to submit her resignation letter, the Prime Minister said there is no specific amount of waiting time but she suspects that the Minister would submit her resignation during the course of the day on Wednesday or Thursday.
Asked if she misinterpreted what Minister Buncamper Molanus said on Thursday evening during the Parliamentary debate when she said she made her position available to parliament. Prime Minister Wescot Williams said she already explained her interpretations to parliament and she also believes that everyone deserves dignity and respect even in politics thus she expects the formal proceedings of the resignation letter to be on her desk within short.
Philipsburg: --- Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said the police have not arrested anyone for the murder of Eric Yuan Sam. Henson denounced the report that was published on Saturday in one of the daily newspapers. Yuan Sam was brutally murdered during an armed robbery at the Food Club Supermarket on December 30 2009.
Henson said the investigation into the murder of Yuan Sam is in full swing
in addition, the Police Department, Prosecutors Office, and all other judiciary departments involved in this investigation are looking forward for total cooperation from the entire community. Any-one having information that can shed some light on this investigation or any other crime(s) or criminal activities, should not hesitate and make use of the "tip line # 9300" and pass on this information.
SMN News has been reliably informed that the police are on the trail of the cold-blooded killers, however, they are not at liberty to share any information with the media due to the ongoing investigations.
GREAT BAY— On January 4, 2010, at the Philipsburg Cultural & Community Center, the Government of the Netherlands Antilles and the Island Territory of St. Maarten held a joint information session for the Management staff of the Island and Federal Government Civil Service regarding the dismantling process and personnel matters. There will be 5 other more such sessions to inform the Civil Servants on the island and federal level.
Present were Sector Directors, Department Heads, and Federal Civil Servants from different sections.
For the opening session, Commissioner Xavier Blackman provided the opening words of welcome.
"Let me first say," Commissioner Blackman said, "Happy New Year, and I wish you the very best. I hope that the days off allowed you to renew your energy for the work ahead."
"As commissioner of personnel, I am happy to be here. A special 'Thank you' to you for being here this afternoon. Your presence here is proof of your commitment to your job."
"I want to thank the central government as well for these sessions, and for passing the very important law to begin the transfer process."
Commissioner Blackman said that though the time is limited, this joint information session signals the actual start of the transfer. Change always presents challenges. With the merging of 2 governments, this change will present many opportunities. It is up to us to meet these challenges head on. We have been going through and will go through some more training in the areas of change management courses.
The only way for both governments to achieve what is outlined is to keep on track, to execute well with the staff. We all have to support each other. We owe this to the people we serve, the Netherlands Antilles and St. Maarten."
Commissioner Blackman ended with the hopeful words: "I will continue to actively participate, and I look forward to your input."
The Minister of Constitutional Affairs, Roland Duncan gave a presentation to those present, outlining the historical process and explaining the current situation. Minister Duncan touched on several points, namely: the Road ahead; 10-10-10; phased dismantling; getting files updated; and responding to concerns of public servants.
Basically, the Minister said, the Kingdom Charter will be scratched. The Netherlands Antilles will disappear. While the BES (Bonaire, St. Eustatius, and Saba) will be part of the Dutch constitution, St. Maarten and Curacao will become entities on their own. Provisions were made, Minister Duncan said, in case Curacao or St. Maarten is not ready to comply with all requirements. Thus, if necessary, there will be phased dismantling.
There are some exceptions, however, that the Minister pointed out and those are the Common Court of Justice, which is an autonomous court, an entity on its own; Law of procedure, family law, civil law. There will be an effort to try as best to keep them the same, Minister Duncan pointed out.
Every civil servant will "follow" his or her tasks. Current federal Civil Servants will function as such, on island level. However, their "bosses" will be the Executive Council. The federal workers will report to the EXCO. This will end when the transfer of tasks/job takes place, which should be before 10-10-10. For now, the LMA, the labor laws of the Netherlands Antilles, will be continually enforced. There might be adjustments in time.
The next presenter was Luud Hakkens, of Personnel Affairs on the Island Level, who gave a break down of personnel matters.
He dealt with such issues as the new organization, becoming country St. Maarten, transfer of tasks, transfer of personnel, the current stage and progress of the OBF (organization development, remuneration, performance improvement project), and the social charter, among other issues.
There will be other information session through this week for the civil servants of different sectors and departments.
Marigot: --- SMN News has learnt that several persons who are linked to the Office du Tourism are being questioned by the gendarmerie. According to well-placed sources, several persons that are working at the Tourist Office have been questioned while several others are still to be questioned.
SMN News also learnt that the investigation has to do with the former director Yann Claeysen, however, details of investigation are not forthcoming. Notably Claeysen had filed a complaint against the President of the EPIC who fired him when she took over from the Vice President who was also president of the association managing the Tourist Office. The source said monies have disappeared from the tourist office while Claeysen was a director of the institution.
"This has to do with the liquidation of the association since an audit is also taking place. Those in charge have to give accountability of how monies were spent."
Prosecutor Jacques Louvier when contacted on Monday said the investigation is nothing new neither abnormal. Louvier who is currently on vacation did not divulge any information on the ongoing investigation.
SUCKER GARDEN—Alexander York and his teenage son, Richmer, in Suckergarden won first prize of $1500 in the GEBE Christmas Lighting Competition just barely edging out the two-time winners in Cole Bay. Julia Peterson and her family in Cole Bay won second prize of $1000 and Melda Carty in Philipsburg took third place of $500.
The father-son team won in the Most Popular category in the 2008 competition and came back this year with a bang. "We told them that we are coming in 2009 to win!"
The use of LED lights is what gave the Suckergarden home the edge in the competition putting it a mere two points ahead of Cole Bay. "My son, Richmer, kept insisting that we make sure we had LED lights in our display since it was one of the criteria. And when he saw the judges inspecting the LED lights, he said I told you so. Turns out that was the reason we won this year."
GEBE has been promoting the use of energy saving and LED lighting technology and that is reflected in the competition's criteria. The houses are judged by a panel of five judges in five different categories namely creativity, traditional display, first impression, special effects and use of energy saving technology.
The Suckergarden home was also the clear winner in the Popular Vote, receiving more than 2,000 votes from the community through the online and newspaper poll where residents could vote for their favorite display.
In the new category of Best Newcomer, Hendrika Serrant Martina in the Reward area clinched the prize. Although no newcomer to lighting competitions, since they have been participating in the French Side competition for many years, this is the first time they took part in the GEBE competition.
This is the third year that GEBE has organized the Christmas Lighting Competition with the goal to spread the Christmas cheer and light up our community. In response to the rising electricity costs, GEBE is strongly encouraging the use of LED lighting to reduce the amount of electricity needed. LED technology is much more efficient and allows participants to create amazing lighting displays at a fraction of the cost of traditional lighting. LED lights are 80% more efficient, last for years and come in a large variety of shapes, colors and brightness. Plus LED lights have color changing technology which adds a significant wow factor to the displays. A comparison of a 50-string incandescent Christmas lights to a 50-string LED Christmas lights rendered approximately NAF. 7.50 savings per string. LED lights are available on St. Maarten at many stores.
GEBE would like to congratulate the winners in the competition as well as all those that participated. The lighting displays were beautiful and many houses took the competition to an even higher level this year. The competition was very close with more than 50% of the participants within one point of each other. GEBE is looking forward to encouraging more participants for the 2010 competition as part of the company's 50 years celebrations. GEBE. Powering a Brighter Future.
Philipsburg:----Foundation EWA, that will be celebrating her twentieth year of existence and consecutive broadcasting on television of the elections results live as well as producing two political books, is proud to announce that this year again they will on January 22nd 2010 be hosting in collaboration with GIS & AVS & SXM Cable T.V. and Telecuracao, the live-broadcast of the last Central Government election-results.
The Broadcast will be done live by FoundationEWA anchor crew Edgar Lynch, Julian Lynch Henry Lynch and Myrna Lynch from the dr. Claude Wathey Legislative Hall in the Government Building. The crew of Bytez Computer Services of Edgardo and Lucrecia Lynch will provide the statistical support and information.
As an anniversary special the only book that contains all the Antillian election data from 1949 through 1999 and interviews with Engineer Don Martina and the late dr. Claude Wathey will be on a special sale that evening. The book is a must for all to have, young and old and it was produced by FoundationEWA and written and compiled by the authors were Edgar & Julian Lynch and published by the famous and well respected House of Nehesi Publishers. Boardmembers Doris Lynch & Nilda Lynch & Myra Lynch will coordinate the sale of the book after providing the opening of the programme.
The evening will carry parts of past broadcast starting with the first live emission of 1990 done then with FBN of Edsel Hooker and his group, interviews, day footage and live conversations with persons on St. Maarten, Saba, St. Eustatius, Bonaire and Curacao and of course the election results of those islands. Do not miss this historic broadcast.
The broadcast is the only entity carrying the official results live from the Lieutenant Governor's office. This year the office has designated Mr. Cedric Peterson to give the results on behalf of the honourable Lieutenant Governor, Franklin Richards.
Basseterre, St. Kitts, - People's Action Movement leader, Lindsay Grant has announced an amnesty, which he said, will commence on January 26 for illegal persons from CARICOM and CARIFORUM countries living in St. Kitts and Nevis.
Grant said that the amnesty will last for 90 days as the party seeks to regularize the current immigration issues regarding non nationals, especially hundreds of our brothers and sisters from sister Caribbean states like Haiti, Guyana, Jamaica and the Dominican Republic.
Grant speaking to a massive crowd on Friday evening, (January 15th), announced that under his administration the foreign policy will no longer be divorced from the national development policy, in an effort to prioritize a stronger relationship with CARICOM and the wider CARIFORUM. This said the PAM leader would allow his small country to avail itself to all the assistance and expertise available, including human capital.
He stressed that his administration will ensue that the International Labor Organization's (ILO) Convention of the Treatment of Migrant Workers, will be given urgent attention and he will make the signing of that convention, a major priority.
Grant declared that migrant workers must not only be treated fairly, but they must be paid decent wages. "The issue of migration is one about which the debate has been vigorous and often full of emotions, both here in St Kitts and Nevis and in the wider region. At this very moment, it is the varying views on migration and the knee jerk reactions to the issue that have led to the paralysis of the integration process. But integration is about the people," Grant said.
He noted that the people of the Caribbean region have been integrating for many years, in search of new opportunities and a better life for their families, driven in part by the harsh economic realities and circumstances of underdevelopment. In these difficult times the people who come here from Haiti, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, and Guyana, amongst other nations, are simply looking for a new start and his party, the Peoples Action Movement, is of the firm conviction that the time has come to show action by helping those illegal residents to become full legal citizens of St. Kitts & Nevis.
Grant said that the time has come for a change, and that change must benefit everyone, including those who are propelled to risk everything in search of some prosperity for their children.
Grant added that, persons leaving their countries in search of betterment leave their kith and kin behind, sometimes never to see them again, because they are residing in the country illegally and would be unable to return should they leave.
He reiterated his party's position that this kind of lifestyle has had a continued impact on families across the region as children have had to grow up without mothers and fathers.
"This is why we pledge tonight that within the first 90 days of office we will announce an amnesty for all undocumented or illegal persons from the CARICOM and CARIFORUM region and this includes the Dominican Republic," said the PAM leader.
Mr. Grant also pointed out that, "We will also be reviewing the length of time required to obtain citizenship and residency in this country with a view to shortening the length of time."
Philipsburg: --- Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police Dafnis Francesca along with the contractors signed a contract agreement at the Philipsburg Police Station on Tuesday to begin the expansion of the Simpson Bay Police Outpost.
The three-story expansion is geared at building a special space for holding illegal immigrants. Ivan Fraites of the PVNA told members of the media that the construction work will be completed by November 2010.
Fraites said the work is scheduled to last a maximum of ten months. The facility has a price tag of four million guilders that is provided by the Dutch Government through USONA, the new building would accommodate 64 persons. Office spaces for lawyers, doctors and a prison cell for those that are badly behaved are all part of the plans. Fraites said the building would be divided into three sections, namely sleeping area, recreation and an area for fresh air.
Fraites said illegal immigrants would no longer be held in prison cells after the new building is completed. He said the entire area would be open space furnished with beds. He stressed that the building would be secured with iron bars and a special louvers window. Immigrants whose status is not in order would no longer be taken to Philipsburg when arrested. The processing of these persons will take place at the future location when it is completed.
Fraites confirmed that the Federal government does have plans to renovate the Pointe Blanche including the kitchen and adding more office spaces.
The police are also planning to build at least two other police outposts, one in the St. Peters area and the other in Dutch Quarter. Fraites said the only reason those projects have not kicked off is because they need to find the land space to build the outposts. He said while the Dutch is willing to provide the funds for the building of these infrastructures the island government has to provide the land space. Asked when this project would take off Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police Dafnis Francesca said they are now looking for monies to buy the land. He confirmed that the police are also looking into the possibility of moving some officers into the Rupert Maynard Community Center in St. Peters and in the Belvedere Community Center temporarily. Francesca said if the police cannot find land space then they would begin using the two facilities as police outposts.
Philipsburg – Today, Thursday, January 21, 2010, St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) officially signed off on the launch of a series of the instructional and interactive St. Maarten SuperHost Customer Service Training and Certification programs for approximately one hundred and fifty (150) of their employees. SMMC's multi-disciplinary team includes emergency room attendants, in- and out-patient departments, nurses, administrative, maintenance, kitchen and housekeeping staff, as well as the SMMC's core management team. The St. Maarten SuperHost training sessions will begin in February, 2010 and conducted over a 3-month period onsite at the SMMC training facilities with the goal of empowering employees to be service-centered ambassadors at every point of contact with patients and/or visitors throughout the hospital.
"The SuperHost program aims to empower SMMC's staff with the skills, and expertise for providing quality service in an environment where patients and their families require quality care, empathetic communication and patient-focused service," says Jacqueline Louis, General Manager of Innovative Marketing Creations (IMC), the local agents of St. Maarten SuperHost. "This is only the beginning of an ongoing initiative to assist SMMC with their management's vision to improve patient and visitor services by providing them with the tools during the trainings, as well as ongoing reinforcements."
For the SMMC team, the SuperHost training program will touch on the fundamental skills for providing quality customer service, with a focus on personal employee self-development. This further translates into the improvement of interpersonal skills for team-building, as well as patient and general customer service. In addition, the program will encompass, the power of first and last impressions, great communication skills, how to be attentive and empathetic to patients' needs, the power of listening, SMMC's brand essentials, frontline management solutions, and the importance of patient-focused care.
"SMMC has had a long-standing dedication to the ongoing training and development of our team," says Dr. George Scot, General Director of St. Maarten Medical Center, "and we remain steadfast in our commitment as part of the overall delivery of quality medical services to the local community, as well as visitors. The St. Maarten SuperHost program was selected after careful review and deliberation of the most suitable customer-service training program to complement our extensive training initiatives, and employee development needs."
SMMC's efforts do not go unnoticed, as was evidenced by SHTA's recognition for the Crystal Pineapple Award for Outstanding Employee Training Program for the past four years, among other awards won by SMMC over the years.
"The movement to bring back our friendly island continues!" declares Jacqueline Louis, "We commend SMMC for their leadership in launching this initiative, and challenge local businesses and organizations to better prepare their workforce, through programs like St. Maarten SuperHost, to provide customers, tourists and in this case, patients with excellent customer service; our livelihood depends on our ability to treat people with courtesy, respect and quality service."
SuperHost customer service training was first introduced in 1985 to prepare British Columbia's tourism workforce to host the world at EXPO '86. The programme's excellence is recognized internationally. After an extensive search for the best in the world, American Express selected SuperHost as its customer service programme.
St. Maarten SuperHost is one of several prestigious agencies certified and licensed to give this consumer service enrichment programme, and has been endorsed as the official consumer training programme for St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association (SHTA).
Philipsburg: ---The St. Maarten Bar Association is pleased with the construction of the new Holding Facility for undocumented persons in Simpson Bay. For many years, the bar has been sharply critical about the holding facility in Philipsburg. Criminal suspects, undocumented person, young, or old have been locked up together in cramped unhygienic circumstances. The fact that change is coming is good news. "Better late than never" the Bar's secretary attorney Remco M. Stomp stated in a short press release. It is imperative to separate undocumented people from criminal suspects and children from grownups.
The situation for detainees presently is still far beneath all civilized standards, little to nothing has improved. For that reason every initiative to improve this inhuman situation is welcomed, however the given timeframe of ten months will be closely monitored Stomp said. The construction at the police station took almost 3 years to finish and is still not finalized.
As long as St.Maarten is economically, doing better than the surrounding islands in the region the island must expect immigration form abroad to continue. For this situation, the island must have a properly working immigration system in place including proper institutions with well-trained personnel and capable management.
Holding spaces for undocumented individuals will remain essential in order to return the unwanted guests to their place of origin. Locking up people for immigration reasons should however be last resort for government to turn to in case immigrants do not return voluntarily, the law states. In addition, the holding facility should meet minimum standards. The fact that St.Maarten will be getting such a facility is a step in the right direction and shows that the Island is seriously preparing for its new status Stomp concluded.
Commissioner of Public Health, Labour & Social Affairs, Youth Affairs, Mr. Hyacinth Richardson candidate # 11 of the National Alliance list "The Man for the People" would like to express his sincerest thanks to all persons for their continued support leading up to the 2010 Parliamentary Elections on January 22, 2010. I would like to commend all 11,766 people who exercised their democratic right to vote as we move forward to achieve Country St. Maarten.
Special mention should be made of the 6940 voters who have indicated by their outstanding showing at the polls that they believe and are willing to work, for the betterment of St. Maarten, with the current leadership. To the 558 persons who voted and supported me I thank you for your confidence in me. There is much more work ahead of us as a people working towards a historical moment for this country. I will need your continued support and suggestions to help stair our course during the upcoming period.
Congratulations should also be extended to all of the candidates for their work and valor during the elections.
Philipsburg:---Home Away From Home Taking Care Of The Golden Age Foundation, gave a Birthday Party Bash, on behalf of the seniors,(see group photo), that celebrated their birthdays between September and December 2009.
Leader of Government Mr. William Marlin and staff, congratulates the birthday celebrants and wishes them God's strength and guidance as they celebrated yet another year.(Mr. Marlin was off Island during the celebration).
MARIGOT—The gendarmes have transferred a 26 year old woman to the Baie Mahaut penitentiary after she was arrested on Wednesday morning. The culprit committed several burglaries. The first incident occurred in May last year.
Philipsburg – The St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) is announcing the closing of the registration for booth holders in preparation for Carnival 2010. Stuart Johnson SCDF Vice-president is encouraging all booth holders to meet the deadline, which is February 5th 2010 at 4:30pm. The booth registration forms could be picked up by the security desk at the Government Administration Building. For additional information members of the board of SCDF can be contacted.
Philipsburg:---In the midst of having to deal with the dismantling of the Netherlands Antilles which includes division of assets and liabilities, currency issues, the central Bank, consensus Kingdom Laws, Committee for Financial Supervision our Justice system the Police Force, in short putting our infrastructure in place to take over the tasks now provided for by the Central Government we as citizens of the Kingdom of the Netherlands have to fight for our rights, equal rights within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. At a time when we need the most cooperation from all partners especially big sister, we are told no voting rights by almost all the members of the First and Second Chamber. But we are told about equality in the Kingdom and that we have to accept gay marriages, euthanasia and who knows what else. We were told to get our immigration problem under control so we instituted the "Brook Towers Accord" and big sister (the Netherlands) said that non nationals will have easy access to the Netherlands and also the Dutch nationality. Then we have the law that is still being proposed to send Netherlands Antilles problem youths back to the Netherlands Antilles while at the same time giving more rights to European Dutch to reside in the Dutch Caribbean islands. And today as far as I know without any discussions with the representatives of the Netherlands Antilles the vast majority in the Second Chamber approved the legislation proposal to amend the Kingdom Law Dutch Nationality. How much effect can a few English speaking persons from the Netherlands Antilles have on a population of 16 million? I mention English because that was the previous requirement for the islands of St. Maarten St. Eustatius and Saba while on Aruba, Curacao and Bonaire it was Papiamentu. While I have continued to insist that remaining within the Kingdom of the Netherlands brings with it the need to be able to speak, write and understand the Dutch language why weren't we given an opportunity to at least take part in those discussions. But of course it is a Kingdom Law approved by the First and Second Chambers which are the highest legislative bodies in the Kingdom. The Democratic Deficit continues. Now I am reading where members of the Second Chamber are complaining about the decision of the Executive Council of Bonaire to exclude a group of European Dutch nationals from voting in the March 26, 2010 referendum. I believe the efforts of those two bodies should be on assisting St. Maarten in ensuring that all finance generated on the island, to remain here. These finances are needed to set up our dependencies and have a strong starting position (November 2, 2006 Final Agreement). I have always said that big sister (the Netherlands) has the financial and human resources with which to assist St. Maarten. It is time to put these to work in the interest of the people of St. Maarten. Then I would not have to ask the question, "What rights do we have?"
PHILIPSBURG—St. Maarten's commissioner of tourism, Frans Richardson, is in Brazil this week following up on tourism opportunities for St. Maarten.
The visit comes in the wake of a visit made to the ABAV Tradeshow in Brazil, last year. St. Maarten has been looking at its positioning strategy as it relates to the vital South American market.
"Securing of agreements with South American carriers, using Venezuela as a hub, is one of the areas of interest for St. Maarten, which remains interested in enhancing its efforts to meet objectives as a year-round tourism destination?" said Commissioner Richardson prior to departing to San Paolo.
St. Maarten is taking into consideration that the competition in the region has increased significantly and that St. Maarten should step up its efforts to take advantage of the vibrant Brazilian travel market.
"St. Maarten is keenly interested in showcasing our potential to South American airlines. We believe there are real benefits and opportunities of servicing the island, especially with regards to the close proximity of the destinations," said the commissioner.
Head of the Tourism Bureau, Regina Labega, accompany Commissioner Richardson.
Philipsburg:--- Police have arrested another minor student who it is believed fired shots on Friday from a school bus. Prosecutor Rienk Mud said another arrest was made but said he did not have details of the ongoing investigation.
SMN News learnt that police released at least eight of the nine students that were arrested on Friday including the girl in whose bag the gun was found. Sources say one of the students put the weapon in the child bag as it was under her seat.
Police arrested nine students on Friday after gunshots were fired from the school bus on which they were travelling. One of the gunshots hit the windshield of a passing vehicle but no one was injured.
Airport: --- Officers of the St. Maarten Customs arrested a 41-year old man who was born on Curacao after he disembarked Insel Air at the Princess Juliana International Airport on Tuesday morning.
The suspect has been identified as C.A.B was caught with 540 grams of cocaine strapped to his legs. He was transferred to the Philipsburg Police Station on Tuesday afternoon after being processed by Customs.
Philipsburg: ---Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba on Monday recognized two officers of the Police Force KPSSS. Both officers served 40 years and are still in service. They are Chief Inspector Johan Janchi Leonard and Dafnis Francessca. Leonard has been the police spokesperson for years. He also worked in immigration and other sections of the police department over the past 40 years. While Chief Inspector Dafnis Francisca is now part of the management team of the police force. Francisca also worked at the Criminal Investigation Department before being added to the management team of KPSSS. In a press release police spokesman Ricardo Henson said Minister Jacoba urged the officers to pass on their knowledge to the younger officers now in the force. She also thanked them both for their dedication and service to the police force as well as for the sacrifices they made over the past 40 years. Attending the ceremony which was held at the Philipsburg Police Station was State Secretary for Justice Ernie Simmons, Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police Ademar Doran and family members of the two outstanding officers.
Philipsburg: ----The number of people using HIV testing and counseling services has quadrupled in the past five years. However, worldwide, only 12% of people who want to be tested are currently able to do so. In 2003, it was estimated that only 0.2% of adults in low- and middle-income countries received voluntary HIV counseling and testing services. People fail to be tested for HIV for many reasons: lack of access to testing services, fear of stigma and discrimination, fear the test will be positive, and lack of access to treatment. These facts mean thousands of opportunities for increased access to treatment, care, support and prevention have been, and are being, missed. The number of people using HIV testing and counseling services has quadrupled in the past five years. However, worldwide, only 12% of people who want to be tested are currently able to do so. In 2003, it was estimated that only 0.2% of adults in low- and middle-income countries received voluntary HIV counseling and testing services. People fail to be tested for HIV for many reasons: lack of access to testing services, fear of stigma and discrimination, fear the test will be positive, and lack of access to treatment. These facts mean thousands of opportunities for increased access to treatment, care, support and prevention have been, and are being, missed. In light of the need for individuals to have earlier access to treatment, care, support and prevention, UNAIDS and WHO are supporting a major expansion of access to HIV testing and counseling through the scaling up of client-initiated testing and counseling services and through the expansion of provider-initiated testing and counseling services in health care settings. Such efforts are not only necessary to improve the health of individuals, they are also necessary to achieve universal access to prevention, treatment, care and support and to mount effective responses against HIV. UNAIDS does not support mandatory testing of individuals. All testing, whether client or provider-initiated should be conducted under the conditions of the "Three Cs": involve informed consent, be confidential, and include counseling. Recognizing the urgency of connecting HIV positive people to prevention, treatment, care and support, UNAIDS and the World Health Organization released in May 2007 operational guidance on provider-initiated HIV testing and counseling in health facilities. The guidance is in line with the 2004 UNAIDS/WHO Policy Statement on HIV testing and recommends that traditional voluntary testing and counseling be supplemented by provider-initiated testing in all health settings in generalized HIV epidemics, and in selected health facilities (such as tuberculosis, sexual health or antenatal health clinics) in areas with low or concentrated HIV epidemics. Implementation of this guidance must be informed by an understanding of social and epidemiological context in which testing is taking place. Where there are high levels of stigma and discrimination and low capacity to implement testing and counseling under the Three Cs, these issues should be addressed before expansion of access to provider-initiated testing and counseling in health facilities. Though access to anti-retroviral treatment is not a prerequisite, there should be some realistic expectation of such access within the context of the country's plan to achieve universal access by 2010. Furthermore, there should be access to a basic package of prevention, care and support, as the cornerstone of expanded access to HIV testing and counseling to achieve beneficial health outcomes.
Article courtesy PANCAP
PHILIPSBURG—The Department for Education Research Policy and Innovations is reminding and encouraging all parents of the FBE and VSBO schools to attend the "Active Parenting" workshops that are still available at their child's school so that they can become properly informed.
At the beginning of this New Year all schools continue to offer "Active Parenting" workshops for parents.
Several of the FBE schools started in January while other schools will begin their sessions February.
This program that started since school year 2007-08 is organized by DERPI, and financed through USONA with Dutch Development Funds, as part of the innovations in Education.
DERPI is of the opinion that without proper parental participation in education success is not guaranteed for the youth.
Parents attending these sessions in several schools last week had lively discussions and are all of the opinion that all parents can benefit from these sessions and help each other to raise their children.
The adage "It takes a village to raise a child."
These workshops are offered for parents in both English and Spanish language.
Most of the parents have expressed gratitude to DERPI for giving them these opportunities to obtain better or even revisit and strengthen their parenting skills.
DERPI again encourages parents to inquire at their children's respective schools for information about workshops and schedules.
All workshops are offered to parents completely free of charge. Besides the discussions and presentations, the parents will also receive a parent guide (book) free of charge.
The Department for Educational Research, Policy and Education remain committed to the parents and children of Sint Maarten with the "Active Parenting Program" and encourage all parents to fully participate in these sessions.
Philipsburg: ---- Head of island labour Raphael Boasman has sent a letter to leader of government commissioner William Marlin telling him that he wants to be the head of the labour department when St. Maarten gets it country status. Even though the labour portfolio is not under Marlin, Boasman sent the letter directly to the island's leader and bypassed commissioner of labour Hyacinth Richardson. Sources say Boasman did not send his communiqué to the commissioner that is dealing with labour because he is being pressured by the labour commissioner to vacate his seat. Normally when civil servants send letters to the executive council they would carbon copy their letters to the commissioner in charge of their department. Boasman also suggested to the commissioner that he is willing to leave social affairs to the commissioner's office and to become a policy worker.
SMN News has learnt that the "Dear Commish" letter sent by Boasman last week to Marlin was discussed in the executive council and a decision was taken to interview Boasman this week. SMN News learnt that a decision might be taken as early as Thursday this week since Boasman outlined several tasks he is working on regarding the transfer of tasks in the new setting.
It is further understood that the department head is suggesting that that Marlin separate labor from social affairs when the island gets its new status. The source said based on the current drafts the two portfolios must remain under the same Ministry.
Sources say that Richardson's office has been putting pressure on Boasman since he is allegedly not executing his duties at the labour department. According to well placed sources commissioner Richardson is experiencing the same difficulties as Laviest when he was commissioner of labour, and thus Richardson has made it clear to the executive council that the so called dead beat employee must be removed from that department.
According to information reaching SMN News advisor to commissioner, Richardson, has been trying to get Boasman to process files regarding social affairs and labour but the files are being delayed when they reach Boasman's desk. SMN News also learnt that the commissioner's office already indicated that they are ready to take harsh measures against Boasman since they are not able to get their work done.
The executive council already took a decision where they would remove Boasman from his position at the labour department. Already Boasman does not have the power to sign off on working permits but to date the executive council is not making good on the decision they took months ago to remove Boasman.
In an invited comment last week we asked Boasman if he sent in a letter to the executive council and if resigned from his position as head of the labour department. Boasman denied sending any letter to the executive council. Asked if he resigned the department head he did not resign instead he was busy with the transfer of tasks as the island prepares for its country status. "Even though the executive council took several decisions about me they never spoke to me directly, we never had any discussions" Boasman said.
SMN News contacted commissioner Marlin on the new developments surrounding Boasman but the island's leader said he was not aware of any letter. Sources say both Marlin and Richardson are trying to thread cautiously when dealing with Boasman or the labour department since they are not looking for another flare up from the opposition. SMN News was told that the commissioners do not want the media to take anything out of proportion as they did with the new labour policy when it was revoked.
Philipsburg: --- The much talked about SOAB report against ROB (Public Works) is in the hands of the attorney general of the Netherlands Antilles. SMN News learnt that Lt. Governor of the island territory of St. Maarten Franklyn Richards sent the report on to the attorney general hoping that actions would be taken against those implicated in the report.
Prosecutor Rienk Mud confirmed that the report was sent to the attorney general. Mud also confirmed that his office is busy studying the report.
In the meantime, the National Alliance board held a meeting on Tuesday night to further discuss how they would have the National Alliance majority in the executive council handle the report which has been constantly making headlines on St. Maarten.
According to reliable sources the National Alliance board members feel that their party leader needs to act since the commissioner responsible for ROB is not taking the necessary measures to safeguard government. It is understood that one of the contentions of the National Alliance is that this report may well stand in the way when it comes to St. Maarten getting its status on 10/10/10.
Ever since the final report was delivered the executive council has been trying to get Commissioner Theo Heyliger to act on his report but to date nothing has been done.
GREAT BAY:--- Commissioner of Tourism Frans Richardson told members of the media that his trip to Brazil can be considered fruitful since GOL Airlines of Brazil will begin a year-round weekly flight to St. Maarten, namely, two flights out of Brazil in the high season and one in the off season, starting on March 27.
Four major Brazilian wholesalers (travel agent firms and tourism-related companies) are now also on board to strengthen promotions and take seats on the rotations to St. Maarten.
The Sonesta Maho Group has committed to the market by offering competitive introductory rates to ensure its success. The commissioner urges the rest of the private sector in realizing the marketing efforts.
"We have to recognize the importance of the South American: South Americans like to dine and shop; they love local cultural activities and night life in general; they are fascinated with the French flair, which benefits St. Martin and St. Barths, Commissioner Richardson said. Given the above, the commissioner will be meeting with his counterparts on the French side as well as St. Barths and Anguilla. "
The commissioner also met with American Airlines - São Paulo, Brazil, Jose Roberto Trinca. AA is offering the following promotional round trip fare: Low Season: 584 U.S. dollars plus tax; High Season: 794 U.S. dollars plus tax.
Commissioner Richardson also met with well-known Brazilian journalist Amaury Junior, a journalist and TV presenter, known for his night program, when he interviews celebrities and covers festivals and events. The plan is to bring the TV show to the island during 6 days and film all the attractions, nightlife, etc.
We also raised awareness of St. Maarten among the trade: wholesalers, tour operators, incentive & Group Planners. There we also launched our brand among the major tour operators, including 40 journalists from major media in tourism.
The group also attended the 16th CVC workshop, held at Expo Center Norte in Sao Paulo. There were 12,000 travel agents (from all Brazil and Latin America, especially Argentina and Chile) and a total of 658 exhibitors from national and international tourism entities were present at the event.
The St. Maarten booth distributed materials (brochures etc.) to more than 5000 travel agents.
The commissioner said that there is no St. Maarten office representing the island in Brazil but we have a representative in Brazil promoting the island. The travel agents and wholesalers are responsible for ensuring capacity on the flights based on the backing and promotion of the new branding destination of St. Maarten, not only in Brazil but also in Argentina and Chile.
Though we are waiting on the promotional budget in the market, we are looking at roughly $1 million dollars. I want the private sector to contribute to these efforts as well.
Along this line, the commissioner said that the establishing of the Tourism Authority is in process; the draft is on his desk, it has to go to the Legal Affairs Department, then it has to go to the Executive Council for approval and after that to the Island Council. So we are getting there.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Tanking Shell's V-Power gasoline is good for your car and that is for certain, but for Noel Lake it's way more than that. Filling up with V-Power gasoline gave him the opportunity to be the best son a mother could wish for.
Last Wednesday Noel won the brand new Suzuki Grand Vitara in the "Shell Power Up 2 Win" promotion which Sol was running across its network of service stations in St. Maarten. The winning voucher was drawn February 10, 2010 under the watchful eye of notary Meredith Boekhoudt. Following the announcement of his winnings, Noel Lake headed to the site of the draw where he subsequently handed over the grand prize to his mother. His mom Keta Lake was ecstatic and remarked "We were very surprised to hear that he won and on driving up to the station for the presentation I said wow you should give it to me; I was joking but he took me seriously. He really did give it to me!" He is showing appreciation. I am so happy! "
Sol ran the "Power Up 2 Win" promotion from October 2009 in St. Maarten and the promotion attracted a lot of expectant customers from go! Motorists who tanked US$ 25 of Shell's V- Power gasoline or diesel at Sol's service stations received a voucher which on completion, they submitted to be eligible for participation in the promotion. Last December one lucky person won a 47 inch full-HD Panasonic flat screen TV and 25 others claimed NAf 100 vouchers for V-Power gasoline which were the interim prizes offered through this promotion.
Sol ran this marketing campaign across 10 of its markets in the region to, add further value to its customers and to reward them for filling up with Shell V-Power gasoline. In his congratulatory speech, David Antrobus Sol's General Manager in St. Maarten applauded Mr. Lake on his win as well as his kind gesture of giving the Grand Vitara to his Mom. Antrobus thanked the motorists of St. Maarten / St. Martin for their support of this promotion and looked forward to their continued support through Sol's network of Shell service stations.
By Rawle Nelson.
St. Kitts and Nevis's Prime Minister, Dr the Hon Denzil Douglas declared that the People's Action Movement attempt to gain political power through the politicizing of crime failed. PM Douglas was at the time speaking at his first monthly press conference since being reelected for a fourth consecutive term after the January 25th elections. The press conference which was held in the parliamentary lounge of Government headquarters saw the Prime Minister speaking on a number of wide ranging issues while he responded to a number of allegations which were leveled against him in the lead up to the elections.
He pointed out that PAM's attempts failed as the public were cognizant of the numerous and ongoing initiatives that he has been implementing in addressing crime. He pointed out that crime is a regional issue which continued to pose growing challenges and difficulties despite the successes.
"The government did put a strategic plan in place to counter crime and it continues to yield results it is very, very unfortunate that so far there are about 4 or 5 people involved in homicide so far for this year. We may have recovered 5 or 6 illegal weapons so far to date from the roads but this gives you an idea of how dynamic the situation is in our fight against crime, it is yielding results but crime continues," he said.
Commenting on the People's Action Movement, the Prime Minister said that the opposition used it to gain political power. "I believe that the opposition used the situation to politicize crime and to individualize it. I understand that they were billboards around the country purported to address me, the Prime Minister with regards to being responsible for crime in St Kitts and Nevis, I didn't know that I was that good," he said.
The St Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister declared that his party being reelected for what he termed as a historic fourth term is a demonstration of the public's willingness to support his Labour administration. He however admitted that the issue of crime continues to be a top priority of his administration stating that he is aware and cognizant of the numerous challenges and difficulties that the police are confronted with.
"The People's Action Movement that tried desperately to politicized crime failed and was rejected is a clear indication that the people of St Kitts and Nevis clearly understand and would wish to support the policies and the programmes that have been enunciated that are being implemented in pursuit by the labour government of the former administration and of now," he said.
He admitted that he is not satisfied with the progress that is being made noting that things are moving too slowly stressing that while the plan has been effective thus far he wants things to improve much faster. He pointed out that a number of improvements and developments have been made with regards to a number of police stations and facilities declaring that there is an immediate urgent need for significant improvements of the Police Barracks at the force's headquarters. "There is an urgent need to improve the conditions that the police live under at the barracks and we will be working to aggressively address those conditions among others," he noted.
He declared that despite his administration being faced with challenging financial conditions the issue of ensuring that the federation's police are provided and enhanced with the required facilities so as to improve the federation's crime fighting efforts are pertinent if his administration will succeed in fighting crime. " I am aware that the police are faced with a number of bad conditions but we will address those almost immediately as despite our financial situation we recognize that these conditions has to be improved if we are going to effectively address crime," he said.
Identifying some of the initiatives that his administration have been engaged in so as to tackle the issue of crime, Dr Douglas said that the recent implementation of closed circuit television is geared at seriously tackling crime. "We have already placed such at the Basseterre police headquarters; we have also identified other areas in Basseterre where such have been instituted. I have been told that they been very good reviews for the police in terms of their crime fighting capacities and we are now pursuing this whole initiative also on the island of Nevis," he said. The Prime Minister commended the various stakeholders who he said have been engaged in this activity noting that he would also want to commend only the service providers but also to the benefactors and those who he said also collaborated.
Prime Minister Douglas thanked LIME noting that their contributions was a commitment that they had made noting that the company fulfilled its promise. He also singled out the Ambassador of the Republic of China on Taiwan; His Excellency RC Wu who he said also played a significant role in the establishment of some of these initiatives. "...his embassy came forward and has served in this capacity very well in ensuring that adequate support is being provided to our police and the security forces generally in the fight against crime," he said.
He declared that the issue of fighting crime should be fought by all. "We continue to emphasize that fighting crime is every body business and the government's intention is to involve every individual, every group, community, section or other wise to make a contributions".
CAY BAY—An oil spill occurred Thursday morning at the GEBE power plant. The effects on the environment were reduced due to quick action from the GEBE employees and recuperation efforts that continued through the day to remove as much oil as possible from the sea.
Normally the GEBE Waste Oil Treatment System (WTS) skims off any waste oil from the production process before it can reach the environment. The waste oil is collected and then added into the fuel used to run the diesel engines used to generate electricity thereby eliminating any waste oil. However, on Thursday morning, the GEBE Waste Treatment System (WTS) overloaded causing the waste oil to overflow into the sea.
A power plant shift supervisor discovered the oil leak approximately 6:30 a.m. Thursday morning and immediately shut down the Waste Treatment System. The contents of the WTS oil traps were then temporarily pumped into a holding reservoir until the WTS was operational again. A small boat was launched with a crew using special oil absorbent pads to soak up the oil.
The power plant management team explained the measures that were being taken to reduce the impact on the environment to representatives of VROM, the Coast Guard, the Harbor Master, the Fire Department and environmental organizations. The team also gave a tour of the current Waste Treatment System and gave an update of the GEBE Oil Containment Boom project.
GEBE has started construction of an oil boom some time ago. Marine engineering works already executed were severely damaged due to unfavorable wave action and surf in Cay Bay. The oil boom would be connected to two walls extending into the sea and would contain the oil. Then a skimmer would be used to recover any oil.
Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten community is growing weary and many of the residents and visitors are beginning to fear for their lives. Men and women today sometimes long to go home simply because they do not know if their homes are in tact after a long day's work.
Speaking to some families they said that workers on St. Maarten can no longer give their all to their employers simply because they either have to think about their safety on the job, their homes and even their children who are at school. One mother who spoke to us on the condition of anonymity said while she needs to work to feed and finance her children's education she could never be the employee she was 25 years ago. "Back then I could have left my doors open, my car unlocked and I never had to worry when my children left for school.
While at work I know that it was about working and then going home to my family. But today I have to prepare myself for gunmen while at work, I have to wonder about my home while I am working and most off all I now have to worry if my 12 year old grandchild would make it back home safely from school." The woman said she is not the only person working in stores and other established businesses on the island that is working and living in fear. She went on to say that the only thing the police concentrate on is the illegal workers and not the illegal criminals who are loitering and stealing from innocent people.
Another thing is that while illegal's or foreigners are being blamed for most of the crimes committed on St. Maarten, locals she said need to take stock since their children are mostly involved in criminal activities. "We need to stop the I from here theory and realize we are not helping our children this way. I agree there needs to be control and immigration control is necessary but the men in blue needs to pool their resources and do better if they are to fight crime."
Over the past two years the police have become criminals themselves, corruption within the police force is written on the wall. It is well documented in the WODC, Suzy Camilla Romer, the Fred Weil reports all of which is at the liberty of the police management and the minister of justice.
In these reports anyone interested in improving the police force on St. Maarten can do so if they only take the time to study these reports and fix that which is wrong. It has been years now the police force on St. Maarten have been screaming that they are understaffed and more so have limited training. Despite the challenges though, those in the force that mean well are doing their utmost best to solve crimes and to protect the people they swore to protect.
Several well established business men and women are on the verge of leaving the friendly island due to the increased crime rate. Many of them said while they are burdened with taxes, and are confronted with boastful politicians whose political campaigns they must finance, safety and security is placed on the back burners. One businessman said during elections the politicians would make so much promises but the minute they get in office they forget what they promised. He said if the politicians use their influence in parliament and within the governing structure they are bound to improve the current police force.
The businessman said that families need to restore their values and forget about the material things they placed before their children. "As an employer and father I always consider the mothers that work for me, I know they have to spend time with their children." The businessman said he has been operating on St. Maarten for the past 40 years and he is now thinking of leaving. He said in the past the youths used to show respect for adults, their teachers and parents would do their share at home, but today there is a lost generation, children are making children.
St. Maarten has recorded a host of murders many of which are still unsolved, each year cases are placed in the cold files and families of these victims still cannot find peace knowing the killers of their love ones are roaming freely.
The police and RST are currently investigating the murders of Haresh Dayalani, David Eustace from Casa Blanca, Saliba Absalon(Haitian) Eric Yuan Sam (Afoo), Hensley from Lake Guess House shooting in 2007 and the murder of Basilio Bruno also known as Eddy of the Back Street barber shop, his alleged killer is now pending extradition in Canada.
Detectives Removed from Murder Investigations.
While there is an urgent need for the police to solve these murder cases because the number is rising by the day and people fear for their lives, a trend that is definitely dampening the economy during a global crisis. The management team are busy removing seasoned detectives from these investigations.
Over the past months at least two detectives were removed from one of the unsolved murder investigation. They are detective Carlton Phillips and detective Norwin Villarreal. The remaining investigating officers arrested two suspects for the same murder investigation but eight days later the suspects was released for the lack of evidence. SMN News learnt that detective Villarreal is currently under investigation. But so far no one wants to say exactly why the detective was removed and what he is being accused of. SMN News contacted acting chief commissioner of police Dafnis Francessca for a comment on this case and he said right now there is an internal investigation ongoing against Villarreal. Francessca said the detective knows why he was removed and he also knows that his removal from the detective department is temporary pending the investigation. "I just cannot say anything right now about Villarreal case, I have to wait on the outcome of the investigation" Francessca said. As for Phillips, Francessca said he will not even address the case. "I don't even want to talk about Phillips" Francessca declared.
SMN News also contacted Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos for a comment on the ongoing investigation regarding Villarreal and was told that the person to answer our question is Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police Ademar Doran. Unfortunately he is never reachable by phone. Mos said his office was not involved in the removal of Villarreal and his office would not comment on the Phillips saga.
Detective Carlton Phillips late last year said members of the management team of the police force are enriching themselves while they were busy victimizing innocent and hardworking officers. Phillips also called on the police management and the prosecutor's office to launch an investigation to clear his name since he was accused of destroying evidence while heading the CID department. After Philips spoke out an internal investigation was conducted but to date the results of that investigation is not known and Phillips is now pushed aside even though he is an asset to the police force and certainly an asset to solving some of these unsolved murders.
GREAT BAY,– The vaccination outreach program of Youth Health Care (YHC) whose offices are located at the Vineyard Office Park, was a success last week Monday and Tuesday during the mid-term school break.
YHC administered 39 vaccinations (23 Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR), 16 DTPolio) to the age group of four through 17-years of age. Some of the children are still in day care while others aren't going to school.
Persons came to the YHC office to update their child's vaccination cards/records who were vaccinated in school or to verify whether their child was up to date.
Appointments have also been made with some parents/guardians for follow-up vaccinations for Hepatitis B and DTPolio, according to Mayra Martina from YHC.
Martina added that, parents and guardians are encouraged to visit the YHC during office hours every day in the afternoons or during school breaks to keep track of the status of their child's vaccination schedule.
Mayra Martina from YHC would like to thank all parents and guardians who made an effort to visit the YHC's office to update their child(ren's) vaccination records or to get their vaccinations.
"According to the World Health Organization, the state of the world's vaccines and immunization reports that more infants are being immunized today than ever before against life-threatening diseases – a record 106 million in 2008. Vaccines are a tool to control disease in all countries.
"I call on parents/guardians to check your child's vaccination status to make sure they are up to date," Commissioner of Health Richardson told the Government Information Service (GIS).
YHC has changed its vaccination schedule and all children between four and nine-years of age will now get their second MMR vaccine at four years of age.
The DTPolio vaccination will continue to be given when the child is nine-years of age.
Other changes in the vaccination schedule apply to children between two and 12 months of age.
Parents are reminded to make sure that their children between the ages of 0-17 are up to date with their vaccinations which are necessary in order to reduce the risk of vaccine-preventable diseases.
DTP, MMR and catch-up Hepatitis B vaccines will be given to children who are not up to date.
Immunization is a way of protecting children against serious vaccine preventable diseases. Once a person has been fully vaccinated, their bodies can fight those diseases if one comes into contact with them.
Parents should bring along with them their child's vaccination booklet/card. If you are not sure of the status of your child, you should contact either your general practitioner, paediatrician, YHC or the White & Yellow Cross Baby Clinic for children up to four years of age.
GREAT BAY:----The St. Maarten Youth Development Program is a program (funded by USONA) for youngsters between the ages of 16 and 24 years who were unable to finish secondary education and does not have the start qualifications needed to enter the job market. Limited spaces are available.
The program targets youngsters between 16 and 24 years who have not finished secondary education and does not possess the start qualifications needed to obtain a job. The program focuses on training youngsters in specific job functions that are needed on the island.
Deadline for registration is the 24th of February 2010 or until spaces are filled.
The program has now been approved for the next three years (2010-2012) and on January 27th 2010, the project was signed off by Commissioner Marlin and Director of USONA, Mr. Reginaldo Doran. Classes officially commenced on February 8th 2010 for the program.
The program is now registering for the Social Pedagogic Worker (SPW/Care). After successful completion of this course, one can work in a daycare, an afternoon school or a foster home with persons within the age group of 0-18 years.
SPW1 stands for Social Pedagogic Worker and the course being offered is on a SBO level 1 (assistant's level). The course falls under the Care sector and takes 1 year to complete. Upon successful completion, students will be qualified to work as an assistant group leader at a daycare, pre-school, afternoon school or a foster home.
The course focuses on "caretaking" within the age group of 0 to 18 years. The course is a working learning course therefore 80% of the course is spent on job training. Students will be required to carry out 5 hours job training, 5 days a week for the duration of the course. The course is taught by SIFMA.
A valid copy of your St. Maarten ID is needed to register.
For more information, contact Janelle Presentacion at 543-0497 or visit us at our office upstairs Carl and Son's Bakery on the Walter Nisbeth Road between 2pm and 5 pm.
Philipsburg:--- Former Constitutional Affairs commissioner Sarah Wescot Williams in a press release said while all indications of the last couple of weeks pointed in the direction of a cabinet crisis in Holland, it is rather unfortunate that this happens just now.
The past week also revealed a rift between the Dutch Parliament and the State Secretary of Kingdom affairs, Mrs. Ank Bijleveld with regard to the handling of the constitutional (consensus) Kingdom laws by the same Parliament.
Notwithstanding the State Secretary's admonishment that if 10-10-10 is to be achieved, the Dutch Parliament needs to handle these laws as soon as possible, the same Parliament feels they should set their own agenda.
The Parliament hinted to the handling of these laws in April, at the same time wanting to visit the islands during the month of April and preferably before they deal with the draft laws.
All of this is now up in the air says Wescot Williams.
On March 3rd, there will be local elections in Holland.
In addition to this political barometer, regular elections for the Dutch Parliament were scheduled for late 2010/ early 2011, as the current Dutch Parliamentary term would have ended in February 2011.
The Dutch government was facing some tough baffles before the scheduled elections of 2011. In addition to its international standing on several matters, the budgetary dilemmas facing the cabinet and the need to make drastic cuts were also on the horizon.
What does all of this mean for Sint Maarten?
Already during the discussions of the Second Chamber on the issue of the constitutional Kingdom laws, doubt about St. Maarten was again raised. The government of Sint Maarten's "we are not ready" admission has surely not helped in this respect.
No party in the Netherlands is eager to wage a battle in St. Maarten's defense. There wasn't one before and there surely is none now.
Our best bet under these circumstances?
Close ranks on the constitutional process. Before this is misunderstood; with closing ranks, I do not mean a picture of government and opposition of Sint Maarten sitting shoulder to shoulder at a meeting of the Political Steering Group. This is purely cosmetic.
Close ranks with the opposition and establish a position on matters like the currency, the constitution for Country Sint Maarten, the island budget, the good governance laws ( as prepared by the current opposition (DP) and announced b y government (NA) in July 2009); justice matters, taxes and health.
Yes, probably 10-10-10 is in danger, but the quest for Country Sint Maarten is not.
We need to pursue that quest with all that we have and with all who we have, so that together we can shoulder any disappointment coming our way and remain determined and adamant to see the process to its end.
Philipsburg:--- The operational manager of GEBE power plant Kenrick Chittick told reporters on Monday that the current power outages from GEBE is caused mainly because GEBE have been experiencing some electrical failures with its two new generators. Chittick said while they have reduced the length of time for the power outages, the electrical failures they are faced with is nothing new or out of the ordinary. He said even with the old generators they are having the same type of problem; Chittick said on several occasions the engines just shut down because of a short circuit and tripping.
The operations manager said GEBE is also conducting its general overhaul for at least three of its engines namely 12, 15, and 16. These overhauls were postponed from last year and each of the engines would take a minimum of three to four weeks before the overhaul is complete. Chittick said the new generators that GEBE has purchased has caused the company to save monies and time especially when there are ground seas. He said the new engines have radiator cooling system verses the seawater cooling which normally clog their systems.
The operations manager said GEBE is also planning to purchase another new generator early next year so that they can compete with the supply and demand. Currently GEBE is supplying 53 megawatts during peak time while they have a 72 megawatts capacity.
GEBE is also looking into upgrading its waste management system to avoid future oil spills. Chittick said GEBE already have a waste management system, which overflowed last week. He said the company does not pump waste oil in the sea intentionally. On the contrary, they ship their unused oil to Trinidad at the oil refinery for processing.
GREAT BAY,– Governor Franklyn Richards extended his warmest greetings and best wishes to the Dominican Republic Consul General Doris Elsa Vasquez Martinez and members of the Dominican Republic community on the island, on the occasion of the celebration of 'Semana Dominicana,' earlier this week.
Governor Richards was unable to attend the event last Saturday due to being in Puerto Rico for the Special Olympics Latin America Games.
In his letter to the Consul General, Governor Richards pointed out how the Dominican Republic shares many common interests with Sint Maarten, adding that they are not only commercial interests but have extended itself to family, cultural and social ties.
"I trust that as governmental representatives of the Dominican Republic as well as the many hard-working and law-abiding 'Dominicanos' with legal status on Sint Maarten, we can continue to count on your support for the ideals and principles which Sint Maarten what it is today, and which, ultimately, continues to benefit not only the Sint Martiner but non-nationals, including Dominicanos, as well.
"Today, in 2010, it remains a very real challenge, and one which should always be pursued, if we together are to become truly successful in our dreams and objectives of developing an even better Sint Maarten, for ourselves and for future generations," Governor Richards letter to the Dominican Republic Consul General Doris Elsa Vasquez Martinez said.
Governor Richards concluded in his letter that the 2010 Semana Dominicana may serve not only as an occasion to celebrate the colourful heritage, the culture, traditions, and the commemoration of Dominican Republic independence, but that it may also serve as a time of reflection on the road travelled as well as the road lying ahead.
Philipsburg: ---- Some twenty persons, fourteen of which are females and six males received their declaration of naturalization from Acting Lt. Governor Millicent de Weever. The recipient hails from St. Lucia(4), Dominican Republic (4) Haiti (3) Jamaica (3), Suriname (2) Guyana (2) China (1), and India (1).
Wednesday's ceremony is the first for the year 2010 and it is the smallest group to receive their Dutch Nationality since the process began in December 2008. Seven of the twenty recipients took the declaration of solidarity.
Acting Lt. Governor Millicent De Weever admonished the group to always respect and love St. Maarten. De Weever said you should all show respect and love for St. Maarten and if necessary and above all defends St. Maarten.
Philipsburg:----Red Cross Trainer Melitza Maduro from St. Eustatius, spent Saturday and Sunday on St. Maarten to train the Mental Health Foundation Staff in emergency response. It was a 2-day intensive course in reanimation and all other emergency related techniques. Regardless of their busy schedule all staff participated the whole weekend and successfully achieved their certificates.
Philipsburg: --- Island Councilman Leroy de Weever felt that the current executive council led by leader of National Alliance William Marlin has left commissioner of Public Works Theo Heyliger to fend for himself as all of the members and supporting members of the current executive council did not show up to give Heyliger the required quorum for an island council meeting on Monday. De Weever said it was clear that Heyliger had to fend for himself and woe; the votes from members of the Democratic Party to get his proposal to amend the spatial planning ordinance. Absent from the island council meeting on Monday was independent Island council member Louis Laveist, leader of the National Alliance William Marlin who is currently off island, Island Council member Rudolph Samuel and Island Council man George Pantophelt who did not wait for the voting. Seven votes were cast on Monday after the debates on the amendment four of which came from the Democratic Party. Members of the DP said the only reason they gave Heyliger the quorum was that they understand the importance of the amendment to the ordinance, which would allow most parts of the island to be zoned.
After posing several questions pertaining to Public Works the Democratic Party requested a five minutes adjournment to caucus before casting their vote, just then the DP members walked out to the gallery of the Government Administration Building where they invited Heyliger to also caucus with them before returning to their seats to vote in favor of the amendment.
Members of the Democratic Party asked direct questions pertaining to the processing of building, hindrance and planning permits that is taking almost forever to process. Heyliger said the department is currently short of staff and the salary scales to attract these skilled labour is not conducive. He said for the year 2007 some 443 building permits were requested, 324 of them were processed and granted while 66 are waiting for corrections and 57 of them were ready but not picked up. Leader of the Democratic Party Sarah Wescot Williams said she would like to get a breakdown of the permits that needs corrections for years 2007 through 2010, while she wants to know why and who are the persons who did not pick up their permits even though its ready. Heyliger responded by saying that those that were not picked up carry a financial cost to it, reason why he believed the applicants did not pick them up. The commissioner also promised to supply all members of the island council the answers to their questions in writing within the next seven days.
The commissioner of Public Works said some 411 building permits were requested in 2008, 332 of them were granted, 5 of them are still being processed, while 74 of them need corrections. In the year 2009 336 building permits were requested, 201 were issued 12 are being processed currently, 34 of them are for corrections while 39 of those permits are soon to be signed off.
Heyliger told the council that one of the main hindrances in the processing of certain permits it is the lack of an environmental inspector. The commissioner said the inspector for St. Maarten went on pension and the one that was to begin working for St. Maarten has chosen to work in Curacao. The commissioner said currently the department is negotiating with the retired inspector to give him another extension on his contract until the new environmental inspector takes office here on May 1. The members of the Democratic Party also shared their concerns regarding the halt in the processing of these permits and the impact it would have on the economy. They suggested that the department of ROB work with some of the contractors to process the pending permits however, Heyliger said he already made such a suggestion but the department felt that it would be too costly for the island government. The public works commissioner said already government has set aside some 500,000 guilders to hire one two consultants that are willing to work along with VROM on the zoning.
Councilman De Weever also informed the council that local contractors are planning to demonstrate sometime soon for the lack of work now that that permits is not being handled. He said the contractors would be sharing their concerns especially how the current government is handling the processing of building and other permits. De Weever also expressed his concerns this would have on the economy as well as with the locals residents who can take advantage with the banks regarding loans at lower rates. The island councilman said the halt on the processing of these permits is affecting several businesses and functioning of public works is now unacceptable. He said based on how things are going it does not seem as if government cares about the ripple effect this will cause. He said while he would like to see the current executive council not perform but that would be at the people's expense.
KEMAR
Island Councilman Leroy de Weever got agitated on Monday when Commissioner Theo Heyliger informed the council that the Lt. Governor's cabinet has more questions regarding KEMAR. De Weever in his response and an effort to get a clear picture on the hold up said he wants to know if the Governor's Cabinet is working as some form of higher supervision or if it was one of the members of the current executive council is using the governor cabinet to side track the people's business. Island Council member Roy Marlin also asked for more clarification as to why the governor's cabinet is now getting involved in posing more questions when in fact the project passes through the governor's cabinet before executive council takes a decision.
Island councilman Roy Marlin also expressed his concerns on the KEMAR cost quality analysis. He said when the commissioner presented his terms of reference in the central committee he expressed urgency in the project since the sanitary landfill is coming close to its lifespan. He said that the situation at the sanitary landfill is disastrous something Heyliger agreed saying that something has to be done to regulate the garbage situation St. Maarten. Marlin said based on his experience he knows that the governor's cabinet saw it already and now having more questions is beyond is comprehension. He said simply cannot grasp what role the governor's cabinet is playing at this point. Marlin said the contract prepared by KEMAR had a team of professionals within government and the contractors themselves over a year and half now. He said he wanted to know if the current government will now abolish these studies and if they are going to start all over again to move the KEMAR proposal. Marlin said the holding of this contract would also affect the GEBE concession, which will expire by the end of March.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—On Wednesday, at the Sonesta Great Bay Hotel and Casino, Sector Directors and Department Heads from the Island Government took part in a Change Management Workshop, which was sponsored by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in cooperation with the Development Cooperation Fund of the Netherlands Antilles (DEVCO). Participants came also from Saba and St. Eustatius.
The workshop was realized on the 23rd of June 2009, when the Government of the Netherlands Antilles and UNDP signed an agreement to implement the project: "Capacity Development for Nation Building in the Netherlands Antilles."
The project consists of three major components,
- The creation of capacity and institutional strengthening in order to guide the process of the development of the Netherlands Antilles by means of the so-called "Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and to monitor the progress in the realization of the objectives of the MDGs in the N.A.
- The strengthening of capacity in the change of policies on the level of the central and island government for civil servants in Curacao and St. Maarten as these islands will obtain their new status in the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
- Training courses for civil servants on the central and island level so they will be able to negotiate with multilateral organizations such as the United Nations and the European Union in order to benefit much more from the ties with the multilateral organizations.
Jamila Romero representing the office of DEVCO welcomed all to the workshop and introduced Commissioner Xavier Blackman, who said a few words on the need and importance of the workshop.
The main objective of the workshop is to help the Sector Directors and Department Heads get a better observation of the change process in the framework of the future constitutional structure of the NA; of the possible impact of these changes on their sectors and departments; and of the necessary methods to fulfill the role of the facilitators in the process of change to realize new entities.
For these two days, directors and heads will gather information on how to guide personnel under their responsibility in the process of change. Attention was also given to the management style that concentrates on the persons and emphasis was laid to aspects such as emotion, intuition, inner peace, relationship, discipline, integrity, and culture, according to the handout.
The workshop centered on 4 modules with emphasis on the person in the process of change. By means of these modules, the participants developed certain skills to change their traditional way of thinking and acting in order to redirect the way of thinking and acting to a more inspirational one.
The presenter was Drs. Soeresh Gobardham of the Mahatt Institute, based in Florida.
The course was focused mainly from the psychedelic, dealing with the mind and the internal thinking aspect. The holistic way of leadership and management is based on an effective balance in implementation of things and people.
Discussion points, the presenter introduced were, the decision making process, planning-control structure, work processes, communication pattern, leadership management dynamics, knowledge, technology, time, money, rules, strategies, profit, reports, rewards-punishments, and infrastructure.
And from the perspective of the individual, points discussed were: attitude, respect, commitment, integrity, teamwork, and passion.
The workshop will continue on Thursday, March 4th.
GREAT BAY (GIS) --- Commissioner William Marlin was present, on behalf of Telem Group of Companies, presented a check of $6000 to the math teacher and coach Iwan Blankendal and 3 Milton Peters College (MPC) students to attend the upcoming Math A-Lympiad in Gardered, the Netherlands.
Commissioner Marlin said that the students and teacher Blankendal requested assistance to attend the important math event. After making one call, Commissioner said that he didn't have to make another. Telem Groups of companies saw the benefit of supporting this academic venture.
For the past 9 years, St. Maarten has been able to attend the Math event, at times returning with top prizes.
"I want to thank Telem for contributing to such a worthy cause, and I wish the students and the coach the very best," Commissioner Marlin said.
Also present was Chief Financial Officer and current acting Managing Director Helma Etnel and Chief Commercial Officer Brian Mingo.
Etnel said that it was a pleasure to contribute; and that on behalf of the Telem Group of companies, she is proud and honored. With this donation, we hope to change the perception of St. Maarten internationally. I wish you the very best.
Math teacher and coach Blankendal thanked Telem and the commissioner for their presence and their donation, and promised that they will do their utmost to make St. Maarten proud.
The students who will be traveling to the Netherlands for the Math competition are Thaymira York, Vinay Jagroep, Kim Verschueren, and (not present/in picture is Mae-anne Snijders).
The students will be accompanied by the Blankendal and is scheduled to leave on to compete against other top math students from different countries.
International Women's Day celebrates the achievements of women, and promotes their freedom, and social and economic equality. As we join other women around the world in marking this day, we have no choice but to appreciate the struggles, recognize the progress, acknowledge the work of our own, be inspired by the courage women over the years and collectively push the envelope until the world can truly celebrate equal rights, equal opportunities and progress for all. It is therefore appropriate that this is the theme or International Women's Day for 2010.
Regardless of heritage or socio economics there are some things that are universal to us as women, and that is our experiences as women. Grounded in our commitment for independence and progress, women have made relentless efforts, and even struggles, for our rights around the world over the last one hundred years.
Since assuming my role as a public servant, I have met, spoken to and worked with women in a diverse range of important leadership positions. They are women of enormous skill, passion and commitment who range from varied backgrounds but despite some hardships, fulfill their roles as mothers and professionals in this community. The unheralded and unrecognized volunteer work being undertaken by women on St. Maarten are vital contributions in providing community services that simply could not be delivered from the public purse.
Today, International Women's Day, is an appropriate day to recognize all those women who give their time, professionalism and compassion in a wide range of endeavors that support women and promote equality. Today is a day of celebration, of recognition of the distinctive qualities of women and what they contribute to all facets of life.
The undeniable fact is that women today enjoy a lot of opportunities and independence compared to women of previous generations, but we are still, around the world, being constantly reminded of our rights and privileges as if these rights and privileges can somehow be taken away from us. Although in our part of the world we enjoy security of those rights and privileges, our sisters in some parts of the world cannot get comfortable in what they have achieved thus far.
We must continue to reinforce and reflect on where we are as women, in our struggle for equality, peace and development, and embrace chances to unite and mobilize for meaningful change. Are we there yet? The answer is no. But not an unequivocal no, as we have come a long way, and we have the precursors in place to achieve much more in the future. This should be a time for optimism.
To all my sisters, Happy International Women's Day.
Philipsburg:---On Sunday, March 7, 2010 the New Era Foundation led by Mr. C. Jeffrey Richardson officially launched their Youth Program with Commissioner Hyacinth Richardson addressing the young people that attended and declaring the program officially opened.
The program started with the Invocation by Pastor Emille Powell and the St Maarten song was sung after by the attendees. Mr. Jeffrey Richardson then gave an introduction of the Program and a brief summary of what the program entails. The Theme for the program is: Discovering the true purpose for your life. This program will be based on the principles that we have made as the New Era's mission Statement which is: Promoting Unity, Respect, Patience, Obedience, Sacrifice and Excellence. These attributes will play a major role in our young people discovering their true purpose for their life which will not be able to come without the young people allowing God to direct their paths was said by Mr. Richardson.
Mr. Neil Henderson, the managing Director of Henderson Insurances also gave a motivational speech to the youngsters by covering the topic of team work amongst the youths. He graciously was able to catch the attention of the young people by informing them that they all were team players based on the fact that they live in a house with a family where each person has a role to play with an objective for that family. He mentioned that the parents' role where to provide for them (the youngsters) and their role or responsibility in turn was to study and educate themselves amongst other roles that they play including, home chores etc. that is defined by the leader which is the parents.
There were also parents that came to the program to find out what the objective of the program was and what their children would be involved in and to their surprise they themselves were contended to have brought their children to be a part of the program because of the many things that were thought to those young people.
The program began approximately around 5.30 pm and there were students from various schools, including The Milton Peters College, The University of St. Martin, The SxM Academy, The Vocational Training School, The St. Dominique High School, The Sundial School and the Lycee School in Marigot. So there was a cross section of various schools that took part in the program. The New Era was even happy to acknowledge one of the teachers of Milton Peters College, Mr. Whitfield who came also to witness what the program was all about. Sure enough he pledged his support to the program and said that he was willing as well to also give an input to the program by also motivating the children to be all that they can be.
The Program ended at 7.00 pm and the students were able then to socialize amongst each other while they were provided with snacks and drinks for the evening. The programs will be held every first Sunday of the month at Celebration Palace or at any other venue that is announced by the New Era Foundation representatives. In conclusion the program was deemed a success and all students that attended were challenged to bring along at least 2 more of their friends to the next program that will be held on the second Sunday in April which is April 11, 2010. This date was chosen because the first Sunday falling on Easter Sunday which is a holiday.
(Press Release by Jeffry Richardson)
Philipsburg: ---In keeping with its objectives to reach out to other young people and organizations in the community, CPYP on Saturday organized a movie outing for the boys at Ujima Foundation.
Accompanying the children was Mr. Lawson, student caretaker, on weekends and members of the CPYP.
Ujima Foundation caters to young boys from the age of eight years old that are experiencing difficulty in the area of social- emotional development. These youngsters are offered placement at the home, operated by the Foundation for a certain period of time, during which they receive the necessary attention.
It is CPYP's intention to have monthly outings with the children. While receiving the necessary attention at the Home, the children should not have the feeling that they are alienated from society. The CPYP will do it's part in keeping the children in touch with society through social events. Through these types of activities, the children can interact with the adults and other children at these outings.
CPYP would like to express its gratitude to Caribbean cinemas Megaplex 7 and its general manager Mr. B. Flanders for assisting the children with complementary tickets as well as Mrs. J. Bell, facility director for allowing the children to participate in the outing.
It takes a community to turn the tide, says CPYP, so let us do it together.
The Civil Registry Department hereby announces that the Identification Card production machine is back in service and persons can visit the office as of Wednesday, March 10.
Special Saturday Opening for Brooks Towers Accord for those Requiring an ID Card.
In order to accommodate persons who have received their residence permit based on the Brooks Tower Accord, the Civil Registry Office will be opened on Saturdays to facilitate the processing of ID cards (only). The service will be available on the following Saturdays, March 13, 20, 27 and April 3. The Saturday opening hours are from 8.00am to 1.00pm.
For further information you can call the Civil Registry Department at 542-2457.
Progressive Educational Experiences in Caribbean Cultures (PEECC) congratulates thirty eight - programme participants and 11 of St. Maartens's Entrepreneurs in their successful completion of "Journey of an Entrepreneur." One year post the incubation period of PEECC's Entrepreneurial Training Program known as ETP for ATLAS; ATLAS being Achievement Through Life and Academic Skills, The entrepreneurs continue to strive for business success.
In one year the participants have faced the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship. The participants agree the lessons learned in "The Journey of an Entrepreneur" helped build self confidence, tenacity, and community belonging. A journey indeed for each of the individuals it was a unique process, since their Initial concepts of their businesses; a few may be viewed at http://sxm.peecc.org. Those unable to implement their business plans consistently agree the ETP for ATLAS Program educated them in being a better employee as well as the difficulties in being an employer.
PEECC is honored and grateful for its performance commendation given by former Minister of Justice and current Curaçao Commissioner of Tourism,David Dick, as well as the recognition of current Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba.
PEECC's Team customized an instructional program for the Project funded by USONA and implemented under the guides of The Justice Department, Stichting Justitiele Inrichtingen Bovenwinden(SJIB), and Traject Preventie en Resocialisatie(PVNA).
PEECC's Director Sara Stone commented and gives thanks to the Team of committed professionals, educators and business leaders who gave their passion and wisdom to the project through dedication and unwavering loyalty.
The Team of Instructors included Team Leader, Kenneth Lopes, Clarence Richardson, Julian Rollocks, along with technical and administrative support long time community educator Alice Samuel and Elfrida Swaby.
PEECC looks forward to providing more innovative economic development projects on the island of St. Maarten. As we look forward to the important constitutional issues facing the NEW St. Maarten we will engage future leaders, todays youth. PEECC's Director Sara Stone states, "We are excited to renew our efforts in culture and education with an upcoming International Cultural Exchange Project partnered by renown Universities located in Washington, DC., we are looking to engage University age youth from the Netherlands Antilles interested in innovative approaches to the preservation and expansion of architecture in the Caribbean. Interested Antillean youth enrolled in a university program on St. Maarten or abroad should send there info via the website as soon as possible.
"I think that jail should be used as a last option when dealing with first time offenders as we continue to see that many first time offenders continue to return after they would have been placed with hardened criminals," this is according to former Senior Defense Force Officer and now Managing Director of a private security firm, Shawn Wigley. He has also issued a passionate appeal to the relevant authorities to create initiatives with the view to promote the social development of young people here in St Kitts and Nevis. He said that this will help to curb what he said is the staggering increase in criminal activities within the federation.
Wigley said that locking away first-time offenders could lead them to further criminality noting that it provides an opportune moment for the relevant authorities to reach out to the offenders thus preventing them for continuing a life of crime. Quizzed on what he thinks can be an alternative in leading first time offenders from continuing in such a path, Wigley said that he firm believes that community service should be used depending on the nature of the offence. The former senior Defense Force Officer said that he would like to see Government together with the relevant stakeholders assisting with establishing certain facilities, which he stressed if created, will aid significantly in accommodating first time offenders. This he said will help to segregate them from hard-core criminals.
Wigley also noted that there are a number of other initiative which he said can be created noting that among some are looking at the introduction of moral education in the school system stressing that many times it is there that many of the federation's criminals begins their life of crime. He also noted that the issue of censorship of certain types of music should be seriously addressing declaring that many have lost sight of the biblical teachings.
Wigley also stressed that the current crime situation needs the help of all stakeholders noting that justice that the situation could be addressed through the criminal justice system. He said that the fovours should be to reduce the opportunities to commit crimes, and the promotion of social development.
To this end, the Supreme Security MD called for the establishment of more recreational facilities in certain communities to be given consideration. In addition, he also called for greater pro-active parent/teacher associations in schools; frequent visits by Police/Welfare Officers to schools and the revisiting of the dress code for children attending school activities. "Children must be able to understand that as children they must act and dress like children and parents needs to ensure this," he said.
The use of reformed prisoners to educate in-school youths of their experiences in Prisons was recommended for consideration. Calling for a zero tolerance on crime, Wigley said that the St Kitts and Nevis Police Force and other law enforcement agencies needs to be more aggressive in their fight against crime and drugs. He declared that there must be zero tolerance for gang leaders and drug dealers noting that aggressive anti-money laundering be undertaken. He pointed out that the fight being fought primarily by the security forces can only be won with greater community involvement.
The MD noted the importance of encouraging and strengthening citizen community participation in the implementation of public security plans and programmes and to promote the concept of getting security companies also involved in getting crime aggressively. He pointed out that he has embarked on ensuring that his security officers gets regular and primary training before being employed adding that it will help them in being able to assist in the protection of their communities.
Wigley also requested that the newly appointed Minister of National Security, the Hon Sam Condor convene a meeting with private security companies so as to seek their involvement in effectively addressing on crime prevention, public safety and security.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—On Wednesday the 3rd of March, Dion "Mega D" Humphreys and Gene Herbert of the Mega D Youth Foundation in St. Eustatius visited the students of the Youth Development Program in St. Maarten.
Both persons gave motivational speeches during the students' Social skills class at the Caribbean Institute for Social Education Foundation (CIFSEF). They talked to the youngsters about second chances, the importance of social skills, perseverance, and living purposefully.
In addition, Humphrey and Herbert gave a short presentation of the foundation's activities in St. Eustatius and urged and encouraged the youngsters to give back to the community.
The program Social Pedagogic Worker (SPW/Care) is aimed at persons who want to work with children. After successful completion of this course, one can work in a daycare, an afternoon school or a foster home with persons within the age group of 0-18 years.
The department/program wants to invite more persons (especially young persons doing well) from the community to deliver motivational speeches and hold workshops on issues in the community such as violence, drugs, HIV/AIDS, active parenting, among other topics.
We plan on linking with the different organizations and institutions to achieve this.
Currently the social and educational program is doing well; the success rate of the pilot courses held before has been high, above 80%, and there are 48 students placed in the preparatory program.
The Social Skills course which we refer to as the preparatory part of the program is held at CIFSEF, where the youngsters are placed for 3 months to work on their social skills. The first set of students is currently in that phase.
We have 23 students who were part of the pilot preparatory program, now in the main part of the program. They are following the courses of PC Repair/SPW1/Front Desk Agent.
The other courses that the program offers are Bartender, Waitress, Room Care Attendant, and Hospitality Security.
Marigot: --- The gendarmes are busy investigating the shooting of 18-year old Franck Petion better known as Vebby who was brutally murdered early Saturday morning in the vicinity of the sorting station of La Poste (Centre de Courrier) at Rue Francois Hunt in Concordia.
According to bystanders, the young man was shot and pushed in the nearby bushes next to the La Poste but somehow a doctor that was passing through the main road saw him and summoned the ambulance and gendarmes, the victim was rushed to the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital but later succumbed to his wounds. It is not clear if the victim was shot more than once and where exactly he was shot.
Relatives of the young man said a woman saw the victim who was still alive and asked her for some water but the woman did not stop to render any assistance probably out of fear. His mother Vinette Petion told SMN News on Saturday evening that her son was in his bed about 8:30 am when his cellular phone rang. The bereaved woman said that she asked her son who had called him that early since he also had the flu. Mrs. Petion said her son told her it was a friend that called him and that he was going out for few minutes. The mother further explained that she looked at her son as he took his scooter and drove off as if he was going towards Bellevue.
The mother of five said about fifteen minutes later a young man came to home at number 19 St. James and told her that her son Franck was dead. Mrs. Petion said the youth also told her to go the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital to see what had happened to Franck. She said she immediately got dressed and rushed to the hospital and saw when the ambulance arrived with her son but he was already dead.
According to the mother and other bystanders, several young men all on scooters rushed to the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital hoping that their friend was alive. Most of them SMN News learnt was wearing bandanas on their heads. One bystander said the brigade was called to the hospital to maintain law and order.
Asked if Franck was attending school or if he was working, the woman said her son was no longer in school and he was not working. However, he was attending a stage somewhere in Galisbay.
Sources in the St. James neighborhood said the deceased young man was part of a gang, and that he was involved in public mischief however, efforts made to contact Prosecutor Jacques Louvier on Saturday evening to confirm the allegations proved futile.
SMN News further learnt that Franck Petion was condemned some years ago for a sexual crime when he was a minor and he was sentenced to a juvenile correctional home in Guadeloupe.
One neighbor said Franck Petion whose parents are Haitians was born on St. Martin but he was in the wrong company. Sometime last year the gendarmes arrested him and they searched his mother's house for stolen items. The neighbor further explained that some months ago, one of Franck's good friend's got killed in St. James and the killers had allegedly warned they were going to come back for Franck.
The woman who spoke on the condition of anonymity pointed out several youths in the area where the now dead man had lived as being part of the same gang. "Look at them they all have the head bands and scooters and none of them are working or going to school, all they do is steal and make other people's life miserable." The woman said. Another neighbor said while Franck was a known drug user and had his problems he was also very mannerly when he is around older people.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—On Tuesday, grade 3 and 4 HAVO and VWO students of the Milton Peters College paid a visit to the Government Administration Building with their French teacher Michele Allewart to participate in several presentations by Sector Directors and Department Heads and other Government workers on each Sector and about particular departments, including personal accounts of how it is to work for Government.
Valarie Brazier of the Island Secretary office opened the session in the Claude Wathey Legislative Hall and welcomed everyone.
The speakers were as follows: Claudius Buncamper of ROB; drs. Jorien Wuite Director of VSA Public Health, Social Development, and Labor; Quincy Harrigan Head of the Education Department; Luud Hakkens of the Personnel and Organization; Gerard Richardson, Policy worker at the Department of Judicial Affairs, Julisa Frans, Policy worker, Department of Finance, and Rodney Richardson Interim Head of the Government Information Service.
The students were given a short presentation on each Sector of the Government Organization.
As of March 1st 7 new sectors in government have been adjusted to reflect the 7 ministries of Country St. Maarten. Some of the new sectors have already begun preparations to accept the transfer of tasks from the Central Government.
The seven new sectors are: General Affairs, Justice, Public Health, Social Development, and Labor (VSA), Spatial Planning and Infrastructure Management, Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic and Telecommunication, Education, and Finance.
They also had the opportunity to ask questions, which many of them did, asking about particular topics to find out more information on a particular topic: i.e. the required academic package in HAVO or VWO that they have to choose to study or get a job in a particular field, their questions were about what were the motivation for studying so long and what study academic subjects they had to choose in order to become a certain profession.
In addition, there were three luck students who won lunch bags with a t-shirt with government's logo.
St. Peters:--- The traffic department is busy investigating a multiple car accident, which left at least four persons injured. The accident occurred on Tuesday afternoon at the entrance of St. John's Estate reported Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson.
The police spokesman said several police patrols along with then fire and ambulance responded to the scene when the accident occurred. At least one person Henson said had serious injuries to the face and had to be admitted to the St. Maarten Medical Center for further treatment and observation.
On the scene, the investigating officers said that the cause of the accident was due to high speed driving. The driver of the suspected vehicle identified as G.M.B. was driving at high speed on the L.B. Scot road heading towards the Cul-de-Sac area. The driver attempted to overtake three school buses that were heading in the same direction. While overtaking the buses the driver of the suspected vehicle was confronted with oncoming traffic. He attempted to drive between the buses and the oncoming traffic but was unsuccessful.
The driver of the suspected vehicle collided with the second bus, lost control, and hit the first oncoming vehicle head on. Due the speed at which the driver was, driving his vehicle continued and hit the second vehicle on the driver side of the car. He then proceeded, hit the first bus on the left side, and ended up hitting the guardrail on the left side of the street where it came to a stop.
As a result of this accident there was considerable damage done to the suspected vehicle and the oncoming vehicles.
GREAT BAY,– Star Clipper will be returning to St. Maarten as a home port after three years' absence, while Air Berlin is very interested in starting direct flights from Germany to St. Maarten. Both the cruise ship and the airline are likely to work together, with Star Clipper using Air Berlin to fly in its passengers to begin their week-long cruise here.
These were among the most important results Commissioner of Tourism, Frans Richardson, brought back from the ITB Berlin Monday.
"The first cruise of Star Clipper will be on November 20, 2010. It will bring 50 – 60 upscale passengers from Germany and other parts of Europe weekly. This was announced at the ITB Berlin," Commissioner Frans Richardson disclosed in a press release.
The Commissioner met with Star Clipper's Sales Executive, Helmut Kutzner, who expressed satisfaction at the return of the tall ships sailing vessels to St. Maarten later in the year.
"This is good for St. Maarten and the small hoteliers in particular," explained Commissioner Frans Richardson, "because the cruise passengers have to spend a day or two here before they board their vessel."
It was a very busy time for the Commissioner at the ITB, the world's largest travel trade show with about 180,000 visitors for the five-day exhibition spread over an area of 160,000 sq. meters.
According to the Commissioner, Air Berlin Group's Senior Vice-President (Strategy), Stephan Nagel, put off his vacation at the request of the owner of the airline to meet with him.
"They are very interested in flying to St. Maarten and are hoping this could happen this year, and if not, it will be the next. They however plan to come here for a fam trip later this year," Commissioner Frans Richardson revealed.
Air Berlin is currently building its own airport which will serve as a European hub for all its other destinations, including the Caribbean and the U.S. This, according to the Commissioner, would make partnering with the airline even easier and create a synergy with Star Clipper that would be able to reserve seats on Air Berlin for its passengers.
"All we need now is the full support of all the stakeholders. We need everybody to make this work," the Commissioner said.
"I also had very good discussions with Condor airline's Head of Planning, Mr. Herwig Oberhuber who showed a lot of interest in having Condor add St. Maarten to its destinations in the Caribbean," he continued. Condor already services Barbados, St. Lucia and Santo Domingo from Germany.
Commissioner Frans Richardson, who was accompanied by Mr. Edward Dest of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, met with other representatives and tour operators who told him that the island has lost its competitive edge in Germany and the wider European market basically because of lack of funding.
"They were very happy to see that my person was there so they could express their concerns directly to me," he continued, adding that the issue of funding for the European market is being addressed. "In fact, we now have a firm that represents us in The Netherlands."
The Commissioner also met with LIAT officials at the CTO meeting held at the ITB Berlin.
"The main topic of our discussions are the high fares to Caribbean destinations which the airline charges. We, as St. Maarten, are suffering from these high fares which are making travel from the other Caribbean islands very expensive. The other islands are talking to WINAIR to see if it can't chip in to bring down prices," Commissioner Frans Richardson said.
"All in all, I would say it was a very productive trip even though I was a little under the weather," he said. "I'm now looking forward to following up with all the opportunities that have opened up with this trip."
President of the Insurance Company of the West Indies, Paul Lalor has vowed that the company will not fade away noting that a number of new offices will continue to be opened throughout the region. Lalor was responding to questions regarding the company's ability to sustain itself in a growing financial sector. He declared that his company is here to stay noting that the public can continue to expect the excellent service that they have been providing at the various offices across the region.
The 41-year-old company has come in for much praises from several persons and institutions as to the level of service and benefits that it offers for its general insurance products and services.' He however said that while he is cognizant of the satisfaction that customers have been commenting on he believes that more work needs to be done in many areas thus ensuring that they continue as the market leader in terms of insurance. "I remain confident that we will continue to offer the level of service which our clients are satisfied with as we recognize that service and commitment to deliver the best to our customers are of paramount importance," Lalor said.
Lalor who was present at the St Maarten launch of the company last year noted that despite the evident major and likely catastrophic risks that some popular insurance companies are taking his company will continue on the path of sound, proper and effective management noting that they have no intentions of taking any risks in the market.
In an exclusive interview, Lalor provided some background information about the company and its many achievements in the numerous countries that it operates in. he pointed out that the service delivered to customers continues to attract over the years including the rate of reimbursements among others are regarded as the best among their competitors. He further stated that ICWI has also sought to improve in every department noting that he is confident of continued growth and development. He acknowledged that while several companies have been in the 'grab and run' approach he believes that offering client realistic attractive rates is critically important. Lalor related his concerns about the manner in which some insurance companies operates noting that at the end of the day, customers satisfaction and appreciation is what should be of greater importance.
Responding to some of the concerns that people may have as to the importance of insurance, Lalor said that while people knows that it's a must for motor many of them have not reached a state where they truly understands the benefits of having insurance. He stressed that his company will continue finding avenues and ways in better educating the public thus he said that his company will seek to roll out a number of new initiatives inn the coming weeks which seeks to ensure that the public better understands insurance and what his company is offering.
Lalor emphasized that ICWI was making efforts to continue effectively educating the public stressing that he is very satisfied with the general overall performance of the company in the respective islands that they operate. In terms of the viability of the company Lalor was adamant that "ICWI cannot fade as it is very sound unlike many other insurance companies," Lalor noted.
He said that while he understood that some of the criticisms leveled against his company is that they are not very aggressive in marketing noting that they were genuine, he is of the firm view that word to mouth marketing and dissemination is one of the best forms of promoting a company. Lalor however admitted that the approach will change base on what he said has been the continued rapid growth of the company within the region.
"Every time we launch in a new country we makes our mandate and therefore we will certainly have to live up to these mandates if we are going to continue receive the support of the public. We have a primary role to play and I am very happy that we knows about our duties," he said. He added that the financial viability will always be a primary concern of the public and noted too that more focus would have to be put on the management of expenditure and compliance if the insurance sector is going to succeed during the challenging financial difficulties. The company launched its latest branch in St Kitts on Tuesday evening while it launched its St Maarten's operations last year.
Philipsburg: --- Six police recruits who are presently on Sint Maarten to finalize their training, have taken the temporary oath on Thursday at the Government Administration Building. The practical duration course is expected to last six weeks. They will be functioning under guidance and instruction of a mentor. After finalizing this course an evaluation will be done do determine if the recruits have done so successfully and if so they will then officially take up the task as an full fledged police officer.
The oath was taken in the presence of the Lt. Governor Mr. Franklin Richards in his capacity as Local Chief of Police also present was the Acting Chief of Police Commissioner Ademar Doran and the Public Relation and Communication Officer of the Police department, Inspector Ricardo Henson. During the ceremony both the Lt. Governor Mr. Franklin Richards and Commissioner Ademar Doran warned the recruits about the seriousness of their jobs and most of all the consequences of corruption.
Doran in his advise said the soon to be officers should know that being a police officer would not make them a millionaire however, they are going to be happy that they have chosen to become police officers and to serve their community.
Marigot: --- The gendarmes have arrested three persons between the ages of 20 to 24 for the murder of 18-year-old Franck Petion who was shot in Concordia last Saturday morning. Vice Prosecutor Jacques Louvier said that two of suspects were placed in temporary custody while the third suspect was placed under judicial control. According to Louvier, the killing was caused by a drug deal that went sour.
A press release from the gendarmerie said they managed to arrest the three culprits very early in the investigation and that the suspects appeared in court on Thursday. An inquiry into the homicide has been opened confirmed the gendarmerie.
Petion a resident of Rue de Hollande St. James was known to be part of a neighborhood gang. Residents of the area said the young man was in bad company, which led to his death.
Only Two Saturday Openings Left for Brooks Towers Accord Resident Paper Holders for Acquiring an ID card.
In order to accommodate persons who have received their residence permit based on the Brooks Tower Accord, the Civil Registry Office would like to inform those persons that the office will be opened on Saturday March 27 and Saturday April 3 to facilitate the processing of ID cards (only). The Saturday opening hours are from 8.00am to 1.00pm.
For further information you can call the Civil Registry Department at 542-2457.
Cay Hill – St. Maarten Medical Center is pleased to announce that Juliëtte Hassell is the new Human Resources/Communication Manager effective March 15, 2010. Juliëtte Hassell oversees the Human Resources department as well as the development and implementation of marketing and communications programs at the Medical Center.
Dr. Scot: "It is a new function, combining Human Resources and Communications responsibilities. The combination is a logical one. With the implementation of the strategic development plan of SMMC, the need for additional skilled medical care staff as well as skilled supporting staff will increase. We want to become as a leading medical institution and an attractive employer by further enhancing the skills of the staff, the working environment and increase the job satisfaction.
Ms. Hassell has a bachelor's degree in Management Economics and Law, supplemented with numerous courses and over 11 years of extensive management experience in the field of Marketing, Communications and Customer Service. She obtained here education in Holland and has been living in St. Maarten for the last twelve and half years where she has worked for various organizations. "With her education background and experience we believe that Juliëtte Hassell will have an added value to our organization and are pleased to have her on board", dr. Scot says.
"The St. Maarten Medical Center has an essential function in our community and a central role in health care in St. Maarten. A lot is being written about the Medical Center. To form an educated opinion the community clearly needs to know SMMC views on medical care and how we intend to address the issues that are at play within our framework" Juliëtte Hassell says and continues: "One of my responsibilities is to pro actively keep the internal and external the stakeholders informed over SMMC."
SMMC is at an exciting time in its development stage. "There is a lot happening. We are already looking for people to help strengthen our team and once the expansion project is on its way, we will more aggressively start recruiting skilled staff in various disciplines so that we are ready when the expansion is completed. We are looking for individuals who share the vision of SMMC in placing quality care first and who want to keep on raising the bar in everything they do. Employees are an essential part of any organization, even more so for SMMC. We are dealing with people. Quality care will start with the skill and mindset of our employees. There are quite some programs in place already to develop this and as HR/Communications Manager I want to make a difference in this area." Juliëtte Hassell concludes.
PHILIPSBURG – Have you ever wondered what university classes are like and what discussions and lectures take place in such classes? Well, it is time to stop wondering.
The University of St. Martin with its USM First Look program is offering you the opportunity to sit in on classes until April 17, 2010 at no cost. The program, now in its fourth term, began on March 15.
According to Director of Admissions Angelique Hazel, this program is geared at high school graduates and seniors (students in exam classes) so that they can experience first-hand what the University of St. Martin degree program classes are like. Participants in the USM First Look program also get to meet current students and instructors and ask questions about the various programs.
With USM First Look, a wide variety of college level courses are presented to the students representing each USM degree program. Some classes this term include, Tourism, Marketing, Law, Educational Psychology, Small Business Management, Language Arts & Literature, Advertising & Promotional Strategies, Intro to Sociology, Intro to Biology, Macro-Economics and many more.
"Students who are graduating from high school this year have indicated to us what they are interested in. This is a great opportunity for them to visit USM campus and be part of the type of classes they will be experiencing once in college. This opportunity is also great for those who have not yet decided on a major," Hazel said.
Many high school students have taken advantage of this opportunity in the past and USM is looking forward to many students doing the same this year.
"It helped me to expand my knowledge about business management," one student who attended Intro to Business last year said on a questionnaire. Another student who attended Theories of Learning noted, "Class discussion was excellent and teacher was an excellent facilitator. I hope to join classes to ensure my success."
With education being considered by many as an investment, it is always a great to get an insight of what is being invested in, Marketing Director Michel Chance stated. He added that in terms of university, anyone who plans to continue their studies, locally or abroad, should take advantage of the USM First Look. Parents are also encouraged to come and sit in with their children, he said.
"Based on the classes available, students are welcomed to sit in on as many classes as they desire. We have also found working adults who are interested in USM First Look because they are interested in returning to college. Persons in this category are also encouraged to contact the Admissions Office for more information," the USM Admissions Director said.
In order to provide adequate seating, those interested are asked to RSVP with the Admissions Office concerning their attendance at least three days prior to the class session. Interested persons can contact USM Admissions Office at 542-5171 Ext. 1019 for more information. The USM First Look schedule is also available at the Admissions Office or on www.facebook.com (University of St. Martin Admissions).
St. Maarten drivers who will be participating in car races being held at the Curacao International Race Way were introduced to general safety rules and international regulations pertaining to legal drag racing activities. The Safety Clinic presentation, hosted by NAGICO Insurances at the request of the organizers, included safety regulations for both cars and drivers and covered various guidelines pertaining to the construction of the chassis, different types of acceptable safety belts and harnesses, removable steering wheels, window nets, and general rules of conduct on the racing track. On hand for the presentation were Curacao Auto Sport Foundation President, Mr. Frank Brandao and Car Inspector, Mr. Clifton Hoyer.
NAGICO's Managing Director, Mr. Eric Ellis: "While this sport is not new to St. Maarten drivers, information on international rules and regulations on the sport may have not always been readily available or properly introduced. As an insurance company that understands the need for safety and good conduct on the road or track for all drivers, we did not hesitate when contacted by the organizers, to allow them to make use of the NAGICO board room and equipments to carryout this vital presentation."
The schedule for the various race categories begin on the night of 28th of April with "A Night on the Track Party". Race days are from the 29th of April to May 1st. Drivers who will be representing St. Maarten in Curacao are being assisted by long time drag race activist Mr. Charles Benders, who is coordinating logistics to and from Curacao.
Philipsburg: ---The Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba has issued a passionate appeal to all Haitians who are undocumented to make full use of the opportunity being offered by her Ministry. The Minister's appeal comes in the wake of a massive campaign, which seeks to register all illegal Haitians as a result of the devastating earthquake, which left thousands dead, and many more displaced.
Minister Jacoba said that the new arrangement, which is being executed at the Salvation Army conference room, Colebay, seeks to ensure that all illegal Haitians on the island are given a proper opportunity to register to avoid deportation as such. She has is making continues appeal for all to take notice of.
The Minister admitted that she understands that many may be confused in one way or another as the premiere focus of such as initiative stressing that it is better for them to register thus guaranteeing that they can stay on the island until the expiration date. This, she noted will be given to them either in August or December this year.
The Justice Minister also expressed concern that since the establishment of this new initiative only 700 Haitians have registered. She pointed out that it has slowed down for the past two days. She stressed that all Haitians should utilize the offer declaring that this arrangement comes to an end on March 31st this year.
Philipsburg: --- On Friday March 26th a French couple presently on vacation on St Maarten, filed an official complaint with the Special Robbery Unit stating that they were victims of an armed robbery.
The couple told police a car that was driving behind them at approximately 02.00 a.m. on Rhine Road in the vicinity of Mullet Bay hit their vehicle in the rear.
The couple told police when they stopped to check the damages done to their vehicle to access the damage; three men suddenly attacked them. Two of the men were armed with shotguns. The robbers threatened the victims with the weapons if they did not cooperate. When the victims noticed, what was going on they took off running in the direction of the Atlantis casino. The robbers stepped into the car of the victims and took off towards the French side taking several personal items along with them. The Special Robbery Unit was informed of the incident. The car, which the suspects used to commit this act, was later found in the vicinity of Porto Cupe-a-coy. This car was towed for further investigation.
Great Bay:--- Environmentalist Reuben Thompson, winner of the 2009 Euan P. McFarlane Award for Environmental Leadership in the Insular Caribbean has been commended for the outstanding work he has been doing in favor of the preservation and conservation of Nature.
"We are proud to be associated with Reuben Thompson, who has been making significant contributions in terms of raising awareness about environmental issues and the impact these could have on the sustainability of our tourist industry," said Director of Tourism, Regina LaBega
"We are extremely happy that not only has his work received recognition on St. Maarten with the joint Person of the Year Award he received from a local newspaper last
year, but also that he is the first person from the Netherlands Antilles to be granted the prestigious regional E. P. McFarlane Award," LaBega added.
Thompson, an independent project manager with EPIC (Environmental Protection in the Caribbean) was nominated for the award by the organization's president, Natalia Collier, and seconded by Paul Hoetjes of the Environment and Nature Department of Curacao. Thompson is also vice-president of the St. Maarten Pride Foundation.
"Hard work, commitment and dedication do not always go unnoticed, and I'm happy to join others in congratulating Reuben Thompson for this well-deserved award. It is an achievement we should all be proud of," Commissioner of Tourism, Frans Richardson said.
The award, named after Euan P. McFarlane, a well-known environmental activist in the region and former treasurer of the Caribbean Conservation Association who died in 1983, is now in its 18th year. It was established to recognize those persons whose initiative, zeal, resourcefulness and leadership is helping promote better care and conservation of the environment particularly in the Eastern Caribbean.
GREAT BAY,– Saturday April 3 will be the last special opening by the Civil Registry Department for persons who need an Identification Card after receiving their Brooks Towers Accord residency papers.
Persons who have received their residency permit under the aforementioned accord should make use of the last Saturday that is left. The office will be open from 8.00am to 1.00pm.
The public is also hereby informed that the office does not accept any laminated documents. Laminated documents do not allow the office the opportunity to verify the authenticity of the aforementioned.
Philipsburg: --- The United Telecommunications Service (UTS) is the latest company to join ranks with funmiles announced UTS marketing and communications officer Ivy Lambert at a press conference on Wednesday.
UTS will be offering its new customers several possibilities on how to gain their funmiles or how to exchange their funmiles for UTS products and services offered at UTS. Persons that are interested in becoming a member of funmiles can also purchase their cards at UTS office says Lambert. UTS or Chippie customers would also be able to purchase their prepaid credits with their funmiles. Lambert said with 250 funmiles point any Chippie customer could buy a $5 prepaid phone card, 500 funmiles equals $10, while a 1000 funmiles a customer could buy a $20 prepaid card. Some of the other companies already with Funmiles are Kooyman, Shell Service Station and several other stores said Funmiles sales director Surella van Reusel.
GREAT BAY, The Boardwalk Mas will take place at the Great Bay Beach promenade and the Wathey Square on Frontstreet on May 15, 2010, said Regina Labega, head of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau (STB).
The 6th annual parade and concert of traditional St. Maarten/St. Martin festive culture is "for the whole family and the entire island," said Labega about the TourMap heritage program.
In 2010, the Boardwalk Mas will increase the appearance of masks, "Which is something we've been working at from the start in 2005," said parade coordinator Urmain Dormoy.
"Last year we had more masks that ever before. The big ones of the dog and creatures from St. Martin and Caribbean folktales and jumbie stories were a hit. We want to get more creative with that," said Dormoy. The Boardwalk Mas is coordinated for STB by Offshore Editing Services.
Not only is the creative design and number of masks increasing in the parade but the number of schools participating is increasing and the visitors to the island have been showing up in greater numbers, especially over the last three years, said Labega.
"We are happy with the focus remaining on the folkloric traditions. In this way the Boardwalk Mas is open to all participants and creative innovations but the basic idea is that the masqueraders and performances enhance unity with and around the oldtime festive culture of our island," said Labega.
Over the years, the Boardwalk Mas has showcased marching bands, fire-eaters, martial arts, carnival royals, comedians, string bands, carnival band of the year, street and dance theater, a range of folkloric and cultural groups, fashion models in traditional dress or headwraps, individual masqueraders, and moko jumbies.
Folkloric and cultural groups, marching bands, individual masqueraders, and schools wishing to take part in the new edition of the Boardwalk Mas may contact STB product development head Gus Priest, tel (599) 542-2337, and leave a message for Urmain Dormoy.
Parade coordinator Dormoy can also be contacted directly at the Cultural Center on Backstreet or at
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GREAT BAY,– The world will be celebrating World Health Day on Wednesday, April 7 under the campaign banner, 1000 Cities, 1000 Lives.
The global goals of the World Health Organization (WHO) campaign are 1000 Cities: to open up public spaces to health, whether it is activities in parks, town hall meetings, clean-up campaigns, or closing off portions of streets to motorized vehicles.
1000 Lives: to collect 1000 stories of urban health champions who have taken action and had a significant impact on health in their cities.
Commissioner of Public Health Hyacinth Richardson says the global theme for 2010 World Health Day is, "Urbanization: a challenge for public health."
Population growth is associated with many health challenges related to water, environment, violence and injury, non-communicable diseases and their risk factors like tobacco use, unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, harmful use of alcohol as well as the risks associated with disease outbreaks.
This poses a challenge for several reasons: A condensed population means a larger range of diseases and other health problems, which includes an increased risk of violence, chronic disease, and for some communicable diseases such as tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS.
Adequate information and proper planning can promote healthy behaviours, such as safety through investment in active transport, designing areas to promote physical activity and passing regulatory controls on tobacco and food safety.
Improving living conditions in the areas of housing, water and sanitation will go a long way to mitigating health risks. Building inclusive cities that are accessible and age-friendly will benefit all residents. Such actions do not necessarily require additional funding, but commitment to redirect resources to priority interventions, thereby achieving greater efficiency.
"On World Health Day, I call on the nation to review their lifestyle and eating habits. Take a step back and look at yourself as an individual and your family. Come up with a new plan of how to relieve stress and staying healthy.
"It's your responsibility to take action. Challenge yourself and set goals for a healthy lifestyle for you and your family. Join with friends and family and make it a community or neighbourhood affair in creating a healthier Sint Maarten community," Commissioner of Public Health Hyacinth Richardson told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Tuesday.
GREAT BAY---– Governor Franklyn Richards, Local Chief of Police signed on Wednesday a financial agreement on behalf of the Island Territory of Sint Maarten and USONA for the upgrading of the Windward Islands Police Force.
The signing ceremony took place at the Government Administration Building in the A.C. Wathey Legislative Hall.
Technical assistance will be provided by Holland to upgrade and transfer knowledge to police personnel from the Forensic and Technical Departments of the Windward Islands Police Force.
Philipsburg – There are several roads throughout the various districts in need of repair and even complete resurfacing, while "this Government is having the most relaxed attitude ever towards the deplorable condition of some of the roads throughout the island," Stuart Johnson Democratic Party parliamentary candidate remarked. Johnson also holds the function of Vice President of the board of the Democratic Party.
During the tenure of the Democratic Party Government we saw countless roads being paved maintained, which reinforced DP's commitment of "improving the road network." Nowadays, we have come to the belief that the road network does not have the focus of the NA/Louie Laviest/Theo Heyliger Government.
Johnson said, "The state of the roads is something that should be tackled, especially in the outer areas/districts." He added, "Imagine the Walter J. Nisbeth road on Pondfill has been without lights for over one week, despite the ongoing complaints by residents in the area to various stakeholders involved." Our island continues to face countless robberies and other criminal acts, thus, making "safety a priority for our people" should be a major focus of this Government, but it clearly is not their focus. In addition to a road being adequately maintained or resurfaced, we should also see proper drainage and lighting in place as was done in the past. "It is evident with any road having sufficient lighting in place, helps to curb criminal acts being committed by offenders," Johnson said. "Thus, it's unacceptable what is happening on Walter J. Nisbeth road as well as other roads throughout the various districts."
"Does government have a plan for road improvements?" Johnson questioned. He mentioned empathically, "It is imperative our road network must be able to meet the challenges which lay ahead for us terms of infrastructural improvements and economic growth," Johnson concluded.
Philipsburg: --- The St. Maarten Academy (Academic Section) is holding a fundraising bingo this Saturday April 10 2010 at 7 pm to raise much needed funds to assist some students that are expected to travel to the United States this summer to participate in the People-to-People conference. On Saturday, bingo lovers would have an opportunity to win great prices.
Persons who are thinking of changing their kitchen appliances are urged to take advantage by purchasing one or more tickets to win a refrigerator, a stove, a microwave. Out for grabs would be a 32-inch flat screen LCD television, and a computer. The management and parents of the St. Maarten Academy are calling on the public to come out this Saturday and support our youths who are striving for higher education.
Philipsburg: ----On Friday April 9 at approximately 04.25 a.m. a police, patrol from the Simpson Bay district was sent to Texaco Starmart on the Welfare Road for a traffic accident.
On the scene, the patrol noticed that the incident in question was not traffic related, but was the result of angry and jealous boyfriend causing serious damage. The lady with the initials K.M. stated to the patrol that while driving with a male friend in her car, she was followed by her ex-boyfriend with the initials D.B. in a blue Mitsubishi SUV. She stopped at the gas station to purchase something, parked her car in the parking lot next to other vehicles, and entered the building. According to witnesses, they saw when the blue SUV drove on to the premises of the gas station and without slowing down drove into rear of the car belonging to the victim. The blue SUV also caused damage to two other parked vehicles. After committing this act, the suspect D.B. fled the scene in the direction of Simpson Bay. The man with initials M.F. who was in the car of the victim at the time of the impact complained of severe pain in his legs. He was transported to the Sint Maarten Medical Center for medical treatment. Shortly after the patrol located the suspect vehicle in the vicinity of Golden Eyes in Simpson Bay, however the driver was no where to be found. The suspect vehicle was towed to a safe location for further investigation. The suspect has not yet been arrested.The Detective department is investigating.
Philipsburg: ---The prosecutor's office has confiscated the body of Barth Pasman pending an autopsy confirmed Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos. Pasman was found dead at his home early Saturday morning which prompted an investigation even though the doctor who pronounced him dead said he died of natural causes.
The two sudden deaths has sent a shock wave thoughout the community of St. Maarten since both citizens are well known and they both died at their separate homes on Saturday April 10. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said police were directed to the home of USONA director Bart Pasman whose lifeless body was found in his bed around 8 am on Saturday April 10.
Henson said Police was called by the wife of the late Pasman who told them that she received a telephone call informing her that her husband who was at home at the time was not showing any signs of life.
The woman also requested police to accompany her to the home to further investigate the matter. On the scene, the patrol encountered the lifeless body of Mr. Pasman on a bed in the house. A medical doctor pronounced Pasman dead and stated he died of natural causes.
However, SMN News has learnt that Pasman was encountering difficulties in his private life and was depressive. It is not clear at this time if Pasman and his spouse were living together when he passed away. SMN News will bring you a full update on this case in a subsequent article.
Also on Saturday, the body of Simone Santos Montilla an employee of the tax department was found in her home dead. According to information reaching SMN News, the mother of four lifeless body was found on a bed in her Belvedere home. Montilla was well known to the St. Maarten community, as she was the first person nominated as the PJD2 Caribbean Queen.
Reliable information reaching SMN News on Saturday states that Montilla's body bore marks of violence when it was discovered on Saturday evening. Residents and neighbors of the now dead woman states that Montilla and her husband was involved in a domestic dispute on Friday night and she was allegedly beaten by her estranged husband. According to one neighbor their was a party close to Montilla's home on Friday evening and several persons allegedly witnessed the abuse.
Some neighbors who are enraged at Montilla's passing said she was in a depressive state and that she attempted to take her own life on more than one occasion. Several neighbors and close friends of the deceased said she drank some pills before retiring to bed.
In an invited comment Chief Prosecutor of the Windward Islands Hans Mos said the body of Simone Santos Montilla has been confiscated and is awaiting an autopsy. Mos is also urging the neighbors, friends, and family of the deceased woman to contact the police if they have information that would aid the investigation.
SMN News expresses its sincerest condolences to both families in their time of bereavement.
GREAT BAY,– The Island Government, and the Civil Service Corps would like to express its deepest and heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of former Island Government civil servant Bart Pasman (42).
Government officials, civil servants and friends of the Bart Pasman were shocked when they heard about his passing and were deeply saddened.
Pasman worked with the Dutch funding organization USONA in its branch office on the island until his recent and sudden passing.
He leaves to mourn his wife Iliana Schotborg and family.
Prior to Pasman taking up his job with USONA, he worked with the Island Government Environmental Affairs Department VROM (1995-1998), the office of Strategic Policy Planning (1998-2000), and also at the Directorate of Projects & Programs (2005-2007).
Philipsburg:---The autopsy on the body of Bart Pasman and Simone Santos Montilla is expected to take place on Wednesday said Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos. The two well-known citizens were found dead at their homes on Saturday morning and afternoon respectively.
In the meantime, members of the Democratic Party faction have extended their sincerest condolences to both families during their time of bereavement.
Philipsburg:--- SMN News has been reliably informed that civil Servants from the education department who were also members of the SMITH board did not follow through on the decisions taken by the executive council since 2006.
The source said the executive council took a decision in 2006 to appoint a director and a team to assist with getting the SMITH program accredited, and to make the SMITH a foundation but the board members and the education department who is responsible for executing the decisions of the executive council did not follow through with their task. The source further said while they believe politics may be the motive to end the SMITH program the former commissioner of education Sarah Wescot Williams also did not follow up with the decisions taken by her council in 2006.
Board members of the SMITH SMN News understand were Qunicy Harrigan, Claudette Labega, and Patricia Laurens all civil servants attached to the education department. Harrigan they said held the position of chairman of the SMITH board while heading the education department. SMN News further learnt that Harrigan and his team at the education department gave a negative advice to which a damning report was written against the SMITH program.
SMN News further learnt that several requests submitted by the SMITH were blocked by the education department and Wescot Williams in her capacity, as commissioner of education did nothing to rectify the problems the SMITH organizers encountered. SMN News further learnt that a request was submitted for a new location with simulation facilities as well as transportation was requested all of which was blocked at the education department. "It's like the education department was working against the SMITH and youths in particular because they did nothing to make sure the 40+ students who were part of the program got what they deserved since they all followed through with the program and graduated.
According to our sources, the Ministry of education was using the documents created by SMITH for its accreditation even though St. Maarten did not make sure this program, which was taking off several students off the streets, got its accreditation.
While the board members and the education department did not execute their duties and a change in government is blamed for ending the program, it is understood that the program had been sidelined long before June 2009.
SMN News further learnt that the current commissioner of education William Marlin had met with the coordinators and the students who attended the SMITH program after reading the report on the SMITH prior to taking a decision to end the program. Marlin who is currently in the Netherlands could not be reached for a comment at press time.
Philipsburg: --- Independent island council member Louie Laveist fired up on Wednesday when he realized the island council meeting was not broadcasting live on cable Television channel 15 or 20.
Laveist had sent in a notification to the island secretariat stating that he would not be attending the meeting but showed up after he was not able to follow the proceeding on television. Laveist made clear that he was not pointing fingers at anyone for the technical difficulties encountered but cautioned that democracy must be upheld and the people has every right to know what is taking place in government during these critical days when country status is being finalized. "The people of St. Maarten deserved to be informed especially when their representatives are holding meetings. He felt Wednesday's meeting is of great importance since they were discussing SLA's for country St. Maarten. St. Maarten is at the most critical stage and the people must be informed in a timely fashion." Laveist said even though St. Maarten has the necessary manpower and equipments to ensure live broadcast the island is worst off than the third world countries. The embattled councilman said he does not intend to throw anyone under the bus because he does understand that there can be technical problems but finds it a pity that the people cannot be informed in a timely manner.
He also made clear that he had sounded the alarm before on democracy and hoped with his public statements during Wednesday's island council meeting would prompt those responsible for the live broadcast to fix the technical problems.
The council member who also supported the current executive council said he too wants to know if the National Alliance/ Heyliger and Laveist executive council has signed off on any Service Level Agreements (SLA) without his knowledge or that of the island council. Laveist asked that if there was such a signed agreement then the executive council must provide copies and a comprehensive overview of it to him as well as letting him know what types of expenses St. Maarten would encounter for the services they agreed for someone else to provide to St. Maarten. He said it is extremely important that this type of information be provided to every island council member. He also wants to know what would be the financial consequences to St. Maarten through the SLA's.
Laveist also called on the council to tell him what type of agreement St. Maarten is going to make with the Central Bank and what are they going to do with the 1% foreign exchange tax. The island councilman said he wants to know if St. Maarten intends to maintain this tax uninterrupted. He said the 1% foreign exchange tax is like a pebble in the people's eyes and this tax is hurting the island's economy. Laveist said he felt Wednesday's meeting was needed since it would shed light on the agreements and how St. Maarten would carry the extra burden.
The island councilman said it was stated that the revenues that are currently collected and sent to Curacao now would remain on St. Maarten when the island receives its status change.
Laveist also said he was the one who rallied the people of St. Maarten to vote for a status change and Leroy De Weever joined in the campaign. He said what St. Maarten is getting today is not what he voted for and if there were another referendum he would not vote for country status, instead it would be independence.
Laveist also made reference to his legal battles and how he is coping prior to closing off his statements.
WINAIR in its continued effort to play a more meaningful role in aiding travels within the Caribbean have announced a massive promotion.
According to Vice President of Marketing, Claudio Buncamper this promotion is once again geared at providing some special fares to patrons wanting to attend the largest cultural festivity of St. Maarten. He noted that these special Carnival fares are in celebrating St. Maarten 41st carnival celebrations.
"As an airline company serving several north eastern Caribbean destinations, we feel it very important in supporting our destinations cultural events. Buncamper said.
He pointed out that travelers should make maximum use of the fares noting that it provides them with an excellent opportunity of being part of the carnival celebrations. "Travelers certainly have an opportunity of being part of St Maarten's carnival so with these very low fares I am very confident that the public would take advantage of this offer," he noted.
Outlining the new fares the VP of marketing said that fares from Saba, St. Barth's and St. Eustatius would be US $75 roundtrip plus taxes. For travelers from Nevis and Antigua it would cost them US$ 100.00 plus taxes while travelers from Montserrat US$ 120.00 plus taxes.
However, Buncamper pointed out that rules for the promotions includes that all fares are roundtrip only. He said that the promotion regarding travel dates is valid from April 16 –May 3, 2010 while noting that sales would be from April 15 – May 3.
Regarding penalties, Buncamper said that monies paid are Non Refundable adding that changes being made to tickets would result in a US$ 25 fee and must be in same class or having to upgrade their ticket. He further added that the special discounts for children and infants would be applied and that seats are limited
In urging the public to take advantage of the new promotion, Buncamper pointed out that it's an opportune time for the public to come view the St Maarten's carnival stressing the need to use the opportunity also to have a deserved vacation or excursion.
St Maarten's carnival is being celebrated under the theme "Sweet Revelry Again for Carnival 2010".
Leader of Government Commissioner William Marlin extends congratulations to St. Maarten's musical star Addison "Shadow Man" Richardson on the global release of his new album "This is me."
The album was released in St. Maarten and globally last week Friday, 16th of April. It contains a combination of upbeat songs which takes listeners on a musical journey, some of which were shot with alluring St. Maarten scenes as the backdrop.
The new album will undoubtedly propel Shadow Man a few notches up the popularity scale as a serious and entertaining musician in the Caribbean, while showcasing St. Maarten as an appealing destination.
His contemporary Caribbean genre represents the best of St. Maarten and all things Caribbean and is a mixture of Soca, Calypso, ballads and hip hop crossover.
The new album, which contains hits such as Caribbean Cruise, White Line, and I, contains some collaborations with amongst other regional artistes Terry Seales and is a must have for every St. Maarten resident, Commissioner William Marlin said from The Hague.
Since his popular "White Line" hit was released more than a year ago, Shadow Man through his flavorful music has sought to market himself along with his native St. Maarten in line with the goals in St. Maarten's rebranding strategy to position itself as a destination.
Shadow Man's refreshing sound and unique style appeals to a wide audience. He is poised to be among the next big things out of the Friendly Island. Leader of Government, Commissioner William Marlin, who is stranded in The Hague for several more days, said that the Island Government of St. Maarten is proud of all its musicians including this musical star and wishes Shadow Man much success in his future endeavors.
The Island Government urges the community to continue to support local musicians including Shadow Man as he climbs the ladder of success.
MARIGOT:--- A number of schools visited the recycling facilities in Galis Bay to mark Sustainable Development Week last week where the director of Eco Emballage was present. St. Maarten's ambassador Nicole Piper has been encouraging residents on St. Martin to begin changing their ways if they are to fully safeguard the environment. A symposium is scheduled to take place this Thursday April 22 2010 (Earth Day) at the Sandy Ground Culture Centre. Piper has been meeting with the various community councils to inform them on the environmental campaign under way. In an interview with SMN News Piper said, her mission is to get each and every household aware of how to sort and dispose of their waste properly.
Piper said residents should begin sorting at home by using small marked or coloured bins to separate waste materials, while she reminded that portable composters, with instructions for use by the public, are available free of charge from the Department of the Environment. Sorting and separating at home first can reduce the number of trips per month to the Galis Bay recycling facility, she said.
In an interview with SMN News, Piper said part of her mission was to go "door to door" in remote hillside communities to spread awareness on responsible waste disposal.
"We have to remember it's inconvenient for these communities to bring their waste down the hill so there's tendency for random dumps to spring up in the hills," she said. "This is a sector where we have to get the message across to try and get the community to work together. Not only that you have certain nationalities that in their culture do things differently but we have to insist this is the way we do it here."
"Our hope is the representatives of the Councils who are close to the population in their districts will get the message across to make it happen," she added. "The Councils are very important and they must lead the way on this. It also gives me an opportunity to find out what problems exist with each Council. You can't instruct someone about how to dispose of garbage if they have some other problems affecting their daily life. People are more receptive if they are in relative comfort."
St. Martin is continuing its awareness programme and scheduled activities until April 20. School children have been transported by bus in two morning and afternoon rotations. The last visits took place last Friday.
Manager of the eco-waste facility in Grand Cayes, Jean-Pierre Tey, gave a brief of overview of the facility's day to day operation, now four years on since its inception in May 2006. He noted as more waste is delivered, more land is needed to accommodate it and Société Verde is seeking to acquire more land for expansion. The landfill has two distinct areas of operation; the processing of domestic waste and the sorting of commercial and industrial waste for re-cycling.
Domestic waste is processed using the non-invasive, non-polluting, Mechanical-Biological Waste Treatment (MBWT) method of composting on giant beds that are irrigated and aerated.
The facility has some 120 regular clients and around 1,400 trucks deposit waste there every month, Tey noted. A total of 17,000 tons of domestic waste is processed each year and 33,000 tons of other miscellaneous waste or materials.
Also present on island is Pascal Gislais, Eco-Emballages's International Development Director for Overseas Departments. Some 47,000 French companies, including Société Verde, are under contract to this private company sanctioned by the French Government that specialises in recycling. In return Eco-Emballages dispenses some 500-million euros to Collectivités to fund and organise recycling programmes.
"The European directive on waste management includes a directive on waste packaging to be recycled," explained Gislais. "In France Eco-Emballages was created by all the packers and fillers who have to follow the law and they pay a certain amount to us and that money is passed on to finance local authorities who are in charge of waste management. We don't make money out of it, just what is needed to recycle."
In St. Martin, Société Verde recycles glass on site in a crusher to produce glass ends and gravel for roads. Most other separated products for recycling are sent to mainland France to paper mills, plastic recycling plants, etc. Eco-Emballages's contract with Verde is for glass crushing and recycling while the Collectivité is paid for collections and sorting. In essence the more tonnage that can be sorted, the more subventions the Collectivité receives.
"It's important that people understand the value of their rubbish is equal to the value of money," Piper added.
At the symposium, this Thursday the themes include biodiversity, agriculture and rural development, mangrove protection, preserving natural heritage, and the benefits of sorting waste.
An exhibition on the environment will be held simultaneously in the parking area of the Cultural Center.
PROGRAMME
1ére édition
des ASSISES DE L'ENVIRONNEMENT ET DU DEVELOPPEMENT DURABLE.
- Jeudi 22 avril 2010 -
- 08h30 à 12H00 FORUMS DES EXPOSANTS.
Exposition de stands informatifs, de peintures et de photographies.
- 08h45 à 9h30 Rassemblement, enregistrement
et petit déjeuner ;
- 09h30 à 10h00 Allocutions Officielles
- Vice-président, M. ALIOTTI Pierre en Charge du Pôle DEVELOPPEMNT DURABLE,
Le Président du Conseil Territorial, M. GUMBS Frantz,
Le Sénateur, M. FLEMING Constant,
Le Préfet Délégué des Iles du Nord, M. SIMONNET Jacques.
- 10h00 à 12h00 Déroulement des assises.
(Avec une pause de 10 minutes vers 11h15).
- Les Intervenants et les thèmes d'intervention
Monsieur Allen FAUTRA
Directeur de la Société ESPACES SERVICES
Thème s/ Qu'est-ce que la biodiversité ?
What is biodiversity?
Monsieur Elie TOUZE & Monsieur Alfred FLANDERS
Agent de Développement Agricole et Rural.
C.O.M.
Thème s/ Les défis de l'agriculture et du développement durable.
The challenges of agriculture and sustainable development.
Madame Julie LARGUIER
Stagiaire en fin d'études –
Masters Biodiversité et Développement du Durable
RESERVE NATURELLE
Thème s/ La mangrove.
The Mangroves
Monsieur Christophe HENOCQ
Directeur du MUSEE DE SAINT-MARTIN
MUSEE DE SAINT-MARTIN
Thème s/ La préservation de nos patrimoines naturels.
Preserving our natural heritage
- Madame Cynthia CAROUPANAPOULLE
Conseil d'Architecture d'Urbanisme et de l'Environnement.
CAUE
Thème s/ Habitat bio climatique en contexte insulaire tropical
Habitat bio climate in tropical island environment
- Martine ZOROBABEL DUREL
Responsable Commercial Antilles
CITEC Environnement
Thème s/ Le bénéfice du Tri Sélectif pour la Biodiversité.
The benefits of waste sorting for Biodiversity.
- LECONTE Pierre
Adjoint au Chef de service des Territoires de la Mer et du Développement Durable
De la Préfecture de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin.
Préfecture de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin
Thème s/ Stratégie Nationale sur la Biodiversité.
National Strategy on Biodiversity.
- 12h00 REMERCIEMENTS.
Ambassadrice de tri, Melle PIPER Nicole.
South Reward: --- A well known bartender and former employee of Chesterfields Restaurant and bar was found dead at his home on Tuesday. Information reaching SMN News states that Michael Arrindell better known as Bonny was found at his South Reward home. It is believed that the man died of natural causes as pronounced by the police doctor. Arrindell was known as St. Maarten's best bartender. Already several emails are circulating about the death of Bonny whom it is said will be greatly missed.
U.S. Forward Operating Location (USFOL) Staff in Curacao joined forces with the Curacao Youth Air Brigade in a renovation project for the Youth Air Brigade building located near the terminal at Hato International Airport April 17. The afternoon was spent removing tiles from two meeting rooms plus an office as well as painting walls and floors. 45 Cadets and leaders were present to work side by side with those military volunteers from the USFOL. Everyone enjoyed a barbeque with hamburgers and hot dogs in the middle of the afternoon, which was a big hit. U.S. Air Force Chaplain Phillips who led the group from the USFOL commented, "It was hard work getting all the tiles to come up and many cadets and our volunteers have blisters to prove it but at least we finished it." More paint work will continue on the building in the coming weeks, but the project is off to a great start. Cadet Leader Sherwin Gerard was very grateful when he said, "We want to thank the USFOL for not only allowing us to tour their facilities and planes last month, but now you have come to our house to help us. We want to continue this tremendous partnership in the future. Thank you very much!" So smiles were all around and spirits high as the afternoon came to a close with the Youth Air Brigade having a big jump- start to their building renovation.
GREAT BAY,– The Collective Prevention Services (CPS) is appealing to the community to take measures in order to prevent mosquito breeding after experiencing any rain showers.
Residents are urged to take proper control measures around their homes to reduce breeding of the Ades Aegypti mosquito which has the potential to transmit dengue fever.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there is a dengue epidemic in the Dominican Republic. Most provinces report an increase of dengue fever of 25 per cent when compared to last year.
By the end of March, there were 2155 probable cases of which 306 patients had hemorrhagic fever and 16 died. There are three dengue serotypes circulating in the Dominican Republic, DEN-1, DEN-2 and DEN-4.
Persons who plan to travel or who have travelled to the Dominican Republic, and experience flu-like symptoms, are requested to visit their family physician and inform him/her about their recent travels.
To avoid being bitten by a mosquito, use repellent and wear long sleeves shirts/blouses as well as pants. Place screens at windows, doors and remove or turn over water receptacles to diminish mosquito breeding opportunities.
Public action is necessary to keep the mosquito population in check, and prevent the spread of mosquito-borne diseases. The recent rains open up the possibility of stagnant water being found in items around the home. This allows the mosquito to reproduce in just a drop of clean stagnant rain water.
Based on a mid-project assessment of the yard to yard inspections that started March 19, of 4,014 premises inspected up until April 16, health inspectors discovered 11 per cent were sources for mosquito breeding. The internationally accepted level is five per cent or less.
The yard to yard inspections will continue until May 15 and entails overall inspections of approximately 10,000 premises. Some of the challenges confronted by inspectors were closed premises, untied dogs, language barrier, and non-cooperative household owners. Public cooperation is essential and household and business owners are urged to continue cooperating as this is in the national interests. Coordinators and supervisors of the project are Gerald Peters, Johnny Wattley and Kendal Gumbs.
The Ades Aegypti mosquito breeds mostly in domestic environments as a result of human activity. Residents therefore have a major role to play in eliminating the aforementioned mosquito and reducing the possibility of another dengue fever outbreak.
The CPS is calling on households and businesses to continue to be vigilant in keeping their surroundings mosquito, Aedes Agypti Free by keeping yards and premises clean.
Dengue is a mosquito-borne infection that causes a severe flu-like illness that affects infants, young children and adults. If you experience fever, body aches, headache, severe pain behind the eyes, consult your physician and check your surroundings to ensure that no breeding source is present.
Preventive actions that every household should take are: immediately remove debris, old tires and standing clear/clean water in yards which are the main source and breeding ground for mosquitoes. These mosquito breeding sources should be immediately eliminated.
Immediately check for clear/clean standing water in roof spouts, empty drums, buckets, jars, birdbaths, boats, plant containers, saucers, paint cans and other items that can collect water around your homes and businesses. Where clear/clean standing water exists, one can use small amounts of kerosene, just to cover the surface as a measure to prevent mosquito breeding or just get rid of the container.
In the case of where containers are used for storing water, residents should keep these properly covered and check every three days to make sure that mosquito's haven't laid any eggs. Inlets and outlets of cisterns must be covered with a mosquito net or cloth to prevent mosquitoes from breeding in the water.
Marigot:-- A 60 year old man would have to appear in court later this year for drug related charges reported the gendarmes. A press release from the gendarmerie states that custom officers detained the man during a regular drug control. The suspect had 4 kilos of marijuana in his vehicle at the time of the control.
The gendarmes also arrested a man whom they saw climbing over someone fence on April 19 in a residential area. The culprit it is said stole a pair of shoes from the residence. Further investigations conducted by the gendarmerie states that the suspect was involved in at least three other robberies where he is said to have used force, and weapons to threaten his victims. The suspect was transferred to Basse Terre pending trial.
Philipsburg:--- Prime Minister of the Netherlands Antilles Emile de Jhong Elhage were among the dignitaries at the Government Administration Building on Tuesday to witness the official handing over of the first batch of federal government tasks to the island territory of St. Maarten. The tasks transferred on Tuesday are that of Health, Social Development, Social Security, Labour and Education, Sports and Youth Affairs.
In her speech Prime Minister Elhage said the transfer symbolizes the beginning of the end of the Netherlands Antilles and the start of new country St. Maarten. The islands she said have reached a point of no return.
Elhage said it should be noted that the central government is passing the torch to soon to be country St Maarten, since 10 years ago the people of St. Maarten expressed their wishes in the referendum for a constitutional change. She said the central government respects the choice of the people of St. Maarten and has committed itself to facilitate the process, even though there were set backs, discussions and distractions which sometimes made the goal overwhelming due to the complexity.
The Prime Minister said just days ago the second chamber of the Dutch Parliament approved the Consensus Kingdom laws and the changes to the Kingdom Charter that would allow St. Maarten and Curacao to become countries within the Kingdom.
Using a quote of President John F Kennedy who once said "we should never negotiate out of fear or fear to negotiate" no matter how impossible or unattainable the goal sometimes seemed. The Prime Minister said during the years the central government and the island territories worked together they remained focused because the people are counting on them, and as such their voices are the driving force behind the constitutional train. "One thing for sure those working on the process came to realize is that working together and perseverance leads to success" she said.
Reminding the audience that while this is the first step in the new beginning, she said there is still a lot of work that still has to be done to build the friendly island nation.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged that everything would not be in place by 10.10.10 neither the first 100 days after but the islands has reached a point of no return and those in charge must continue to plant so the people could reap the harvest. She said it takes courage to think big, aim high and shoot far while those that never start are destined to lose.
While leader of government William Marlin warned that St. Maarten has a lot of work to do he said the process now taking place is similar to the Olympic games since every day new records are set and old records are broken, and even though St. Maarten is not breaking records they are living in the days of history.
Marlin said not long ago there were those that thought that the date 10.10.10 was not going to be realized and those that thought that becoming country on October 10 2010 would not be possible. He said the transfer of tasks showed that the Netherlands Antilles are gradually being dismantled while country St. Maarten is being built and that the events on Tuesday's transfer can be considered as placing the first corner stones in the foundation of what will become country St Maarten.
Marlin also expressed gratitude to the committee charged with the dismantling of the Netherlands Antilles, civil servants and those persons who worked on getting the transfer possible.
Marlin also again explained that the process taking place currently is different and would be difficult for St. Maarten since the island has to build its institutions and organizations from ground zero. He said the Dutch has taken full responsibility for what will be needed for the BES islands and Curacao has all the necessary organs in place.
Minister of Constitutional Affairs Roland Duncan said while the tasks are now transferred to St. Maarten the central government will still be responsible for the civil servants, salaries and promotions. Also unchangeable are the laws governing the civil servants, Duncan said. He made clear that while working on the process he made sure the civil servants are taken care of, and as such they are only going to be sent on assignment which is to take instructions from the executive council of St. Maarten until St. Maarten achieves its country status.
The Minister said the federal law that governs the civil servants will remain in effect. He also said in principle the duties of these civil servants will not be changed but their scope of work can broaden. The intention Duncan said is for the central government to acquit itself of these responsibilities when St. Maarten becomes country.
The Minister called on the civil servants to carry out their tasks and to even work harder as they would be building of a new country. The Minister also made a symbolic hand over of the civil servants to leader of Government William Marlin.
Commissioner Hyacinth Richardson who holds most of the portfolios under which the tasks fell said the Minister of Constitutional Affairs, the Prime Minister and sector VSA has worked closely and diligently to ensure that the transfer takes place in an efficient manner. Richardson also pledged to continue working closely with VSA to prepare the portfolios for country St. Maarten.
Richardson said the island government has established eight organizational entities in the sector VSA, which are three policy departments for Public Health, Social Development and Labour, one supervisory agency and five executing agencies. He described the executing agencies as the ambulance services, community development, social services and labour, and collective prevention.
The labour commissioner also called on the 110 staff members that are now going to work for the island government of St. Maarten to have one common goal which is to work in a professional manner in the interest to enhance the services they provide. Richardson said the island government has set some priorities for the future VSA in the areas of social security reform, expanding social and community services and a review of the labour laws within the context of sustainable development. The labour commissioner also indicated that at least 10-15 new staff members are currently being recruited which he believes would be able to implement the necessary changes.
After the official signing the dignitaries as well as several civil servants who were present in the tribune of the Government Administrative Building joined the dignitaries at the Sheer restaurant for moment of celebration.
Philipsburg:--- The parents of Calvic David are ready to challenge the police department and prosecutor's office for detaining their son who was in possession of a kitchen knife early Wednesday morning. Victoria David and her husband Calvin Mathews both told SMN News that police arrested their 18 year old son early Wednesday morning somewhere along Sucker Garden road. They said police told them the young man had a kitchen knife in his socks and as such he will be detained until after the carnival season is over.
David said when her son was arrested no one within law enforcement notified them of the arrest and her son was not given a phone call to contact his parents. The woman said her son left home on Tuesday evening to attend the Jouvert and he never returned home. She said someone contacted her brother and informed him that his nephew was arrested by police. Ms. David said they immediately went to the police station and was told her son had a knife and he would remain in custody for at least two days. "Two police officers told me that my son would be released on Friday, but when I returned to the police station on Friday I was told that my son would remain in custody until Monday or even longer."
The parents said they are not against the police and the measures they are taking to reduce crime but she felt that the procedures police are using are illegal. "If the police arrested my son and kept him for two days, then its okay because the youths today have to be taught a lesson but to hold him for so long and to be giving us conflicting information is not acceptable." The parents said they have eyewitnesses who told them that the police just ran through the crowd and threw her son down on the ground and searched him. They said they are now questioning if police has the rights to search someone if they are not a suspect of a crime.
The parents further explained that they contacted Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos who at first was not aware of the case. They said Mos made some inquiry and later informed them that the young man was taken before the judge of instruction on Friday and he was given a lawyer. They said Mos told them that his colleague would further investigate the case on Monday and a decision would be taken then.
SMN News contacted Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos for a comment on the legality of the prolonged arrest. Mos said the young man has been charged with being in possession of a forbidden weapon and that his office would investigate to see if David has any record on Monday. He said depending on the outcome of their investigation it will be determined if the young man would be released on a conditional dismissal and a fine on Monday. Mos also expressed his disappointment against the parents who contacted the press after speaking to him. He said these parents should at least try to find out why their 18 year old son was on the street with a kitchen knife instead of attacking the police department and its procedures.
Philipsburg:---Lt Governor of the island territory of St. Maarten in his comments on the passing of Cultural Icon Ian Valz said on behalf of the people and Island Government of Sint Maarten, he express his deepest sympathy to the family and friends on the passing of Ian Michael Valz.
Ian as he was affectionately and popularly known to all was a leading Caribbean playwright with his most recent award winning film the Panman, Rhythms of the Palm.
Ian's contributions to the performing arts not only excited Sint Maarteners, but he also had the Caribbean region spellbound by his talent for the arts.
Ian made his mark on the performing arts: drama and the cultural landscape of our nation.
Through his long dedication and selfless service, he came to be recognized as an icon in his own right.
For his service and accomplishments Ian received a Royal decoration as "Knight In the Order of Orange Nassau," in 2006.
Ian Valz contribution and dedicated service has no doubt impacted on the lives of many Sint Maarteners especially those who worked closely with him and those who had the opportunity to know him.
May his soul rest in peace.
Philipsburg: ---- The Prosecutor's office has ordered the release of at least five persons who were arrested during the carnival season with weapons. Prosecutor Rienk Mud in an invited comment said some eight persons were arrested for being in possession of a weapon during the carnival especially on Jouvert morning. Of the eight, five of them were released because they have no criminal record while three of the suspects will remain in custody as the police are busy investigating these persons.
Mud also confirmed that Calvic David (Mathew) was among those released as he too was arrested with being in possession of a kitchen knife. No other details on David's arrest have been released.
Mud said he hoped that those persons who were apprehended during the carnival season for being in possession of a weapon learned a meaningful lesson during the time they spent in jail. Mud made clear that the police and his office had announced earlier that persons who were found with weapons were going to be locked up until after carnival is over. "Carnival is meant for people to have fun and not shed blood." Mud said.
Philipsburg: --- The suspect in the Christian Lloyd murder is scheduled to appear in court sometime next month confirmed Prosecutor Rienk Mud. Mud said the suspect identified as Anthony Spencer would have to attend a proforma hearing after the DNA results are back.
Christian Lloyd's body was found in his Watermelon Road home on January 25th with a fatal head injury.
Philipsburg:--- The board and the leadership of the University of St. Martin continue to mismanage the finances of the institution even though a Chief Financial Officer, Kenneth Nolan Jr., was recently hired to manage the finances of the university.
Although Mr. Nolan was appointed to help improve the financial situation, and the university raised over a million dollars in recent fundraising activities, the financial situation has not improved; rather it has deteriorated. To date, the current employees of USM have not received their salaries for the month of April, and neither has the university lived up to its financial obligations to former employees. Employees are particularly irate that there appears to be some form favoritism, as some employees have received checks while the majority of staff and faculty have not been paid their salaries. The employees are also upset and feel insulted that a meeting was not yet called or a commonsensical reason given for the nonpayment of April's salary.
WIFOL disputes the claims in the Daily Herald article of May 5, in which the USM president is cited as having met with the employees on Tuesday, May 4. According to what the employees were told by the president, she would meet with them on Wednesday immediately after her meeting with government that morning. Up to Wednesday afternoon, the meeting had not taken place.
While USM president Josianne Fleming Artsen attributes the financial woes to low student enrollment and overstaffing, WIFOL contends that the situation is caused by direct mismanagement of USM's finances, particularly in the last two years. For example, USM has spent over NAF 120,000.00 on a dean for one year; over NAF 180,000.00 on a CFO for a year and a half; over NAF 144,000.00 on a librarian for a year and a half. These salaries are in addition to other perks such as housing allowance, transportation and travel allowance, insurance for them and their spouses, subscription allowance, conference allowances, etc. Moreover, the previous accreditation officer (now dean) received NAF 3,000.00 monthly from USM in addition to her civil servant's salary package. According USM board and president, at the time, these persons were necessary to the accreditation process. However, everyone at USM knew that USM was nowhere near ready for this stage of the accreditation process, as financial sustainability was a key ingredient to an accreditation application.
USM also spent funds on unnecessary purchases such as beamers, oversized office desks for student use in the classroom (the majority of which are still not assembled and packed away in a classroom), and just as recently as March, unnecessary, expensive server software. These are just some examples of the mismanagement of USM's finances.
Where WIFOL agrees with USM's president is in the area of overstaffing because USM brought in three US personnel—two of whom are retirees—to do the work that could have been carried out by local professionals. The amount of money spent on these professionals has never equated to the amount spent on local personnel with the same qualifications. Furthermore, the new leadership at USM cut back on key money-making programs that have kept USM afloat over the years and other income-generating activities, while being tunnel-visioned and ignorant of USM and St. Martin's reality.
In the past year alone, a number of consultants and staff have come up with strategies for improving the financial picture—both in the short and long terms. However, none of these strategies seemed to have been taken into consideration by the leadership as there is no evidence of any of them being implemented.
Given the mismanagement of the University of St. Martin in the past few years, WIFOL is calling on the USM board, President, CFO, and Dean to do the honorable thing and resign, paving the way for the university to move forward.
Philipsburg:---After a one year sojourn St. Maarten will join the world again this year in the largest observance of a grassroots AIDS event. Plans are in full swing for the hosting of the 27th International AIDS Candlelight Memorial which will be held on Sunday, May 16th, 2010 at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library at 6:30PM.
The general public is being invited to join members of the St. Maarten AIDS Foundation, The HIV/AIDS Programme Management Team, H.O.P.E, and caring people in St. Maarten and around the world in honoring those we have lost to AIDS and supporting those who are living with HIV or AIDS.
The theme of this year's International AIDS Candlelight Memorial is "Many Lights for Human Rights," symbolizing the importance of each person deserving fair and equal treatment.
According to the HIV/AIDS Program Manager, Suzette Moses-Burton, "This year's theme carries a great deal of significance as we continue to mainstream HIV/AIDS and make it part of daily life so we can reduce stigma & discrimination."
The evening's programme, a cultural manifestation, includes a candle lighting ceremony and artistic performances by many local talents. Addresses by special invited guests are also scheduled on the programme.
A key special feature is that members of the H.O.P.E, the support group for People Living with HIV/AIDS, are actively involved in leading the planning of this event.
For further information about the event, or to volunteer to help organize or staff the event, please call the HIV/AIDS Programme Management Team, tel 542-2078.
NURSING CULTURE AND THE COMMUNITY
International year of nursing
From the lady with the lamp to nurse practitioner
100 years Florence Nightingale
The Mental Health Foundation St. Maarten has successfully organized 2 Symposia on St. Maarten and because of the growing interest in psychiatry has decided to organize a third. Acknowledging the role of nurses who are the ongoing support of patients and their families in coping with mental illnesses.
In St. Maarten psychiatric care is fairly new, the Mental Health Foundation commenced with its activities in May 2006 and is developing beyond all expectations. Finding qualified persons for the ever-increasing workload has been a challenge, therefore all opportunities are being embraced to enhance knowledge and share experiences.
2010 is a special year for Nurses because they celebrate 100 years Florence Nightingale.
Through Florence Nightingale nursing has become an acknowledged profession and has developed into what it is today.
As a theme we have chosen:
NURSING CULTURE AND THE COMMUNITY
International year of nursing
From the lady with the lamp to nurse practitioner
100 years Florence Nightingale
The name of Florence Nightingale (1820-1910) has been revered and respected across the world.
The theme "Nursing, Culture and Community" The idea is chosen with the intention to combineds knowledge, and experience that encourages leadership amongst health care workers and to acknowledge nurses who have contributed to the development of health care on St. Maarten.
"You must inform public opinion..." Florence Nightingale, 1893
From her own deep and prolonged experience with personal health issues, she advocated for all nurses to be continually renewed to sustain their effective, compassionate and caring practices. She called all these approaches "Health Nursing."
To achieve these goals: "a symposium to share knowledge and enhance community care developments," is organized
The idea of this symposium is to share with others the developments in nursing and specifically nursing and psychiatry. Further more since institutionalizing psychiatric patients is now seen as the last resource, the main focus of the symposium will be on community-based care.
As organizers we believe that this mini-symposium fulfills a need, benefits patients and supports many in caring for psychiatric patients. The role of nursing and the social aspects of psychiatric care need more exposure in order to reduce the stigma on psychiatry.
The success of this symposium relates to professionalism, timely planning and organization but also in the supports of stakeholders and sponsors. With this awareness the organizers set out to successfully complete this mission during nurses week.
Lecturers at the Symposium are:
Dr. Matroos Psychiatrist who visits the Windward Islands on a regular basis and who has been active in promoting mental care on the Netherland Antilles for many years. He will discuss a multidisciplinary approach to sleeping disorders.
Sonja Eursulita, has a masters degree in nursing is well known on St. Maarten for hher involvement in nurses education in cooperation with the education department of St. Maarten Medical center.
Remko Uenk, recently graduated as a Nurse Practitioner in Aruba, through one line education with the University of Nijmegen in the Netherlands. A nurse practitioner is registered nurse who has completed specific advanced nursing education (generally a master's degree or doctoral degree) and training in the diagnosis and management of common as well as a few complex medical conditions.
Ed van Leeuwen and Hans van de Moosdijk are Social Psychiatric Nurses who are specialized in assertive community treatments (ACT) a treatment model used in the US and Europe and know to be an effective model in approaching mental illnesses in communities.
Dr. Lockie Johnson is well know on St. Maarten, has done considerable research locally also with regards to culture and beliefs
Dr. Pytha Jessurun, is psychiatrists at Capriles Clinic in Curaçao has also work on St. Maarten and will deal with explanatory models of psychiatric illnesses.
www.mhf-sxm.com or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. call 5421677.
Great Bay, - "I have listened to the comments made by Bill O'Reilly about St. Maarten repeatedly, and although his general tone was not flattering, I take good note that he took pains to separate the St. Maarten people and the resorts from his characterization of the 'authorities running the island' as "largely pinheads," said Director of Tourism, Regina LaBega in her initial reaction to the statements made by the host of "The O'Reilly Factor" on Fox News Channel in the Pinheads and Patriots section of his Caribbean Edition, broadcast on May 4.
After praising Saba and Anguilla, O'Reilly described St. Maarten, "especially the Dutch side, a disaster".
"Chaos... doesn't even come close to describing the governmental situation down there – not the folks, the government. The resorts are alright, but the authorities running the island are pinheads," O'Reilly said, while adding that his viewers would like Anguilla better.
"Of course, this is nothing to rejoice about; but it is nothing to panic about either," LaBega stated. "Perhaps it is worth remembering that the owner of Fox, media mogul Rupert Murdoch has been a frequent guest of St. Maarten for at least a decade now, coming here every year with his luxury yacht. There must be a reason he has chosen to make St. Maarten the homeport for his winter vacation."
"In other words, I would be more concerned if O'Reilly's boss – Rupert Murdoch himself – were to make any derogatory remarks about St. Maarten, its people, or even its government," the Director of Tourism added.
LaBega was, however, quick to point out that negative comments about the destination generally should not be seen as a condemnation, but as a call to action to improve "our services, our properties, our overall standard of living in a sustainable manner, bearing in mind that we are doing these first and foremost for ourselves and for our children's children."
"We can be defensive all we want or question the motives and/or agenda of those who make such negative remarks, but one thing is sure, we would be playing ostrich if we refuse to recognize the challenges we're facing together as a people, and work hard to overcome and seek sustainable solutions to them," LaBega said.
"The reason Commissioner Frans Richardson and I are currently in Brazil is to further solidify arrangements that would lead to an increased market share of this fast-growing Latin American market. We will certainly not be distracted from this endeavor," the Director of Tourism said.
"Gol Airlines, one of Brazil's leading carriers, will begin weekly, year round, scheduled flights to St. Maarten on June 1, 2010 and there is a good possibility that we may be able to add another airline on the same route. This is our focus: to make St. Maarten a year-round destination by opening up new markets without, of course, ignoring our traditional source of visitors. It is a mission we must accomplish to continue to fill our hotel rooms, our restaurants and stores and keep our economy on the right track," LaBega concluded.
Ebenezer:--- Members of Government, family members and close friends of Caribbean Icon the late Ian Michael Valz paid their last respects to him on Friday prior to his internment.
Saying farewell to man who has left his footprint everywhere he went and lasting memories in the lives of those he touched was not easy. His friends and those he worked with in the theater and cultural industry all sobbed at the Emerald Funeral Home where the first viewing of the body began. After that the organizers of the service took the body of the late Valz on a motorcade along Front and Back Street. The motorcade stopped for a few minutes in front of the Philipsburg Cultural Center where Youmay Dormoy and others performed.
At the church Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards in his tributes described the late Valz as a man who distinguished himself as a playwright an actor and a filmmaker, thus St. Maarten has lost a creative genius of performing arts, one who was a servant to humanity.
While leader of Government William Marlin a friend of Valz said that not even the late Valz knew that just one week prior to his passing he had nominated him on behalf of St. Maarten to receive the CTO lifetime award, the results he said will be announced in June. He said St. Maarten gathered to bid farewell to one its most illustrious sons and artist to the core. Marlin said Ian was one of those friends that you would often admire from a distance for his dedication, hard work and perseverance.
Josianne Artsen Fleming in her tributes described Sir Ian as pensive, creative, progressive, impressive, interactive, caring, energetic, passionate, illusive, peaceful, non-confrontational, brilliant, skillful genius, powerful, humble, private, charmer, opinionated unassuming, thorough, insightful, perfectionist, visionary, catalyst, pioneer, innovator, change, agent, influencer, champion, radio personality, actor, director, producer, playwright, film maker, dramatist and an artist.
Fleming said Sir Ian was a friend and while St. Maarten has lost a great artist champion but they would never lose what he imparted to each and every one of us.
Philipsburg: --- Members of the KPSSS and the Royal Marechaussees and the Prosecutor's Office conducted several house searches on Tuesday confirmed Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos.
The operation was under the authority of the judge of instruction Mos said and one person was arrested. Mos said due to the character of the investigation he is not able to divulge any further information.
Information reaching SMN News suggested that the suspect that was arrested during the early hours of Wednesday morning may be involved in the killing of Yuan Sam of Afoo Group.
An explosion that took place bust bar of the GEBE power plant has left the island in total backout. Information reaching SMN News states that a rat got into bust bar creating a short circuit and explosion.
GEBE mechanics were forced to diconnect all feeders from the generators to repair the grids in the bust bar box. It is expected that electricity will be restored in the next two hours. Certain areas of the island will be out of water since there is no electricity to refill the tanks.
A full update of this story will be published later today.
GREAT BAY:---
Because of Prayer by Felecita T. Williams is St. Martin's newest book and is now in bookstores, said Jacqueline Sample, president of House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP).
The diary-style true story just published here by HNP, follows Williams from her life as a happy child to her near-death experience because of kidney failure, to adulthood.
The slim and attractively designed hardcover book recounts childhood experiences of joy and tremendous pain that could make some readers wince, "especially when they realize that it was a small child going through the medical operations," said Sample.
Williams courageously and sometimes cautiously reveals eye-opening glimpses into private family sacrifices, being a student at MPC, puppy love "attractions," questions about life and faith, and challenges on her job with co-workers.
The SVB employee is now St. Martin's newest author.
"Did Felecita name names? What did her parents do when they were told to prepare for the worst and a minister appeared at her hospital bed in Curacao? We all have to read the book for those answers," said Sample.
The idea to write the book was planted in 2003, at a religious retreat in Anguilla but the actual writing started in 2006, said Williams.
A typical St. Martin feature in the book is the amount of travels by Williams, "Even if in this case, much of the travels and living for lengths of time in the Netherlands had to do with Felecita's medical care and the search for a new kidney," said Sample.
Though somewhat unusual for an autobiography, the book includes an appendix of comments by people who have long been involved in the life of Williams.
Among the "commentators" giving testimony are the author's father Austin, mother Irene, other family members and friends, Dr. E. Wolff, one of her physicians in the Netherlands, and former acting Lt. Governor Richard Luckert.
Because of Prayer is scheduled to launch on Saturday, May 29 at the WIFOL Convention Center, at 7.30pm. "But you don't have to wait to get a sneak preview of a very private story that the author said is also 'God's business'," said Sample.
Philipsburg: --- Several police and immigration officers are becoming agitated and are planning to take drastic actions against the behavior of the Chief of Staff of the Police Department (KPSSS) Lourdes Lake and her assistant Mr. Reece.
Several officers spoke to SMN News on the condition of anonymity stating their concerns about how Lake would treat and speak to officers and department heads.
According to reliable information reaching SMN News Lake along with president of the Windward Island Civil Servants Unions (WICSU) William Reed were returning from Curacao on May 14 when Lake confronted a young female immigration officer and insulted her in the presence of all the passengers that was in the arrival hall of the Princess Juliana International Airport.
An eyewitness to the commotion said Lake approached an immigration officer who recently came out of the police academy and asked her why there was not any immigration official in the residence booth. The eyewitness said Lake's approach to the officer was so out of place that the officer in question asked her who she was and why she was posing that question. The eyewitness and passenger said Lake responded by asking the officer if she did not know who she was and said she was her boss, and the young lady is now on her blacklist.
The passenger further explained that Lake refused to give the officer in question her identification card and or passport so she could scan it in the system. The eyewitness said Lake shouted out to the officer saying she does not give immigration her identification because she felt those working at PJIAE knows who she is. SMN News contacted four other immigration officers who said that each time Lake travels they have a problem with her regarding her identification. One of the officer said they informed Lake that even the Minister of Justice and the Her Majesty gives their passport for scanning and she should not try to breach security, but on many occasions Lake would leave without giving in her passport or identification to immigration.
SMN News learnt that Lake and her assistant Mr. Reece allegedly insulted Lawrence Blyden for no apparent reason on Tuesday and Wednesday. It is further understood that Blyden had to leave work on Wednesday after the incident.
In an invited comment William Reed of the WICSU confirmed that he witnessed the unfortunate commotion between Lake and the young immigration officer. Reed said that Lake's behavior was indeed inappropriate and that she should have contacted the shift supervisor if she had questions about the empty booth. He said he also intervened in the confrontation and calm down Lake even though he is the union representative of the immigration officers. Reed also confirmed that the Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba has contacted him about the situation while the officer in question is busy writing her report to submit to the union.
Reed assured SMN News that he would do what is necessary to represent his membership against any form of injustice.
It is to be noted that Lourdes Lake is the vice president of the Windward Islands Civil Servant Union while she is an employee of the federal government in the capacity of human resources.
FORT-LOUIS, The SEMSAMAR development agency made a financial contribution here on Thursday to the 8th annual St. Martin Book Fair (June 3 - 5, 2010), said book fair coordinator Shujah Reiph. The directrice of SEMSAMAR, Marie Paul Beneluse (L) made the presentation to Reiph (R), who had traveled to the Guadeloupe commune to receive the cheque from Beneluse. "SEMSAMAR is about building the future and we thought that it is more than right for us to support an event such as the St. Martin Book Fair," said Beneluse to Reiph, a leading St. Martin cultural activist and organizer. The opening ceremony of the three-day book fair takes place at the University of St. Martin, Philipsburg, on Thursday, June 3, at 8pm. The closing ceremony and main book launch will take place at the Public Library, Marigot, on Saturday, June 5, at 8pm, said Reiph. The Conscious Lyrics Foundation and House of Nehesi Nehesi Publishers organize the St. Martin Book Fair in collaboration with the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, the Collectivity of St. Martin, and the University of St. Martin. (CLF photo)
Philipsburg;---On Friday May 22nd the Immigration officers A.M. NAVAS and N. JAMES received their diplomas after the completing their studies and going through their on-the-job training.
The diplomas were handed out by the acting Chief of Police, Chief Inspector Carl John in the presence of Mr. L.F. Ostiana of the Examination Bureau and Job Training Coordinator G.A. Benita. The acting Chief of police congratulated the officers and wished them much success in their career as such.
GREAT BAY– Governor Franklyn Richards, Chairman of the Island's Disaster Emergency Management Organization, the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), is calling on the St. Maarten community to begin to prepare for the 2010 hurricane season and to have those plans in place by June 1st, the start of the season.
Forecasters have said that the season is going to be a busy one similar to the 2008 hurricane season which saw 16 named storms form of which eight became hurricanes. In October 2008, the island experienced Category 3 Hurricane Omar which caused considerable coastal damage.
Over the weekend weather forecasters have been closely watching a weather system north of the Dominican Republic and East of The Bahamas which may generate the season's first system of interest. This system has the potential to become a "hybrid" storm with part tropical characteristics and part non-tropical.
Hybrid systems can be named as subtropical storms or depressions such as Subtropical Storm Andrea back in May 2007 that formed off the U.S. Southeast coast.
The forecasts for this season varies between 15 to 18 tropical storms of which 7-8 could become hurricanes and 4-5 of those could develop into a major category three or stronger.
Even though the official start of the season is about one week away, Governor Richards is urging residents to use this period to prepare themselves adequately by reviewing their annual hurricane season preparatory list.
"I am encouraging the nation to begin now to prepare, to mitigate the effects of a hurricane disaster. Let us all begin to prepare our homes, churches, non-governmental organizations and businesses. It makes no sense to make major preparations days or hours before a hurricane is forecasted to strike.
"Prepare early and avoid being caught unprepared. Preparedness starts with every one of us within society. As a community we must plan early and don't wait until the last moment to rush to get things done because it can result in injury.
"Disaster preparedness is a multi-stakeholder process. Every entity has a role to play. Preparation for the hurricane season rests with all government agencies, and no better time than now to review operational plans. As a nation we are better prepared and more aware of the risks due to our past experiences," Governor Richards told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Sunday.
Some of the preparations that should be carried out now are the removal of debris from around homes and businesses; checking hurricane shutters and the roof of your home or business to make sure those windows can close securely and there are no weak spots in the roof.
Update your family hurricane disaster plan and restock your first aid kit and non-perishable supplies.
The 2010 Hurricane Season name list is: Alex, Bonnie, Colin, Danielle, Earl, Fiona, Gaston, Hermine, Igor, Julia, Karl, Lisa, Matthew, Nicole, Otto, Paula, Richard, Shary, Tomas, Virginie and Walter.
The 2010 hurricane season officially starts on June 1 through November 30.
GREAT BAY— In celebration of Emergency Medical Services week, the GIS in collaboration with the Ambulance Department will profile three outstanding individuals at the department for exceptional work and also bring light to the department and their new promotional number to call: 912.
The first of the departmental highlights is Miss Debra Tamara Tackling. Debra started to work with the ambulance department on March 16th, 2009.
Currently she is a dispatcher at the Ambulance Department and her task is to take Medical EMERGENCY calls (912) and to get as much information in order to pass on the information to the Nurse and Driver on board the Ambulance. Debra also enters information of each call into the special computer system: C.A.V.I.S.
Debra says, because she is also an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) she is able to help others when they call in an emergency. "I can try and talk to the caller, calm them down and get as much information. Also in some situations, I can tell the caller how to help the victim."
Her preoccupations in this world, Debra says are her two children, her job and going to school. "I have my G.E.D., First Responder, and E.M.T. achievements, and hopefully in August, I will start the Nursing Assistant Class."
In the past, Debra has worked as a Front Desk Clerk, a Waitress, a Secretary's Assistant, and also a Dispatcher at a local security business. She enjoys such hobbies as baking cakes and playing educational games.
It is important, Debra says, when making a Medical EMERGENCY (912) call, please try and stay calm and don't get upset when the dispatcher asks you questions. We need to ask questions to know:
1) What is the emergency?
2) Is the person conscious?
3) Is the person breathing?
4) What is the exact location of the emergency?
5) How many people are hurt?
6) What is your name and contact number?
Later this week another member of the Ambulance department will be featured and as a reminder the theme of this year's EMS WEEK is "Anytime, anywhere we will be there".
Philipsburg:--- On Tuesday morning the EPIC and St. Maarten Pride Foundation were notified that there was an occurrence of fish death and a large number of fishes were seen swimming towards the flood gate.
EPIC President Ruben Thompson said every few weeks' fishes are dying out in the pond.
The vast amount of sand dredged from the Great Bay area and deposited in the Great Salt Pond has increased the Pond's salinity, this combined with diminished circulation and a decrease in oxygen levels continues to cause many fish of a number of different species (local and introduced species) to die.
The Foundations contacted Sector ROB requesting them to allow additional water from the fresh pond to enter the Great Salt Pond to at least temporarily alleviate the matter. Sector ROB informed the Foundations that they had already taken note of the situation and that they were running water from the fresh pond into the salt pond.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—The Island Government of St. Maarten through the Commissioner of Sports has assigned the Department of Sports with the task of a total review of the sports organizations and development on the island with emphasis on Country St. Maarten.
In connection herewith, the Department of Sports in collaboration with the St. Maarten Sports Federation invite all sporting organizations, whether team sports or individual sports, registered (or not) to attend a very important meeting to be held on Thursday, May 27, 2010 in the Claude Wathey Legislative Hall at 7:00pm.
Agenda points:
- Opening
- Notices
- Registration of members
- Sport development and advancement in Country St. Maarten
- Support of membership
- Proposed Organizational structure
- Legal Advice. (Notary and Attorney at Law.)
- Open Floor
- Closing
All sports organizations, associations, and groups are invited and urged to attend the meeting to provide input. Your contribution will be invaluable.
For more information, contact the Department of Sports at the Socio-Cultural Development Department.
Regional airline WINAIR in its continued aggressive mission to expand has announced that beginning June 14th; they will be taking up three new routes. This welcomed disclosure was made by the company's Managing Director; Edwin Hodge who said that after extensive and significant talks that the airline was able to secure the new routes noting that it will help to boost the company's operations.
The new destinations are St Lucia, Dominica and Tortola I have to admit that we are very excited to launch these new routes as it helps us in being able to provide a better and enhanced service to the people of the region," said Edwin Hodge, WINAIR's Managing Director.
"It is very important to note that the new flights will complement our existing service that we have to a number of destinations, providing our customers more travel options when using WINAIR." While details of the new deal has not been made public confirmed sources indicate that the details are beneficial to all concern stressing that with increased competition the company will have to continue keeping its house in order.
The three new destinations are situated in both the Leeward and Windward Island of the Caribbean while several pundits have noted that the new routes will attract business from, visiting family and relatives, the business community, diplomatic services and the tourism industry. Hodge pointed out that the continued growth and development of the airline will be based on their experience. He added that this new investment perfectly reflects that.
Vice President of Marketing, Claudio Buncamper said that the relevant stakeholders are happy. "I must say that our primary aim is to not only offer to these passengers excellent
Connections and service but we want also to ensure that they are safe and secured," he said. Buncamper pointed out that WINAIR continues to set standards in travel stressing that he firmly believes that there is untapped potential. "I am of the firm view that with the addition of these three routes it promises to serve the unmet needs of discerning corporate and leisure flyers," the VP of Marketing said.
Buncamper declared that WINAIR's goal is to emerge as the market leader within the Caribbean noting that they are on course. He added that they expect to consolidate their leadership position further by being the preferred airline in the region. Winair is presently loading its flight schedule for the new destinations which will connect to all of Winair Destinations. Keep monitoring as further information will be provide via the media our website and facebook.com/flywinair. Tickets are now on sale.
It was noted that WINAIR will continue on its mission to launch other flights to more regional destinations over the coming months.
Philipsburg;---One of the most important courses of action of the Minister of Justice, Mrs. Magali Jacoba is giving information to workers in the judicial sector as well as to the community, which she serves. The theme of the administration is: "Justice is here for me, for you, and for us all!" But in order to make justice available to everyone, communication must start with and information actively given to the community.
Information can be obtained vie e-mail, or via the justice department's website www.justitie.na, or on the blog of Minister Jacoba, which is www.mjacoba.blogspot.com. Some examples of topics which will be published are:
CRW court, CRW prosecutor's office, RW police, council of law reinforcement, cooperation arrangement immigration, cooperation arrangement prison, KPNA CPD, Immigration, NTO, LPO, VNA, Federal Detective department, Public prosecutor's office, Registrar, the court, prison, GOG, BIE, Brasami, rehabilitation, court of guardianship, coast guard, human smuggling, PVNA, DJZ, help for victims.
In this manner Minister Jacoba does according to her policy which is to inform employees as well as the community about her work and accomplishments during her tenure as Minister of Justice.
Philipsburg:---On Saturday May 29, 2010, the Harmonics band of the Philipsburg Methodist church will be presenting, an evening of spiritual togetherness at 5pm to 9pm on the Philipsburg Methodist church grounds.
This is the first event on the band's calendar as they gear up to celebrate their 20th anniversary in November. The band was started by pianist Jeffrey Richardson, saxophonist Raymond Benjamin and singer Rosemary Marsham-Hodge; in 20 years it has since grown into a full ensemble consisting of 14 members, 6 singers and 8 musicians.
The first event will be a mini concert where music will provided by the band and various other local gospel artists. Guest singers include Dion Gumbs, Adrian Scott, Donovan Froston, Laundry Piper & group, Shabbah's djembe group and many others. The highlight of the evening will be individual performances by the Methodist church ministers from the St. Martin/St. Maarten circuit.
Admission is free and a variety of local savory soups will be on sale along with fish cakes and Johnny cakes for a small fee ranging from $4-$6. Tickets for the soups can be purchased at the Methodist Church Resource Center in Philipsburg and also from the members of the band.
The Harmonics are therefore extending a warm invitation to the public to come out and enjoy an evening of delicious dining, singing, fellowship, fun and laughter. The funds raised will go towards the purchase of new instruments for the band.
Philipsburg:---The police department reported that at least three armed robberies were committed on Friday May 28th. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said two of the robberies took place in the Cole Bay area and the other was in Philipsburg.
The suspects in these robberies were young men between the ages of 18 and 24 years old. They wore dark clothing and used machetes and handguns to commit the crimes. The police spokesman said money was stolen in each case and clients who were in the establishments at the time were also robbed. The police spokesman also said that in one of the robberies a victim was struck with the flat side of a machete. All of the cases are under investigation said the police spokesman.
In the meantime, police arrested two French men on Saturday May 29th in the vicinity of the Shell Select Gas Station. The culprits were caught while they were transporting a flat screen television. When the two culprits saw police they began acting suspiciously. They were identified as C.B and and J.P. Both are French nationals born in Paris. During the investigation the officers found a Sharp Aquos Liquid Cristal Flat screen T.V. that was hidden under a sheet. The young men could not give an acceptable explanation of where they obtained the television.
They were both arrested on the spot. One of the suspects shortly after confessed they had broken in to one of the hotel rooms at Maho Reef Hotel. Both young men were taken to the Philipsburg Police Station for further investigation. The supervisor of the Hotel identified the television as being property of the hotel.
Police also arrested a suspect identified as W. St J. for whom there was an arrest warrant. The suspect was wanted for destroying one of the bicycles belonging to the police department.
Philipsburg:---Preparations are progressing nicely for the Democratic Party's 2010 conference on June 6th, 2010 at the Rock House Café on the premises of Port de Plaisance. If there is any concern at all, it is accommodating all who have registered to attend thus far.
This conference takes on additional significance as the party strives to get input from their members on topics related to the elections, such as prospective candidates, but more so on topics of importance for the community at large. The information from members on the upcoming election especially, will be collected and analyzed. The congress is slated to be an interactive one, giving the audience the opportunity to participate in discussions on Health, Crime, Taxes, Youth and Language and of course the New Country Sint Maarten. We want to keep it simple and practical to stimulate full participation.
As already announced, the Keynote speaker for the conference is Professor Dr. Eustace Arrindell of the State University of New York, who is originally from St. Kitts. Dr. Arrindell holds a double PhD , one of these being in Political Science from Cornell University.
The party is equally excited by the line-up of local speakers on the different topics , taken from within the Party as well as outside, one sure thing being that all speakers are well versed in their topic.
All who have registered are reminded of the time and venue of the conference. Especially members of the Party who might feel they don't have to register are reminded that to facilitate every-one, we need to have an idea of the number of participants. Registration is being currently monitored as space is becoming limited.
Setting the tone, will be an opening presentation on the topic "Media and Politics" by the nation's foremost TV personality.
The DP Express has also picked up steam, causing a member to jokingly remark that we might have to register persons for the Express as well.
While we believe that we live in serious times, we are also very confident that the people of St. Maarten will overcome and will rise to the occasion and so we remain optimistic.
We however remain concerned and will continue to express these concerns that less than 5 months away from Country Status, the people of Sint Maarten are still in the dark as far as arrangements are concerned for their health insurance, for the currency of our new country, for the tax system for country Sint Maarten, the budget 2010 and the Constitution for country St. Maarten, to mention a few important issues.
Requests for meetings on especially the Constitution for Country Sint Maarten have been blatantly ignored by the Chairman of the Central Committee, leaving us no choice but to request a meeting of the island council, which will have to be convened by the Chairman of the Island Council, the Lt. Governor of the Island Territory.
So while we want to remain optimistic and encourage the population to be as well, we have said it before: "What we are witnessing today in government does not bode well for the future Country Sint Maarten".
Willemstad - After a slow start of the new programs, which were signed in the course of 2008 between the Netherlands, the National Government of the Netherlands Antilles and the Islands, the flow of projects got well under way in 2009.
As a result, in 2009 a record number of projects were submitted and approved, for a total of 165 million guilders, financed from Dutch development funds.
The majority of the projects were from the program Social Economic Initiative ('SEI').
According to Professor Jaime Saleh LL.M., Chairman of the Netherlands Antilles Development Foundation (SONA), the new coordination structures within the entities have proven their success.
He stated to be pleased to see that 184 projects were submitted and no less than 142 financing agreements were signed within the frames agreed with the Netherlands. A record in the 5-year existence of SONA and USONA.
"The entities have adopted a more vigorous attitude in order to thus make the most of the possibilities offered by the Dutch development funds," says Saleh.
With such a quantity of projects, it is understandable that sometimes the necessary implementing capacity is not adequate enough in certain specific areas. In order to get stagnating projects back on track and to provide beginning projects with a smooth start, the implementing organization USONA maintains a close relationship with the planning offices and the Executive Councils of the island territories. In addition, good contacts are sustained with the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations ('BZK'), and the Representation of the Netherlands in the Netherlands Antilles ('VNW'). Furthermore a master class 'Project in Uitvoering' has been organized to better equip the island territories.
The SONA Board (Prof. Mr. Jaime Saleh LL.M., chairman; Mr. Eugene Holiday M.Sc. secretary; and Mr. Wilbert Stolte, treasurer) welcomes this faster submission and implementation of projects by the various entities. The programs are ambitious and important to the whole of the society in the (still) Netherlands Antilles.
In addition to the Dutch development funds, (U)SONA also manages other funds such as those from the European Union (9th EDF). This has the positive effect that synergy may occur between different programs and flows of money. In that case it is essential that the allocation of resources is consistent with the objective of the program in question. Thus SEI resources were used for the preparatory activities of projects within the Urban Infrastructures for the Socially Deprived Areas program, whereas the implementation of these projects is financed from EU funds.
The 2009 annual report can be found at www.usona.an.
GREAT BAY– Fire Commander/Disaster Coordinator Winston Salomon met with representatives of the Island's Disaster Emergency Management Organization the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) on Wednesday morning to assess preparations and state of readiness for the 2010 hurricane season that started on Tuesday, June 1.
With up to 23 named Tropical Storms forecasted for the season, of which eight to 14 could develop into a hurricane, and of those, three to seven could become major hurricanes of category three or higher with sustained wind speeds of 111 miles per hour and above, Disaster Coordinator Salomon is calling on the nation to be ready in the event of a hurricane threat.
Eight of the 10 Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) were present for the meeting. The focus of the EOC/ESF meeting which took place in the conference room at the Cay Hill Fire/Ambulance Department Building was about operational plans, prepositioning of equipment, inventory of resources, status of pumping stations, hurricane shelters, debris clean-up, trench clearance, future structure of the disaster management system post 10-10-10, and looking into the possibility of setting up a volunteer database.
A confirmed listing of hurricane shelters is expected within short and will be announced via the media.
The clearing of all trenches on the South side of the island is expected to take 20-days and would be carried out by approximately 19 contractors. The cleaning of the trenches is expected to start sometime in June.
A clean-up of Sint Maarten of debris is in the planning and the logistics are being sorted with respect to this.
ESF operational and deputy leaders represented were from ESF-2 Telecommunications, ESF-3 Public Works, ESF-4 Fire Department, ESF-5 Police, ESF-6 Public Health, ESF-7 Social Welfare, ESF-8 Government Information Service (GIS), and ESF-9 Island Secretariat.
The 2010 Hurricane Season name list is: Alex, Bonnie, Colin, Danielle, Earl, Fiona, Gaston, Hermine, Igor, Julia, Karl, Lisa, Matthew, Nicole, Otto, Paula, Richard, Shary, Tomas, Virginie and Walter.
The 2010 hurricane season officially runs from June 1 through November 30.
Philipsburg:--- CFS (Caribbean Foundation for Sustainability) congratulates PRIDE with this milestone on this World Environment Day. It has become a very
important foundation in the community that has made the residents of St. Maarten much more aware of the importance of a cleaner and more livable Island.
Especially Jadira Veen contributed a lot of her spare time and determination to this important foundation. Of course Rueben Thompson as well
but Jadira has always been the engine of this foundation. More and more students and residents have become more involved thanks to her
relentless efforts. And believe me it is not easy at all !! At times it is very frustrating. Especially when you have to deal with the commissioners of
St. Maarten with their constant display of (intentional) lack of transparency. Because of the absence of proper policies and laws commissioners
have been able to play their games at the expense of the community and (also) the environment. The commissioners simply refuse to do their
job and implement (f.e) a strong conservation policy to protect one of our most important tourism products.
Pride Foundation, Nature Foundation, Epic Foundation, Emilio Wilson park Foundation, Heritage Foundation and our Foundation have been
founded because of the absence of government leadership. What commissioners usually do is supporting an initiative on their own account. But
real support should come from the Island Council with real decisions and incentives. Frans Richardson can of course claim that HE wants to
protect the environment. Sarah Wescott also claimed that SHE was aware of the importance of sustainability in 2008. But when I asked her if the
speech was on behalf of government she admitted it was just her own opinion. Of course the DP did not do anything. If Frans Richardson is
different then he should take some real action and get the other members of the council and (especially) the Island Council involved to back it
up. Only then will he deserve the credits he wants.
If it is up to these foundations you will have clean(er) beaches, clean(er) roads, good access to (your) beaches, proper waste management,
beautiful old houses, a beautiful park, clean(er) seawater, no running waste water, more busses, more energy saving, more clean energy,
recycling of waste, less plastic, conservation laws and policies, proper law enforcement etc. These issues are recognized via the Millennium
Development Goals (sustainability) of the United Nations. But St. Maarten has never really supported these goals. Isn't that strange?
If we all agree that these foundations are really serving the community why do we allow government not to support them? Please help them for a better future for YOUR children.
Great Bay,– "The environment and economic development are not two enemies fighting for survival in a world where our eco-systems are disappearing at an alarming rate. The environment is a legacy we must protect not only for future generations, but for our own very survival today."
Those were the words of Commissioner of Tourism and Economic Affairs, Frans Richardson on occasion of World Environment Day, WED, which is being celebrated on Saturday, June 5th under the theme: "Many Species. One Planet. One Future".
According to the Commissioner, we are all custodians of the environment, no matter where we live and work.
"Preserving our environment is not just fancy talk anymore, it is something we must do to survive," Commissioner Frans Richardson said.
"Our hills, our beaches, our fast disappearing ponds, our corals and mangroves, are what have sustained us as a people, giving our island its unique beauty and providing economic benefits for us. We cannot therefore see them as an impediment to progress, but as crucial to our development," the Commissioner added.
According to Achim Steiner, Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Program, UNEP, at the World Environment Day Environment and Conservation Conference in Kigali, Rwanda, "World Environment Day is a peoples' day - a day when communities and citizens to local authorities and companies can express their support and their desire for an improved environment through actions on the ground."
Steiner added: "The public in the end give politicians the license to operate-this is the day when their voice, requesting a new and transformational engagement with the natural world, needs to be heard."
While pointing to the fact that eco-tourism and a "green economy" are now the buzz words for sustainable tourism development all over the world, including St. Maarten, Director of Tourism, Regina LaBega, called for increased individual and community awareness in the preservation of our environment.
LaBega recalled that her office organized the annual Florida Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) Children's Environmental Poster Competition earlier this year.
"The enthusiastic participation of our students in this annual competition shows an increasing awareness on their part of the importance of environmental protection. Protecting our environment is not something for government alone; each and every one of us has a responsibility to ensure that for example when we go to our beaches, we do not leave them in a worse condition than we met them, leaving garbage and plastic bottles behind," LaBega said.
"In order words, we must each do our part to keep our beaches clean and not wait on environmental groups to clean up our mess for us," she added. "This is not just for the sake of tourists: it is for St. Martin."
She said what happens in one part of the world impacts the rest of the planet and pointed to two recent international cases – the volcanic ashes from Iceland that recently crippled air travel in Europe and several parts of the world and the BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico which is spreading its ecological and economic devastation to many regions in the US and beyond.
"The volcanic ashes from Iceland and the on-going BP oil disaster, show how inter-related the whole planet is, and how an environmental crisis in one corner of the world can affect all of us. That is why we must all do our part to ensure that we preserve our environment," LaBega concluded.
Philipsburg:--- On Sunday Afternoon St. Maarten Pride Foundation board member Rueben Thompson was approached by Mullet Bay security while parking along the road in the vicinity of the Mullet Bay resort ruins at the far (western side of the beach). Security informed Thompson that management was no longer allowing the public to park at the western side of the property, or to access the beach by walking via the golf course or the old road to the former beach restaurants (of which the pavement has been removed in recent years) as the entire area is private property.
People wanting to go to the far side of the beach are being diverted to the old Mullet Bay beach parking lot and have to walk quite a distance to the far side of the beach. St. Maarten Pride Foundation is surprised and outraged by this recent development and wonders;
What Mullet Bay Towers management expects people to do when that parking lot is full? Why hasn't government secured multiple ways of public access for this long Beach? Why is Mullet Bay, a resort which has been in ruins (except for the towers) since 1995 stopping people from parking at and accessing the beach from the far side? People have been parking at and accessing the beach from this area for decades, even more so ever since the Mullet Bay units have been in ruins. St. Maarten's residents and visitors have had to live with the "Mullet Bay ruins" for almost 15 years now isn't it time for the company to give something back to the island?
All of St. Maarten's beaches are public and government needs to secure parking and multiple means of public access to the island's beaches. This situation is again one of those which can be attributed to an absence of zoning legislation and assertiveness by successive governments.
In November of 2009 St. Maarten Pride Foundation sent a letter to the executive council regarding the dilapidated buildings in Mullet Bay,the letter was also published in the local media, Pride is still awaiting a response. The Foundation is hereby renewing its calls for the "Mullet Bay ruins" to be demolished. Sint Maarten PRIDE foundation is of the opinion that our Island Government should no longer tolerate and entertain Sun Resort's refusal to clean up their derelict buildings as their inaction is not based on lack of finances or resources, but rather appears to be one of disrespect for the people of Sint Maarten, our laws and our tourism product. St. Maarten Pride foundation is also advocating that the Mullet Bay area remains free from residential, commercial and Industrial development for a period of at least 15 years after the demolition. The Mullet Bay area is the last open green zone on the Western side of St. Maarten and should be zoned as a recreational area for sports and beach activities.
Philipsburg;---On Saturday a police patrol was directed to Texaco Starmart Gas station in Cul-de-Sac for a fight in which several men were involved. On the scene the patrol spoke to a male victim identified as J.M.M, who stated that he was attacked by a group of four men living on the French Side.
The victim had several superficial stabs to his back and chest. He further stated that his attackers arrived at the location in a blue Suzuki car with license plate 380ZAB971 and attacked him. According to the victim he had been attacked several times by the culprits and that the reason for the attack was because of problems he had with them in the past. The victims was treated on the scene by paramedics and then taken to the St Maarten Medical Center for treatment however, he was admitted to the institution for observation. An official complaint was made with the detectives and an investigation is ongoing.
PHILIPSBURG: --- Justice Minister Magali Jacoba has a busy week on St. Maarten. She meets recently sworn in acting Lt. Governor and local Chief of Police Reynold Groeneveldt on Monday, followed by talks with the Dutch technical assistants for the police.
On Monday afternoon, Magali meets with unions representing the police, and later she will talk with advisors about the consequences of a recent court ruling that recognizes the American-Dutch Friendship Agreement. That agreement gives US citizens the same rights as Dutch citizens in the islands.
Later in the afternoon, the justice minister meets with outing acting Chief Police Commissioner Ademar Doran and in coming Chief Police Commissioner for St. Maarten, Saba and St. Eustatius Peter de Witte, and the incoming police chief for Bonaire who will become the future head of police for Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba (BES) Jan Rooijakker.
The Brooks Tower Accord (BTA) policy is on the agenda for Tuesday. The minister will meet with advisors on the conclusion of the accord. The BTA gave undocumented people living on St. Maarten and the other islands of the Netherlands Antilles an opportunity to regulate their status. Jacoba signed off on the last BTA decrees Sunday evening. These will be distributed during the week. Also
The minister is here for the swearing in of the new Chief of Police for St Maarten Saba St Eustatius Mr. Peter de Witte.
The Win-Win Agreement parties will meet with the minister on related issues on Tuesday afternoon.
The new maritime clearance/visa policy will be up for discussion on Wednesday morning by Jacoba and relevant departments.
Meetings and discussions with various justice related departments occupy the remaining time on the schedule of the minister.
Jacoba returns to Curacao on Thursday evening. She will be back on St. Maarten in next week Tuesday.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—In a couple months, St. Maarten will be the venue for an Information and Telecommunications Communications (ICT) Roadshow, an existing program being carried out by the Caribbean Telecommunication Union (CTU). The aim of this roadshow is to harmonize approaches in telecommunications development and to promote the general awareness of telecommunication technologies in the region.
The theme of the ICT roadshow is: "Harnessing the Power of Innovation: The Engine for ICT-enabled development."
Representatives of the telecommunications union Bernadette Lewis CTU Secretary General and Bevil Wooding CTU Program Director came to St. Maarten to inspect the venues and to meet with stakeholders.
Coordinating the event will be the chairperson of the organizing committee Peggy Ann Brandon, Departments of Economic Policy and Research represented by Head Lucy Gibbs and Wendy Jack and the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau Section Head Gus Priest and Lisa Noel.
The CTU's mission is essentially "to optimize returns from ICT resources for the benefit of stakeholders," Lewis said. In addition, the aim is to show, inform and education the end users on the extensive tools they have in information technology.
St. Maarten, as a member of the CTU, was requested to host the Roadshow as most of the CTU members have done over the past years.
The Roadshow will take the form of a series of country visits across the region, designed to foster a spirit of innovation in the development of ICT, based on practical solutions, to raise awareness and to encourage coordination of efforts in the adoption of ICT solutions for inclusive economic and social development, Lewis said.
The road show is scheduled to take place on St. Maarten around mid August, 2010.
The ICT Roadshow program consists of lectures, presentations, technology demonstrations/ exhibitions, hands-on workshops, case studies, showcase of ICT innovation, youth-focused programs and stake holder's consultations in the field of Telecommunication.
Designed to be educational and structured, the ICT Roadshow encourages interactive participation and free exchange of ideas, knowledge and experiences from all sectors and stakeholders of the Caribbean.
The ICT Road Show is in its 20th year, previous hosts include St Kitts and Nevis, Suriname, Antigua & Barbuda and Curacao.
Democratic Party Council lady Maria Buncamper-Molanus, on behalf of the Sky Is The Limit Foundation, made a significant donation to the Teen Times Foundation to go towards organizing the annual Prom Night.
The event, now 14 years running, is an exclusive, formal end-of-the-year ball for all high school seniors before they go their separate ways to further their studies abroad. It will be held on Sunday, June 27 at the Westin Resort. Prom Night 2010 bears the theme "Metropolitan Class".
Buncamper said activities for St. Maarten's youth have always gotten her support, adding that Teen Times has a long reputation of positive events that she has been proud to support in the past. She has also supported the foundation when it took numerous students to the US to sharpen their artistic skills.
The Council lady said a Prom that brings all high school graduates together to look back on their high school years and look forward to tertiary education, is a worthwhile event that deserves support. She said the students have worked hard during their high school careers and deserve an event of their own to celebrate their achievements.
Assistant Coordinator of Teen Times Angelica Haverkamp expressed thanks to Buncamper for always being there for Teen Times and the youth of St. Maarten in general.
"We pride ourselves on two events annually, Prom and Talent Showdown. Council lady Buncamper and Sky is the Limit Foundation in the past have assisted us and we are happy to know we can always count on her, no matter what. We are happy that she sees the value in positive youth events," Haverkamp said.
GREAT BAY– The "2010 Business Outreach and Placement Program" known as the Summer Job Program is progressing well but the Department of Culture, Youth & Sports – Section Youth Affairs is asking the business community to make more positions available for the nation's youth.
Students who are already registered are invited to attend training sessions round I under the theme "Steps to Success," that commence on Tuesday, June 15 from 2.00pm to 5.00pm. These sessions continue on Wednesday and Thursday at the same time and are being held at the University of St. Martin room 202 and 203.
The business outreach and placement program starts on July 5th and runs through August 13th 2010.
Businesses who are willing to participate in the program by allowing young people to get the opportunity to learn should contact the aforementioned Department for further information telephone: 542-2056 or fax 543-1172 or e-mail address This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Marigot:--- Members of the support committee for Robert Romney plans to take radical actions against the Rector and his delegation that are expected to visit St. Maarten on June 30th. The committee held a public meeting on Thursday night to inform members of the public that so far the Collectivity neither the committee has not received any response from the Rectorat regarding Romney's status and possible removal from his office.
Aline Choisy said Robert Romney was told via telephone that he remains the Rectorat representative until September but nothing was given to him in writing. She said based on information that is circulating, someone from St. Martin and Martinique is among the 14 candidates that postulated for the position. Choisy also confirmed that Robert Romney also submitted his candidacy for the position he is currently holding.
Choisy also expressed her disgust against the candidate from St. Martin that is trying to take away the job from another qualified St. Martiner. She however, warned that would not happen because those organizing the plan of action would not sit back for that to happen. Another observation Choisy made was that she invited all the media houses on St. Martin, especially those on the French side and it is amazing to see only the English media representatives at the meeting.
Choisy said the Rector already notified the President of the Collectivity and the Prefecture that he would not be able to meet with both them on his visit. She said the Rector and his delegation are planning to hold a meeting in French Quarter and if the Rector does meet with the 23 member Territorial Council then action should be taken to prevent him from visiting French Quarter College. While territorial councilor Louis Mussington said he believes that the people of St. Martin should not wait that long to take action. "We need to block Marigot and do whatever is necessary to get the attention of the Rectorat. "This is not about Robert Romney this is about St. Martin and its education system that has been neglected over the years. Our children are not able to perform. Many of them are not able to write their baccalaureat because of the system. Romney is the only local St. Martiner who has the requirements to fill this State position. He also knows St. Martin's predicament in education and he is the one that could create the best plan for St. Martin and its students." Mussington said.
The territorial councilor said recently he got hold of the decree given to Romney and he realized that the degree did not bear the signatures of the delegation which made it null and void. "Those people took us for a joke and have taken us for a ride. St. Barths already got a decree with the necessary signatures and I cannot see why they did not do the same for Romney." Mussington said the decree that Romney has does not give him any power and for this reason the Rectorat did not provide the financial means to Romney neither did they supply the materials and staff for him to function.
Mussington said from the very inception the Rectorat did not want to appoint Romney to the position. He said he determined that from a phone call he received from the secretary to the Rector prior to Romney's appointment.
Attending the meeting which was held at the Chamber of Commerce there was first vice president Daniel Gibbs, Territorial Councilor Alain Richardson, members of the President cabinet and territorial councilor Louis Jeffry who is part of the committee and president of the MOCSAM. Among those that showed up to support Romney were most of his sisters and brothers that are residing on St. Martin.
Aline Choisy expressed her disappointment with the attendants of Thursday night meeting saying that the people of St. Martin is taking everything for granted. She said it is only when people backs are against the wall they act and for me that is too late. " I am a known fighter and will to continue to fight this matter even if I am the only one left standing on the road" Choisy said. In the meantime, Louis Jeffry said fighting the Rectorat like fighting with a gorilla. He said this is not the time to give up and the people should come out and even give them ideas on how to tackle the matter.
Ebenezer/ Cay Hill: --- Students and teachers of the St. Maarten Academy PSVE are preparing to attend the funeral of the late Patrison Isarac on Tuesday June 22.
President of the Academy School Board Josianne Fleming Artsen said the St. Maarten Academy staff and some board members are planning to visit the bereaved parents on Sunday afternoon.
Patrison Isarac lost his life on Wednesday last week in a freak accident while hitchhiking a ride home on the back of a pickup which was driven by one of his former schoolmates. The driver of the pick lost control of the vehicle when he hit the sidewalk causing the vehicle to topple over. There were six students in the vehicle at the time of the accident. The other five students were treated for minor injuries and sent home on the same day.
PHILIPSBURG - "Revisiting the Constitution" is the title of the University of St. Martin's (USM) lecture that is slated for tonight beginning at 7pm with Attorney and Acting Lt. Governor Reynold Groeneveldt as the keynote speaker.
This lecture is the third of the USM's Lecture Series and is free of charge to the general public.
According to USM President Josianne Fleming Artsen, the importance of the Draft Constitution for Country St . Maarten has to emphasized and re-emphasized.
"All the citizens of this island nation should be aware of the contents and implications to them as we head to 10-10-10," said Fleming Artsen.
The St. Maarten Constitution is being lauded as one of the most progressive in the Kingdom of the Netherlands since it was modeled after that of Aruba, the most recent country in the Kingdom to have a constitution with improvements.
One of the important aspects in the constitution is how elected officials are dealt with if they are arrested or convicted of a crime. Changes to this aspect have been recently made and keynote speaker Mr. Groeneveldt will be discussing this matter.
The Central Committee of Government is scheduled to handle the revised constitution within short.
USM President Fleming, urges the general public to attend this important lecture and be informed on the matter. Mr. Groeneveldt has been one the many legal minds working on the constitution from the inception.
The lecture will be from 7pm to 10pm. The USM LECTURE HALL has a seating capacity for about 200 people and attendants are urged to be on time.
Marigot:--- The committee that is supporting Robert Romney is calling on the general public to come out this Thursday to protest against injustice against St. Martiners, especially Robert Romney. The committee plans a demonstration for Thursday June 24th said members of the committee in a press release.
Aline Choisy is calling on everyone to gather in front of the Nina Duverly School in Marigot at 8:30 am.
The intention is to protest against the disrespect shown by the Recteur who is yet to respond to letters written to him by President Frantz Gumbs, and other members of the territorial council, including St. Martin's deputy Victorin Laurel.
The Collectivity of St. Martin is also planning to boycott the Recteur's visit which is scheduled to take place on June 30th.
Already Prefet Delegue Jacques Simmonet has indicated that it is regretful that Romney has to leave and that he is unable to intervene since education is not in his portfolios.
According to information reaching SMN News is that the Recteur just last week sent a letter to St. Martin's representatives indicating to them that he is not the one that decided that Romney must be relocated. The letter stated that Romney's transfer was done through a joint arête from the Ministries.
The committee is calling on everyone to come out and protest against the Recteur's lack of respect towards St. Martin and its elected.
Newly re-elected political leader of the St.Kitts-Nevis Opposition party the People's Action Moevment Lindsay F. P. Grant along with Deputy Political Leader the Honourable Shawn K. Richards, were invited by Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar to the Ceremonial Opening of the First Session of the Tenth Parliament of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.
Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar was appointed the first female Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago following General Elections on 24th May, 2010 when she successfully led the People's Partnership Alliance to a resounding victory.
Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar who describes herself as a Caribbean person was one of the several regional Attorneys-at-Law who ably assisted the Honourable Shawn K. Richards and Mr. Grant in their landmark case against the Election and Boundaries Commission and the Labour Government's illegal and unconstitutional attempt to change the Electoral boundaries.
Lead Counsel for MP Richards and Mr Grant, Ms Mia Mottley, Q.C. who is also the Leader of the Opposition in the Parliament in Barbados also attended the historic event in support of her co-counsel and friend and now Prime Minister Mrs. Persad-Bissessar.
The People's Action Movement 's National Spokesperson Lawyer Chesley Hamilton was also among the specially invited guests to the historic parliament sitting.
The Hon. Persad-Bissessar is the fourth female Caribbean Head of State following Eugenie Charles of Dominica, Janet Jagan of Guyana, and Portia Simpson of Jamaica. The 58 year old Bissessar is now one of six female prime ministers in the world.
GREAT BAY,– Disaster Coordinator Fire Commander Winston Salomon commends Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) such as the Belair Community Council and the Belvedere Home Owners and Tenants Association (BHOTA) for their clean-up initiatives in preparation for the 2010 hurricane season.
It has been forecasted that the season will be a busy one with up to 23 named Tropical Storms of which eight to 14 could develop into a hurricane. Of those, three to seven could become major hurricanes of category three or higher with sustained wind speeds of 111 miles per hour and above.
This weekend Belair residents are expected to clear their district of garbage as part of its pre-hurricane clean-up and are asking all homeowners and tenants to do their part to make the community safer during the hurricane season.
The Belair clean-up entails Little Bay Harmony homes, Spanish Fort Hill and homes located in the Belair area on Welgelegen Road.
"Now is the time to come out and assist your neighborhood. Normally June and July are quiet months, and whatever clean-ups and making your home and business hurricane-ready, should be carried out at this time.
"All hands onboard are needed. This hurricane season is expected to be a busy one and we need to have as much done and in place before any hurricane threat to the island. Any successful clean-up effort needs the helping hands of the community and the support so far of clean-up campaigns have been satisfactory," Disaster Coordinator/Fire Commander Winston Salomon told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Wednesday.
The BHOTA is tentatively scheduled to organize other clean-up efforts in and around the emergency homes in Belvedere June 27 and South Reward July 3 according to past media notices.
The 2010 Hurricane Season list of names are: Alex, Bonnie, Colin, Danielle, Earl, Fiona, Gaston, Hermine, Igor, Julia, Karl, Lisa, Matthew, Nicole, Otto, Paula, Richard, Shary, Tomas, Virginie and Walter.
The 2010 hurricane season officially runs from June 1 through November 30.
GREAT BAY– The Collective Preventive Services (CPS) of Sector Public Health, Social Development & Labour (VSA), as part of its awareness efforts of men's health, is appealing to men not to ignore symptoms of poor health and put off seeing their general physician.
CPS adds that it is important for men to take their health seriously and to notice physical changes.
CPS is encouraging men to attend the Lions Club lecture, "Your prostate and its management: big, benign or malignant," that will take place on Wednesday, June 23 at the Belair Community Center in Cay Hill at 7.00pm.
Curacao-based urologist Dr. Jurjen Bade will be speaking about symptoms, prevention and treatment.
There are positive steps that men can take to improve their health, like eating more fruit and vegetables and walking instead of driving wherever possible.
Risk factors and health issues for boys and men are often different to those for girls and women. They also change across the life course.
Young males aged 15-24 years are confronted with transport accidents and suicide; alcohol and illicit drug use are also major contributors to the burden of disease in this age group. With increasingly early ages of first sexual encounter, sexual health issues affecting this age group include contraception, sexually transmitted infections and sexual identity.
For working age males aged 25-64 years, the leading cause in men of working age can be linked to behavioral risk factors such as excessive drinking, smoking, risky driving and risky leisure activities, eating less healthy foods/snacks, and making less use of medical services.
Older males aged 64 and over, higher proportions of male deaths in this age group are from heart disease, respiratory disease and lung cancer.
Prostate cancer is also significantly more prevalent in older men.
It is recommended for men to eat healthy, get sufficient physical exercise, and have annual check-ups which will be determined by the respective age group. Establish an open relationship with your physician and ask questions. You and your physician are partners for the betterment of your health.
Philipsburg – Soualiga Corporate Toastmaster Club members Leona Marlin, Linette Gibs Joy Arnell and Catherine Connor Arrindell added to their list of achievements recently by accepting awards for completing their speeches.
In order to achieve such awards Toastmasters follow special communication manuals that guide them through various speeches that cover a range of diverse topics. After completing the first ten speeches each club member can choose from the advance Communication series that trains each person for speaking situations that they may encounter outside of their Toastmasters Club. Some of them are, Communicating on Television, Entertaining and Persuasive speaking.
The award Competent Communicator has been awarded to Joy Arnell and Linette Gibs for completing their first ten speeches. Joy and Linette are looking forward to moving on and starting their advance communication manuals.
After 6 years as a Toastmaster Catherine Conner Arrindell says, "the nice thing of being a Toastmaster is you can achieve your goals at your own pace. The award Advanced Communicator Bronze is accomplished after someone completes 10 speeches from the advance manuals. "Building confidence, expanding your vocabulary and over coming the fear of speaking in front of a crowd are some of the benefits that any potential members can hope to achieve," says Ms. Conner Arrindell.
As Club President Leona Marlin continues to follow the leadership and communication manuals and has achieved personal and Club goals. The award Advanced Communicator Silver is a goal that I worked on with much determination.
I would like to encourage past and current Toastmasters to commit to the club by attending the regular bimonthly meetings.
GREAT BAY:--– The Government Information Service (GIS) will be launching another product called the "Public Information Guide, (P.I.G)" on Monday, June 28 at 7.00pm on Sint Maarten Cable TV Channel 15.
The P.I.G is a 30-minute comprehensive program that is designed to educate the general public about the services government renders directly and indirectly to the general public.
The program serves as a guide to those that are interested in making Sint Maarten their home and as a reminder to those already residing on the island.
The P.I.G highlights the process of obtaining official documents eg. Driver's License, I.D. Cards, Passport, Work & Residence Permits, Social Welfare etc. by speaking directly with professionals within these areas of service.
Tele-viewers are invited to tune in and be informed.
Philipsburg:--- Safety and security is one things that would have priority for Chief Commissioner of Police Peter de Witte. In an interview with SMN News the new police chief said he already submitted the plans for the new and improved police department to the island government.
The plan he said was delivered two and a half weeks after he took office and as long as the plan is approved by the island government then the police management team would begin their phased implementation.
De Witte made clear that the current situation would not change overnight but he definitely would do his best to improve the justice chain on St. Maarten. The first step de Witte expects to take is to make sure there is an officer in charge of each district. The idea is to make sure when a crime is committed in any district an officer is nearby. This officer would also be responsible for his district and his job is to train other people to be role models. "The community would definitely see more of the police and training will be provided to the men in blue so that they could deal with people in a more professional manner." De Witte said.
The Chief Commissioner of Police also wants the general public to know that the additional personnel that are coming from Holland would not be taking away jobs or top positions from the local men in blue. "The additional personnel would be coming here as advisors and they would be training someone locally to do the job."
The new police chief would be making some changes internally so that the detective and fraud department would have some more men to execute their jobs. However, when he does that the Zero Tolerance and other departments would be scaled down since some of the men in those departments would be rotated. A new person is expected to join the forensic department since there is only one person currently working in that department.
While the intention is to upgrade the police force with more men De Witte said that would be done over the next three to four years. For the police force to be brought up to par there would be need for more men, materials as well as monies to get the job done.
The police on St. Maarten can look forward to some intense training so as to rebuild the trust and integrity of the police. The force would also have for the first time a social worker who would provide anger management trainings as well as the physiological needs of the officers.
De Witte admitted that when he took office the situation of the St. Maarten Police Force (KPSSS) is a mess. He said this would take a lot of work and cooperation from the entire Korps if the situation is to change. Asked how he intended to make a difference he said "When people are treated nicely and with respect they do their best at work." Meaning besides him being a gentle and kind person his intention is to listen to his officers and to do what is best for them and the force. The new police chief makes sure he dresses in his uniform on a daily basis hoping that his subordinates would take example from him.
Asked how he felt about the island's people de Witte said the people on St. Maarten are friendly and so far they have responded well to him.
GREAT BAY,– The Control Unit of the Island Government will resume vehicular traffic flow relief in the high density school area of Saunders, St. Peters and South Reward when classes resume in August.
Section Head of the Control Unit Floyd Skeete told the Government Information Service (GIS) that the exercise to enhance the flow of traffic coming out of the high density area has been successful.
"I would like to thank motorists for their adherence to the rules of the road when driving through a high density school area. Due to the involvement of the inspectors, there have been less traffic incidents.
"The Control unit will continue with their traffic policing in the new school year and we look forward to the continued cooperation of all motorists. Our primary goal is safe roads," Skeete told the GIS on Wednesday.
Control unit inspectors would be placed at strategic intersections such as the crossing of Zagersgut and Coralita road, the crossing at L.B. Scot road and Gladiola road and near the entrance to the Sint Maarten Academy.
Inspectors start off from 6.30am and work through up to 8.00am from Monday to Friday from the beginning of the school year to when classes close for the summer recess.
The main objective of the traffic flow relief initiative is to improve and manage traffic flow, and assist with the safety of pedestrians.
Skeete and his staff would like to wish all the school kids and their parents as well as school management and teaching staff, happy summer holidays.
Work is moving ahead at a feverish pace towards the completion of all preparations for the successful hosting of the 2010 Windward Islands Senior Male Basketball Championships, scheduled to be played at the Tanteen Courts in Grenada July 01 – 05, 2010.
A new synthetic surface have been aid at the Tanteen Courts, part of the approximately EC$300,000.00 budget being spent by the Grenada Basketball Association.
This year's tournament will be the culmination of months of efforts led by the Grenada Basketball Association, aimed at the revitalization of the Windward Islands Senior Male Basketball Championships.
The Windward Islands Senior Male Basketball Championships was last held about ten years ago in Saint Lucia, which was won by Grenada.
The head coach of that successful Grenada team was Fitzgerald Joseph, with Nigel McKie as his assistant.
All four island federations have confirmed their participation, with the opening ceremony secluded to be held on Friday afternoon from 3:00 p.m., with two matches being played daily on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Marigot: --- The gendarmes are calling on the community of St. Martin who may have information pertaining to the armed robbery which led to the murder of an employee on Thursday to come forward.
The gendarmes said that they have launched an investigation into the armed robbery which took place around midday on Wednesday at Popular Supermarket in Concordia claiming the life of the cashier identified as 32-year old Ying.
Persons who have information on the two suspects can submit the information on the condition of anonymity by calling 00590 52 30 00 or by dialing the emergency number 17.
On Wednesday two armed robbers entered the Popular Supermarket around midday and shot Ying the cashier and the manager of the store before making their escape on a scooter.
Philipsburg:--- On Thursday evening police discovered the body of lifeless man identified as Jean Paul Jeremie on Cupe Coy Beach. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said the victim's body was found in his vehicle. Henson further explained that the police patrol was sent to the scene where they spoke to a witness identified as
L.A.J. who stated that her husband Jean Paul Jeremie was supposed to come and pick her up from work, however he never showed up.
The bereaved woman said that she felt that something was wrong and immediately notified the rest of the family. A search for Jean Paul Jeremie started immediately. During the search the vehicle of the victim was found on the beach in Cupe Coy and the man was not showing any signs of life. The victim who is a diabetic has been complaining recently of pains in his chest and for some time was admitted in the hospital in Martinique. The doctor that arrived on the scene stated that the victim had died of natural causes. The body of the victim was transported to a morgue. There are no indications of foul play in this case Henson said.
Marigot:--- The gendarmes is urging witnesses of the gruesome murder of the Popular Supermarket cashier to come forward and assist them with whatever information they may have. In a press release the gendarmes said that they questioned a number of persons over weekend and they were all released after the interrogation.
The gendarmerie said they have launched a simultaneous operation over the weekend in Low Town, St. James and Sandy Ground in order to catch the persons responsible for the slaying of the cashier at Popular Supermarket. Persons having information are urged to call 00590 52 30 00 or dial the emergency number 17, information can also be submitted with complete anonymity.
The release stated that one of the two operations is related to a drug investigation and a 53 year old man has been arrested after he was caught attempting to get rid of a package that contained marijuana.
Philipsburg:---The Commander of the Voluntary Corps of Sint Maarten (VKS) and the VKS Summer Camp Committee are thankful for the generous donation received from the Sky is the Limit Foundation. The annual VKS Summer Camp started on Monday July 5th, 2010. Close to 80 children, ages 7-15, are attending the camp to participate in the exciting program that has been prepared for them.
Over the years the Summer Camp has been able to count on the Sky is the Limit Foundation for a financial contribution. Once more this foundation has proved to be loyal to the VKS Summer Camp and donated funds for the camp. These funds will be used to execute the planned activities during the summer camp week.
In the picture Mrs. Maria Buncamper-Molanus from the Sky is the Limit Foundation hands over the cheque to VKS Commander Jean Illidge (left) and Summer Camp Committee President Bernice Charles-Richardson (right).
The VKS would like to express once more its sincere gratitude for this generous donation.
Philipsburg:--- Members of the St Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association (SHTA) met with members of the executive council. In a press release issued by the SHTA they said they opened the meeting by stating that it is the objective of the private sector to hire local labor as long as they have the appropriate qualifications. Applying for work permits only arises when it has been determined that qualified locals are not available.
SHTA's concern is that the business sector isn't performing well at the moment, meaning in terms of labor, that many businesses are operating with core staff only. For businesses that are heavily reliant on foreign labor, the SHTA is receiving complaints that lately the application process has become more cumbersome thus impeding business operations.
The main areas of discussion were:
1. Processing time for renewals of permitsThe SHTA was informed that there are structural changes happening at the Department of Labor as it is transitioning into a Ministry. However, this has not affected the processing time for permits, which is 6 weeks.
2. Clarification on which employment permit policy is being used
There is some confusion on which policy is being used. SHTA was informed that the policy that went into effect in December 2009 by the NA/ Heyliger Government is still being used and that copies are available at the labor department. The policy is meant to be reviewed with stakeholders and introduced in July.
The SHTA also brought up examples where renewals for long time employees (10+ years) were rejected. Commissioner Hyacinth Richardson informed that such incidents should be brought to his attention immediately.
Philipsburg:--- Island councilmember and Senator George Pantophlet said it is about time that someone took the bull by the horns and that is exactly what commissioner of Finance Xavier Blackman is doing in addressing the need for Tax Reform. The discussions on indirect or direct taxes, wage tax, profit tax, turnover tax you name it has been ongoing for quite some time now but nothing concrete was ever done, said Pantophlet in a press release.
The very fact that the commissioner of Finance is willing to take the bull by the horns should be commended. A lot has been said, is being said and will be said on the issue of taxes and how it should be addressed. What should not be forgotten is that nothing has been approved or applied as yet. Suggestions have been presented and many good arguments have been brought forward. Pantophlet said he is convinced that the commissioner knows what he is doing and has done. He said he is also sure that Blackman is still conducting an indebt study on the plan of approach. The senator siad that consultations have taken place and these will continue. And before anything concrete is done it will come to the representatives of the people along with the stakeholders. He called on everyone not to forget a statement the commissioner has been repeating all the time which is a module that is suitable for St. Maarten.
Pantophlet said if anyone could show him the country with the best tax system in the world that has no loopholes then man did not make it. Travelling to the Netherlands does not mean government will apply the same tax structure used there. St. Maarten is unique and whatever module is implemented has to take into consideration the French side of the island and also the neighboring islands. He said as St. Maarten approach country status there are many more challenges that lie ahead. One thing that is very discouraging in the tax world is that a proper module still cannot be found for legalizing morality and integrity.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—On July 15, at the High Performance Training Center in Yogesh Commercial Center, Cul de Sac, there was a kick-off ceremony for Michaelangelo and Ivan Bell, who will be traveling to Puerto Rico tomorrow, July 16, to represent St. Maarten on the team of the Netherlands Antilles who will compete in the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games.
The moderator of the event, Artwichgt Bell welcomed everyone present and provided some information about the event and the competition that the young men will be traveling to.
The games are held every 4 years, starting at the end of the week and finishing at the end of the month. These young judo athletes will represent us with the NA delegation with 14 sports, and about 140 persons. This event leads up to and is a crucial part of the preparations for the 2012 Olympics.
On behalf of the office of Commissioner Frans Richardson and the Tourism Bureau, David Christian said that knowing the track record of the individuals who will be traveling to represent St. Maarten on the NA team, he expects nothing less than them coming home with gold. "I wish them the best," he said.
Head coach of the Bell brothers is Ludson Evers, who will be traveling with the young men to Puerto Rico, said some encouraging words. "We are going out there to represent St. Maarten as part of the Netherlands Antilles team. The goal is to bring home some medals," Evers said.
President of the St. Maarten Judo Association, Franlklyn Cuffy wished the team well and expects the duo to do well, given the hard work that they have put in training and practicing. They are prepared. I am sure they will make St. Maarten proud.
Judo athlete Ivan Bell said some words also, saying that he has been practicing judo for 12 years. When I compete, I am serious and transform myself into a "sort of machine" ready to take on anything. I will also be proud to bring back a medal.
Dr. Spencer will travel along with the delegation as the Sports Doctor.
The NAOC representatives will be Maria Bass and Elvin Henriquez.
The St. Maarten Sports Federation organized the kick-off ceremony for the athletes from St. Maarten.
GREAT BAY:--- Sector Public Health, Social Development & Labour (VSA) Inspection Pharmaceutical Department, has instructed pharmacies to discontinue selling Tylenol, Benadryl and Motrin IB medicine, and consumers are advised to stop using the aforementioned products.
McNeil Consumer Healthcare (Johnson & Johnson) is recalling 21 lots of Tylenol, Benadryl and Motrin IB. This action is a follow-up to a product recall that McNeil Consumer Healthcare had originally announced January 15, 2010 when consumers complained of a musty or mouldy odour, which has been linked to the presence of trace amounts of a chemical called 2,4,6-tribromanisole (TBA).
The recall is in line with public health safety. The product lot numbers for the recalled products can be found on the side of the bottle label.
Persons can contact the Inspection VSA Pharmaceutical Department on 542-2059 for more information.
Airport:--- In its continued quest to make air travel affordable despite the current challenging financial times being experienced by many, regional airline, WINAIR has once again launched an attractive carnival fare package from all stations to flights to Saba and St. Eustatius.
According the Claudio Buncamper, VP of Marketing he said that this new fare is geared at ensuring that the public can attend and or participate in the carnival activities.
"Recognizing our role as an airline for the communities that we serve we are cognizant that we need to get involve in facilitating easy and affordable travel thus we though it best to provide this package which we are confidant of will aid significantly in enhancing the respective carnivals," he said.
Buncamper pointed out that his company will continue to provide these packages in an effort to continue boosting travel to the various destinations we serve especially in these trying times
"We have our own challenges and difficulties but we have been able to ensure that we can provide the needed opportunities for the public to continue with traveling plans and our commitment is that we will continue," he assured.
The VP of Marketing in disclosing the new fares disclosed the following;
From the various Islands to Saba or St. Eustatius, the following fares apply:
St. Maarten US$ 75
St. Barth's EUR 100
Nevis / Antigua / Montserrat / Tortola / St. Lucia and Dominica US$ 220.00
Buncamper stressed that all quoted fares are roundtrip and excludes taxes noting that travel are valid from July 21 until including August 02, 2010. He further indicated that these special fares to have restrictions and urges passengers to check with the carrier. "We want the public to know that seats are limited thus we urge and beckon them to make absolute benefit of these exceptionally low fares," he declared.
He pointed out that travelers should make maximum use of the fares noting that it provides them with an excellent opportunity of being part of the carnival celebrations.
"Travelers certainly have an opportunity of being part of the respective carnivals so with these very low fares I am very confident that the public would take advantage of this offer," he noted.
GREAT BAY– Due to the recent shower activity during the past couple of days, residents are advised to be proactive and take preventative measures against mosquito breeding in order to avoid mosquito-borne diseases developing such as dengue fever, according to the Collective Preventive Services (CPS).
Contractors on job sites are advised to empty buckets and cover water storage drums and have the site cleaned up at the end of the work day of anything that can hold water even plastic bags.
A special appeal is going out to owners of plots of land to have these checked and cleaned of all overgrown vegetation and debris/old containers that were dumped there and due to the overgrown vegetation cannot be seen. These could become a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
Measures that residents must take to prevent mosquito breeding are:
Debris, old tires and stagnant water in yards are the source or can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes bringing about an increased risk of mosquito-borne diseases.
Residents are therefore strongly advised to take action making sure that there is no stagnant water in their yards and roof spouts; and disposing responsibly old tires, empty drums, buckets, jars, birdbaths, boats, plant containers, paint cans and other items that can collect water around their homes and businesses.
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 mosquitos from breeding in the water.
Persons or businesses making use of the landfill in Philipsburg for the dumping of barrels, buckets or anything that can hold water should cut holes into the items to avoid the accumulation of water.
Airport:--- The Texaco gas station on the Airport road was robbed at gun point on Saturday July 17 2010 reported acting police spokesman Humphrey Giterson. The police spokesman said the robbery took place at approximately 7:45 pm. The suspect is a man of dark complexion, slim type, and is about 5'8 tall.
He was wearing blue jeans pants and white t-shirt. The suspect also covered his head with a black t-shirt. The suspect walked behind the gas station when he committed the robbery. According to the police report the bandit walked over to the gas station attendant when she went in the office and forced her to gave him the sale of the day which amounted to about US $ 2400,-. After he committed crime he drove away in a waiting car,
a grey Hyundai Getz, without number plates and dark tinted glasses.
The gas attendant could not give a clear description of the weapon used by the suspect. The Detective department is investigating the case.
Philipsburg: --- Leader of the Democratic Party Sarah Wescot Williams said it is time independent member of the island council Theo Heyliger breaks his silence and let the people of St. Maarten know what he did for them while in government this past year.
Wescot Williams said at the Democratic Party press conference on Tuesday that Heyliger had said in the past that he had to remain in government for the sake of the people last year June, thus he left the Democratic Party and formed a coalition with the National Alliance. "He could not afford not to be part of government because it was all about St Maarten and the people." Wescot Williams said during the month of June 2009 they heard many promises from Heyliger and his coalition partners. She recalled the statements on June 8th when the National Alliance/ Heyliger government said they were working on a governing program that had an action plan of projects and programs where priorities were going to be established.
The coalition promised to put priority on housing, the allotment of the Hope Estate apartments, and the environmental fee where they said they were working on the final legal touches. This coalition also promised that they would purchase of the Emilio Wilson estate while they would work on the crisis in education and the environment.
She said with respect to the resignation of Heyliger who would remain commissioner until his successor is appointed. She said reporters contacted her on Monday to comment on the resignation of Heyliger but she does not believe it is the place of the Democratic Party to say more instead the commissioner has to now give account of his stewardship from June 2009 to July 2010. "Remember Heyliger was not just a commissioner in the coalition he was also deputy leader of government for more than a year and he is now called to give account of his stewardship of the people's business." Wescot Williams said.
The leader of the Democratic Party said the people also needs to hear from the coalition partner the National Alliance as to what the resignation would mean for government.
Wescot Williams said although the resignation of Heyliger was rumored for sometime she said coincidentally in the elucidation to the change to the electoral law in the central committee meeting government mentioned that they are preparing an ordinance to expand the executive council by adding two more commissioners. She said the Democratic Party asked government if they intended to appoint two other commissioners. Wescot Williams said they are faced with an interesting situation because at any time they could see a proposal to expand the council as well as to appoint not one but three commissioners.
PHILIPSBURG,– The Global Missions Church Annual Gospel Concert planned for July 25 at the Celebration Palace has been postponed due to unforeseen circumstances, Pastor Esmond Flemming announced on Thursday.
Instead, a free rally for Jesus will be held at the same venue starting at 7.00pm featuring Rita Richardson and Odyssey.
Persons who have purchased tickets can hold on to them as they are still valid and can be used to enter the concert in October. Date and time as well as venue will be announced in the coming months.
The concert would have featured international guest artists Gerry Thompson from Canada/Jamaica along with some local and regional talents such as Tebron Flemming and Rita Richardson. Tebron is the daughter of pastors Esmond and Sandra Flemming.
Dania Jansen seen as an aspiring young rising singing star is the niece of Pastor Andre Webster was also to take part in the concert along with Cedric Rey.
Great Bay;--- Hip-hop superstar Joseph "Fat Joe" Cartagena, considered to be among the world's most influential rappers, whipped up a storm at trendy night club, 1-Eleven where he performed before a standing room only audience recently. The inclement weather did not prevent lovers of hip-hop music from thronging the show, which a young adoring fan described as "simply excellent".
"I was amazed to see how humble he is," the fan said, adding "Fat Joe dissed the image of the trouble-making rapper; he was simply cool and he gave a fantastic show."
The multi-platinum selling artist and entertainment impresario was here from July 16th – July 19th to perform and to shoot a video special at various locations on the island showcasing what makes St. Martin such a unique tourist destination. He was accompanied by his personal chef Mark. They were both invited to Temptation's by award-winning chef, Dino Jagtiani where they "cooked up a storm". Jagtiani said he was pleasantly surprised by Fat Joe's "culinary expertise."
The video footage will feature hip-hop's first and only professionally-trained gourmet chef, on a mission around the Caribbean to find the best restaurants and the most authentic island dishes. Chef Mark and Fat Joe will show places on the island to dine, beaches, shopping, nightlife, the local culture and how to travel while being hip at the same time. The special will run for 30 minutes.
"Fat Joe has sold over 2.5 million albums and discovered some of the hottest hip-hop artists," said Edward Dest, Director of Marketing at the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, who attended the concert at 1-Eleven.
"His appeal goes beyond the large Latino community and spans young people around the world and the hip generation. His presence on St. Maarten is in itself an endorsement of our product and the Television special he shot with his personal chef Mark, will further boost our image as the Gastronomic Capital of the Caribbean," Dest added.
No date has been established for the release of the video, but fans of Fat Joe can "lean back" and await what promises to be an exciting half-hour special on St. Martin with the artist who gave us the blockbuster hit album, J.O.S.E. – "Jealous Ones Still Envy".
Philipsburg:---- The police department is calling on parents and guardians to look after the whereabouts of their minor children especially after 7pm. Police Spokesman Geronimo Juliet said due to the increase in crime and the spate of armed robberies committed this past week the police department is making a special effort to decrease crime by conducting severe road controls.
The officers in blue he said will not show mercy on youngsters who are on the street after hours especially those in suspicious company. Everyone including teenagers is urged to walk with their identification cards when on the road.
In the road control conducted in the vicinity of Le Grand Marche on Thursday night some 15 cars were stopped. Five of the drivers received fines, while three of the vehicles were towed away for the lack of proper documentation.
All motorists are urged to have all their documents with them in order to avoid being towed or fined said Police Spokesman Geronimo Juliet. Drivers are also urged not to drink and drive. The police and traffic is also calling on drivers to avoid using their blackberries while driving. "Do not send and read emails while driving or even chat on the phone, this is a very dangerous practice and it is better to be safe than sorry." Juliet warned.
Philipsburg:--- Recently the police department has stepped up the general controls. The Zero Tolerance Team which is mainly conducting the controls has reported that on Tuesday July 27th a total of 52 motor vehicles were checked in connection with the required documents to drive on the public roads. A total of seven cars and one motorcycle were towed. Fines totaling 21 have been given to drivers for traffic violations.
Also during these controls 72 persons were checked in connection with their legal status on the island and the identification laws. One person was arrested taken to the police station in connection with the violation of these laws.
The Police department is once again sending out a very stern message to the general public (residents from the Dutch and French side) that they should at all times, when in public, carry a valid pictured identification to their name with them, to avoid any unnecessary inconvenience or delays.
This measure is stipulated and required by law. If some-one who is being checked by police and asked to properly identify themselves and cannot do so, they will be taken to the police station. They will be then granted the opportunity to contact some-one who can bring their proper identification to the station. Once their identity has been established and everything found in order that person will be given a fine and then be allowed to leave. The police department is also sending out warnings to all business owners/managers that controls would be carried out in connection with the closing time of their businesses that is stipulated in their business-licenses or permits. Not adhering to these stipulations will result in the immediate closing of the establishment and receiving a fine.
The officers who are conducting the controls will be checking the many "blocks", "hot spots" where groups of person's gather/hangout or areas identified by police as areas where these types of gatherings take place will constantly be controlled in connection with any criminal activities that may be taken place in these areas. Parents should encourage their children to stay away from these areas. The police department also states that these controls will continue indefinitely.
Philipsburg:--- Leader of the People's Progressive Party (PPA) Gracita Arrindell has officially resigned from the party on Thursday. SMN News learnt that the PPA leader met with members of the party on Wednesday to inform them of her decision to leave the PPA and join hands with the United People's Party (UP).
According to reliable information reaching SMN News Arrindell was hoping that the other board members of the PPA would have also resigned which would have paved the way for them to dissolve the party, but two of the members it is understood has refused to resign and as so far stated they would not be giving Arrindell their support.
SMN News also learnt Christopher Emanuel board member of the PPA is one of the candidates that have not resigned. The source said Emanuel has been discussing with both the UP and the National Alliance and he is yet to take a firm decision on which slate he would run. SMN News also learnt that Emanuel held some meetings with former island council member Lenny Priest who is also contemplating to form a new party.
A press released from Gracita Arrindell states that she has signed on as a member of the United People's Party (UP) that is led by caretaker commissioner Theodore Heyliger. Arrindell also called on the other members of the PPA to join her on the UP slate.
Arrindell said seven and a half years ago- on January 21, 2003- she was introduced to to the people of St. Maarten as the Founding Leader of the Peoples Progressive Alliance- the PPA, a brand new political party which was about to step into the political arena for the first time.
On that occasion, they announced that the PPA would be contesting the 2003 Island Council elections and we launched our election campaign stressing the theme,
"It's time for a change"
Arrindell said Sint Maarten has changed much since then, but regrettably, Sweet St. Maarten land has not witnessed the sort of positive change they had envisioned.
"Today, I stand before you, disappointed in the quality of governance to which St. Maarten has been subjected. However, I wish to assure you that I stand undaunted and unbowed and even more determined to help engineer the sort of transformational change needed in Sint Maarten as we prepare to embrace the challenges of a new constitutional status., In the company of family, friends, former candidates, members, supporters and well wishers, I stand before you and announce that after much soul- searching and much strategizing , I have decided to step down as Leader of the People's Progressive Alliance- the PPA." The press release states.
"Stepping down from the leadership of the party I have led and have helped to nurture has not been an easy decision to make, but I stand behind it fully confident in my belief that by stepping down and combining forces in a new endeavor We will be best able to rise to both the existing and the new challenges of the trying times ahead." The release continued.
Arrindell said while there are several factors prompting this decision, there is one overarching, clear and compelling reason: For the last several years, Sint Maarten has been on wobbly legs and in danger of collapsing under the pressure of unenlightened leadership. In different words, and we all know it, Sint Maarten is crying out for help. Sint Maarten is yearning for competent and enlightened leadership.
By combining resources with others who are also capable of providing the bold leadership needed, Sint Maarten's rescue would we assured.
Over the last several years, as PPA, we have been before voters on four occasions and while, given the resources at our disposal, we are very thankful- very grateful- for the support we have received, it is clear that we need to embrace new approaches, so that we may give the people what they need. We need to do so if we are to be involved in an integral way in the decision making process, so that we may improve lives, generally, but especially, improve the quality of lives of the ordinary man and ordinary women of Sint Maarten.
And so my dear people Today, with a heavy heart and clear conscience, I say thank you. I say a big Thanks to Mr. Don Hughes, founder of the PPA who had the vision and gave me the opportunity to lead the PPA, its board and our worthy candidates. I also wish to say special thanks from the depth of my heart to all our members, our supporters, our friends and families.
Together, we have left our indelible mark on the political landscape of Sint Maarten. As a small but formidable faction in the Island Council from 2003- 2007, we have raised the bar. We have been undisputable champions for what is right, what is fair, what is just.
Equally, we have been undisputable champions of three issues close our hearts, Transparency, Accountability and Good Governance- issues which will remain dear to us and which we shall continue to pursue relentlessly from within the UP party.
History has already shown –as in the case with the Government Administration Building, for example- that because we have been hardworking and diligent and always willing to do our homework, if they had paused and listened to us, the current wasteful/ expensive fiasco would have been avoided.
As I said before, it is now time for us to embrace new approaches in order to move forward with our agenda. The people's agenda. It is time to move on and to move UP for the greater good and for the betterment of our people of this sweet Sint Maarten Land.
Philipsburg:--- Former Democratic Party member and assistant to former commissioner's Roy Marlin and Louie Laveist, Jeffry Richardson will be making history on Saturday as he launched his new party called the Concordia Political Alliance (CPA). The new party will most likely be headed by Jeffry Richardson. SMN News learnt that several persons who are holding key positions in society will be on the CPA slate.
In an invited comment Richardson said the party name was taken from the Treaty of Concordia because the intention of the party's founders to form a closer alliance with the French side.
Richardson said he is very concerned with the island status thus he felt the only way to make a difference is to get in government. He gave examples on the current situation with the 2010 budget, the closure of Safe Heaven.
Richardson said one of his main objectives is to find work for the young people who is currently doing nothing and have turned to crime. He said right now the New Era Foundation is working on several projects which are to motivate young people so that they can find their new purpose in life.
The CPA and is members is also looking into ways of getting scholarships for youngsters to go to Holland where they would learn a trade.
Pressed to release more information on his new party Richardson said all the relevant information will be released at a press conference scheduled for Saturday.
We hereby urge you to cast your eyes into the clear blue skies and you will observe that there is a GOLDEN ray of HOPE that is called the Concordia Political Alliance (CPA) who hereby invites you to attend a press conference that will be held on Ground 0 where the grass root St. Martiners reside, to introduce the newest St. Maarten Political Party contesting the upcoming Island Council Elections on September 17, 2010.
Philipsburg: --- Close to three hundred people from within the community of St. Maarten joined the efforts of the United Task Force Against Crime (UTFAC) in the candlelight march on Saturday night. Among them were several elected officials, namely leader of government William Marlin, Leader of the Democratic Party Sarah Wescot Williams, Island Councilmember Rudolph Samuel as well as members of the business community, representatives of the Chamber of Commerce, representatives of the KPSSS in the persons of Chief Commissioner of Police Peter de Witte, and Commissioner of Police Carl John and Acting Lt. Governor Reynold Groeneveldt. As a symbol of hope the marchers carried lighted candles as well as posters highlighting the current crime situation as they slowly and silently marched through the streets. Several bystanders and other onlookers stood alongside Front Street looking at those who opted to make a difference in this once peaceful community.
While the UTFAC campaigned all week to get the community to react to their call to march against the current crime situation, the Haitian community organized their own march in memory of Clemencia Julot who would have celebrated he 22nd birthday today. Members of the Haitian community gathered on Cole Bay Hill look-out point prior to marching towards Cole Bay where they visited Pastor Bell's Church. Supporters and marchers in that march wore Tee -shirt bearing the photo of murder victim Clemencia Julot.
The marchers gathered in front of the Government Administration Building where several speakers delivered short speeches regarding the current crime situation. The UTFAC said based on their research some 22 persons lost their lives to violent crimes during the past ten years. The UTFAC named the persons who lost their lives to crime from 2009 to now, they are Angel Martin, Marco Beaumont, Haresh Dayalani, Mikhail Boasman, David Eustace, Sabila Absalon, Jean Busquet, Eric Yuan Sam, George le Blanc, Lau Wai-Yin, Otmar Leonard, and Clemencia Julot who would have celebrated her birthday on July 31.Reasons why the UTFAC believes something needs to be done to reduce crime.
Delivering the invocation and the most powerful and to the point message was Pastor Wycliffe Smith who said that far too often people believe getting solutions to our problems cost lots of monies while the answers are simple. Pastor Smith said one of the first thing that has to be done on St. Maarten to reduce crime is that people here have to begin loving themselves and others if they are to make a difference. He said while the UTFAC and those who came out to march is making a statement each and everyone in the community has a responsibility if crime is to stop. Pastor Smith said currently the people living on St. Maarten has gotten into materialism and they are self centered rather than looking out for their neighbors. He said long gone are the days when doors can remain unlocked. Gone are the days when we trust our neighbors, the values and principles that have eroded over time which is the root cause for so much crime in society, namely murders, robberies, and domestic abuse, blue and white collar crime which are on the increase, not to mention cyber crime. Pastor Smith said the current trend has left one to wonder if there is still hope and if the clock can be turned back to regain the society.
Another prime cause for the crime wave Pastor Smith continued by saying people have lost love for each other, they are less tolerant, and on the verge of wanting to fight back. Pastor Smith said that the youths are often blamed but the youths learn from the adults. Adults he said are the ones who teach the youths how to tolerate and to love but in the homes the adults are heard cursing off their children and have failed to listen to their children. Pastor Smith said to make a change the family life has to be restructured. Pastor Smith said adults and elected officials are sending the wrong message to the youths when they legalize moral standards. Prostitution is a moral standard that has been legalized, casino gambling, certain forms of theft have been legalized, and the tolerating of lying. He said to see how much lies are told by adults then one has to visit the court rooms, or even listen to the politicians who have been making empty promises, or maybe one should listen to the island council meetings. He said when politicians choose to live by certain moral standards they are sending a message to the youths. "When politicians or people in high offices think they can get away with things the youths think they too can get away with things." He called on the adults to stop living double standard lives instead people should live right and act right. The message delivered by Pastor Smith caused the gathering to clap and to cheer as they agreed with what he had to say about the adults and the examples they set for their children.
Other speakers include Lenworth Wilson, Lenny Priest, Clarence Richardson, and Acting Lt. Governor Reynold Groeneveldt.
Philipsburg:-- The detective department is busy investigating case of ill treatment. According to acting police spokesman Geronimo Juliet, the victim was ill treated with a rock on Sucker Garden Road. On the scene police found the victim with an open wound on his forehead he was bleeding profusely and had to be treated by the ambulance personnel. Police learnt on the scene that the culprit who is known to them as Boetchie committed the act and fled the scene.
Police is also investigating another case of ill treatment similar to the one on Sucker Garden Road.
According to the victims an unknown man threw a rock on their car and damaged the right front door glass.
In an unrelated incident police is also investing another case of destruction. The victim identified as J.E.L told police that her ex boyfriend girl friend identified as J.L was chasing her and was throwing bottles at her car damaging it. It is believed that the suspect is acting out of jealousy police said. Juliet said while the victim and her boyfriend was at the police station the suspect she received a phone call telling her that J.L was at her house and she destroyed the front windshield of the victim's jeep.
Juliet said when the boyfriend W.F was at the police station giving his statement to police he received a call from J.L who told him that she was on her way to his house to destroy his car. The woman told W.F that she bought acid to ill treat J.E.L. The detectives are busy with the investigation.
Philipsburg:--- The police department is currently investigating a number of break ins, acting police spokesman Geronimo Juliet said unknown persons broke into a mini-van that was parked in the parking lot at Cupe Coy. At the time of the break in the owner's daughter was sleeping in the vehicle. The victim told police that she was awoken by strange sounds and she saw a man of dark complexion with a cap on, the suspect she said had dreadlocks. According to police the victim began screaming which forced the culprit to run away taking with him two bags which had contained some personal items such as wallets, credit cards, and identification cards. In an unrelated incident the police are also investigating the break in at a residence located at Organ Pipe Cactus Drive. The bandits forced their way in the house by breaking the front door. Stolen from the home is a Sony Stereo set, a Coby DVD player and a cross pen. Police reported that another break in also took place at Jacobs Drive on Saturday August 31. Items stolen at that location are a cable television box and a mixer.
Another break in took place at a residence in Arch Road. When the detective reached the scene the neighbor told them that the owners of the residence were away.
Police is also investigating another break in which took place at the Virgin Gordia Drive. According to police two men entered the house by forcing the back door of the house open. The victim told police that their daughter was in the home sleeping at the time of the break in. She awoke when she heard strange sounds in the house. When the culprits saw they were being watched they took off running in the direction of Dutch Quarter. One of the suspects was wearing a green tee-shirt, short jeans and a baseball cap on. The suspect also had straight short hair, while the second suspect was described as being dark in complexion. They stole gold necklace with diamond pendant, three pairs of ear rings and a black canon camera.
On Friday a residence on Paradise Island road was also broken into, the owners of the house told police that two unknown boys entered the residence and stole two pairs of old sport shoes a video camera, and a 24inch flat screen computer monitor. The victim told police that two days before the two boys were caught red handed by the neighbors when they tried to break in her house.
Cole Bay:--- Workers handling the BTA extension process and security guards at the Salvation Army building in Cole Bay saw quite a number of people who were seeking information and the necessary application forms to extend their Brooks Tower Permits on Monday. While the forms are being distributed at the Naturalization and Immigration Building on AT Illidge Road and the Philipsburg Police Station as well as at the Salvation Army Building the BTA project coordinator Tiara Hasselhoef said that they need to be careful with the distribution of the forms so that no one gets the opportunity to exploit the applicants. Hasselhoef said the forms can also be downloaded on the Brooks Tower Website.
Hasselhoef in an interview with SMN News said that this week the team of workers handling the BTA extension process would have to spend more time giving out information to the persons that has to renew their permits. Hasselhoef further explained that the applicants should to stick to the requirements to renew their permits and no one should not take the extra time to look for additional and unnecessary documents, Hasselhoef warned applicants to make sure they walk with a valid and authentic passport since they would not be accepting anyone's file if they do not have their passport. "There is no need to walk with the old passports because the BTA team is not checking stamps. All we need the last and valid passport that the applicants have in their possession."She said every person who is given a number must see the Marechaussee and the police that are inside the building with them to verify their passports before they are allowed to submit their extension application.
This week the BTA team will be processing the Category 1 (A) persons who are working for an employer. Those persons are required to have the declaration forms which must be filled out by the employer before going to the Salvation Army Building to submit their extension request. Person's who fall under Category 1(B) and are self employed has to also pick up the necessary forms to go to the Chamber of Commerce to register as a Sole Proprietorship prior to submitting their application.
Up to late Monday the BTA team only completed 6 of files which will be renewed Hasselhoef said.
Hasselhoef said on Monday they took a number of the people who showed up at the Salvation Army and informed them how to get the necessary forms and the lists of other documents that is needed for the extension.
Philipsburg:--- FACING THE ISSUES, a televised program of information by the Democratic Party of St. Martin debuts on Wednesday, August 11, 2010 on St. Martin's Cable TV Channel 15!
Now more than ever it is important for the people of St. Martin to know where the political parties stand on issues that are crucial for our daily functioning but especially on matters that are of importance for our future. The DP is prepared to tell you where IT stands!
Join us every Wednesday night at 10.30pm on Channel 15 for the views of the Democratic Party on crucial matters that touch the lives of our St. Martin people. It is our party's continuous loyalty to people and country and the vast experience of this Democratic Party that will shine the light on the path to a new St. Martin. Be involved and informed by setting your St. Maarten Cable TV channel box to Channel 15 and catch this and every week's Wednesday night's DP program "FACING THE ISSUES".
The DEMOCRATIC PARTY also hosts the radio program called "the Voice of the Democratic Party" that can be heard live every Monday at 5.30 pm on Radio Soualiga 99.9 Choice FM with a re-broadcast on Wednesday afternoons at 5.15 pm on 98.1 Pearl FM.
Philipsburg: --- Police discovered a dead body in the bushes Over the Bank. The body was discovered on Friday afternoon just after 4pm. Several police officers and detectives responded to the scene where the body was located.
So far the victim has been identified as an "unknown male." Public Prosecutor Rienk Mud said the body has been confiscated as an investigation is currently taking place to determine the identity of the victim and who might be the persons responsible for the man's death. SMN News learnt that the body was in its early stages of decomposition when it was found.
Philipsburg:--- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will introduce a fee for Electronic System of Travel Authorization (ESTA) beginning September 8. DHS has had the discretion to charge a fee to cover the costs of administering the program since ESTA was implemented.
The fee is comprised of two parts:
Processing Charge - all applicants requesting an electronic travel authorization are charged $4 for the processing of the application.
Charge determined by Travel Promotion Act (TPA) - if your application is approved and you receive authorization to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program, an additional $10 will be charged to the credit card. If the electronic travel authorization is denied, only the application processing fee will be charged.
The fee must be paid by credit card at the time of enrollment at www.pay.gov. Some debit cards may be used for payment but only if they do not require a numerical PIN. Pay.Gov uses advanced encryption to protect transactions while applicants are logged in. When accessing a profile, any account numbers applicants have entered will be masked on the screen. DHS is exploring the possibility of adding other payment methods in the future.
Existing ESTA registrations remain valid for travel through their expiration date or until the passport expiration date if it expires sooner.
DHS also announced the elimination of the paper arrival/departure form (Form I-94W) for authorized travelers from nations participating in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), which includes citizens with a passport issued by the Kingdom of the Netherlands. All travelers seeking entry to the U.S. with valid visas still have to complete Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record. All travelers (travelling both on ESTA registration and on visas) still have to fill the customs declaration (CBP form 6059B).
Philipsburg:--- Leader of the National Alliance William Marlin introduced a new candidate that will be contesting the September 17 election for country St. Maarten. While this is the first time the candidate is postulating on a political slate she is no stranger to the St. Maarten community.
Marlin in his opening remarks said while it is difficult for mothers to step out and step up to the plate and put their hands on the deck to shape country St Maarten and prepare this country to become an independent nation in the Caribbean, Leona Romeo Marlin has decided to throw her hat in the ring and be part of the race on the National Alliance slate. Marlin said the upcoming election is important for St. Maarten since it is the first time the island people would have to elect a 15 member parliament as well as seven ministers to form the local government.
Marlin made it clear that the National Alliance is a committed team and they are not a playing hide and seek game. Marlin said some ten years ago the National Alliance team made a commitment to St. Maarten when the people voted for separate status and they are determined to see it through to the end, this is the reason why his party remained steadfast, focus and with their eyes on the ball despite the challenge. So far he said the National Alliance has had several successful discussions with the Dutch and Antillean government including the document he signed on September 30 that states that 10/10/10 St. Maarten will become country.
The new comer to the political arena has the support of her family and friends who hails from both sides of the island. Among them were her mother, father, husband, sister, brother and her minor children.
Leona Marlin a native by birth attended school in St Maarten and the Netherlands holds a bachelor's degree in political science, and a master's degree in international relations. Leona or Lioness held her first job with the S4 foundation that is based in Holland and she now heads the census office.
Marlin said she has been extremely humbled as many people within the community and even the different political parties have encouraged her to be a candidate for the 2010 election. She said she went on a quest with the issues that are facing the St. Maarten community and has asked people for ideas on what type of changes they would like for their island and future country. Marlin said based on her background and knowledge she believes that she is fully able to contribute to the efforts that was already started by the National Alliance. She said she chose to be part of the solution, and she is concerned about finding proactive, realistic and supportive solutions for the rising crime rate, to create opportunities for the young people. Marlin said she also believes that they would need to look at immigration reform, since the recent Brooks Tower Accord is a testament which shows that more policies needs to be developed that would reflect a healthy balance based on the labor market and the challenges facing the island. Marlin said another priority for her is to make sure the education system is evaluated and improve the areas that need to be improved. Marlin said St. Maarten needs competent and innovative solutions and young professionals to take on the challenges facing the island. Leona Marlin declared she is ready and to be part of the National Alliance Team (Together Everyone Achieves More) as they win the September 17th election to take St. Maarten Forward.
The National Alliance will be introducing another new candidate on Sunday he is no other than Dr. Lloyd Richardson, the Social Insurance Bank (SVB) doctor.
In the meantime, SMN News has learnt that Christopher Emanuel would also be contesting the election on the National Alliance slate. Emanuel was also part of Romeo Marlin's launch on Saturday.
GREAT BAY:--- The Acting Governor of the Island Territory of St. Maarten, Reynold Groeneveldt, is urging political parties and persons planning to contest the September 17, 2010 Island Council elections, to adhere to Article 8 and Article 8A of the General Police Ordinance guidelines of July 1975 (Publication Sheet 1940, No. 14) applicable when placing or attaching party political propaganda materials alongside the public roads.
Political parties may place propaganda materials, such as billboards, posters and flags alongside the public roads, as of Wednesday August 18, 2010 up and until September 24, 2010, under strict conditions.
These conditions are the following:
- In the interest of traffic safety, materials may not be placed at any location, where the police prohibits this.
- In the interest of traffic safety it is prohibited to place any propaganda materials in, on or around any of the roundabouts on the island territory.
- Propaganda materials may not hinder or endanger
traffic by being placed on traffic signs, traffic light poles, other road indicators, or bridges.
- Propaganda materials may not be attached on the propaganda materials of another political party.
- Propaganda materials may not be placed on private property, without the prior authorization of the owner or person renting that property.
- The content of the propaganda materials may not be offensive in any way.
- The political party placing propaganda materials remains responsible for risks associated with eventual police actions and/or for damage, inconvenience or nuisance experienced by the public, as a result of the placing or of the presence of the propaganda materials.
All propaganda materials must be removed from alongside the public roads, on September 24, 2010.
GREAT BAY:--- Sint Maarten Information & Communications Technology (ICT) Week: the 6th Annual Caribbean Internet Governance Forum that started on Sunday is progressing very well according to Peggy-Ann Brandon, a member of the local organizing committee.
ICT Road Show sessions are being held at the Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa until August 20. As of Wednesday, August 18, some very interesting workshop sessions will be starting.
On Wednesday, August 18 at 9.00am, there is an ICT CAMP on Power Point and Podcast Creation as well as a session on Voice Over IP and E-Government.
On Thursday, August 19 at 9.00am, Telcell Black Berry Training Camp; 10.30am Dangers in Cyber Space and Parental Control Possibilities; 11.00am Hot Seat Discussion: Government, Private Sector, and Chamber of Commerce & Industry, face your questions.
On Friday, August 20 at 9.00am, Business and Banking Forum: Technology & Secure Transactions, how they are protecting your information.
Businesses and persons can still register to attend the various sessions planned for the coming days by requesting a registration form from This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by stopping in at Duncan & Brandon, Cannegieter Str. #46 or call 543-7466, fax 543-7468.
"The various sessions planned over the next three days are very much relevant to the public and private sectors. In the case of the public sector, technology can be used to optimize Government services through E-Government. Improved public services will allow for the public to get through faster making long lines a thing of the past.
"On Thursday, the sessions deal with how to use your Black Berry along with the potential of creating applications or content that will allow you to make money with the device not only through use. There is a session that teaches parents on what they need to know about the internet and how to protect their underage children.
"Also on Thursday, attendees have the opportunity to ask questions to those who make the laws governing the communications sector. Friday's session will be a very interesting one with respect to how your personal information is being protected on Sint Maarten and how identity theft is being prevented. There is something for everyone and we welcome all," Peggy-Ann Brandon, a member of the local organizing committee told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Tuesday.
The event is being hosted by the Island Government of Sint Maarten and the Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU) and the Geneva-based non-profit ISOC Internet Society.
Philipsburg--- As we go into the September election for country St. Martin, we are as an island at a point not often seen before.
A government that knows not what it is doing, crime out of control, cost of living skyrocketing, high unemployment, inefficient social services, social discord, in other words an island in peril.
It is beyond imagination that after a bare 14 months of a NA/Heyliger/Laveist coalition, this island could have spiraled to such a low.
Can it be, that this was willful planning by the NA and Heyliger to make our people beggars in their own country and as such control them with whatever crumbs can be thrown at them during campaign time?
It is with this reality in mind that the Democratic Party has planned its campaign for the September 2010 election.
It is with this reality in mind that the Democratic Party has chosen its candidates for the September 2010 election.
It is heartening to see the good will amongst many still, notwithstanding the serious times facing our island. Young and old alike have stood up to bring back St. Martin to its rightful place after 14 months of an NA/Heyliger/Laveist disaster.
14 months of a government consisting of basically the running of the harbor only by Heyliger, and William Marlin responsible for everything else, as Blackman only made error after error as far as the finances of the island are concerned.
14 months of some government members hardly uttering a word to the people and all are left to wonder where we are going.
These are not times for gimmicks, for grandstanding or shams.
And so, with confidence in our people to overcome the past disastrous 14 months, the Democratic Party presents its candidates for this election.
GREAT BAY:--- Securing corporate and government networks is the focus of discussion on the third day of the Caribbean Network Operators Group 1st Regional Meeting currently underway at the Westin Dawn Beach Resort and Spa in St. Maarten.
Experts from the United States, New Zealand, Argentina and Mexico join their Caribbean counterparts to discuss technical topics relevant to securing and maintaining critical internet infrastructure.
Mr Bevil Wooding, program director for CaribNOG, said in opening the historic first regional gathering of the group in St Maarten, "CaribNOG fills a very critical void in the region's technology landscape." He added, "The group provides a much needed forum for technology practitioners to exchange ideas and experiences."
This forum which targets local and regional technology enthusiasts has already provided fertile ground for insightful discussions and hands on training. Regional and international experts will tackle topics ranging from the requirements for establishing a Caribbean Security Incident Response Team to securing networks based on the popular Linux operating system.
Matt Ryanczak, Network Operations Manager at the American Registry for Internet Numbers (ARIN) is in St Maarten specifically for the event to share ARIN's experience in deploying the new network protocol know as IPv6.
Ryanczak's session will be done jointly with another highly regarded network expert Mark Kosters, the Chief Technology Officer at ARIN. Kosters will share his insight on the impending run out of IPv4 and 2byte AS numbers that will occur in the near future.
Stephen Lee, spokesman for CaribNOG said "We are extremely pleased to have Mark and Matt here to share their extensive experience. ARIN's contribution to CaribNOG, along with tech research non-profit Packet Clearing House, will enhance the capacity of the region's network administrators in addressing security-related concerns related to IPv6 deployment and help overcome the common challenges."
The 5 day CaribNOG meeting is part of the St Maarten ICT Week program of activities and targets the local and regional technology community. All activities during the St. Maarten ICT Week are open to the public at no cost. The CaribNOG 1st Regional Meeting is being held in conjunction with the Caribbean ICT Roadshow. Details can be found at www.caribnog.org.
About CaribNOG
The Caribbean Network Operators Group (CaribNOG) is a rich community of Network Operators dedicated to exchanging technical information and experiences related to the management of IP networks in the Caribbean region.
CaribNOG collaborates with the regional and international organisations and stakeholders to facilitate capacity building and professional networking activities. Initiatives are delivered in several forms including technical workshops, seminars, research-papers and of course, our annual meeting.
About ARIN
The American Registry for Internet Numbers, the nonprofit corporation that manages the distribution of all Internet number resources, including IPv4, IPv6, and ASNs.
Philipsburg:---The St. Maarten Woman Awareness Movement Foundation (W.A.M.) held and informative session for the public on the 18th of August 2010 at the Salvation Army Community Hall in Cole bay in connection with new status of Country St. Maarten within the Kingdom, as of October 10th, 2010. The various topics and speakers were:
The Duncan Law by Minister Roland Duncan
Minister Roland Duncan give an illustration on why this law was put into place enabling the Island Council to change the setting of from Island Government to a Parliament setting and for S t. Maarten and Curacao to have an early election.
Areas for instance for Country St. Maarten which yet needs to be finalized are Aviation, Telecommunication, the Justice system together with the Curacao and Aruba.
Minister Roland Duncan spoke about the Caribbean Guilder and also about the joint court with Aruba and the other islands.
Minister Roland Duncan said St. Maarten is becoming a country and will be in our own hands to negotiate.
The National Health Insurance information was facilitated by Drs Jorien Wuite
Drs Jorien Wuite explained about the Nation Health Insurance , being implemented for 2012.How it wil be designed according to the same package as that of the Dutch Model in the Netherlands, and what studies yet has to be done to compile a package which will include everyone and will have justified premiums. The question from the audience was what about BZV after 10-10-10 and why St. Maarten did not have their own specialists.
The SVB by Dr Lloyd Richardson
The doctor explained how SVB functiond and which level has the authority and for what. We will have to go a little longer with SVB untill all the studies for the the National Health Insurance is completed. He elaborated on the various levels of insurances we have in our community and how at time these differences makes things difficult for our care givers.
Questions from the audience were; why not services from the French side instead of having to go to Curacao.Where we have to go to collect pension after 10-10-10. They answers were, we have to remember Frenchside is foreign country and measures have to be put in place for such possibilities. In regards to pension an SLA will be signed and it will be paid out in the same manner untill changes are made.
The Pensioneers by Drs. Raymond Jessurun
Mr. Jessurun spoke about Humnan Right and the right of the pesioneer. He explained that these rughts are part of the Dutch Kingdom where it concern the Human Right.
The new upcoming Informative session will be on Wednesday the 25th of August 2010 at the Salvation Army Community Hall and the topic is;
Taxes in Country St. Maarten.
Grand Case/ French Quarter: --- The widow of murder victim Raymond Murray who was brutally shot to death early Saturday morning came forward to tell her side of the story. Maryvonne Murray said she read some newspaper articles and heard of the one that was posted on SMN News that assassinates her character. Murray said while many people on St. Maarten feel that she is responsible for the death of her first husband Denis Dormoy that she said is far from the truth.
The woman said when Dormoy was killed the two years after they were legally separated. She said "I felt nothing when Denis was killed I was no longer in love with him, I was sorry he died because he was my daughter's father. At that time I was living with another man and I was pregnant for him." Murray alleged that her former boyfriend Orlando Isaac was abusive and he was extremely violent with her. "Our relationship lasted about one year and then I left him, but Orlando never gave up on me. He broke into my house once and he raped me another time.
Murray said Isaac was charged with both crimes and he was allegedly convicted. The judge ordered him to pay a fine of Euros 1,500, six months suspended sentence and two-year probation." Murray said the family of Orlando Isaac said there were two restraining orders against each of them but that too she said is not true. "I once asked the judge to give me a restraining order against Orlando and the judge refused. The judge said retraining orders cannot be issued for St. Maarten because the island is too small and the main roads are the same. If I could not get a restraining order from the judge even after I was raped, how could Orlando get one and who gave it to him she asked.
"Orlando would stop me every place and each time he want to go home with me and I would always tell him that it is over between us, I believe he is sick and crazy." Murray further admitted that her husband Raymond Murray had an argument in Marigot with the suspect, this however she said was caused by Orlando. "My husband told me what happened and my daughter was with my husband and she too told me what Orlando did that day. My husband was not someone that liked trouble or fought with anyone. He was a peaceful man and one that loved me dearly. Raymond never carried weapons and it is not because he is from Jamaica he was not good."
Asked about the incident where she went to Orlando's house and took his car keys. Murray admitted to taking his key but she said that was because Orlando had taken her bag earlier. Speaking about early Saturday morning when the fatal shooting took place, Murray said she went to Belto's Pool Bar around 10:30 pm Friday night to play pool and have fun with her friends while her children stayed at a friend's house. She said while playing pool with Raymond he jumped over the pool table and hit her down to the ground. "While I was playing pool my back was turned to the road so I don't know what my husband saw all I know is that he knocked me to the ground and he ran away. By the time I got up I did not see him and I did not know where he went. Someone in the pool bar asked me who Raymond was and I told him that it was my husband and the person said that I was lucky because Raymond just saved my life." "When Raymond came back I saw him with a fishing gun in his hands and a broken pool stick and I asked him what went wrong and he told me it was Orlando that had the fishing gun.
My husband and I decided to call the gendarmes but when I called them they told me that the patrol was busy. We were waiting on the gendarmes for almost an hour on the scene and that is when Orlando allegedly went for a weapon and shot Raymond. Asked if she knew if the two men fought when he left her in the bar or what exactly took place. Murray said she could not say because she did not see where Raymond went. "All I can tell you it was premeditated murder because Orlando went to get a gun and fired the fatal shot. He had time to think about his actions." Murray said.
Murray said while they were waiting on the gendarmes she saw Orlando coming with something shining in his hand and my husband saw him too and he told me to hide behind the car that was parked there. "My husband spoke to me in a harsh voice when he told me to hide behind the car and I did just that. The next thing I heard was a gunshot. I called out to my husband and when I did see or hear him and walked over to him and shook his body. Then I saw blood and I held his head to see where the blood was coming from. When I held his head his brain fell out and I tried to put it back in its place but by then it was too late.
Murray said the autopsy on her husband body was conducted on Thursday and she is leaving the island on Saturday for vacation with her children. Murray also tried to defeat some of the statements that were printed in one of the daily newspapers on Tuesday. The woman admitted that she was having some problems at home with her husband, all of which are financial. "Sometimes when we argue my husband would sleep out and he would say he slept by a friend in Middle Region, but then he would return back home. She said her husband was not working permanently and she is surviving through social aid as well as unemployment. "I was the one paying all the bills because my husband would always say he did not have monies and because of this we had our arguments, but my husband and I were not separated as suggested by someone who called themselves a sister to the deceased. "That person you spoke to is not Raymond's sister, Raymond has one sister on St. Maarten and I am not in contact with her. I did not even know his sister "Joy" is back on the island. Raymond had told me that she went back to Jamaica because she could not find work. "The lady you people spoke to tells everyone she is Raymond's sister but she is not, she is someone who gave him shelter when he first came to St. Maarten. I don't know exactly what type of relationship this person has with my husband but right now she is holding on to his passport." Murray said.
In the meantime a wake is scheduled to be held at the Murray's home in French Quarter on Friday night.
Philipsburg: --- Police has detained a man identified as W. from Suriname as it is believed that the man set his house on fire early Saturday morning. SMN News learnt that the man is mentally ill and that he told neighbors that he will burn his house down because people are coming after it. Neighbors said the man indicated on Friday night that he will burn his house down but no one took him seriously. Police and fire fighters responded to the scene early Saturday morning when they learnt that a double dwelling wooden shack was on fire.
Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson confirmed that one person has been detained as police are busy investigating the cause of the early morning blaze. Henson said the suspect in custody was seen running away from the burning house and they managed to apprehend him.
GREAT BAY:--- The author Cynthia Wilson, a grande dame of Barbadian culture, has presented copies of her short stories book, Same Sea ... Another Wave, to seven St. Martin institutions, said Jacqueline Sample, president of House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP). Same Sea recipients are the St. Martin's Home and Bethany Home, both facilities for the elderly, the House of Detention library, Save Haven shelter for battered women, Turning Point Foundation for drug rehabilitation, Belvedere Community Center, and Ujima Foundation for at-risk boys. "We thank Mrs. Wilson for her generosity, compassion, and cultural exchange gifts. Many of her stories in Same Sea will resonate with the elderly and the young because of what is unique to each island and what is wonderfully similar in Caribbean culture," said Sample. The gift pack of books, which includes titles contributed by the publisher, was organized by HNP as part of its reading and writing promotions and encouragement of people to publish their own stories in book form. Same Sea (HNP, 2001) is the first book by Wilson, who lives in Barbados. The Same Sea presentation was made at the St. Martin's Home (8/19/10) by HNP on behalf of Mrs. Wilson. The other book packs were mailed to the various institutions. St. Martin's Home manager MacFolda Gumbs said that she was happy to receive the books and that volunteers will read from them to the clients of the home.
Philipsburg:--- The controls that are being conducted by the police department in four areas of the island on Monday gave positive results stated police spokesman Ricardo Henson. Henson said the controls were held in St. Peters, Sucker Garden, Cay Hill and Cole Bay in the vicinity of Church hill.
The main focus of the control on Monday was for business license from vendors selling alongside the Public roads, while the officers controlled around the schools to restore public safety.
A total of 31 businesses were controlled of which 10 of them were closed for the lack of the necessary permits.
The police also controlled 36 persons, five of which were residing on the island illegally. They were arrested and turned over to immigration department pending deportation.
Henson said in location one, some 56 vehicles were controlled, 112 persons controlled, three warnings were issued, four motor cycles controlled, nine fines were given while one vehicle was towed away.
At location two, the officers checked 145 vehicles, 219 persons were controlled, 19 fines were issued, and seven vehicles were towed while four persons that were residing on the island illegally were arrested.
While at the third location the officers checked 115 vehicles, 187 persons controlled, 17 fines were issues, 3 persons were warned, six vehicles were towed away and one illegal person was arrested.
The police spokesman stressed that the controls will continue indefinitely and persons are urged to walk with their identification card and residence papers when using public roads. Motor vehicle owners and drivers are asked to make sure they have all the necessary paper work for their vehicle to avoid towing and or embarrassment.
Philipsburg:--- Members of the detective department arrested two persons identified as F.A.A.R and W.R.H from the Dominican Republic as suspects of a break enter and robbery of a jewelry repair shop on Back Street.
Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said the robbery took place on Monday August 23 2010 during the night or early morning hours.
Henson said the police conducted several house searches and they managed to confiscate a large amount of jewelry, a substantial amount of money and three fire arms along with tools that were used to commit the break in. The police spokesman said the investigation is in its early stages and police still have a good bit of work to do before they are able to close the case.
Cole Bay: --- The James family has given the Democratic Party 24 hours in which they must remove at least two red flags that were placed on their property go over the Cole Bay Hill. A press release from Edwin James states that it has come to the attention of the James family that flags are placed on their Cole Bay Hill properties without consent of the property owners.
This type of behavior is unacceptable and will not be tolerated by the family. Therefore the Democratic Party or the perpetrators are asked to have these political objects removed immediately and to seek some other suitable location to place their flags.
Failure to do so leave the property owners with no other choice but to take appropriate measure to have such removed at the expense of the party whom they will hold liable.
Even if the property remains unoccupied they still have owners the release states.
Philipsburg: --- Police arrested and subsequently released one of the public prosecutors after he was involved in a hit and run car accident on Saturday afternoon in the Middle Region area.
According to information reaching SMN News the public prosecutor was driving through Middle Region when he hit a car that had a couple inside of the vehicle. It is further understood that the prosecutor who holds the traffic portfolio did not stop at the scene of the accident but proceeded to drive towards his Oyster Pond home.
However, a team of police officers were not far away conducting their regular controls and they stopped the suspect and arrested him for running away from an accident scene. Reports are that the suspect identified as J.B.D was under the influence of alcohol at the time. SMN News learnt that the investigating officers did some visibility checks to see if in fact J.B.D was under the influence.
One of the tools that are not used in the Dutch system is the breathalyzer which would have been able to measure the exact level of alcohol that is in one's blood. Sources close to the investigation say the prosecutor was not able to stand on his one leg, a technique used by Dutch police to test ones sobriety. It is said the prosecutor has a medical condition which it is believed prevents him from standing on one leg. The reason given for running away from the accident scene was that the prosecutor was in fear thinking that the persons in the vehicle were about to rob him and this was the reason for his vehicle being hit.
In an invited comment Prosecutor Rienk Mud confirmed that J.B.D was arrested and released Saturday night after the accident. Mud said he does not have any information on the case since he is now waiting on the police report to determine whether or not his colleague would be charged. Asked if J.B.D would report to work pending the investigation, Mud said that is not his call and he simply does not know. Decisions such as that would have to be made by the Attorney general.
Mud made clear that the police treated the case like any other case. J.B.D he said was not given any special treatment because he is a prosecutor; he was arrested and released after he was interrogated.
Two Naval Criminal Investigative Service Agents (NCIS) from Mayport, FL provided training to approximately 40 officers from the Curacao and Aruba Police Corps (KPC and KPA), upon invitation of the U.S. Consulate General Curacao, last week. The agents are representatives of the NCIS Major Case Response Team (MCRT). The course was classroom oriented, but also involved practical exercises to employ the skills learned. The officers developed an understanding of both the role and value of evidence; learned to identify potential evidence and basic evidence collection techniques; learned basic crime scene and evidence documentation techniques; and developed an appreciation for crime scene preservation and contamination issues.
NCIS together with KPC and KPA leadership are looking into future evolutions of the same training in order to get more officers exposed to the basic Crime Scene Investigative (CSI) techniques.
The training was very well received and an excellent opportunity to strengthen the strong relationship between the NCIS and law enforcement authorities on the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba.
Philipsburg:--- The leader of the Concordia Political Alliance Jeffry Richardson has a lot to rejoice over after he won yet another battle in the Court of First Instance on Wednesday. Jeffry Richardson founder and leader of the Concordia Political Alliance (CPA) took the head of the voting bureau to court to have Fritz Leo Richardson added as the number two candidate on the CPA list and to also give Richardson a Dutch national who was born on Aruba the rights to vote and contest the September 17th election.
Judge Van Veen ruled that the CPA must be given the necessary time to fill in all the necessary forms to add Richardson as the number 2 candidate on the CPA and submit it by Friday this week. In an invited comment Jeffry Richardson leader of the CPA said the civil registry has to give him all the necessary forms to fill in and if that is done he will finalize the new list for the CPA with the second candidate added and submit as ordered by the judge.
Pleading for the CPA was Attorney at law Zylena Bary who asked the court to allow her client Fritz Leo Richardson to vote as well as to become a candidate in the CPA list to contest the September 17 election. Bary pointed out to the judge that her client registered at the civil registry on July 16th while the voting registry closed on August 6th, she said the acting head of the civil registry mislead the leader of the CPA when she told him not to add three of his candidates to the list because according to her they were not registered, one of which was Fritz Leo Richardson. Bary said if the chairman of the main voting bureau has no problem allowing Fritz Leo Richardson the rights to vote then he should also be able to allow the CPA to add him as a candidate on their slate.
Representing the island government was the chairman of the main voting bureau Reynold Groeneveldt who told the judge that according to the law Richardson was supposed to register at the civil registry five days after he arrived on St. Maarten and that Richardson has been living on the island since 2008. Groeneveldt also asked the judge to declare the case of Richardson null and void since the injunction was filed against the chairman of the main voting bureau and not the island government. The acting Lt. Governor and chairman of the main voting bureau said that the problem Richardson is faced with was not caused by a mistake made by the acting head of the census office. Groeneveldt also told the court that the leader of the CPA Jeffry Richardson should have added Fritz Leo Richardson to his list even though he was told verbally that the candidate was not registered at the civil registry. Even though the lists from the various political parties were submitted on August 18th the validation of those lists only took place on September 1 2010.
Groeneveldt told members of the media that all four list have been validated and that they would all be contesting the September 17 elections. Groeneveldt said when the committee of the main voting bureau met last week they noticed that there were some minor mistakes with some of the candidates. He said the parties with the mistakes on their list were notified and the necessary corrections were made.
Philipsburg:--- The major joint control between the French Gendarmes and the Dutch Police assisted by the VKS, Marechausse, Fire Department, Custom Department, Health Department and Coast Guard which was planned and being executed prior to the passing of Hurricane Earl is continuing.
Due to hurricane Earl the controls were temporarily put on hold. Now that the situation on the island has normalized the controls are back in full swing. On Saturday evening September 4th commencing at 10.00 p.m. a general joint control between the French Gendarmes and Dutch police was held at the four major border crossing points namely in Low lands, Union road/Bell View, Belvedere-French Quarter and Oyster Pond-Coralita.
During these controls several cars were stopped and checked to make sure they were in proper working order and had all necessary documents. The cars and occupants were searched for weapons and drugs. Drivers and passengers were also controlled in regard to their status on the island. Many cars towed and fines were given. Persons not staying legally on the island were taken to the police station and held for immigration purposes. The controls lasted until the early Sunday morning hours. A summary of all actions taken by the police during this control will be given at a later date.
Dutch Quarter:--- On Monday 6th of September Minister Patrick Illidge made good on his promise to clean up the Natural Spring on the main road in Dutch Quarter. After hearing the complaints of residents in the area that included incidents of persons slipping and falling, the Minister of Traffic, and Telecommunication and Post took the initiative to get the area cleaned and upgraded. The project will be executed by Windward Roads NV and will consist of the construction of a safety wall, proper drainage and road repair in the surrounding area. Additionally some of the young men of the area will be employed for the duration of the project.
Persons and entities contributing to the project include Committee to elect Patrick Illidge, International Liquor & Tobacco Trading, Postpaar Bank NA & Dr. Glen Bryson of the Dutch Quarter Medical Clinic.
Philipsburg:--- Commissioner of Personnel Affairs Xavier Blackman told reporters on Thursday that the department of personnel affairs is busy placing people in the new organization of country St. Maarten. Blackman said the current procedures can be considered as delicate since they are not only dealing with numbers but they are dealing with people with different jobs and situations. Blackman said with the approval of the social charter they have gotten clearance to begin the placement process.
As for the new salary scales the commissioner said the salary scales of 2011 was approved by the executive council and it will go into effect as of as 2011. The commissioner said a number of corrections were made since they inserted the cost of living adjustments since this was not done in the past years. The new system will be brought up to date with the approval of the salary scales. Blackman said the re-numeration policy that was introduced in 2008 the salary scales were indexed to January 1 2010.
The commissioner said an agreement was made with the trade unions to pay out the salary increase for the period of 2006 -2007 to the general salary indexation which was supposed to take effect on January 1 2010. Persons who were employed between 2006 -2007 and is no longer working for government might be entitled to a payment of involving the increase which will be done in the form of a lump sum payment. Blackman said there are number of ways they are using to deal with the backlog. The island government is also planning to hold some ceremonies to recognize the persons who would not continue to work with government come 10/10/10/. The first ceremony is scheduled to take place this Saturday.
Marigot:--- Workers from the Caisse Territorial des Cuvres Scolaires (Cuisine Centrale) began a go slow action on Tuesday morning along with representatives of their unions.. The workers as well as three members including the secretary general of UTG and UGTG Saint Hillaire Mave were among the workers who stood alongside the Rue de Spring awaiting a response from the CTOS members of the school canteen and the Collectivity of Saint Martin.
Mave told SMN News that it has been months now the unions have been requesting documents from the CTOS and the Collectivity of St. Martin to evaluate their member's salaries and benefits but those documents are not forthcoming. "We have asked for the documents since the Month of May and to date we cannot get them. We also notified the President of the CTOS Karine Mills that we would have been coming today to get the documents but when she saw the go slow action she took off and left." Mave said the President of the Collectivity received them on Tuesday to inform them that he will meet with them from October 4th to 8th to begin their side of the negotiations.
SMN News learnt that the union did not give the CTOS and the COM the usual 'preavis' to begin industrial action and thus the students who are dependent on school lunches would suffer. However, Mave said the letter they sent to the CTOS telling them that they were coming for the relevant documents is the preavis.
While on the location the assistant to the CTOS president Karine Mills and another administrative worker approached the union with a letter and an envelope containing some documents. Mave said the letter basically asked the workers to return to work pending the negotiations with the CTOS, and the unions on Wednesday morning at the Evelina Halley School in Marigot. He said the workers did not go back to work on Tuesday but they would be meeting with the CTOS members on Wednesday.
Workers on the scene said the elected officials of the COM has used their power to regulate their friends and families who are working for the Collectivity salaries so that these persons can receive proper benefits when they go on pension.
"We are working now and we can hardly pay our bills, workers here have a salary to depend on now and they still cannot make it at the end of the month, but the real squeeze they would feel it when they go on pension said another worker. Those in power are robbing the workers while enriching themselves and we are not going to allow this to happen anymore" another worker said.
Philipsburg:--- The voting population on St. Maarten would be heading to the various polling stations throughout the Dutch side to cast their votes in favor of the party and or candidate they deem fit to manage the affairs of St. Maarten when the island takes up its new status on October 10.
Contesting Friday's election are the National Alliance headed by the leader of government William Marlin, the United People's Party headed by island council man Theodore Heyliger, Democratic Party headed by island council lady Sarah Wescott Williams and the Concordia Political Alliance headed by Charles Jeffry Richardson.
The following are the various polling stations which will open at 8am and closes at 7pm.
1. John Larmonie Center
2. Sundial School
2A. House of Detention
3. Sint Maarten Senior Citizen Recreational Ctr.
4. Sister Marie Laurence School
5. Dutch Quarter Community Center
6. Milton Peters College
7. Rupert L. Maynard Center
8. St. Maarten Academy
9. Celebration Palace
10. Raoul Illidge Sports complex
11. Charles Leopold Bell School
12. Leonard Connor School
13. Simpson Bay Community Center
14. Belvedere Community Center
15. Melford Hazel Sports 7 Recreational Center
16. Methodist Agogic Center
16A. Sint Maarten Home
SMN News will bring you updates throughout the day on Friday, Election Day. Photographs of the voters and candidates will be posted during the day while we will do our utmost best to bring you the results as they come in during election watch night. Keep logging on to SMN News on this election-day for updates and results as it becomes available to us.
Election Address – Country St. Maarten--Acting Governor Reynold Groeneveldt, Chairman of the Main Voting Bureau
My fellow St. Maarteners,
On Friday, September 17, 2010; the elections for a 15-member Island Council which will later become the first Parliament of Country St. Maarten, will take place. Polling stations will be open from 8 o'clock in the morning until 7 o'clock in the evening.
The Executive Council has designated 16 polling stations, at which voters may cast their ballots.
It is important that persons exercise their democratic rights to cast their vote on Friday, September 17.
Allow me; to use this occasion, to call on all eligible voters to come out on Friday upcoming and cast their vote, together we determine the future course of St. Maarten, at this most important time in our history. You will be electing the first Parliament for Country St. Maarten. This is a historical moment and everyone eligible to vote should be part of this very important process.
In accordance with article 40 of the Voters Regulation (Publication Sheet 1979, No. 2, as amended), every employer is obliged to provide his or her employee, who is eligible to vote on Friday, September 17, 2010, at least four (4) consecutive hours off from work, between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m., in order for that employee to cast his or her vote.
This obligation does not apply if the employee has four (4) consecutive hours off from work, within the hours in which he or she can cast his or her vote.
In some districts the number of voters has been reduced. I therefore urge all persons eligible to vote in the upcoming elections, to carefully look at their voting cards, before election day, and to acquaint themselves with the polling station in their respective district, at which they will be expected to cast their votes as in some cases this may have changed.
Be absolutely sure where you have to go and vote, especially if you are new to the area, if you have never voted at that specific polling station before or if you are a first time voter.
Voters should be in the possession of a valid ID card, a valid passport or a valid driver's license, and their voting card when going to the polls. At each polling station there is a President of the voting bureau who is in charge of the polling station. Voters must at all times follow the instructions of the President of the polling station. On entering the polling station the voter must identify him or herself by means of a valid identification document. A voting ballot will then be issued to the individual. The voter must then proceed to cast their vote behind the curtain and finally place the fold ballot into the silver bin in the center of the polling station before exiting the room.
All voters must strictly confirm the articles of law pertaining to the elections. Article 134 of the penal code of the Netherlands Antilles states: "he who intentionally impersonates another person, and participates in a legally prescribed election, is punished with a prison term of a maximum of one (1) year". The general public is also requested to take note of article 131 of aforementioned penal code, which states:
'He who, during a legally prescribed election, obstructs a person from casting his vote, freely and unhindered, is punished with a prison term of a maximum of one (1) year".
Although no order to prohibit the sale of alcoholic beverages was issued. I am requesting the general public and businesses respect these regulations and prevent the excess sale of alcoholic beverages, prior to, during and just after the elections.
Government cannot legislate or do not intend to obstruct any one from consuming alcoholic beverages; but limiting the use of alcohol contributes in safeguarding the safety of our community and creating an environment, wherein all eligible voters may, in a quiet orderly and sober manner, cast their vote, after a solemn period of reflection and meditation.
As is also usually, the case, some party supporters would be in a more jubilant mood, on election night, once election results are in favor of their respective party. Again we urge all persons to conduct themselves in an orderly fashion and at all times respect and adhere to the instruction of the Police and other law enforcement officials.
So, in the interest of maintaining law and order and safeguarding security for the general public, it is also deemed prudent not to provide opportunities for the sale of alcoholic beverage, during this time as well.
The taking of photographs with (camera phones, video cameras) inside of polling stations is not allowed especially at the time the voter enters the polling station. Cellular phones must be turned off prior to entering the polling stations and must remain turned off during the period of time while the voter is in the polling station.
Concerning election night itself: I, as chairman of the Main Voting Bureau, will be releasing the results of votes cast at the polling stations, as soon as these are received and the numbers are tallied. The customary way of doing so is with the assistance of the G.I.S. during live simultaneous broadcast via St. Maarten Cable TV special events channel 20 and local radio stations. As usual the Election Watch program will also be present too provide the viewers and listeners with background information, analysis and commentary on the results of the elections.
In closing I urge all voters to make use of their democratic right and to participate in these very important elections to elect and Island Council of 15 members which will become the First Parliament of Country St. Maarten. I wish all parties participating in this election all the best and I expect that we will have a safe and orderly election as is the customary here on our beautiful Island St. Maarten.
Philipsburg:--- With Friday's last island council election over and no outright winner. Politicians from the three major parties that contested the elections are now busy talking behind closed doors to form a coalition.
SMN News learnt that the leader of the United People's Party Theo Heyliger has met with the leader of the Democratic Party Sarah Wescott Williams to discuss the two coming together. However, the politicians who are working behind the scenes have so far remained tightlipped. Reliable sources say that most of the DP party membership wants the DP and UP to work together but there are a few of the members and candidates who do not want to work with the UP simply because the UP leader and elected members lacks knowledge of the constitutional process.
Sources close to the party said the DP leader is looking to become the first PM for the St. Maarten. While there a rumors speculating the two parties have reached a deal SMN News learnt that even though the red and green parties have engaged in talks there is no signed document to say a coalition has been formed.
SMN News also learnt that talks between the National Alliance and the Democratic Party have also taken place. One source said that the NA and UP have shown willingness to work with the DP but there is no solid offers made to the DP leader by either of the two party leaders.
On Sunday afternoon the leader of the National Alliance and his candidates met at the parliament building on Back Street where they discussed the outcome of the election as well as how the party intends to proceed.
Efforts made to reach the leaders of the three political parties proved futile up to press time. The politicians who were elected on Friday has until October 5th to form their government since it is on that date the new island council members would have to be sworn in.
Philipsburg:--- The leader of the Democratic Party Sarah Wescott Williams and leader of the United People's Party Theodore Heyliger has signed a declaration of intent to work in the best interest of St. Maarten. According to the president of the Democratic Party Michael Ferrier the agreement was signed at 8:04pm at Shore Pointe Cupe Coy.
A press release from Ferrier states that "We the undersigned, Theodore E. Heyliger of the United People's Party and Sarah A. Wescot-Williams, leader of the Democratic Party have agreed in principle to form the first government of Country St. Maarten.
Parties declare that they will do all in their power to bring about a stable and effective government in the best interest of Country St. Maarten and its people.
Agreed on this 19th day of September 2010."
The declaration was signed by T. E. Heyliger, S. A Williams and witnesses were Franklin A. Meyers and Michael J. Ferrier. Both witnesses are the presidents of the two parties.
Antigua:--- The Caribbean Business Awards is a bbusiness recognition awards program based in the Caribbean for the Caribbean focused on emphasizing the often overlooked business acumen of the region in the global market place. Supported by the Caribbean Association of Industry and Commerce (CAIC), eentry is open to all businesses; it celebrates excellence, achievement and innovation in the Caribbean business world.
Founders Derrick & Janice Sutherland said: "With the current economic climate, businesses and individuals alike have to find ways to differentiate themselves and expand their reach into as many markets as possible maximizing all opportunities. The Caribbean Business Awards is the ideal vehicle to demonstrate that they are not just the best locally but Caribbean wide"
Now open for entries, the Caribbean Business Awards is set to become the premier recognition program for the Caribbean business community and generate public acknowledgment of the achievements and positive contributions of organisations and business people throughout the Caribbean Diaspora.
The awards will highlight innovation and excellence within the business community, providing benchmarks for organisations and individuals seeking to excel in the way they do business.
The benefits of the awards are numerous;
- Provides insight into best practice initiatives within the Caribbean region.
- Allows organisations to demonstrate their progress within their chosen field.
- Highlights an organisations' excellence not just within their home country thereby promoting the organisation and increasing business, but also within the wider Caribbean community and globally.
Culminating in a Gala Awards banquet, activities will be supported by an extensive promotional campaign aimed at all major business sectors in the Caribbean. Award categories will cover a range of business activities covering Management, Sales, Marketing, Customer Service and Technology and are open to individuals and businesses alike.
Carol Ayoung – CEO of the Caribbean Association of Industry and Commerce: "The Caribbean's importance to the international economy is often unappreciated, despite continued growth even in tough times. Our region suffers when we fail to recognize that every business and individual efforts contributes to a greater whole. Utilizing the CBA's we hope to change the perception that the Caribbean is just a great place for tourism, we're also a great place to do business"
More information about the program and how to participate can be found at www.caribbeanbusinessawards.com.
Philipsburg:--- The projector coordinator of the Brooks Tower Accord extension process Tiara Hasselhoef in an interview with SMN News said that at least 82% of the persons who received a BTA permit the first time registered for the extension.
Hasselhoef said so far 3,549 persons out of the 4,300 already registered while registration is ongoing and will last until September 30th at the Salvation Army building. However, the BTA team is waiting on the Lt. Governor to sign over 1000 of the permits before they can be distributed. Hasselhoef said they have sent over 1000 of these permits for signature but she does not have any idea as to why they were not signed and if the elections had anything to do with the delay. Already some 671 of the BTA extension permits were given out and arrangements are now being made by the Minister of Justice and the government of country St. Maarten to see how country St. Maarten would continue the process.
Hasselhoef said while the signatures they are awaiting is delaying the entire process they also did not get any permit from those persons who were to register via sole proprietorship. The project director said just about 100 people applied for sole proprietorship and she also has no knowledge as to why economic affairs did not proceed with the process. Hasselhoef said they started late with the sole proprietorship process and when the applicants saw the delay they got people or employers to sign for them. She said the economic affairs falls under local government and even if they know what causes the delay they are not allowed to speak about it.
Asked if the change of government will affect the BTA process, Hasselhoef said the Minister did not make a policy or agreement with political parties instead her agreement is with St. Maarten and the federal government. She said the BTA process has to go on for a period of time based on the agreement and those persons who received the first permit has until November 2 to file for their extension. She said while the island government can change the arrangement with economic affairs and the departments locally they would have to respect the agreement reached between the federal government and St. Maarten.
PHILIPSBURG – The University of St. Martin's (USM) General Education Development (GED) Tutorial Program exams will be held during the week of October 25, 2010. The deadline to register for this exam is Monday, September 27, 2010 at USM. All re-testers are urged to bring their previous results when registering.
The exams consist of a battery of tests in five subjects namely English Reading, English Writing, Mathematics, Science and Social Studies. Students need to pass exams in all five subjects to qualify for the GED Diploma. The GED Tutorials for the Fall semester at USM have started. Registration for GED Tutorials for January 2011 is on-going. Persons interested in more information about registering for the exams or tutorials can contact Patricia Arrindell at 542-5171 ext. 1002 or visit the GED Tutorial Program's office at USM. USM is the only recognized GED testing center on St. Maarten.
Maho:--- Several dignitaries and other invited guests gathered at the Maho Sonesta Pavilion on Thursday night to bid farewell to the Governor General of the Netherlands Antilles Fritz Goedgedrag. Among the invited guests were former Lt. Governors of St. Maarten Franklyn Richards, Ralph Richardson, Matias Voges, and the host acting Lt. Governor Reynold Groeneveldt.
Incoming Governor Eugene Holiday and his wife was also part of the gathering.
In his farewell speech Governor Goedgedrag told the gathering that ten years after the people voted for separate status the moment has arrived largely because of St. Maarten's persistence to reopen the constitutional discussion. St. Maarten he said has proven to be the driving force for change, and while the process took a long time, the people of the island will soon be rewarded.
Goedgedrag said over his eight years in office he has always done his best to discharge his duties to the people of St. Maarten even though his work and efforts might not be visible to the people because Governor's work behind the scenes.
The governor said once the Netherlands Antilles is dismantled, the boundaries between the different parts of the Kingdom in the Caribbean will be more numerous and complex. He said the there will be new borders between Aruba, Curacao, St. Maarten and the Netherlands. He said the State will be responsible for Saba, Statia and Bonaire while the European Union will eventually run between the islands.
Goedgedrag said his hope is that these borders will not form barriers for the people of these islands which will prevent them from seeing each other. He said if that were to happen then it would be a step backward for the citizens of the Kingdom and as human beings.
The outgoing governor said he also hoped after the constitutional reform the island would continue to deal openly with each other and to further aim for better cooperation between the countries and to offer better hospitality to each other.
Goedgedrag said he also hopes that this constitutional reform will draw the different countries closer since they all share a common destiny.
He warned that while St. Maarten has received the status they so badly wanted then they must know that the work here has just begun. He said the time now is to use the constitutional process the island has just won to promote prosperity for the island's inhabitants. He also advised the leaders to put the autonomy in the service of the people since no one can live in a constitutional structure and neither can anyone eat it. He said politicians have the complex task to form the new constitutional arrangement that would better suit St. Maarten and the people's interests.
Marigot:--- Based on a flyer that was distributed throughout Marigot that stated a motion of confidence will be presented against the President of the Collectivity Frans Gumbs at the next territorial council meeting.
The flyer contains names of several elected officials that are part of the majority that is expected to vote in favor of the motion if and when it is presented. Names such as Daniel Gibbs, Louis Jeffry, Jean David Richardson, Marthe Ogoundele Tessi and Annette Philips are on the flyer which said there are other elected members of the council who would be supporting the motion.
SMN News learnt that the brain child of the motion is first vice president Daniel Gibbs who is at odds with the president and senator Louis Constant Fleming. Already all three parties have spoken openly about their indifferences especially surrounding Semsamar.
Just recently Gibbs presented a motion to have the senator removed as president Semsamar which was accepted by the board members of Semsamar. SMN News learnt that senator Louis Constant Fleming has filed an injunction against the motion that was presented and accepted by the board members of Semsamar. That court case will be heard on October 13 in the courts of Basse Terre. According to well placed sources the "procuration" (proxy) that was used as a vote was from someone who already resigned from the municipal council in Guadeloupe thus eliminating that person's right to vote.
It is further understood that President Gumbs is aware of Gibbs plans and has thus postponed two scheduled council meetings. A council meeting it is understood was scheduled to be held on September 23 and it was postponed to the end of this month. SMN News learnt that Gumbs indicated to the council members that there is nothing for them to discuss at a council meeting except the issues surrounding the TGCA taxes.
Efforts made to contact the persons whose names appeared on the flyer proved futile up to press time.
Philipsburg:--- Businessman and former detective Etienne Meyers better known as Toochi Meyers filed a complaint with the police internal affairs on Thursday in the presence of his lawyer Cor Merx against some arresting officers.
Meyers told SMN News that he was driving along Longwall Road on Thursday shortly after leaving a funeral with his nephew Tyrone Meyers in his vehicle. The businessman said suddenly a host of police officers in their Zero Tolerance uniforms surrounded his car and arrested his nephew.
The businessman said while he has no problem with the officers carrying out their duties he did not think he should be subjected to such humiliation where officers pointed a number of guns at his vehicle. Meyers said the police told him they had nothing against him but they would have to search his vehicle since the wanted man in his vehicle is considered to be armed and dangerous.
SMN News learnt that officers of the law was staking out the Royal Funeral home where the funeral ceremony of Auggie was taking place and it appeared as though the officers were looking for Tyrone Meyers whom they said was walking around with a gun to go after the assailants of his best friend Auggie.
Press prosecutor Rienk Mud confirmed the arrest of Meyers. Mud said details of the investigation could not be released but admitted that the investigation had something to do with firearms.
Cole Bay:--- Workers who are working and living on St. Maarten before the year 2001 and has had gaps in their permits are now able to request a five year residency permit. Those workers who believe that the recipients of the Brooks Tower Accord permits were given preference because they were able to get a three year permit also has the same opportunity to obtain a three year permit as long as they have been working and living on the island since 2001.
Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba and the coordinators of the Brooks Tower Accord (BTA) told reporters on Thursday that the law has already been implemented and she met with the incoming government for country St. Maarten requesting that they continue the process after the island has achieved its country status.
Myra Bieglaar said the law states that persons working on St. Maarten can obtain as much as five one year work permits. After that the worker or resident would not need a working permit, instead they would be granted a residency permit which would give them the right to work. Normally after the five one year working permits were granted the law states that the applicant can obtain a two year, three year and five year resident permit before obtaining their indefinite residency.
The BTA permits have two criteria that must be kept at all times, that the recipients must have a valid medical insurance at all times, while they also have to be financially stable to remain on St. Maarten. Persons falling under category 2 also have to make sure they are working for the same company each time they are asking for an extension of the permit.
Minister Jacoba said the BTA process that was executed on St. Maarten beginning early June was very successful since 95.7% of the persons who obtained a BTA permit earlier this year has applied for their extensions. Jacoba said that 4,310 permits were issued during the first phase of the project while 4,126 of those persons have requested their extensions. So far 184 persons did not apply for the extension mostly because they are encountering problems with their passports. The Minister said while the make shift office at the Salvation Army has closed the federal government and country St. Maarten would resume the process at a smaller location on October 11th , one day after the island achieved its new status.
The Minister also made clear that those persons have until November 2 to apply and it is imperative that the process be continued. Already some 959 of the BTA extensions were issued while there are over 3000 permits that were recently signed to be delivered. Persons who did not pick up their permits as yet must check with at the window at the police station to see if their permits are ready. Persons uplifting their permits must have a valid passport, two photographs, a valid medical insurance and a proof of payment for the federal receiver's office.
The BTA team processed 2,206 BTA permits under category 1(a) those are persons residing and working in the island before 2001, 148 permits for persons under category 1(b) sole proprietorship while 828 permits under category 2 were processed.
Some ten persons studying on the island applied for the BTA and 810 permits for single parents with children or single husband working and providing for his wife/companion and children. Eight persons who went to apply with fraudulent documents were arrested and faced deportation those persons would not be able to get another permit. Hasselhoef explained.
Jacoba said it is clear that the immigrants working and residing on St. Maarten wanted to follow the law and to obtain their permits and the BTA was the opportunity for them to do that.
Project coordinator Tiara Hasselhoef said they hired 42 locals who worked with them to execute the project and they did a fantastic job because so far there have been no flaws. Hasselhoef said St. Maarten is leading with the entire project which was done on all the islands of the Netherlands Antilles.
Maho:--- A simple but well organized ceremony was held on Friday evening to bid farewell to the council of Ministers of the Netherlands Antilles. Past, present and future dignitaries of the island territory and country St. Maarten and Curacao were present to mingle with the Ministers. Minister of Home and Constitutional Affairs Roland Duncan thanked his colleagues for the work they have done together especially for finalizing the constitutional process which began some ten years ago
.Prime Minister Emily de Jongh-Elhage presented tokens of appreciations to her colleagues on St. Maarten including Leo Chance who served as the longest Minister of the Netherlands Antilles. Prime Minister de Jongh-Elhage also presented a token to incoming Governor Eugene Holiday and acting Lt Governor Reynold Groeneveldt who for the first time met with the Prime Minister in person.
The Prime Minister said that she admires St. Maarten for the cooperation the politicians show when dealing with the constitutional process. "The politicians here worked for St. Maarten even when they are on the opposition benches. "When Sarah was in power and was in charge of the constitutional process William was always by her side to negotiate the constitutional process and when William was in power Sarah was by his side", the Prime Minister said.
Acting Lt. Governor Groeneveldt also presented a token of appreciation to the Prime Minister on behalf of St. Maarten.
GREAT BAY:--- The new Island Council will be sworn in on Tuesday, October 05 at 9.00am in the Dr. A.C. Wathey Legislative Hall.
The 15 members of the Island Council will take the oath of office and they will also automatically become members of Country St Maarten parliament.
The road in front of the Government Administration Building will be closed to vehicular traffic and only accessible to official government vehicles and the guests who will be attending the official ceremonies.
Barricades will be erected and the area cordoned off. Security staff will be available to allow access to the cordoned area. Parking won't be allowed on the shoulder near the building.
The Chairman of the Island Council will open the meeting followed by an official introduction to the session. This will be followed by the appointment of members of the Executive Council, the chairperson of the Central Committee and vice chairperson, and speeches by members of the Island Council and Commissioners.
Philipsburg:--- Minister of Telecommunication Patrick Ilidge finally broke his silence after signing an accord of inclusion with the United Peoples Party on Monday. Ilidge called in during the "Talking Point Show" hosted by Lloyd Richardson to say that he plans to hold a press conference on Tuesday where he would explain the people of St. Maarten why he joined the United Peoples Party and he would at that time answer the questions the media has for him. However, the host of Talking Point asked him to use his forum and to give an explanation as to why he jumped ship from the National Alliance to the United Peoples Party.
Listen to the interview with Patrick Illidge:
The Minister said the opportunity presented itself when the leader of the United Peoples Party Theo Heyliger called him and told him that election has passed and its time they bury the hatchet and work together for the people of St. Maarten. Ilidge said he was in Curacao working when he received the call and he pondered on it and after that he consulted with his people, supporters including his family prior to taking the decision.
The Minister said he took the decision based on the fact he started a lot of work and needs to see them through. Illidge said when he received the call from Heyliger the opportunity presented itself and he believes that when they took the oath it was for them to work for the people of St. Maarten. He said the moment came to him and he decided he would move forward and do what he has to do for St. Maarten for the next four years.
"We went to Holland and work hard to get country status for St. Maarten and I think if I can contribute in whatever way, form or fashion I will give my part and do my best by giving it my all for the people of St. Maarten." Illidge referred to projects such as the roof of the Post Office that is currently under construction as the projects he worked on including housing.
The Minister said he just wants to do what is right for his people. "For me it is no longer about what party color but as long as the opportunity presents itself then we must take it. It is a pity that the National Alliance which I was part of was not able to clinch the situation with the UP party or the Democratic Party, but at the end of the day whichever party is in government the intention is to work for the people of St. Maarten and since I got the opportunity to work I will do so."
Illidge then publicly thanked the leader of the National Alliance for the time he spent with him in his party. He said the first time he contested an election was in 1999 with the National Alliance SPA team. Illidge said he would always cooperate and communicate with the National Alliance. He went on to say at the end of his term he is sure he could live with himself for making the choice he made since for him it is about the opportunities he could bring to the people to better their standard of life on the island.
No Notification to National Alliance
Despite calling in on Talking Point and promising to communicate with the National Alliance and saying that the newspapers reports are wrong when they said he started out politics with the PPA. Illidge is yet to inform or notify or resign from the National Alliance. Leader of the National Alliance William Marlin said Illidge did not make contact with him neither did he receive any notification from the president of the National Alliance board to say a resignation was submitted.
SMN News contacted the president of the National Alliance Debby Abraham to see if Illidge had submitted his letter of resignation or if he had informed them that he was going to be an Independent member of the island council and parliament. Abraham responded by saying "I have no comment and I do not knowing anything about a resignation or notification from Patrick Illidge."
It is to be noted that Debby Abraham is the Minister's sister while she is the president of the National Alliance board.
Philipsburg:--- The Executive Council hereby informs that the final negotiations are ongoing pertaining to the Service Level Agreement (SLA) between Social Insurance Bank SVB Curacao and Sint Maarten.
In our efforts to guarantee continuation of adequate health insurance services and social security, all procedures will remain as customary as of October 11th, 2010.
Persons in need of SVB related services such as medical insurance and social benefits can contact the SVB office located at W.J. Nisbeth Road #1.
Persons entitled to services provided by the BZV can contact their office located at A.T. Illidge Road 56.
All insurance cards and guarantee letters of the SVB and BZV will therefore remain valid.
GREAT BAY (GIS):--- On October 10, 2010, the idea and name of Island Territory of St. Maarten will no longer exist; Country St. Maarten will be created.
The Island and Federal Receivers offices as we now know it will cease to exist.
These entities will be replaced with the new entity Receivers Office St. Maarten.
The new entity Receivers Office St. Maarten will be located where the current Island Receivers Office is now located on the University Blvd. # 6.
The current Federal Receivers office will be closed as of Monday, October 11th, 2010.
As of Monday, October 11th, 2010 all payments due to the Island Receivers Office and all payments that in the past has been due to the Federal Receivers Office must be paid to the Receivers Office St. Maarten, University Blvd. # 6.
Payments via the bank can be made at:
The Windward Islands Bank Ltd. Account # 324800 03NAf.
324800 05 US$
Or at RBTT Bank. Account # 542504 Naf and US$.
Please ensure to mention your crib number when making payments via the bank.
Philipsburg:--- Several dignitaries and other invited guests attended the ecumenical service at the New Testament Baptist Church early Sunday morning as they began to herald in the dawn of Country St. Maarten. Immediately after the church service the dignitaries were transported to the Bel Air community center where the new parliament was established.
Listen to the audio of the event:
The 15 members of parliament took their seats as the meeting opened chaired by Dr. Lloyd Richardson before the chair person of parliament was elected in the person of Drs. Gracita Arrindell. Arrindell received nine of the 15 votes that were cast by secret ballot , while five of members of the first parliament voted blank and one person voted for Dr. Lloyd Richardson.
Immediately after, the appointed Governor of country St. Maarten Drs. Eugene Holiday was escorted in where he presented his acceptance and oath taking to the St. Maarten's parliament. Governor Holiday in his address to St. Maarten's parliament spoke of the long journey and the amount of work it took before St. Maarten was able to attain its country status and reforming the Kingdom. Governor Holiday said the road to attaining country status was not smooth but the island and its people made it to their destination which was to become a separate country within the Kingdom, while the challenges ahead for the new country are immense. Governor Holiday said the task ahead for the country's elected representative is great since they would have to build institutions for the functioning of parliamentary democracy, the council of advice, the general audit chamber and ombudsman and others from the ground up. Country St. Maarten would have to improve its financial management and its judicial chain.
These institutions he said are intended to safeguard the basic rights of the people as it is imbedded in the constitution of country St. Maarten. Governor Holiday said that building these institutions will not be easy especially since it has to be done during an unfavorable global economic and financial environment. Governor Holiday also spoke of the joint cooperation between the two sides of the island. Working together and strengthening cooperation between the Dutch and French side was also shared by Minister of Justice of the Netherlands Ernest Hirch Ballin and Prime Minister of Country St. Maarten Sarah Wescott Williams.
Governor Holiday gave credit to his mother, his late father, siblings and his wife Marie Louise who gave him the strength and inspiration to be where he is today. Most of all he thanked the government of St. Maarten and the Queen her Majesty Beatrix for the confidence she placed in him for being her representative for Country St. Maarten.
The historic parliamentary meeting continued with the oath taking for the Prime Minister designate Sarah Wescot Williams the appointed Ministers, council of advice, audit chamber members and the Acting Lt. Governor Reynold Groeneveldt.
Those appointed to the Ministers cabinet are as follows:-
- Prime Minister – Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams, who will hold the portfolio of general affairs.
- Deputy Prime Minister Theodore Heyliger, whose portfolios are the Ministry of Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment & Infrastructure,
- Minister Roland Duncan, Ministry of Justice.
- Minister Hiro Shigimoto, has the Ministry of Finance
- Minister Franklyn Meyers, Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport & Telecommunications.
- Minister Rhoda Arrindell, Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth & Sports Affairs
- Minister Maria Buncamper-Molanus, Ministry of Health Care, Social Development & Labor
The appointed Members for the council of advice are:-
- Mrs. Mavis Brooks-Salmon, Chairlady
- Mr. Dennis Richardson
- Mr. Gaston Bell
- Mr. Jan Beaujon
- Mr. Miguel Alexander
- Mr. Mathias Voges
Appointed Members to the General Audit Chamber:-
- Mr. Roland Tuitt, Chairman
- Mr. Ronald Halman
- Mr. Alphons Gumbs
- Mr. Daniel Hassel, substitute member
- Mr. Mark Kortenoever, substitute member
Appointed Ombudsman
At the end of the parliamentary meetings St. Maarten's governor Eugene Holiday inspected the guards of honor before leaving to the Cyrus Wathey Square where they saluted the uniform parade that marched through Front Street in honor of St. Maarten becoming country.
The dignitaries then left by bus to the Great Bay Hotel where they had lunch to finalize the day's ceremony.
While country St. Maarten has been featured as the people's business and it is the people who would benefit from the status change it was clear that the people of St. Maarten was not involved in this historic proceedings. It was expected that a large crowd of people from around the island would have gathered at the various locations to witness the installing of the first parliament, and the appointment of the ministers cabinet but that was far from what took place.
Those that attended the ceremony were persons who were related to those that were appointed to the various ministries of councils.
A huge tent that was placed across the Government Administration building some days now and was supposed to be used for the ceremonies on Saturday and Sunday was left unused. SMN News had learnt that that swearing in ceremony was supposed to take place under the tent since the parliament building was not ready for these ceremonies. It is also understood that the change of venues for the swearing in was because of the inclement weather.
Below are the photographs taken throughout the proceedings on Sunday.
"There was no need for the Intervention by the Attorney General" says Judge Hariprashad – Charles.
Basseterre, St.Kitts:--Judge Hariprashad – Charles delivered a stinging blow to Attorney General Patrice Nisbet and the Denzil Douglas Administration in her judgment delivered in the petition case brought by Cedric Liburd.
The esteemed office of the Attorney General was embroiled is what was clearly a political vendetta brought by the Labour party through the failed candidate Cedric Liburd. An election petition case is a private matter brought by individual candidate; it has no constitutional or public interest to warrant government involvement yet the government, through the office of the Attorney General, inserted itself in this case.
The Denzil Douglas administration incurred hundreds of thousands dollars of costs to the public for the entirely unnecessary and unwarranted intervention of a Queen's Counsel and a regional expert in the frivolous Liburd petition. The final bill is as yet undecided however it is certain that the Treasury will be hit for a substantial amount.
Observers have suggested that the Queens' Counsel alone, Mr. Delano Bart QC along with the learned and noted Dr. Lloyd Barnet will command fees in excess of a quarter of a million US dollars.
"This unscrupulous expense raises serious questions about the state of priorities that this government has with taxpayers' money in these difficult times" said People's Action Movement Political Leader Lindsay Grant. "How can Denzil Douglas justify this when his government is laying off hundreds of civil servants and cannot even keep the lights on" Grant added.
GREAT BAY--- Since the beginning of the year, more than 236,000 people have been killed by disasters and nearly 256 million have been affected by earthquakes, floods, tropical storms and landslides according to the latest figures released by the Centre for Research in the Epidemiology of Disasters (CRED). Most of these persons live in cities.
This past Wednesday, was International Day for Disaster Reduction. This year's theme is "Making Cities Resilient: My City is Getting Ready!" The objective is for countries to play a more active role to protect cities against disasters.
For 2010, many cities have been disrupted this year by disasters such as earthquakes in Haiti, Chile and New Zealand.
Floods and heavy rainfalls have impacted Pakistan, Eastern Europe, Mozambique and other parts of Africa.
Forest fires have taken a toll in Russia and volcanic eruptions have caused disruptions in Indonesia and Iceland.
The aforementioned has caused huge human suffering and economic change and cities have never been so at risk.
"Our island nation and in particular the business center of the island, Philipsburg, and surrounding residential neighbourhoods suffered from the overflow of the Fresh Water and Salt Ponds.
"This was caused by the passing of a slow moving low pressure system which later became Hurricane Otto that brought several days of continuous rainfall. Global climate change has been blamed for much of the natural destruction around the globe and this must also be taken into consideration for our island nation.
"The future calls for urban planners to have foresight and place more attention on disaster risk and mitigating those risks to the Philipsburg and surrounding residential neighbourhoods. It is a fact that up to 3,351 cities around the world are located in low-lying coastal zones which may be affected by rising sea levels.
"It is our responsibility as a nation to develop workable solutions to reduce disaster risks and the Government of St Maarten will be looking into what additional measures needs to be taken to protect Philipsburg and surrounding residential areas from future flooding," Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Thursday.
CRED estimates that disasters have cost countries US$81 billion in losses from the beginning of the year to 1 September 2010.
GREAT BAY (GIS):--- The Labour Affairs Agency is hereby informing all Brooks Tower Category II holders to come to the office to renew their permit before November 2nd 2010.
The documents needed to renew the Brooks Tower Employment permit are as follows:
- Labour registration 2010.
- Copy of a valid passport non-national.
- Copy of the BTA permit valid till November 2, 2010.
- Copy labour agreement signed by both parties.
Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of Country St. Maarten, The Honorable Mrs. Sarah Wescot-Williams and the 1st Prime Minister of Country Curacao, The Honorable Mr. Gerrit Schotte held talk at the Holland House Hotel earlier this afternoon.
The economy of the Western Hemisphere's poorest and most devastated country, Haiti, is expected to grow 8 times as fast as that of St.Kitts-Nevis.
The IMF (International Monetary Fund ) World Economic Outlook Report is stating that St.Kitts-Nevis is projected to have the worst or the slowest growth rate in the entire world up to 2015. The report indicated that St.Kitts-Nevis' growth rate over the next 5 years of 0.3 percent will be the slowest of any of the 150 nations included in the report.
Analysis provided by the Jamaica Observer suggests that the region is projected to outperform the world economy at 4.5 per cent on average over the period. However despite the favorable performance of the region on a whole as compared to the world economy St.Kitts-Nevis will remain at the bottom of table in economic growth and underperform despite the fact that the global economy has gotten better. The St.Kitts-Nevis economy will grow almost 15 times slower than the world economy according to the report.
The economy of the Western Hemisphere's poorest and most devastated country , Haiti , is expected to grow 8 times as fast as that of St.Kitts-Nevis.
"This revelation is quite startling when one considers that prior to the last general elections massive sign boards were mounted all over the country declaring that the economy is working," says Opposition People's Action Movement Leader Mr. Lindsay Grant
According to the World Economic Outlook Report table A4, Emerging and Developing Economies: Real GDP report in 2010 St.Kitts-Nevis had a negative growth rate of 1.5% IN 2010 and is projected to have the lowest in 2011 with .5% and the lowest in the world in 2015 with a.3% growth rate.
"The economy is not working in St. Kitts and Nevis but beyond stating the obvious what the IMF data shows is that even without being able to blame the "global economic crisis" Dr. Denzil Douglas as Minister of Finance has been and will continue to be an unmitigated disaster," said People's Action Movement Leader Mr. Lindsay Grant.
Grant further opined "The most critical failure of the management of the economy under this Labour government has been the reckless accumulation of debt. With a National Debt to GDP ration at over 180% St. Kitts and Nevis is going nowhere fast. The attitude of Minister of Finance Prime Minister Douglas and his now infamous "public debt me ass" statement, has left the people holding the bill not just VAT but almost no realistic prospect for growth over the next five years."
According to the IMF World Economic Outlook "growth in most of the Caribbean countries will be subdued amid weak prospects for tourism and remittances and limited room for policy support in light of chronic public debt burdens."
PHILIPSBURG :--- Forty University of St. Martin (USM) students who attained grade point averages (GPAs) of 3.2 or higher were named to the Dean's List for the Spring 2010 semester. Six of these 40 students achieved perfect 4.00 GPAs.
Only full-time students taking 12 or more degree credits who are fully matriculated into the university and who have earned grade point averages of 3.2 or better, with no grade lower than a "C" and no "I" grades for the semester are named to the Dean's List for that semester.
The students on the Spring semester Dean's List are: Maria Alvarez-Valencia, Odele Anderson, Stephanie Auguste, Arun Balani, Mary M. Bary, Barbera Benders, Robin Boasman, Ingrid Delgado, Cheyenne Douglas, Kennedy Drapin, Kimberley Duzong, Jhonella Fitzpatrick, Jessica Gumbs, Magdiona Gumbs, Altagracia Hawley, Cameron Hyman, Michel Hyman, Shanirah Illidge, Shelitah N. Illidge, Corinne Isaac, Chirag Jagwani, Simon Jeffrey, Ramzan Juman, Mohit Kapoor, Georginette Lake, Esthesia Lasternnet, Moreland LeBlanc, Zola Maison, Rishma Mirchandani, Jamila Oliver, Shiera Richardson, Jennifer Rombley, Pamela Saith, Tiffany Samuel, Zamada Solomon, Deidrae Thompson, Liesel Toss, Danissa Walker, Julietta White and Roxana Williams.
Other degree students who, although not enrolled in full-time college credit courses, have demonstrated high achievement during the semester were also recognized. These students, who took at least two degree-credit courses and less than 12 degree credits, are Maria Alexis, Marc Boasman, Rhea Courtar, Tamisha David, Leandra Edwards, Felicia Euson, Guerda Fremont, Linnett Gordon, Clifford Gumbs, Allison C. Harry, Micaela Hart, Isabelle Hodge, Igmaar Hunt, Jade Maccow, Maria Peterson-Yarde, Noelani Riley, Amaris Slac, Stacy-Anne Spence, Andrea St. Luce, Shaniel Thomas, and Erika Van Putten.
Dean of Academic Affairs and Acting USM President Mrs. Joyce Watson congratulates all the students on their performance.
The University of St. Martin takes pride in giving special recognition to these students who have achieved a high level of academic success in their studies, and wish them much success on their future endeavors.
Philipsburg:--- At the Mental Health Foundation (MHF), a great deal of effort is put into safety yet Staff members are mindful of how quickly a crisis could arise. Therefore, MHF have implemented preventative measures to ensure that we operate in a safe and friendly environment
Prevention:The Faraja Center's goal is to motivate the clients to achieve the self-confidence they need to actively participate in society regardless of their personal challenges.
Presently the Faraja Center is the only division of the Mental Health Foundation (MHF) that accommodates clients on a daily basis, thus creating more personal interactions between the clients, psychiatric aids (psych aids) and volunteers.
Therefore, Psychic aids and volunteers follow safe guidelines and are always attentive in an attempt to avert the chance of any behavior escalating into physical violence.
Assigning personal lockers to clients is Faraja's first approach to safety. If a crisis should arise, the locked lockers would delay the client from searching for an object to use as a weapon and allow psych aids and volunteers to act quickly.
Secondly, observing behavioural and mood patterns is essential. Certain "Red Flags" are carefully watched for, they include: uncombed hair, skin blemishes, isolation, Irritability, outbursts, severe mood swings, refusal to eat.
When these signs appear, Psych aids take quick action to get to the root of the problem by allowing clients to freely express what they are feeling and experiencing. Clients are invited to sit in the quiet therapy room, to have some alone time if need be.
Crisis:
However, if a crisis does occur on the premises, whether it is a disturbance or suicide attempt, the client will be cautiously contained to prevent further danger to himself/herself and to others; after that a doctor will immediately be contacted.
The doctor and nurse will then assess the situation and administer appropriate treatment.
As protocol, family members are informed immediately and are provided counseling and
Psycho-education from a qualified Crisis Intervention nurse and Psychologist
As a result of not having a functioning Psychiatric ward to house severe cases, clients must fly to Curacao if they require more attention and treatment than what is available on Sint Maarten.
Crisis at Home:
It is important to note that one should not attempt to manage a disorderly person or loved one by oneself instead one should get help as soon as possible
While it is evident that mental treatment is necessary, if you have a loved one at home who is demonstrating disruptive behaviours, the police should be contacted first.
Shaniela Jonge, MHF's social psychiatric nurse explains that "Many people come to the Mental Health Foundation first before calling the Police...it is only after the police are called that we can smoothly and efficiently accomplish what we love and do best, to give treatment".
Subsequently, MHF will then be informed after which the aforementioned protocol would take place.
The Mental Health Foundation (MHF) aims to provide preventative care by raising awareness of Mental Health issues in our community with the purpose of reducing problems before they turn into illnesses. However if there is an illness, the community can find support and acceptance from staff and volunteers who are always ready to assist.
Philipsburg:--- A French side bus driver identified as A.A.H.V turned himself in at the Philipsburg Police station on Thursday and informed police that he was the person who was involved in the hit and run accident on the Oyster Bay road early Thursday morning claiming the life of Franceduoard Grandin(54) a security guard of Captain Olivers. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said the suspect has been arrested and is now in police custody as the investigations continue. Henson said as result of the investigations being conducted jointly between the detective and traffic department police learnt that the victim did not show up on Wednesday night for work.
GREAT BAY:--- The loss of some-one close and dear to us is never easy to accept and though we were aware that Prime Minister David Thompson had been ailing for some time, his passing is unsettling for all.
Mr. Thompson's untimely death is a great loss, not only for Barbados but also for the entire Caribbean region.
An attorney at law and politician, his was a life of service. He served his clients and more broadly, he served the people of Barbados and the wider Caribbean.
At only 48 years of age, in the prime of his life, it was natural to expect that he would have had many more years with us. Many more years to carry out his work and many more years to be of service to people. But, alas, it was not to be.
Mr. Thompson became Prime Minister of Barbados in January 2008 and now, less than three years later he is no later with us. Yet during that short space of time, he made worthwhile contributions to his country and to the Caribbean.
He respected others and that in turn earned him respect.
Country Sint Maarten came into being on October 10 this year. That, unfortunately, denied us the opportunity of being in contact with Mr. Thompson.
The Prime Minister, the Government and the people of Country Sint Maarten express sincere condolences to his wife, Mara, and his children as well as to the Government and people of Barbados.
And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain; for the former things are passed away.From the Revelation of St. John (21:4)
Marigot:--- A second group of persons recently filed a complaint with the Public Prosecutor of the Republic of France against Senator Louis Constant Fleming, President Frantz Gumbs and former liaison officer Marcel Gumbs. SMN News managed to receive an electronic copy of the complaint where they asked that the trio be investigated for treason, corruption and conspiracy as well as unlawful self enrichment. The complaint was filed under anonymity for fear if harassment and retaliation.
The complaints states that following an error of electronic transmission, it has been revealed recently that Senator Louis Constant Fleming, President Frantz Gumbs and Mr. Marcel Gumbs, all of them from the Collectivity of Saint-Martin, engage themselves in an understanding with a foreign power to affect the integrity and the national sovereignty of our republic. They have agreed to sacrifice the heritage and the future of our fellow citizens for the sole advancement of their personal interests.
The plaintiff also enclosed a copy of the email exchanges between the liaison officer of the French and Dutch side Marcel Gumbs, the CEO of the Dutch side port and the senator and president of the Collectivity of St. Martin.
The truthfulness of these documents which have recently been intercepted as well as their authenticity was verified and you can easily proceed with the same verification with various addressees and recipients identified.
The group is asking the prosecutor's office to make a thorough inquiry on the facts included and they are asking that he proceed with issuing charges of treason and unlawful taking of interest against these individuals:
- I. The first mail comes from Mark Mingo, the director of the port facilities of Philipsburg of Saint-Maarten. It is sent to Marcel Gumbs, who is acting as representative of the Collectivity, between Frantz Gumbs, Louis-Constant Fleming, and the Dutch authorities of the island. He is revealing the existence of an understanding with President Gumbs and Senator Fleming to protect Dutch investments.
- II. The answer from Marcel Gumbs indicates that the President "honors" the understanding and emphasizes the participation of Louis-Constant Fleming to this understanding:
- III. President Gumbs confirms his participation in the exchange of mails with his close collaborators
- IV. The facts are that in the exchange of mails was triggered when a docking company informed the Port of St. Maarten of a possible development of a deep-water pier in Galis Bay on the French territory of the Overseas Collectivity of Saint-Martin. If this development on the French side of the island comes into effect, it will create a direct link by sea between the mother country and the Overseas Collectivity of Saint-Martin:
The statements made by the CEO of the Dutch side port Mark Mingo confirm that there is an understanding, which took place between Messrs Louis-Constant Fleming and Frantz Gumbs, they even presented themselves as being "in charge" of the Collectivity of Saint-Martin. According to the exchanges that were brought to light, the understanding would be to the effect that Messrs Senator Louis Constant Fleming and President Frantz Gumbs would insure that no "risk" would come from the French territory of Saint-Martin to endanger the US 100 millions dollars invested in the port of St. Maarten.
And more importantly, your attention must be drawn to the passage of the text where Mr. Mingo indicates that Dutch authorities will not engage in any cooperation until "corrective measures" are undertaken; that is, measures to stop the docking company from investing in the port of Galisbay. According a response mail by Mr. Marcel Gumbs, President Frantz Gumbs confirmed that the port belongs to the Collectivity and that the understanding made with the Dutch authorities still stands.
However, it appears that this understanding would be an understanding stopping all development of the port of Galisbay in Saint-Martin likely to threaten the investments and the Dutch territory.
The Territorial Council of the Collectivity has not been informed of the secret understandings made and no understanding or motion appears on the registers of the collectivity. The Territorial Council of Saint-Martin, on the contrary, has adopted a mission of development of the commercial port of Galisbay, such as it appears especially in the incorporation act of its port facility.
For many years, it is publicly acknowledged that the Collectivity must give priority to the development of the commercial port of Galisbay, as proven by the numerous studies and bids carried out these last years. The dealings of Messrs Fleming and Frantz Gumbs are contrary to their elective mission, contrary to the interest of the French people, and to those of the Collectivity. Those dealings explain the difficulties of the Collectivity to advance with this project structuring necessarily the economic development. Therefore, it is obvious that the "cooperation" mentioned by the Dutch authorities in their mail would exclusively be reserved to projects and persons connected with Messrs L.C. Fleming and Frantz Gumbs. It must be indicated that according to the intercepted mails, the understanding was made as much with the port of St. Marten as with the government authorities of the Dutch part and especially Mr. Theo Helliger, the former commissioner and now deputy Prime Minister of Country St. Maarten.
Mr. Marcel Gumbs participated and facilitated the acts of corruption and treason herein detailed; he is therefore an accomplice and active member of this conspiracy against the French Nation.
Messrs L.C. Fleming and Frantz Gumbs are the custodians of the public authority. Frantz Gumbs, as President of the Territorial Council and upon authorization of the Republic could negotiate and sign international agreements, whereas he is simultaneously engaging secret relations with a foreign country. He could participate and influence negotiations within the European Union whereas he represents the interests of a foreign nation.
Louis-Constant Fleming, as Senator of the Republic, functions within the executive assembly of our nation. The purchasable nature of his political implication is already proven.
This is the second complaint filed in recent weeks as blogger and reporter Jabiru has also filed a complaint of the same nature since the COM and senator denounced the Canadian Investors who are currently on the island selling the plans of the multi-million dollar project.
Recently Minister of Justice Roland Duncan met with representatives of the Office for Suspicious Financial Transactions (MOT) as part of his orientation visit to the various judicial and laws enforcement entities that falls under the Ministry of Justice or is part of the judiciary of the country.
Great Bay:--- With less than two weeks to go to the first ever Flaavors of St. Maarten Food and Wine Festival, the countdown has begun for what is expected to become the biggest and best gastronomic party in the whole of the Caribbean.
The event, an initiative of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, is scheduled to begin on November 10, and end on November 14, 2010 with a Flaavors Fest on the Boardwalk.
According to Director of Tourism, Regina LaBega, "the dates were deliberately chosen to fall around St. Maarten Day as a symbol of the unity of the island and what unites us more than our food?"
"We decided to create and establish an annual event that will help showcase our positioning as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean. With more than 300 restaurants offering a diversity of cuisine, the idea is for Flaavors to bring together in St. Maarten some of the best chefs in the world along with some of the most sought-after and critically- acclaimed wineries in the world, who jointly with the chefs, wine and food distributors, hoteliers and other stakeholders of the St. Maarten hospitality industry will help us celebrate the best that St. Maarten has to offer," LaBega said.
She added that proceeds from one of the events, the St. Maarten Celebration Dinner and Benefit Auction, scheduled for Friday, November 12, at the Westin Resort will go towards the Sundial School culinary department. "The Sundial School will be featured prominently in this festival because we believe our youngsters who have decided for a career in this very important sector should be encouraged in every way possible," LaBega added.
The program of events also includes champagne and wine tastings, as well as cooking demonstrations that will be held simultaneously at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort and the Westin Dawn Beach Resort.
Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, and Telecommunications, Frankie Meyers is upbeat about the significance of the festival for the island. "Flaavors, by its very nature, will apart from celebrating the diversity and richness of our food, also help attract visitors to the island, generate new business as well as representations for our wine and food distributors," Minister Meyers said.
"I am happy to note that world-class chefs like Iron Chef participant Forgione will be here to share their skills with our own award-winning chefs during the festival. I am looking forward to a very successful event," the minister said.
Following is the Schedule of Events for Flaavors of St. Maarten which can be accessed via: http://www.flaavors.com/events.html.
- Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2010 - The Grand Champagne Tasting with Iron Chef Contestant Marc Forgione at Porto Cupecoy, 7 pm. Tickets: $150 per person.
- Thursday, Nov. 11, 2010 - The Oakville Ranch Winemaker Dinner with Chefs Wayne Nish, Doug Psaltis and Dino Jagtiani at Temptations Restaurant, 7:30 pm. Tickets: $150 per person.
- Friday, Nov. 12, 2010 - The St. Maarten Celebration Dinner & Benefit Auction at the Westin St. Maarten Dawn Beach Resort & Spa, 7 pm. Ticket: $150 per person. Auction proceeds will benefit the St. Maarten National Culinary Team.
- Saturday, Nov. 13, 2010 - Celebrity Chef Cooking Demonstrations by Chef Wayne Nish at Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino, 10 am, and chef Ken Frank at the Westin St. Maarten Dawn Beach Resort & Spa, 10 am. Tickets are $40 per person for each event.
- Saturday Nov. 13, 2010 - "Napa Valley Rocks" conducted wine tasting by the Napa Valley Vinters Association, 12 pm. Tickets are $50 per person. Participating wineries: Flying Horse Winery, Grgich Hills Winery, The Hess Collection, Jones Family Vineyards, Luna Vineywards, The Miner Family Vineyards, Oakville Ranch Vineyards and Peju Vineyards. Participating panelists: Dan Bailey, The Jones Family Vienyards; Paula Kornell, Oakville Ranch Vineyards; and Michael Davis, Hart Davis Hart Wine Company.
- Saturday Nov. 13, 2010 - The Luna Vineyards Winemaker dinner with Chef Ken Frank at Aura Restaurant, 7:30 pm. tickets: $150 per person
- Sunday, Nov. 14, 2010 - St. Maarten Flaavors Festival (Phillipsburg Beachfront and Boardwalk), 12 pm - 5 pm. Tickets: $45 per person. Participation by 40 of the top restaurants and wine distributors in St. Maarten as well as the Napa Valley Vintners Association, among others.
The new institutions anchored in the Constitution of young country Sint Maarten will be the focus of The Law in Focus as of Thursday October 28, 2010, starting with a three part series on the Bureau of the Ombudsman. All are invited to tune in to get familiar with the tasks and functions of the Ombudsman and the Bureau, starting tonight. The Ombudsman, or Public Defender, will be at work to protect your fundamental human rights and the Constitution.
"The Law in Focus" is an informative and educational program for the entire family, aired every Thursday night from 9.30 – 10.00 p.m. on Sint Maarten T.V., Channel 15, with rebroadcasts on the Wednesdays following from 6.00 - 6.30 p.m., on Sundays from 4:00-4:30 pm on Radio Soualiga 99.9 FM, on Mondays on Cable TV Saba and Tuesdays on Cable TV Statia from 7.00 – 7.30 p.m. The program is aired on Statia radio on Tuesdays at 12.30 noon with a repeat on Sundays at 6.00 p.m., and on Channel 9, MSR Cable TV on French Saint Martin. The public is encouraged to send questions on legal issues to email: lawinfocus@ burofocus.com or fax # 5473754.
Philipsburg:--- Persons who have loans and are depositors at the Christian Kingdom Credit Union (CKC) have to brace themselves for the worst come Monday. Reliable information reaching SMN News on Friday states that the head of supervision of the central bank Mr. Salesia along with the appointed curator to CKC Chris Peterson met with the managing director of the CKC Franklin Brison and his advisors on Friday to notify them that the Central Bank has taken a decision to withdraw CKC license, forcing the company to declare bankrupt on Monday.
Shortly after notifying CKC and its management of the decision, Salesia and Peterson met with the Minister of finance Hiro Shigemoto to inform him of the current situation facing CKC and its depositors.
SMN News further learnt that several of the clients of CKC are in default with their loan payments due to the economic hardships on the island. One source said there has not been sufficient cash flow for CKC to survive even though the Central Bank had appointed Chris Peterson as curator to assist the management of CKC to bail out. One source that is linked to the finance department of government said CKC has an outstanding loan of 1.5 million dollars while they would owe their depositors some 1.7 million dollars.
Efforts made to contact Brison on Friday for a comment proved futile since he has been in meetings all day. Last week CKC announced that they were closing their doors to conduct some clean up when in fact they were preparing for Friday's news. SMN News also made contact with the Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto for a comment who said he was not able to comment until later on Friday as he was still in meetings with the Central Bank officials and CKC.
SMN News further learnt that the CKC has asked the Central Bank for additional time since they are busy negotiating with a sister credit union in Nevis to take over the CKC. It is further understood that the Central Bank has given CKC one month to see if they would be able to finalize a deal with the Nevis Credit Union.
Philipsburg:--- The District Governor of the Lions Club 60B, Lion June McCatty from Jamaica under which the local St. Maarten Lions Club reports to, was very impressed with the work that the club has been doing under the immediate past president Lion Richard Panneflek and the present president Lion Lissandra Havertong.
The customary annual audit was recently done to gauge the functioning of the Lions and Leo Clubs of St. Maarten. "I see that the financial records are in order to the District and Lions International and also see that monies which are donated to the club along with monies from fundraising events are being well spent in the St. Maarten community in form of great projects" said District Governor McCatty in her address to the St. Maarten Lions Club general membership at the Holland House Beach Hotel.
The board and members of the club highlighted several major projects that the club produces such as the Nelson v/d Linde Senior Citizen's Party at Boo Boo Jam, Lions Health Fair, the 14 seat passenger bus given to the Crystal Home Foundation along with the other activities used to raised funds for the club. The major fundraising activities are the annual Christmas Bingo and the Valentine's Day Car Raffle while the club members were also very busy with hosting 400 Lions from across the region at the annual Multiple District Convention held in May at the Sonesta Maho Beach Hotel whereby coincidently the District Governor was elected for a one year term.
Lion District Governor McCatty was equally impressed with the work of the local Leo Club and applauded the younger generation for their commitment to the community as well in the audit. Leo President Sabrina Carty assured the District Governor that the Leos were appreciative to have received such glowing tributes from her and promised to continue working for the local community with her club.
After the extended audit and discussions on various topics of the local club and district, the club hosted a lunch followed by a gift presentation to the District Governor from all members of the St. Maarten club. Lion District Governor June McCatty is expected back on the island in mid-December to help celebrate 40 years of the St. Maarten Lions Club.
Philipsburg:--- A man identified as O.S.S from Spain had to flown out of St. Maarten for emergency medical attention reported police spokesman Ricardo Henson. The police spokesman said early Tuesday morning police and detectives were called to Kruythoff Steeg in Philipsburg to investigate a case where a man was found lying in a pool of blood.
On the scene the investigating officers found the man with the initials O.S.S. from Spain lying unconscious on the ground bleeding profusely from at least three very large wounds to his head. Henson said there was a piece of metal pipe with blood stains on it which was found in the immediate area of the crime scene and possibly may be the object that was used to commit this serious criminal act.
This piece of pipe has been confiscated for further investigation. The victim was treated on the scene by paramedics and then transported to the St Maarten Medical Centre where he was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit.
Henson said because of the victim's condition a decision was taken by the St. Maarten Medical Centre to send the victim off island for further medical care.
So far police is not able to determine who the suspect or suspects are and their motive for the beating up of this victim. Henson said the forensic and detective department are busy investigating the case.
Philipsburg:--- In its continuous effort to educate the population of St. Maarten, the Chapter of Professional Young People will be presenting a lecture on the dualistic system of government.
This system is based on the total separation of the legislative (Parliament) and executive (Council of Ministers) branch in government. As citizens of Country St. Maarten we should all be aware of the structure of government after 10-10-10 and its implications.
The presenter of the lecture will be Mr. Dennis Richardson, former project leader of Constitutional Affairs. Mr. Richardson is St. Maarten's candidate member of the Council of State.
Make use of this opportunity to come out and inform yourself about the changes in government.
This event will be free of charge and will take place on November 22nd, 2010 at the Philipsburg Community Center at 7:30 p.m.
The objective of C.P.Y.P is to create an awareness among the public of St. Maarten of issues affecting their daily lives. An informed people are an empowered and enlightened people. The Chapter of Professional Young People is looking forward to welcoming you there.
Marigot:--- Territorial Councillor Jean David Richardson has issued a call to the people of St. Martin to rise up and take control of their affairs. Richardson who is obviously enraged at the current development where the president took away the portfolios of the vice presidents Tuesday night said the President has no regard for the elected body of the council. Richardson called the actions of President Gumbs dictatorship since he has no respect for the other members of the council, and acts only to further his own interests.
Richardson said while the majority has sixteen elected members but only five of those elected are making the decisions for the council. The territorial councillor said he wants the senator and president to remember the procedure they used to remove Marthe Ogoundele Tessi. He said he wants to know why that same procedure could not be used to remove Daniel Gibbs. Richardson said those deciding for St. Martin are enriching themselves since they are giving monies to people who are not doing anything for St. Martin and its people.
Richardson said the UPP group had a project that they all agreed to work on during their mandate, but three years have passed and most of the councillors have to no say on how the affairs of the people are conducted.
Jean David Richardson said those elected officials that are saying that they know about the Front de Mer project are liars. He said there were three projects that were presented to the council after a study was conducted. Richardson said the intention was to further develop the port of Galisbay to safeguard the economy on the French side of the island.
Richardson said the French side has to begin developing the commercial port to safeguard the economy on this side of the island.
Responding to the recent developments in the Collectivity of St. Martin, territorial councillor Guillaume Arnell said it is not beneficial to the people of St. Martin. Arnell said the motion on Tuesday night to take away all the portfolios from the sitting vice presidents was possible through the amendments done to the organic law in 2009. Arnell said the opposition warned the majority about the possibilities of giving the president "super power" where he would be able to give out responsibility by delegation. Arnell said this was not possible prior to the modification of the organic law, nevertheless the majority voted for it. Arnell said at this moment he is still trying to analyse what has happened because during the last territorial council meeting the president indicated that the time for battling should seize and the council should focus on what is essential. "Stripping the vice president of his responsibilities is an indication that the trust and confidence no longer exists."
Arnell said the work must be done on St. Martin and he wants to know who will now get these portfolios. "I want to know if they are going to give them to people who refrain from having responsibilities since there is only one vice president who does not have portfolios. My other question is would this person take up his responsibilities to the highest expectation?"
Arnell said St. Martin is stepping backwards with the current situation and a true leader would have called in his people and brought them to order. He said taking away ones portfolios is not a good image for St. Martin.
As for the Front de Mer project the first vice president Daniel Gibbs was promoting with the JUTRAS group Arnell said that while he does not have information on the group that was interested in investing. However, the French legislations made provisions for investors to justify their funding, but since the investors are Canadian then the process is somewhat different. Arnell said those people were acting like all other investors who have monies to place which will be to their own interest. As for the project he said the French side needs some investments but they must come with consultation and their proposal must be in dimension of the island.
State Must Investigate --- Mussington.
In the meantime, territorial councillor Louis Mussington said he does not believe this is the appropriate time for the majority to take decision against a particular person since it is not feasible. Mussington said there was also a plot among the majority to remove the president from his position. Mussington said the ruling party still has eighteen months in office and he felt that there is still enough time for politicians to campaign for the 2012 election. The territorial councillor said the island is in a crisis stage and he believes that now more than ever political leaders have pull their resources together and work in the best interest of the people. He said internal fighting takes away ones attention from the work they are supposed to be doing for their country. "Right now the island is facing economic, social and educational problems and he felt elected officials should place their energy in finding solutions to these problems."
Asked if he did any research on the JUTRAS group Mussington said he did not personally conduct any research but he is aware of a report that was published in Guadeloupe. Mussington said based on these reports it appears as if this group is not trustworthy and the funds they want to invest is allegedly not clean.
Mussington said he believes that the State must investigate all that is going on St. Martin through the "control de la legality". However, the State cannot step in unless there is a clear decision from the Collectivity. The territorial councillor said he asked on a number of occasions for this matter be brought on the floor of the council for a debate. He said it is clear that the State will not make investments on the island and if there are investors that are willing to invest then the COM must look at what they are offering and the origin of their funds.
VP Gibbs should do the honourable thing and resign --- Fleming.
Responding to questions posed by SMN News Senator Louie Constant Fleming said he does not know if the motion that was presented was on agenda of the Tuesday's meeting. However, he felt the procedure was normal since one cannot have someone who is holding important portfolios and at the same time campaigning against the president of the Collectivity. Fleming said the vice president was even part of a circle of people who are not from St. Martin who are trying to gather signatures to bring a motion of no confidence against the president.
Fleming said Daniel Gibb's behaviour is totally absurd and out of place and no one can tolerate people who come to the island and is taking its people for granted. He said Daniel Gibbs should be a man and resign and give up his portfolios. He said Gibbs can remain a territorial councillor but if he is going to campaign against the UPP group then he should give up his portfolios.
The senator said while he was in Paris trying to get the French Government to advance St. Martin at least eight million Euros so that the COM can meet its obligation there are people here trying to intoxicate the people of St. Martin with their two billion Euros project.
Fleming made clear that he is not against development on the French side but whatever development comes to the island must be to the benefit of the island's people. Fleming said the people of St. Martin deserve to have proper employment and not just "roommate jobs."
Fleming also made clear that the French side will not be competing with the Dutch side as they are not going to be building an international airport or a deep water port.
The objective he said is for the French side to buy shares on the Dutch side. Furthermore, the French side cannot have a deep water pier. He said he is in possession of a study that was done years ago which clearly shows that the only area that can accommodate a deep water pier is Pointe Blanche. The senator said based on this report Marigot Bay does not have sand instead it has coral.
Fleming said there are persons who filed complaint of treason against him and Marcel Gumbs simply because he met with Minister Theo Heyliger. Fleming said while he does not know who filed these complaints he knows that letters were sent to the Minister of Justice and the president of the senate.
SMN News urges readers to take the time out and listen to the interviews conducted on this issue.
GREAT BAY:--- Acting Head of Collective Preventive Services (CPS) at the Ministry of Public Health Maria Henry will be Sint Maarten's representative at the 27th Caribbean EPI Managers meeting to be held on the Cayman Islands from November 15-19.
The main objective of the meeting is to analyze, plan and share experiences on immunization programs.
Recommendations will be made for improving the coverage for immunization and surveillance activities. The introduction of new and underutilize vaccines and plans concerning data gathering on prevalence of circulating diseases will be discussed.
Conference delegates will also discuss the H1N1 vaccination program that was implemented in response to the pandemic and seasonal influenza; to analyze and evaluate the status of measles rubella and CRS elimination.
Delegates will also analyze the status of the EPI Program in each country and to set targets and objectives of each country with respect to immunization coverage and reduction of morbidity and mortality from the EPI diseases for the year 2011.
Henry, acting as EPI Manager will provide an overview of St. Maarten's vaccination activities for 2010 and the intended plans for 2011.
Philipsburg:--- The PEACE IS Foundation in collaboration with the Sunrise Rotary Club recently organized the "SXM Needs Peace Now" Essay Competition with the 5th & 6th Graders of The Oranje and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Schools. This competition, which was organized as a lead-up to the Annual PEACE IS Paradise Breakfast on St. Maarten's Day, was launched in late October. Students were challenged to compose an essay of at least 500 words on the topic "What would you do to increase PEACE in your School?" Prizes are being awarded for the overall top three essays.
The essay submitted by Angel Milliard from the Oranje School (6A2) was chosen as the top essay. Narkifa Richardson from the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School (Cycle 2 3B) was placed 2nd and Alec Samaroo from the Oranje School (5A1) was placed 3rd. The students depicted various issues affecting their schools such as gangs, acceptance of each other, being nice to people and the need for better examples being set by Adults.
The presentation, on Tuesday November 16th, 2010 was held at the Education Dept with much excitement from the students, representatives from each school and members of the PEACE IS Foundation and Sunrise Rotary. The winner received a Nintendo Wii Gaming System and 2nd & 3rd place received gift bags filled with school supplies; the gifts were donated by the Sunrise Rotary Club. The full text of the winning essay is produced below.
PEACE IS Foundation continues to encourage our youth to resolve conflicts without violence and urge them to be Peacemakers in their schools and their community.
"What would I Do to Increase Peace in my school?"
Angel Milliard – Oranje School (6A2)
Peace is to bring a disagreement or war to an end.
My ideal peace school is to be friendly with each other and to stop calling each other names and have respect for the teachers. Do not mark up the tables, chairs, and the walls, and for the children not to destroy the books, tables and chairs as well.
To me what will make the school peaceful is for the children and teachers to be calm, and to be kind with each other.
To increase peace in my school, I would stop the fighting by having assembly every morning, and have group studies by putting those who don't like each other in the same group. Be kind to each other by sharing with each other and stop swearing. By sharing, I mean if someone in my class do not have something I will share with them, and for swearing I would encourage them to apologize by shaking hands, and saying "I'm sorry."
Some of the things that are happening around in some of the other schools are violence such as fighting. Children fight for several reasons which are: dislikes, group affiliation, or just wants to show off. Therefore, to avoid children behaving in that manner you encourage them to respect themselves first then others. That should have been taught at home and continued at school. Discipline, also should be started at home and carried over into school. Churches should also play a role, by installing God in their lives.
Another way of avoiding violence is by having after school programs and activities, not voluntary but compulsive which means "you must do one." By doing so you get rid of all the idle time the children have on their hands. In that way you might help solve some of the violence that is caused by the children.
Another one is cheating on their exams, by copying from one another while the teacher is not looking, or by having one of his/her classmate do his homework assignments for him or her. A next one is group affiliation; group affiliation is children of the same age group which associate themselves together, for some common goal. Such groups as the A+ students, then you have those who think they're cool - the trouble makers. In order to get into these groups you would have to do something good, wrong, or foolish to be part of the group. So your school knows which group you should be a part of that wouldn't make you do something wrong, because every wrong doing is a violation of school rules and society laws.
The reason why children or humans on the whole dislike each other is because we think and act, and behave differently. So that's why a child may not like another child based on the way he/she looks, speaks, or acts. Children show off to get attention, and sometime some of them go over board by trying too hard to impress their friends and end up hurting themselves or others. So there is a limit you should take it and beyond.
In summary, I could bring about peace by installing respect in our children from a very early age so they could grow up with respect, and not forgetting discipline which is very important, which is lacking today, in our children. They don't say "Good Morning", "Excuse Me" neither "Pardon Me", last but not least install God in our homes and in our children, in our schools and then we'll see changes.
At Oranje School we don't have much fighting; however, when we do, we try to settle it in a peaceful way. This is often done by taking the children that were fighting and sit them down and have a chat with them to hear both sides of the story to see what the problem was. Most of the time it is because somebody pushed somebody and they would get in a big fight, or one will call the other a name and they will start cursing. But in the end, we make them make up and shake hands with each other and be friends and set a good example for the young ones. So they would see not to fight and have peace with other children.
Philipsburg:--- Eight key travel wholesalers from Central and South America along with Copa Airline's Director of Distribution and Planning, LuisFabrega, have just left St. Maarten after an important destination familiarization (Fam trip). This Fam trip was organized and hosted by the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau (STB) and made possible through a generous contribution by The St. Maarten Timeshare Association (SMTA).
SMTA Chairwoman, Mayra Provence said "It is important for us all to realize that the private sector must do its part, hand in hand with our Government, to make St. Maarten successful. We were pleased to partner with the Tourism Bureau in doing a small part in developing the Central and South American market for the island."
The wholesalers were on the island in order to help increase sales for the upcoming Copa flights. The countries represented were; Panama, Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, Mexico, Bolivia, and Costa Rica. Native Spanish speakers, SMTA's Mayra, and Ricardo Perez accompanied the group around the island for much of the time.
Complimentary rooms and breakfast were hosted by Divi Little Bay Resort. While on island the group visited a wide variety of hotels and timeshare properties where they were provided complimentary meals. Temptations restaurant and Pineapple Pete's also provided complimentary dinners in order to showcase St. Maarten's culinary attraction. Additionally, the Anguilla Tourism Board hosted the Copa group for a few hours where they visited a few hotel properties and were provided lunch.
Copa Airlines, which is scheduled to make its inaugural flight to St. Maarten on December 18, 2010, has already increased the size of the jet to service St. Maarten due to initial demand. Acting head of the STB, Gus Priest said, "It was up to all of us to make sure these new visitors go back to their countries to spread the good word about St. Maarten."
Philipsburg:--- Cassandra Janssen who is currently working with the council of Ministers has submitted a second application on Wednesday to Parliament for the position of interim acting griffier. Janssen withdrew her first application when she heard that the chairlady of parliament had no interest in working with her.
SMN News learnt that the coalition partners UP/DP held a meeting on Thursday to discuss the applications and Janssen it is understood is the DP's choice for the position since she had undergone over one year of training prior to St. Maarten achieving its country status.
Sources said the chairlady of parliament Gracita Arrindell has opposed working with Janssen whom she claimed is too bossy. Sources say Arrindell had serious problems taking orders from Janssen when she returned to work at the Island Secretariat.
SMN News learnt that while the DP faction is championing the hiring of Janssen in parliament the UP faction has decided to nominate another candidate, claiming that since Arrindell and Jansen cannot get along then the other person who once served as island secretary can take the position in the interim. This they said maybe in the best interest of parliament. SMN News further learnt that Arrindell suggested to the two factions that her campaign manger Terrence Rey should be the one to get the acting griffier position since he was brought in by her to take up the position. The source says both the UP/DP factions contested the chairlady's proposal saying her candidate lacks the required qualifications. "While her candidate maybe a good negotiator, campaign manager and business man he lacks the legal knowledge of the griffer and if Arrindell so wants him beside her then she can appoint him as her secretary." The source said.
GREAT BAY (GIS):--- The Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams signs a financing agreement with the Dutch funding agency USONA for the digitalizing archive for the Census Office.
Present was the Dutch Representative in St. Maarten Lars Walrave, representing the Dutch Ministry of Interior and Kingdom Relations.
This project is part of the Institutional Strengthening and Reinforcement of Government Administration program.
The goal of this program is to strengthen the overall execution of the processes within the Census Office by means of Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
This particular project is to digitalize the archives of the Census Office.
The archives play an important part when it comes to the research of the clients and their ancestry.
When the archives are digitalized the research process will be shortened because the information can be easily retrieved.
The next step is to join this archive with the census office system (PIVA).
The staff members can then access the archive information from their workplace, situated in front or back office.
Within this project, the staff of the Census office will receive the training needed to use this system.
The total amount of the financial agreement is Naf. 450,000 Antillean Guilders.
The duration of the project is two years.
Philipsburg:--- The Police Force of St. Maarten is advising shoppers and visitors to the island to exercise caution during the Christmas season. The police has offered a some safety tips in order to combat crime and criminals.
Remember the 3 A's of Crime Prevention
1. Be Aware of your surroundings at all times.
2. Be Alert to suspicious people and vehicles.
3. Avoid dangerous situations.
If you are out for the evening:
- Turn on lights, radio or television so that it looks like some-one is at home.
- Lock all doors and windows well, even if you are just leaving for a few minutes.
- Don't display items where they can be seen from the outside.
- Park your car in a well-lit area and make sure all windows and doors are locked.
- Avoid carrying a large amount of cash. Don't flash cash around and carry it in a safe place on you.
- If you have to use the ATM-machine, pay close attention to suspicious persons hanging around the machine. If that's the case pass up that machine and find another.
- Carry all wallets in the front pockets and carry purses close to your body.
- Keep your children close to you while attending any activities and don't let them get separated from you.
- Pay attention to persons walking in front and behind you. (Especially in crowded places favourable for pickpockets)
- When returning to your vehicle or your home, have your keys in your hands ready to open the door.
- Before entering your vehicle, check front and rear and seats for any one that may be hiding there. Lock doors immediately after entering.
- Ask your neighbour to keep a watchful eye out for you.
- Drinking and driving is a danger to everyone. Remember that the risks of drinking and driving are not worth it. If you choose to drink, don't drive. Make use of a designated driver or public transportation. (Taxi or Bus)
- Make sure that you know where your kids are at all times and that they are safe.
Marigot:--- Friends and supporters of the First Deco employee Pascal Delalosa (44) who was murdered last Sunday night marched through the streets of Marigot on Saturday morning as they pay homage to their friend and colleague. Almost 400 hundred persons dressed in white for the "white march" in honour of Delalosa, a man they described as peaceful and friendly began around 9:30 from First Deco. They went along Rue Lowdown, past Marina Royale apartments where Pascal lived and continued through Marigot and out to the cemetery before returning along the waterfront to Hotel de la Collectivite.
Many persons dropped money into a collection box carried at the head of the march to raise funds to repatriate Delalosa's body back to France where he will be laid to rest. Marchers, many of whom carried photos of Pascal, stopped at Hotel de La Collectivite demanding to speak to President Gumbs who was involved with a wedding ceremony at the time. President Gumbs eventually came out to speak to the crowd but was met by an angry reaction as several emotional individuals demanded to know what was being done about the crime situation. When Gumbs emerged from the Collectivity he told the mourners that nothing he said could bring back Pascal, neither would it relieve their pain from the lost of their friend. The President said the COM is doing a lot to reduce crime but the State was also responsible. However, that did not sit well with one of the marchers who confronted President Gumbs with a photo of the late Pascal telling him that this is the third person in three years to be killed brutally.
The woman said you are in office three years now and this is the third time we are here marching in white when someone lost their life due to violence and crime. The first a white march was organized when Victor Vanier lost his life in fight on the Dutch side of the island, the second Nejumbia Fleming and her baby daughter were murdered in their home in St. James, and the third was to honor Pascal Delalosa.
Many felt that authorities on the French side of the island are responsible for the slaying of Pascal as he had alerted authorities about his fears of losing his life to the gangsters that loiter around the Marina Royale.
Marigot:--- The gendarmes are busy investigating an armed robbery which involved a money courier. While reports state that the courier is someone who visits the island to pick up money, SMN News learnt that the victim works with the local money brink.
According to well placed sources, the investigators are considering this robbery to be suspicious. On Sunday, the gendarmes called on the Dutch side police to block the borders to avoid the culprits escaping to the Dutch side, but no one attempted to cross the border. The source said the victim filed a report on Saturday claiming he was robbed. SMN News further learnt that a reporter was informed of the incident causing the gendarmes to raise the alarm of the robbery on Sunday.
In an invited comment, the commandant of the Gendarmerie Stephen Brunet confirmed the robbery however; Brunet said he is unable to release any information on the investigation. The commandant said releasing information on this case can hamper the ongoing investigation. Asked if anyone was injured during the alleged daylight robbery Brunet said that there were no injuries involved.
SMN News made several attempts to reach Prosecutor Jacques Louvier for information on this robbery but he did not answer his cellular phone.
Presidential hopeful of the PNC and respected women and youth activist, Dr. Faith Harding has issued a passionate appeal for all stakeholders to contribute to the positive development of all orphans and those affected and infected with HIV/AIDS stressing that no child or person affected by HIV/AIDS should continue to face stigma and discrimination.
Dr. Harding who believes that she can take the PNC to victory at the 2011 elections in Guyana has declared her intentions that should be entrusted with the responsibility of leading her party to the polls that added his party's voice for the immediate ending of stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS. She pointed out that in a civilized and mature society ending stigma and discrimination are the primary pillars in reducing the spread of HIV/AIDS. This, Dr. Harding stressed that she remains confident that the fight against HIV/AIDS can be won noting that there are some amount of successes achieved thus far globally in addressing the disease.
Dr. Harding who said that she will formally announce her presidential bid sometime in December zeroed in on what she said is the situation in Guyana. She noted that there is an urgent need for a genuine multi-sector approach to the fight against HIV. Dr Harding said that while she feels that there are some positive efforts being made and achieved by the Ministry of Health she firmly believes that more can and should be done as it relates to HIV/AIDS. "In must admit that I think that the Ministry of Health is attempting to make some efforts however frankly there is still a whole lot mote that is critically needed," Dr Harding said.
Dr. Harding who herself has been over the years doing a number of voluntary work with children and women and also in the area of HIV/AIDS pointed out that its pivotal for the Minister of Health, Dr Leslie Ramsammy and his ministry to remain in the lead role in confronting HIV. "I must stressed that Guyanese throughout this country must be able to feel a sense of pride and faith that as a country that we can succeed in effectively and efficiently addressing this epidemic which has the ability to threaten our own existence," she said.
The PNC presidential candidate also issued a passionate appeal to other stakeholders to play a meaningful role as well. The former PNC Government Minister noted that while Government should be the front leader's stakeholders also has a responsibility in ensuring that collaboration and cooperation is achieved so as to win the battle. "Today I join with my team in calling on all stakeholders to recognize that they too have an important role to play in this fight as well thus civic society should also see themselves as a major player," Dr Harding said.
Dr Harding reiterated that her group joins with others in noting the importance of confidentiality when addressing this issue stressing that he would like to see a high level of mature political leadership in the fight against HIV. She said that petty political differences should be set aside so as to properly deal with the concerns and issues affecting the people of the beautiful country of Guyana.
Dr Harding who is known for her aggressive and continuous community service stressed for the PPP/C administration to demonstrate more commitment and willingness thus investing in putting together carefully thought out programmes so as to properly prevent and control HIV. "I would like the current administration to take note of the effects of HUIV/AIDS in Guyana and what it continues to do to our population primarily among women and children. I therefore call on the Honorable Minister of Health Dr Ramsammy and his Ministry to join with us in being an effective advocate for the elimination of stigma and discrimination of persons living with the disease," she said.
Dr Harding also called on her colleagues who she said would like her be contesting for the presidential bid and the National AIDS Secretariat to join hands in helping to forge stronger relationships with members of civil and private sector society. "I appeal to my colleagues to not lose sight of the urgency and importance in ending stigma and discrimination while I commend the National AIDS secretariat on the work that they are doing to be cognizant that more needs and should be done." Dr Harding noted that the private sector and civil society including the faith-based organizations needs to be commented and applauded for what they have and continues to do dubbing their efforts as being 'very impressive leadership".
She also pointed out that her group while seeking to garner the presidential bid strongly believes that to enhance any level of partnership that in playing a key role in preventing and controlling HIV/ AIDS it must be taken to a new level. This, Dr Harding said will see her team working closely in ensuring that they can continue working in garnering social support to families affected by HIV thus helping to ease some of the difficulties and challenges faced.
"While I can admit that I wholeheartedly seek the presidential bid for the PNC I remain passionate and committed as a politician to lead from the front and therefore urge the others to do likewise as we have a social and moral responsibility to reduce stigma and discrimination. We must also strive to provide tangible assistance in whatever way that we can," she declared.
Dr Harding added Grant added that there is much to reflect on this year's theme which is 'Universal Access & Human Rights' stressing that there is much for the people of Guyana to assessed and certainly be proud of. She expressed confidence that the public is interested in making a new start in championing the cause of people living with HIVAIDS. "As I seek to garner the presidential nomination of my dear party I am confident and assured that once elected to office that there is a lot that will be done for those infected and affected by the disease. As such, I take this opportunity to commend those working in whatever capacity in helping to reduce stigma and discrimination as I firmly believe that there is much more that can be done especially from the Government level".
"I therefore use this opportunity to call on all in recognizing the importance of committing to a worthy and important cause as together we work towards the reduction of stigma and discrimination," Dr Harding said in a passionate appeal.
Jacky Rom, a British children's book author, gave two presentations to the cycle two, years three and four classes from M. Genevieve de Weever School, on Tuesday, December 14th. Rom just published her second of a series of five books. The books feature a girl named Starr who is active in the entertainment field.
Rom provided interactive presentations where she asked the students to mime different situations, practice a tongue twister, and answered questions from the students. The school purchased books for the class teachers to read aloud to the students.
Everyone is looking forward to her third book.
GREAT BAY (GIS):--- The Department of Civil Registry had another information evening at the Philipsburg Cultural and Community Center on December 9 to provide relevant and valuable information to the public in matters regarding the civil registry. There were about 90 persons and some 10 children at the information session.
Head of the Census Office Leona Marlin welcomed all persons and provided an introduction.
"Thank you all for coming. We hope to give you information regarding the Department of Civil Registry on the different tasks or functions that we do at the office. We will provide you with details on birth certificates, passports, registering of addresses, among other topics. Please feel free to ask questions. We have some form for you to see and if need be to fill out and bring them by the Civil Registry office. Thanks again for coming."
The officials explained about several important issues regarding the civil registry.
"There are persons that are registered on the French side with one type of information and on the Dutch Side, with another type of information. This inaccuracy or inconsistency will sooner or later catch up the culprits. In the end, persons will be charged for lying on official government documents. It is a crime," the official said. "Information has to be consistent across the board."
Another point that the office wanted to bring across was that people at times are not sure what to do or how to go about or what type of information they should be requesting because of the technicalities involved; therefore, when the Civil Registry clerk ask for information, please do so and not get upset. We are here to help you, the official said.
For example, there are several types of registration forms, so depending on what the form will be used for or to whom the form will be given, depends on what type of registration form the clerk will need to give to that person. So we ask questions to better assist the client.
There are various types of identifications, namely, Drivers licenses, Passports, and Identification cards—all have to be of a valid date, the official said. So if someone comes in with an expired date on the id they are using at the office, then that piece of ID is no good; and therefore the Office of the Civil Registry cannot conduct any business with this person with a non-valid identification.
The official also talked about legal addresses.
If changing of address, you have to bring in a GEBE bill or a permission letter from landlord, his/her id, and signed. Once you are 18 years you have to declare your address, whether living under your parents' house or not.
Civil Registry is not the immigration department. So persons should come to register the child just after they are born so as to get a birth certificate. It is the child's right, and the parent's duty.
If mother doesn't want the father to acknowledge the child, then the father could go to court to have the acknowledgement happen.
For passports of children, both biological father and mother, whether married or not, and child have to be present when requesting said passport and when picking up said passport.
Don't wait till last minute to get or renew passport. Under normal circumstances, passports take two weeks.
The officials wanted the public to know that there are specific countries that the civil registry department receives a lot of false documents.
When people use these, by law the front office has an obligation to report said fraud and call in the police to arrest the person. The clerks, the civil servants from the civil registry are well trained, they go through training just about every week for detection of false documents, to know the laws better, etc. so the public is urged not use dabble in falsification of documents. They will get caught and they will be arrested.
Also some people have gotten false passports or gotten passports under dubious circumstances, this can be reverse. Once it is caught, this person may go to jail.
If a person tries to defraud the Civil Registry, it is the law that the civil registry clerk reports the incident. And as such, the police will come and lock up this person immediately.
For more information please visit the Civil Registry Department or visit www.sintmaartengov.org.
On Friday November 19th Dr. Nilda Arduin presented 5 copies of her the the Constitution of St . Maarten made simple to Philipsburg Jubilee Library director Mrs. Monique Alberts. In this booklet published by the EWA foundation the constitution of the new country St Maarten is explained in non technical terms. Mrs. Monique Alberts thanked Dr. Arduin for the booklets on behalf of especially the younger library users who will certainly benefit from this publication. She expressed her hope that EWA will keep up the good work by producing more educational publications about our country.
Citizens and Friends of Sint Maarten,
Season Greetings,
It is the time of the year where many people gather with a family and friends to celebrate the birth and legacy of Jesus Christ.
Many are blessed to have food on the table and a safe shelter. There are also many who are in want of a meal or in need of a decent roof for their families.
Let us make this holiday season one of sharing with those who without any fault of their own, do not have a plate to feast from, or those who does not have a place to stay.
During these special days, let us take some time out for our young ones, our elderly and those who are physically challenged, abused and neglected.
Allow me to share with you a biblical verse I came across that inspires me, which I thought fitting for this season;
"Do not be hardhearted or tightfisted toward your poor brothers. Rather be openhanded and freely lend him whatever he needs. Give generously to him and do so without a grudging heart. Then, because of this the Lord will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to."
Let us all reach out to the children's homes, hospital wards, senior citizens homes, safe haven, schools, and community centers, and give generously during this holiday season.
Be Blessed
Merry Christmas
Gracita R. Arrindell, President of Parliament Sint Maarten.
Great Bay:--- There are only a few days left before the deadline expires for students to submit applications for study financing for 2011. The deadline is December 31, 2011 and according to a Notice issued by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports & Youth Affairs, "No applications will be accepted after the closing date."
The Notice, signed by the Acting Head of Study Financing, Mr. Quincy Harrigan, further states that the applications should be brought in to the Department of Study Financing at the Vlaun Building in front of the Post Office in Philipsburg. Office hours are from 8:00AM to 5:00PM.
"Applicants must ensure that their applications are duly filled in and complete and that all the necessary attachments are submitted with the applications," the Notice concluded.
In another related release, the Ministry is inviting "New applicants for study financing as well as transfer students desirous of studying in the United States in 2011" to an information session at the PMIA Hall on Backstreet on January 6, 2011. The session will begin at 5:00PM and is expected to last no more than 1½ hours.
According to Harrigan, "Representatives of the United States Consulate on Curacao will be present to provide information and answer any questions that applicants may have with reference to applying for a student visa to study in the United States of America."
Philipsburg:--- The police have arrested a man from St. Lucia identified as J.L.N who allegedly forced an entertainer to have unprotected sex under the threat of a knife in his hotel room. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said the victim identified as S.A.P.S from the Dominican Republic filed an official report on Tuesday December 28th with the Detective Department stating that she is an entertainer at a popular night club on the island.
The woman told police that on that same night at approximately 02:00 am she made an agreement with a customer at the nightclub to spend the night with him at his hotel for which she would she be compensated.
The woman said when they were at the hotel the situation got out of hand and she was threatened with a knife and a bottle by the client and forced to have unprotected sex. She told police that her life was threatened if she did not cooperate. According to the victim, she was repeatedly forced to have unprotected sex until 06:00 am. At one point, the victim succeeded in getting her hand on a knife and attacked the suspect. A confrontation took place between them at which time she wounded the suspect with the knife. The suspect then pushed out of the hotel room. The police was immediately informed of the incident. The suspect with initials J.L.N. from Sint Lucia was arrested shortly after in his hotel room and taken to the Philipsburg Police station. The Detective Department is busy investigating this case and the suspect is in custody.
GREAT BAY/MARIGOT :---The new book Nativity/Nativité/ Natividad by Lasana M. Sekou is only weeks away from publication here, said Jacqueline Sample, president of House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP).
However, before the book gets out, "there's a little piece of history behind this first trilingual book by the St. Martin writer that should be made public," said Sample.
The book will include the French and Spanish translations of the nine-segment narrative poem along with its new English edition. An extensive glossary appears in the three languages.
Alex Richards took to the task of translating Nativity (Nativité), as the first serious French translation of an entire work by Sekou.
Here's the behind-the-scenes piece that shouldn't go unnoticed. On December 6, 2008, at a morning-long meeting, complete with a traditional St. Martin cuisine brunch suited for celebrities, "HNP gathered leading linguists, translators and critics, along with educators and folks with legal training, from both parts of the island to discuss the French translation of Nativity," said Sample this week.
The discussants were Alex Richards, Daniella Jeffry, Fabian Badejo, Rhoda Arrindell, Jocelyne Illidge, Lenny Mussington, and Robert Romney. The author participated mostly as a silent observer.
"The idea was to invite a group of people to review the French translation by critically discussing the poem. They would explore its meaning, its links to St. Martin, the wider Caribbean, the Americas, Africa, Asia; its play and pun on languages, sexuality, folklore, music and other aspects of culture, religion, slave uprisings, indentured whites and East Indians and immigrant Chinese, the genocide against the Amerindians, the horror and victories of history, and projecting a future of being centered in the making of history," said Sample.
"We also wanted the Nativité discussants to read the translation and compare it to the new English edition as it could be read or interpreted especially in the Caribbean."
"For a publisher it is a sign of maturity to be able to gather experts around a single text purely for a critical discussion before the work reaches the wider public," said Sample.
For a writer who wants to involve his people in the developing stages and nation-building processes "of a literature of our entire island nation, it was an honor to see the work get that type of tough and informed treatment," said Sekou on Sunday.
The discussants meeting had taken place at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library. There were two follow-up meetings at USM, coordinated by Arrindell, with a reduced grouping of the discussants. Arrindell was then the USM Language Division head and lecturer in literature and English.
"The follow-up meetings dealt mostly with proofing a few lines and word choice suggestions made at the first meeting," said Sample.
"Our confidence in the translation by Alex Richards meant that he would be able to take a tough scrutiny by the other discussants. I'm told that he rose to the occasion with style and intellectual savvy," said Sample.
Richards often points to the difficulty of translating Sekou because of the twist and turns, both subtle and brazen that the author makes with English and with other languages in the region that he takes license with, said Sample.
Richards is a USM lecturer and former Municipal Library director. Since the 1980s he has been involved with organizing literary activities and writing and lecturing about literature and cultural affairs, said Sample.
The Collectivity of St. Martin provided a cultural arts grant for the French translation and printing of Nativité. "The president of the Collectivity Mr. Gumbs and culture department head Ms. Minerva Dormoy, both of whom I had the pleasure of meeting during the poetry garden last year, have remained committed to this literary arts project and will finally see the results in April," said Sample.
Completing Sekou's new Nativity is the Spanish translation, Natividad, translated by Maria Teresa Ortega. The Cuban translator is widely recognized for her translation of works by leading Caribbean authors such as George Lamming, Jan Carew and Mark McWatt. The independent scholar Emilio Jorge Rodríguez was the Spanish editorial coordinator and Badejo served as the Spanish language consultant for Natividad.
Small volume- or pamphlet-size selections of Sekou's poems have been translated over the years into Spanish, Dutch, Chinese, and late last year into Turkish.
Basseterre,St.Kitts :-Immediately after taking office a People's Action Movement Government will ensure that proper broadcast legislation are implemented thus ensuring that the culture of no access to the opposition is immediately ended. This is the firm commitment made by Leader of PAM, Lindsay Grant who said that despite numerous and continuous efforts they continued to be denied access to the state radio and television stations.
He further said that the situation is even more alarming as attempts in the past and more recently to have Christmas and New Year's speeches broadcasted by the party leader and more so PAM's lone parliamentarian have also been met with refusal. Grant went on to note that there have been several instances in which ZIZ continues to deny them airtime pointing out that advertisements from the party, messages for meetings, Public Relations releases and most even messages from the party's lone parliamentarian, Hon Shawn Richards. He further stressed that denying the party access to airtime is unprofessional, unethical and unlawful declaring that ZIZ is owned by tax paying public which also includes PAM supporters.
Grant said that there is an urgent need for the setting up of a broadcast legislation and a broadcasting authority noting that it will serve to ensure that every individual and party have a vote. Grant stressed that politics influence every sphere of our lives to the extent of empowerment, exclusion, discrimination and marginalization. He stressed that under the reigns of the Dr Denzil Douglas administration they have maintained a stranglehold on decision-making, even if it requires violating the rule of law and conventions.
Grant said that despite public and private condemnation as to regards of how government continues to deny the opposition party access to ZIZ Radio and television, "some people are of the firm view that we are too tolerant and that is why we have this abuse of the airwaves by Dr Douglas and Labour. As a mater of fact, they have been saying like us that it needs to be strongly regulated," Grant said.
Grant noted that the refusal of the Government to grant access to the opposition n is a clear case of attempting to deny the public fair and uninterrupted access to information so as to afford them an opportunity to make informed decisions. "They (Labour Party) talk about fair access to the state media but we see the continuous and appalling abuse that is being committed by the government in their desperate attempt at remaining in office," he charged.
The PAM leader noted that once an individual is seen as being hostile to the government they are immediately denied access, this is certainly against the law of any land. "The Government is so clouded with their abuse of the state Radio and Television stations that that everything must be political for their personal advantage rather than recognizing that ZIZ have a responsibility to play in ensuring effective and fair dissemination of information to the public," he declared.
Grant declared that an examination within the region points ton the hash reality that St Kitts and Nevis remains the "only major country in the Caribbean without modern broadcasting law instituting a politically independent broadcasting authority to administer and regulate broadcast licenses, while also ensuring that there is fair access to the state radio and television stations."
The PAM leader stressed the urgent and immediate need for the government to ensure the administering of equal and fair access to the state media through the establishment of "an independent and autonomous authority empowered by the relevant legislation to issue public, commercial and community radio and television licenses, enforce regulations, monitor compliance and increase public awareness, among other functions."
He added that what the people of St Kitts and Nevis are witnessing a disservice by Government declaring that if continued unchecked will result in further dictatorial approach by the government which he said is unlawful and unethical.
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts,(PAM Secretariat) - Despite getting a friend of the nation to make a US$10, 000.00 donation, it is only a pin being dropped into the ocean to what is needed to help Haiti. Therefore Government should come forward with a much more meaningful donation for the people of that earthquake-ravished country.
This is the sentiment expressed by Leader of the People's Action Movement, Lindsay Grant at a recent Haitian-Releif Concert organised and staged by opposition People's Action Movement PAM party. Grant is of the firm belief that St. Kitts and Nevis's gesture is disappointing, taking into consideration that the Prime Minister only responded to help because of the enormous pressures he received after PAM got immediately involved.
Grant said he believes that the people of St. Kitts and Nevis would give generously through voluntary contributions of cash and kind.
"We have a responsibility to assist our brothers and sisters of Haiti as they have been suffering immensely, and we in St. Kitts and Nevis can relate to suffering as we are experiencing our sufferings as well. But we should recognize the importance of giving," he said.
"I must admit that when I perused the internet and saw the international media reports, it was the first time that I was emotionally affected to such a level by a national tragedy...It is horrendous, it is painful, it is unbearable, it is heartbreaking knowing that people are still trapped, some are missing, and buildings are still collapsing. I have to admit that it is a really sad situation with some 100,000-odd people dead," Grant told an exceptionally massive crowd last night (Jan. 15) at a concert held to raise funds for relief assistance for Haiti.
Addressing the Haiti dilemma, Grant said that he and his party understand the meaning and implications of disaster for any country. He questioned the Prime Minister's lackadaisical approach, noting that they should have responded earlier, taking into consideration that Haiti's international superstar Wyclef Jean is slated to perform at a Labour concert in the Federation.
He disclosed that in an effort to ensure smooth collection of assistance for the people of Haiti, he had identified the Red Cross organization to which his party would turn over all contributions for distribution to Haiti. He said that emphasis has been placed on financial contribution as a start and measures have already been put in place for the acceptance of pledges for material support.
"We recognize that there will be some challenges in terms of getting material support to Haiti, therefore, we are focusing on financial donations and contributions as it would make the Red Cross' job much easier," he explained.
"I want to guarantee that transparency will be maintained so as to ensure that people's funds are accounted for, thus our choice of Red Cross as we are very confident that an effective job will be done by them," he added.
Grant admitted that he would not rush to prescribe additional solutions, but rather strongly believes further action should come after CARICOM's intervention and subsequent discussions with the people of Haiti.
"What I would say immediately, is the need for providing financial and other relief to them right there. We should be concentrating on what assistance we can take there, which is far from telling somebody who has tons of rubble still on them that we are hoping to resettle them. What we need is physical help to rescue the thousands who may still die.
For every hour of delay, the possibility exists that more people will die," the opposition Leader lamented.
Grant declared that the tragic events in Haiti should provide the occasion for St. Kitts and Nevis to seriously review the Federation's own disaster preparedness strategy so as to ensure if faced with eventualities the nation could respond appropriately and effectively.
He stressed that St. Kitts and Nevis is located in the hurricane belt and could also be affected by other disasters. Therefore, the public should know that the people of this Federation are not immune from natural disasters.
He declared, "...as Kittitians and Nevisians mobilize their resources to assist the suffering people of Haiti, it is perhaps an appropriate time for us here in St Kitts and Nevis to review our own system."
Allegations of corruption continue to soar
Stinging criticism and widespread disgust over allegations of corruption, high cost of living and crime being leveled against the Labour Party have forced the Dr. Douglas-led Labour Party Government into reverse gear, as it continues with measures deemed by many as being very "oppressive."
At the same time, the opposition People's Action Movement, through its Leader Lindsay Grant, continues to highlight evidences of corruption demanding that Dr. Douglas tells the electorate the complete truth.
According to inside sources, Dr. Douglas and his Labour Party have been working feverishly to hide certain mistakes made by several Labour candidates and also by the Prime Minister himself. The Government source said that a number of irregularities occurred under the leadership of Dr. Douglas and they have triggered public backlashes.
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The opposition Leader noted that voters should be cognizant in what the Prime Minister had reportedly been involved. Grant stressed that the Prime Minister should give voters an opportunity to have their fears removed, thus being able to make an informed decision.
He made reference to the US Bank Account in which he publicly leveled a series of allegations against Dr. Douglas at a political meeting his party recently held in Bank Street.
Commenting on what he said is a desperate ploy by the Labour Party to play unfairly, Grant said he and his party would like the Commissioner of Police to desist from allowing the Force to be part of Dr. Douglas' scheme. He explained that permission would be given to his party for the holding of public meetings at specific venues; however, a day or two before he would be informed that the permit was revoked because permission was granted for the Labour Party to hold their meetings at the same venues.
"The police are playing cat and mouse with us and this should cease immediately. This para-military institution should not be politicized because the security forces have to protect all, irrespective of one's political affiliation," he said.
Grant declared that despite the actions of the police, he and his party would continue to seek permission to hold their meetings. He added that when elected, his party would certainly address a number of burning issues affecting the police.
Grant also called on the Labour Administration to recognize and demonstrate equality to opposition parties, stressing that on January 26th the Labour Party would form the opposition.
GREAT BAY– Governor Franklyn Richards urges the public to continue donating to the Haiti Relief Appeal and commends ongoing efforts by community, religious, business groups and non-governmental organizations, in raising funds and material to assist the people of Haiti.
Last week Tuesday afternoon, Haiti was struck by a devastating 7.0 magnitude earthquake followed by a number of aftershocks measuring over magnitude 5.0. Thousands of people have been injured and killed.
On Monday the Dutch Government launched another humanitarian airlift out Holland by sending a chartered plane carrying 30 relief workers goods to Haiti.
The relief workers are from a number of organizations namely, Wereldkinderen, de Nederlandse Adoptie Stichting, de Samenwerkende Hulp Organisaties, the Immigration & Naturalization Service, and the Fast Consular Services Support Team (SCOT) from the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The Dutch humanitarian flight was scheduled to arrive in Haiti on Monday and depart for Holland on the same day with expected arrival at Schiphol on Tuesday. The aircraft would return with approximately 100 children who have been placed for adoption.
"I call on the nation to continue to give generously. Every little bit helps as it increases the amount of aid that can be delivered to help the millions of people affected by this terrible natural event. The scale of this tragedy is beyond belief," Governor Richards told the Government Information Service (GIS).
According to the United Nations (UN), the January 12 earthquake is believed to have impacted one third of Haiti's nine million people – three million.
The main focus by relief organizations and other groups on the ground in Haiti is the continued need for search-and-rescue; emergency relief (food, water and tents); and proper coordination of the emergency operation.
The UN and its partners last week launched an appeal last week Friday for nearly US$600 million to help the victims of the earthquake.
The funds are intended to help the estimated three million affected people over a period of six months, with half of the funds going towards emergency food aid, and the balance for health, water, sanitation, nutrition, early recovery, emergency education and other key needs.
PAM Calls on US Authorities to Investigate.Basseterre, St. Kitts, As more damaging and conclusive evidence emerges linking the Prime Minister of St. Kitts & Nevis, Dr. Denzil L. Douglas, to a US company and its bank accounts, that have seen the movement of transactions totaling over $76 Million Dollars, in the last decade, the leader of the opposition Peoples Action Movement, (PAM), Mr. Lindsay Grant, is issuing a call to the US Treasury Department, the IRS and other authorities to launch an urgent investigation, into the Lex Consulting LLC company, which is said to be registered in the name of the girlfriend and mother of the Prime Minister's children, Ms. Kate Alex Woodley.
Documents previously released by PAM, also provided evidence showing that the registered offices of the company, is in fact the home of the same Kate Alex Woodley, at 3265 Bainbridge Ave, Apt. B52, Bronx, NY,10467-3000.
The two main accounts for which proof has been established, are 000002391182553 and 000779501106365.
The PAM leader said that given the huge sums of monies that have been moving through this company, both the media and the US Authorities need to take a close look, to satisfy themselves about the appropriateness of the financial dealings.
Grant said that the media in St. Kitts & Nevis and the international media should launch their own independent research to verify the authenticity of these very serious charges. Grant said that the media have a responsibility and duty to undertake such investigation, on behalf of the public.
New startling revelations were made on Monday night, (January, 18th, 2010), during a political meeting in Cayon, St. Kitts, by the PAM leader, while he addressed thousands on a campaign stop to endorse his candidate for the Constituency 8 district of Cayon and surrounding villages.
Mr. Grant released a series of recent checks that showed the name of the Prime Minister and his Labour Party Committee, in amounts totaling EC$367,000 or US$135,000.
What was even more telling was that the checks were actually written out in the well known and recognizable hand writing of the Prime Minister, but signed by Alex Woodley.
Mr. Grant says that what these documents prove is that the Prime Minister, as we have said all along is very much aware of the company called Lex Consulting and that he has in fact been writing checks and receiving large sums of monies, with the latest check being paid out last week.
This means said Grant, that since the existence of this US Bank account was made known to the public on Tuesday January, 12th, 2010, during a PAM meeting in Basseterre, the Prime Minister has been arrogant and brazen enough to continue receiving payments from the said account.
Would you believe that on Tuesday January 12th, we revealed the financial documents and by the very next day, Wednesday January 13th, the Prime Minister was insensitive and uncaring enough to prepare another check in the amount of US$40,000.00, payable to the Labour Office Committee, drawn on a US checking account, held right here in St. Kitts at the government owned National Bank Ltd?
Grant said that the Prime Minister must answer, not to him, but to the people of this country. Tonight, one week before the general elections of this country, we are still waiting for an answer from the Prime Minister, said Grant
The greatest effects of this is what this money could have done, said the PAM leader. He continued by asking, "(do) you know how many houses $76 million could build? Do you know how many scholarships could have been given to young people in this country? Do you know how many young people could have been empowered and how many job opportunities could have been open up for the young people of this country?"
This why we say, that this election is about the future of this country. It is either we have more of the same, or change, explained Grant.
A lot of you out there are hurting and crying for change, but change does not come easily, you have got to work for it, said the PAM leader.
The labour campaign meanwhile has been filled with oversized billboards, hugely expensive banners, charter flights for hundreds of overseas supporters, well paid advisors and strategists from England, Canada, Barbados and elsewhere.
Their events have also included appearances from well known international artistes, such as Wyclef Jean and Serani, with more costly bookings to come later this week. Expansive stages, lighting companies, sound systems, production and creative directors from Europe have been brought in by the labour organizing committees, for the upcoming polls. The public continues to wonder, where this money is coming from.
The question we have to ask ourselves as Kittitians and Nevisians is where all of these millions of dollars are coming from and why is the Prime Minister receiving payments and writing checks from the Lex Consulting LLC account. But we must also ask the Prime Minister, why is he eligible to actually prepare checks for payment?
The PAM leader reminded supporters that this is exactly why a new PAM Administration, if given the opportunity by the people will immediately introduce Integrity in Public Life legislation, A Freedom of Information Act, Term Limits and Set Dates for elections in the twin-island federation. He said that his party would also change the requirements to have both federal and local Nevis Island Elections at the same time.
Grant concluded by saying that if governments like the current one in St. Kitts & Nevis cannot police themselves, then the appropriate legislation must be urgently enacted to protect the people from politicians who after serving for too many years, begin to feel that the country is their private club.
Philipsburg: --- The attorney at law representing detective Carlton Philips has sent a letter reacting to the articles published on this site and one of the daily newspapers on Tuesday. Attorney at law Reynold Groenveldt in his letter openly appealed to both the prosecutor's office and the management of the police force to stop the victimization.
Below is the full test of the text of the letter sent by Groenveldt...
STOP THE VICTIMIZATION
On behalf of my client, police inspector Carlton PHILIPS, I would like to make the following statement:
On, February 10 2009, the Acting Police Chief, Mr. Doran, informed him of an accusation against him pertaining to the destruction of information several years ago when he worked at the CID.
This malicious accusation was immediately, vehemently denied by client. On February 11, 2009, he requested an investigation to prove his innocence and to clear his name and restore his honor.
After he did not receive any answer on his request, he repeated his request in the months of March and April 2009.
During the months that followed, several influential persons were approached and requested to help in securing an investigation. Unfortunately, all his efforts were unsuccessful.
On September 10, 2009, after waiting for seven months for management to clear his name and restore his honor, he took a very painful decision to go public with this matter and expose some of the wrongs in the police force in the hope that things will change for the better..
First and foremost, he wanted his name cleared and the victimization stopped..
In less than a month after going public, two members of the internal affairs division of Curacao arrived in St. Maarten. An investigation was carried out, clearly with the aim to establish if he did anything criminally wrong in order to prosecute and punish him.
The investigation has been completed since the end of October 2009.
A request was forwarded to the Minister of Justice and to Mr. Doran requesting a copy of the report and or information concerning the outcome of the investigation. The Minister of Justice referred him to the Public Prosecutor's office.
My client has since been waiting for the results of the investigation.
He read in the media that the Chief Prosecutor Mr. Mos indicated that he did nothing criminally wrong, and that there are no grounds to prosecute him and that the report was handed over to management of the Police force.
To his great surprise recently while working on a murder investigation he was suddenly removed from the case and he learned that the acting chief prosecutor had informed the management of the Police force by letter dated November 26, 2009 that the prosecutors had decided that they will not be working with him. The exact reason(s) for this was not communicated to him.
From a newspaper article in the Today newspaper of Tuesday, January 19,2010. I understand that the Act Prosecutor is of the opinion that my client alleges that he conspired against him to block his appointment. This opinion is absolutely not correct and totally in accurate. Client did not make any such allegations but was informed by his superior that the Prosecutor's office has expressed a preference not to have him appointed as Head of the CID. My client simply requested also to investigate what role the Prosecutors Office played in this matter.
My client finds this very unfortunate and is of the opinion that matter should be dealt with in an more professional manner. Prosecutors are not working for themselves and should not because of personal reasons determine who they will work with or not. If anyone in this office has a personal problem with any colleague in the Police force or any other sector in the judicial chain, this should be resolved in a professional manner without jeopardizing the main tasks and responsibilities of the Police and the Prosecutors office. One cannot decide with whom he/she would want to work without valid reasons substantiated by professional arguments. This office is not a " Private Dutch club".
As for the misleading statements concerning not prosecuting and requesting an apology, supposedly attributed to Mr. MUD, he should take into account the fact that one is innocent until proven guilty. If in the year 2002, my client had destroyed any evidence, he most certainly would have been prosecuted and punished. He did not destroy any evidence, consequently he is in his full right to demand that any such allegation levied against him be thoroughly investigated and his good name be cleared, and his honor restored in the minds of the Public and for the record.
For that reason, he insisted to have this done and also in order to put a stop to the practice of victimizing colleagues for no apparent reasons. Competition for a higher position should be based on performance, knowledge, competence and dedication and not victimizing others in order to prevent them from succeeding. It is my hope that the Minister of Justice, the Police Management as well as the Public Prosecutors Office this take this matter into serious consideration and desist from further victimization of my client and that this matter be resolved in a professional manner as soon as possible. Instead of doing battle against each other, parties should cooperate and bundle your energy so that you can focus on the Main Tasks of Protecting the Community and the Maintenance of Law and Order, instead of victimizing your own. Mr. Philips has done nothing, wrong consequently, he will never issue any apology for seeking Justice.
On behalf of Inspector Carlton Philips
R.A.Groeneveldt, Attorney
CAY BAY—The two new 11.3 MW generators have to complete a few final tests before the engines will be officially turned over to GEBE. The engines are running to full production while this testing phase continues. It is expected that the final tests will be completed within two weeks.
The engines have been online since December 21, 2009. The technicians from manufacturer Wartsila, along with the GEBE technicians, have been monitoring the engines' performance and outputs during this period as part of the ongoing testing and fine-tuning process to ensure that the engines are meeting the required performance standards.
The waste heat boilers, the lube oil separators, and the fire detection system are some of the areas that still need to be officially tested and signed off. "The engines consists of many different components and GEBE wants to be sure that everything is properly tested and meets all the manufacturer's technical specifications, especially when running at full power for longer periods of time."
The GEBE technicians attended several training sessions to become acquainted with the latest technologies that are used in the generators. Both the operators and the electrical maintenance crew received training in general operations, new electrical components and circuitry and radiator cooling system. No special training was required for the mechanical maintenance crew because the general mechanics of the new engines are similar to the other Wartsila engines in the GEBE power plant.
GREAT BAY,) – The Preventive Health Department (PHD) has received a report from health care providers that there are approximately 30 cases of scabies within the community.
The PHD recommends that parents, care givers and adults in general closely observe their children as well as themselves for signs of rash, pimples or mosquito bites, and to consult their general practitioner. Practicing good hygiene is also a good preventative measure.
Scabies is an infestation of the skin with a microscopic mite. Infestation is common, found worldwide, and affects people of all races and social classes.
Scabies spreads rapidly under crowded conditions where there is frequent skin-to-skin contact between people, such as in hospitals, child-care facilities, and nursing homes.
Persons at risk for severe infestation are people with a weakened immune system and the elderly. This severe infestation is called Norwegian or crusted scabies.
For a person who has never been infected with scabies, symptoms may take four to six weeks to begin. For persons who have had scabies in the past, symptoms appear within several days.
Signs and symptoms of scabies are: a pimple-like irritation, burrows or rash of the skin, especially the webbing between the fingers; the skin folds on the wrist, elbow, or knee; the penis, the breast, or shoulder blades.
There is intense itching, especially at night and over most of the body. Sores on the body are caused by scratching; these sores can sometimes become infected with bacteria.
Scabies can be treated with several lotions. Once you have the symptoms, you should visit your family physician who can prescribe the appropriate lotion for treatment.
Persons who have close and prolonged contact with a person who has scabies should also be treated. A quick handshake or hug will usually not spread infestation.
Infestation is easily spread to sexual partners and households members. Infestation may also occur by sharing clothing, towels, and bedding. Treatment should be taken at the same time in order to prevent re-infestation.
Once you receive treatment, itching may continue for two to three weeks, and this does not mean that you are still infested.
The PHD adds that pets do not spread scabies.
Persons seeking additional information should contact Preventive Health Department at telephone numbers: 542-3003 or 542-3553.
Oranjestad -- PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) a market leader in an era of Global Crisis and Recovery, reacted generously today to the heartbreaking Haitian crisis.
As a private sector entity, it reached out to its network of regional branches in Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao and St Maarten and to the offices of its affiliate Caribbean Accounting Services in Bonaire and Curaçao to encourage and stimulate donations from individual associates and corporate sources, contributing to a substantial, Awg/Fls 57,420 check, designed to help Haiti in a time of great need.
The donation collected on four islands, from PwC employees and owners was presented to Greg Peterson, President Red Cross Aruba by PwC's employees Adeline Marie Blanchard and Sicilia Joseph Jean Mary, who are both of Haitian descent.
In his warm words of acceptance Peterson declared that the world shares the grief and the concerns over the fate of the stricken Pearl of the Caribbean and wished the members of the Caribbean Haitian community strength and resilience in view of the horrors seen on TV. Peterson declared that the funds collected in the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba will be funneled to the Red Cross Haiti, in a matter of days.
PwC's spokesperson reported that the donation was given to the Red Cross, as an international relief organization that operates around the world, and is always prepared to mobilize, save lives and provide much-needed assistance.
PwC is of the opinion, the spokesperson stated, that it is the private sector's obligation to operate in ways that benefit society, and foster the well-being of the community on an ongoing basis.
The people of PwC, he concluded, are committed to playing a leading role in achieving a better future, as they understand and accept their Corporate Responsibility.
PricewaterhouseCoopers (www.pwc.com) provides industry-focused assurance, tax and advisory services to build public trust and enhance value for their clients and their stakeholders. More than 163,000 people in 151 countries across the network share their thinking, experience and solutions to develop fresh perspectives and practical advice.
Winair's activity committee joined with other employees of Winair and some of the management their company's building a well needed face lift. The event held on Saturday last saw a large number of employees along with members of the Management Team painting the company's building on Saturday. The activity which was held by the activity club saw several employees busy at work as they sought to paint the building changing the colors. The colour blue which represents the company was used along with yellow.
According to the airline's Managing Director, Edwin Hodge the event was very well supported which he said is a testimony of the harmony and unity that exists among the staff. He noted that he is overwhelmed with satisfaction and appreciation for all those who got involved stressing that volunteerism was exhibited by all.
Commenting on those who participated in the event he said that persons from several departments got involved noting that seeing members of the management team, along with staff socializing while lending their assistance was a commendable gesture by the activity club which he showered with praise.
"We had pilots, revenue accounting, corporate accounting, maintenance, customer service, IT and operations team members participating in the Winair Paint Party," Hodge said.
The Winiar MD expressed thanks to all involved stating that he and the rest of the management team and the supervisory board members are extremely grateful and thankful to the activity club for its noble gesture. He added that his Management Team remains committed and willing to support and lend whatever assistance to the club for future and continued initiatives declaring that helping to forge unity, harmony and volunteerism among staff continues to form part of Management's objectives.
"We are very thankful to the activity club as this event was truly a success and I would like to see our employees getting involve in other such initiatives. It will help in instilling a spirit of love, appreciation, unity and the desire to volunteer thus raising our level of service," Hodge said.
Declaring the event as being historic Hodge stressed that he is confident that the activity club aided with the support of the employees who volunteered will continue to execute and promote similar initiatives. He added that it is the contributions like these that continue to keep the doors of Winair open for the past 48 years despite the continued growing economic and other challenges.
"It is the demonstration of contributions like these that reassures me that Winair has a team of employees who are truly committed and dedicated in ensuring that Winair remains a viable, efficient and customer service ready airline company as they understand the importance and benefits of working together.
Sucker Garden:-- Traffic backed up on Sunday afternoon when the rider of a motor cycle lost control of his bike and end up under a jeep. The ambulance and fire truck responded to the scene. No information on the rider has been available up to press time.
GREAT BAY– For persons who have relocated overseas, these persons should get in contact with the Civil Registry Department to have their information updated.
Persons who are still registered on the island, but have died while abroad, a family member is requested to visit the Civil Registry Department in order to have the persons file updated. The family member must declare the death with a legalized death certificate (apostille stamp).
Individuals who have moved from one address to another on the island are also requested to inform the Civil Registry Department.
The aforementioned requirements are based on Article 13 sub.2 of the Basic Administration Legislation AB 1999, nr.1 that says that registered individuals who have changed their address are responsible for ensuring that this information is given to the Civil Registry Department within five days. Persons who do not adhere to this are punishable by law.
For the January 22, 2010 Parliamentary elections, an amount of 1031 voting cards remained unclaimed. Probable reasons for this are unknown address; relocation of the individual; or the person died.
Persons who did not collect their voting card are hereby advised to report to the department and verify their address.
For further information, you can call the Civil Registry Department at 542-2457.
Philipsburg: --- The St. Maarten Police Department are currently investigating five murder cases, four of which were committed in 2009 and one in 2010 said Prosecutor Rienk Mud. Mud made clear that his office has determined that a crime has been committed in the death of Christian Lloyd whose body was removed from his St. Peters home on Monday. However, he is not able to give any details on the gruesome killing, which rocked the St Peters neighbourhood.
Asked how the investigations are progressing in the Haresh Dayalani case Mud said that case is progressing well but they have chosen to remain tight-lipped on the investigations. The public prosecutor who is also over the detective department said they are making progress with the investigation into the shooting death of David Eustace Priest but he is not willing to divulge any information to the media since the investigation is currently ongoing.
Mud further explained that the detectives are also investigating the killing of the Haitian man that was found in his Middle Region home, the Eric Yuan Sam killing as well as Lloyd. "We have decided not to give out any information on these murder investigations because none of them are closed. I am sorry I cannot give you or your colleagues anymore information on these investigations except to say they are progressing well," Mud said on Tuesday.
Philipsburg: --- Director of USONA Reginaldo Doran and leader of government William Marlin signed off four projects on Wednesday. Marlin in his opening statements said all four of the projects are being financed by the Dutch Government through USONA. He said the total costs for all four projects are to the tune of nine million guilders. Parties signed off the project that is geared at enhancing legal affairs department. Marlin said this department needs strengthening since they are the ones responsible for working and giving advice on the legislations for country St. Maarten.
The project is expected to take at least 21 months before it is completed and would cost some 2.4 million guilders, the island government he said would be hiring three experienced persons in legal affairs. Marlin said the three new persons who are expected to be brought in from abroad would have the task of jump-starting the process; however, their time on St. Maarten would be on a short-term basis. Government he said would also hire four persons who recently graduated who would be hired on a long-term basis. Marlin said one of the tasks that would be given to those coming in is to train policy advisors in various departments for country St. Maarten.
The island leader also signed off the agreement, which is designed to secure as well as safeguard sensitive documents. Marlin said of the four projects this one is the smallest which would last about one year before it is completed. The cost for the project Marlin said costs 670,000 guilders.
The intention Marlin said is to build a conveyor system that would be used to transport documents such as passports.
Government also signed off on an educational project that is expected to last three years. Marlin said the project is geared at giving school drop outs a second chance in education. Marlin said there are several young people in the community who simply cannot find work because they are not qualified neither they do not have a skill or trade. Marlin said this project will not be attached to any single institution. Trainings for computer repairpersons (technicians) will be given since there is a market for such persons. The project he said will last for three years to the tune of 1.6 million guilders. Marlin said they are hoping that with this project several young persons who are not able to find work would be taken off the blocks. He said while one would hear that persons cannot find work, often time skilled labourers cannot be found. Marlin said this program would target young people between the ages of 16 to 24 years old. He urged the young men and women who are interested in computer training to get involved since this is the opportunity for them upgrade themselves. He said almost every home has computers and there is need for computer repairpersons. He said this training is not offered within the walls of the schools thus those interested should register. Coordinating this project is Drs. Angela Dekker.
The fourth agreement that was signed off on Wednesday is for the construction of 24 three-bedroom homes in Hope Estate. Marlin said there is a large demand for low-income homes. He said while the waiting list is long, government is doing all it can to build more low in-come homes. The island leader said the rent for a decent home surpasses people salaries and because of this several families are living in undesirable conditions. He said there are people who are paying over $1000 for a two-bedroom apartment. Marlin said the Hope Estate Project is mostly for persons who are earning minimum wage. Already the two bedroom apartments are almost complete and tenants would be able to move in by the first week of March. Marlin said government is also in discussion with one of the local banks for a commercial loan with a three percent interest rate so that they can build more three-bedroom homes. Marlin said there are families of five or six that are still living in one-bedroom homes and this he said is creating a social crisis. The island leader said he is of the opinion that when these homes are completed it would bring about a remedy to the current situation.
Marlin said one of the trends now seen in St. Maarten is subletting. He said there are persons from the Caribbean islands that are renting larger homes in residential areas but inside that house there are several families living only in bedrooms. "This is because people who come here to work cannot find affordable houses so they are forced to combine their income." Marlin said explained that because of high renting several persons are living in shacks or shantytowns. Government he said has embarked on building several low-income homes over the years in the hope of rectifying the situation.
Marlin explained that there are people who need proper housing but they simply cannot afford the rents since renting depends on the supply and demand. The island leader said the 24 homes that would be constructed on high-rise on the land that was purchased since 1998. The Dutch government is said will be providing 4.4 million guilders while the island government 900.000 guilders. Marlin said based on the plans these homes will be completed in two years time.
Philipsburg: --- Former Democratic Party Commissioner of labour, youth, and cultural affairs Louie Laviest pleaded with the joint court of appeals on Thursday telling them he is no criminal and that he does not have any bone or hair that is of criminal nature. Laviest admitted to the court that he made several administrative errors regarding his foundations but none of it was of criminal or mal-intent. "When I was elected in 1993 I was young and green, I wanted to impress everyone, and I believe that is where I went wrong. I have learnt a valuable lesson your honor and I would make sure I think things through thoroughly before committing myself in the future." Laviest told the three panel judges.
Laveist was quizzed on the forged minutes of the Culture Club Foundation. Laveist maintained that he and the other members of Culture Club foundation did not forge the minutes, but said he could not understand why Lydia Arnell and Virgillo Brooks would deny attending the meeting or why they would say they were not members of Culture Club. Laveist said he did resign as president of the Culture Club based on advice given to him by AMFO after he requested funding for the "Rally around the Flag project". AMFO he said told him it was best that he resign to avoid conflict of interest. Laveist said even though he resigned as president he did remain a member of the foundation and was instrumental in advising the team.
However, Laveist said he neither the appointed president Roberto Richardson did not follow up with regular procedures by changing their board members at the notary. He said it was an oversight since both him and his team was busy with other projects such as "Christmas Village" Laveist told the judge that Lydia Arnell was the person who was writing checks and making deposits for the Culture Club. He said she was the one doing the administrative work while Virgillo Brooks was the one taking out the invoices and picking up the checks for the foundation. In fact, Lydia Arnell was the project coordinator. He said he does not know if these persons panicked when they were questioned by authorities but maintained that when he resigned both Arnell and Brooks were appointed members of the foundation. Asked if he realized that the mere fact he was acting behind the scenes it was still a matter of conflict of interest?
Laveist said there was nowhere he could have stayed out completely because he was the commissioner of culture and he is the one who suggested the project "flag day." Quizzed about the statements he made to the investigating officers Laveist said when he was arrested and questioned he did not know what hit him and as such he probably did not give all the right answers. He told the judges that it was after he was released he did his research and realized that some errors were made during the administrative process. Laveist said he kicked himself for the mistakes he made but insisted it was all hindsight. Laveist said even his wife Betty Laveist got nervous and made a wrong statement when she was questioned about the forged minutes. "It was only after my wife saw her signature she remembered she was in fact at his office and attended the meeting."
The prosecution claimed Laviest defraud AMFO Naf 22,750 which was transferred to the Culture Club Foundation that was to be used for the celebration of Flag Day. The prosecution said some Naf. 5000.00 were transferred to Laveist's personal account. The former commissioner said that is indeed so, but explained that he took his personal monies and advanced the foundation since they had to find monies to pay an advance on the purchase of the flags. Laveist said the team also took monies from his other foundations to make the payments but the intention was to reimburse everyone when AMFO give them the monies. He said he not think he was doing anything wrong since he took monies out of his account to pay Escobar for the purchase of 6000 flags so they could have met the deadlines. Laveist told the judge that the Culture Club Foundation was established long before he entered politics since he was the host of a radio program, a book and play writer.
The prosecution charged that Laviest took some $6,000 from Bargains Unlimited to provide the company with working permits for their personnel since he was the labor commissioner. Laveist said that company sponsored his cultural radio program for one year. He said the company committed $500 monthly for the program and in return they got two advertising spots and an honorary mention. Laveist said he did not give any of the 15 businesses he lobbied for sponsorship the impression that he would grant them any favors. He said that Bargains Unlimited chose to write one check of $6000.00 to Culture Club instead of monthly payments. As for the 13 working permits the company requested Laveist said he was not aware that they had requested these permits. "It was after one year when that company did not get a response from the labor department they contacted me and I discussed it with the executive council. I also voiced my opinion to the council saying it was unfair to any company to wait for one year and then get a negative advice. I also asked them to reconsider their decision" Laviest said even though there was a moratorium in place it was not illegal for businesses to file their request for labor permits, he further explained that he was not present when the executive council agreed to grant eight of the permits to Bargain Unlimited.
Trip to Canada paid by Bemal Enterprises.
Laveist was also accused of taking $13,000 from BEMAL Enterprises. The monies were used for Laveist and his executive assistant Roberto Richardson to travel to Canada where they went to see the type of furniture that is manufactured there. The prosecutor believes the only reason BEMAL enterprise gave this money to Laveist is because they were promised the contract to furnish the new government building. Laveist said he does not know anything about the $10,000 since he never received any monies from the company. He did admit that BEMAL provided the tickets for both him and Richardson to travel to Canada. Laveist said there was nowhere he could have promised or discussed the contract with Bimbo (BEMAL) since there was not even a terms of reference in place for the government administration building.
Laveist said his trip to Canada was one of sight seeing and that the owner of BEMAL is his neighbor. "I thought Mr. Bimbo was just being a genuine friend, I did not promise him any contract for the new government building, but he did furnish my house which I paid for." Laveist said he felt the businessman was trying to form a relationship with him since they were neighbors. He further stated he would not take even a sweet from anyone since he really learnt a valuable lesson now. Laveist made clear that he did not take any $10,000 from BEMAL instead he paid for his lodgings and sight-seeing himself. The former labour commissioner felt the trip served to be educational for both him and his executive assistant. However, he agreed accepting the tickets from BEMAL was bad judgment since that businessman clearly taught he was going to get something in return.
Sammy the Barber--- Who Owns Barber Shop.
Laveist was also charged and convicted for hiring an illegal barber, Samuel Boney, Laveist said he is not the owner of any business on St. Maarten. He said the barbershop is owned by his sister and nephew. Laveist said when his phone was tapped and he was heard saying that he was at his barber shop it was just a figure of speech, since he would say, "my bank, my doctor" in speaking. He admitted that he lone his nephew monies to open the barbershop since his nephew was looking for work for at least two years. Laveist said he was not the only relative that lone his nephew monies but his two sisters also did the same. The former labour commissioner also admitted that he assisted his nephew with the filling out the forms to request a residence permit for Sammy the barber and he is the one that submitted the forms signed by his nephew. Asked if he believed that he misled people with his actions Laviest said he did but all of it was stupid mistakes.
Laveist admitted that he would sometimes go to the barbershop when his nephew had to run errands.
The panel of judges also want to know why Laveist did not resign from the island council, he responded by saying that he did not feel it was right for him to resign and leave the people who voted for him. They also quizzed him on his future career and wanted to know if he would continue his political career. Laveist said that he does not know what he wanted to do next since the only thing on his mind right now is to vindicate himself and politics for sure is far from his mind for the moment.
The former commissioner known as "Man of Action" broke down in tears when he was asked what he does now for a living. Laveist said he is the only one caring for his bedridden mother who is dependent on him. He said he also takes care of his only daughter who is now four years. Laviest explained the panel that he worked as a civil servant for 26 years as well as for a bank and he never once committed any crime. He said once he was approached by someone who offered him $5,000 for expired passports and he reported the matter. Asked if he would serve on foundations Laviest said that he would stay far away from that even though he is a man who loves to assist people and his community.
Attorney at law Cor Merx surprised both Laviest and those in the tribune when he asked Laveist if he was willing to do community service if for some reason he is convicted. After pondering on the question Laveist said he was ready to do anything for the community if that is what it takes to make things right.
Defense attorney Cor Merx in his pleadings said the prosecution simply did not provide evidence to prove their case. Merx argued viciously against the prosecution case, saying it would not stand up in the supreme courts. Merx made several references of the law as he poked holes in the prosecution case. Merx said AMFO agreed that the time span was short and they approved the monies for Flag Day because the amount was small. According to their own statements, it is clear they don't feel as if they were cheated.
Merx pleaded with the court to acquit Laveist on all of the five charges that was laid against him.
While Attorney General Ton Van der Schans is of a different opinion. He said it does not matter how one looks at this case, it is clear to him that Laveist used his public function to serve his private interest. He said Laveist was switching hats, one time he was commissioner, the other time he is doing things for his foundations.
Van der Schans said the facts of the case were proved and one thing that should not be allowed is that no one should be allowed to entangle their public function with their private business.
He urged the court of appeals to uphold the verdict of the lower court, Van der Schans maintained that Laveist should serve 24 months behind bars and banned from holding public office for five years. The court will pronounce its verdict on February 11 2010 from Curacao.
When Laveist was given the opportunity to speak for the last time, he said he hoped that the judges believed him since he did nothing with criminal intent. He also apologized for the administrative errors that were made on behalf of his foundations.
In the court room on Thursday it was clear the supporters of Laveist was worried at times while they were fully satisfied with his defense lawyer former prosecutor Cor Merx.
GREAT BAY:--- On Wednesday, February 3, Island Council members, the Governor, Commissioner Xavier Blackman, as well as Island Secretary Joane Dovale-Meit, Quartermaster for the Parliament of Country Sint Maarten Cassandra Janssen and the Sector Directors will be attending a workshop on dualism.
The concept of dualism creates the division of power between the Council of Ministers (executive branch) and the Parliament (legislative branch). These two branches of government will be the new institutions that will govern country St. Maarten.
Dualism, the separation of powers, assures checks and balances between the two branches of government, ensuring that the executive branch is supervised by the members of the legislative branch, who are representatives elected by the people.
The current structure of Executive Council and Island Council will cease to exist on 10-10-10 and be replaced by the Council of Ministers and the Parliament of Country Sint Maarten. Persons who are members of parliament will not be able to sit in the Council of Ministers at the same time.
The theme of the workshop is: "Dualism in Country St. Maarten 10-10-10," and is organized by the Island Secretary's office in collaboration with the Dutch Association of Municipalities (VNG).
Experts from the VNG will share their knowledge based on their experiences of dualism in politics. Dualism workshops were first introduced to Dutch politicians in 2002.
Dutch experts from the VNG will present the pros and cons of dualism based on experiences in Holland. A discussion will then take place on how to introduce the concept of dualism in the new governmental institutions for country St. Maarten at the political level in order to achieve a balance between the executive and legislative levels of government.
The four VNG experts who will be providing information to the workshop participants are: Nico Schoof, Gilbert Isabella, Marieke Verhoeven and Famke Kweekel.
The workshop will take place at the Sonesta Great Bay Beach Hotel.
GREAT BAY (GIS) — The Sector of R.O.B., department of Maintenance would hereby like to inform the general public that the patch of potholes will starts as of this week. After carrying out an island wide inventory of all of the potholes, priorities has been set for which area's patching will be executed first. The priority patching will be executed to relieve the traffic congestion and danger to the road users in general.
The following roads/areas have been defined as priority areas:
- Philipsburg area, Walter Nisbeth Rd, Cannegieter Rd, Long Wall Rd.
- Bush Rd,
- LB Scott Rd,
- Cole Bay area, Welfare Rd, Union Rd, Waterfront Rd.
- Simpson Bay / Airport Rd.
The milling of the area's and potholes will be executed prior to the patching with asphalt. The period between milling and patching will in most cases not exceed more than 24 hours. Motorists are advised to exercise patients and caution while driving. The patching will be executed in general outside the "peak hours" and in the evening hours. Patching will be executed during the weekdays and Sundays, but not on the Fridays and Saturdays.
For more information about the planned work interested persons can contact the Sector of R.O.B. department of Maintenance (Mr. C. Buncamper or Mr. B. Ortega).
Philipsburg: ---- The killers of Jean Claude Busquet are scheduled to appear before the court of First Instance on February 24 confirmed Prosecutor Rienk Mud. Mud said the suspects have confessed to the crime. Busquet was killed on December 12 at his business place the Bumper Car Fun Park in Simpson Bay.
SMN News learnt that the main suspect a Jamaican also killed two persons in his country and he only arrived on St. Maarten recently. The source said the culprit managed to get a job 24 hours after he arrived on the island at the Bumper Car Fun Park and that he killed his employer less than one month after. Asked about this Mud said he is not able to get information from Jamaica that easily. He said for his office to receive the police records of the suspect he has to file an international request.
Now that it is stated that the suspect killed at least two persons in Jamaica prior to him coming to St. Maarten questions are being raised about the island's immigration system. The source said that anyone including notorious criminals is allowed to enter St. Maarten as long as they have the required amount of show monies at the airport. "There is no background check on anyone coming here. Had they implemented the visa for Guyanese and Jamaicans that person would not be here. He would have been screened prior to getting a visa." The source said.
Philipsburg:--- Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson confirmed on Wednesday that the police have not arrested any suspects in the Christian Lloyd murder investigation. The statement given on Wednesday confirms the statement made by Public Prosecutor Rienk Mud on Tuesday. However, Mud had said on Tuesday that the police were busy hearing several persons. Mud did not rule out suspended police officer Germaine Semeleer as one of the persons they are hearing when contacted on Tuesday. However, he did say that no one was arrested on Tuesday.
Henson in his press release says that the police department wants to clarify that in connection with the ongoing investigation, with regards to the murder of the late Christian Lloyd, whose body was discovered at his home on January 25th 2010, the Police Department wants bring some clarification to the media reports that have been in circulation. The investigation into this case is still ongoing and contrary to the reports that have been circulating in the local media, no one has been arrested by the police in connection with this case. The Public Prosecutors Office has also stated the same to the media. The police department regrets the fact that the media is giving incorrect information.
The police department wants to inform the general public that when a suspect in this case is arrested the media will be informed.
Until an arrest is made, the police department will not be giving any further comments or information with regards to this ongoing and very sensitive investigation.
In an invited comment Public Prosecutor Rienk Mud said that he is not making any further comment on the case for now. Asked if anything has changed from Tuesday to Wednesday Mud said no comment.
Based on sources that are closely attached to the police department the alleged suspect was being questioned by police in relation to the ongoing murder investigations. Several of our sources say that the detectives handling the case have their man. It is still not clear if the suspended officer is talking to the police on a voluntary basis.
SMN News reported on Friday and Tuesday that information into this investigation is not forthcoming from law enforcement.
Philipsburg: ---Some 20 immigration officers who completed the course on becoming an immigration officer from St. Maarten and Statia received their diploma on Thursday at the Philipsburg Police Station. Also receiving a certificate of recognition was Chief Inspector Carl John for being a mentor to these officers.
Sarah Wescot-Williams, presenting on behalf of herself and DP president, Mr.Michael Ferrier, 2 checks to the Christian Council as part of this Council's effort to raise funds for Haiti's relief. Accepting the checks is Pastor Wycliffe Smith of the New Testament Baptist Church. The pledges by the DP leader and NAPA were made during the recent radiothon held in aid of the Haitian people.
MARIGOT—The gendarmes arrested a 23 year old man who is suspected of robbing a grocery store in French Quarter at gunpoint. A press release from the gendarmerie said the incident occurred on December 7. The suspect they said acted alone and he assaulted the employees including the cashier. The gun man also fired shots in the air.
The gendarmes also arrested a 21 year old man after he snatched a handbag of an 83 year old woman. The robbery occurred on Saturday in Bellevue. The elderly woman was injured during the ordeal.
The officers also arrested a 35 year old man who was in possession of monies as well as marijuana and cocaine. The suspected drug dealer was released but will appear in court at a later date.
Philipsburg: --- Information reaching SMN News states that the leader of the People's Progressive Party Gracita Arrindell and Commissioner Theo Heyliger are to sign an agreement as early as Tuesday declaring that they have begun talks to form the new green party.
SMN News learnt that Heyliger and Arrindell had agreed prior to the parliamentary elections that they were going to team up for country election which is slated for June 2010.
According to supporters of Heyliger, the commissioner already has a Chinese businessman, an Arab and an Indian to form part of his list. Among them it is understood is police inspector Johan Janchi Leonard. SMN News learnt that Heyliger is impressed with the 600 votes Arrindell obtained during the January 22 election and he wants to make sure she does not change her mind. "It's about votes and winning for Heyliger so he can remain in government to complete the half a billion road projects he has in the works." The source said. When contacted for a comment Heyliger confirmed he has been talking with several persons to form his new party. He did not say when and where he is going to sign off on the declaration. In an invited comment the PPA leader Gracita Arrindell said she would neither confirm nor deny if she is teaming up with Heyliger to form the new party.
Philipsburg: --- The management team of the police department KPSSS has removed a second detective handling murder cases in recent days. SMN News learnt that two Friday's ago detective Norwin Villarreal was removed from one of the recent murder investigations that are currently being investigated.
The source said that the management team also removed Villarreal from the detective department and transferred him to the Simpson Bay police outpost. It is further understood that the matter came up for discussion on Friday last week when members of the NAPB and the ABVO met with the management team of KPSSS.
Currently the KPSSS and the RST are busy investigating five unsolved murder cases. They are Haresh Dayalani, David Eustace Priest, Christian Lloyd, Eric Yuan Sam and Saliba Absalon.
In an invited comment Villarreal said he is not willing to divulge any information regarding the case since he requested an investigation.
This is the second local detective that has been removed from a particular murder investigation. The first was detective Carlton Philips who spoke out against what he termed as discrimination within the police force and more recently, Norwin Villarreal for unknown reasons.. Since his removal the Prosecutor's office has since refused to work with Philips even though he is still working in the detective department. The prosecutor's office had made clear that unless Philips apologized to them they were not going to work with him.
SMN News made several phone calls to Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police Ademar Doran for a comment on this new development but Doran never answered his cellular phone.
Philipsburg: --- Jacqueline Bennet is the new Life Insurance manager at NAGICO Insurances and she brings a very strong philosophy with her, which should ensure the success of the company's Life Insurance product as well as the expansion of the Group Life department. Her mantra is, "To be successful in the Life Insurance Business: Believe in Life Insurance, believe in the Company you represent and believe in yourself!"
This self confidence has enabled her to rally through 15 years in the Insurance industry; moving from being a novice to emerging as one of the most well respected Insurance Executives in Trinidad and Tobago. Her career achievements have been solid, winning several industry accolades; she was "Rookie of The Year" not only Sagicor, but for the whole Insurance Industry in Trinidad in 1995. After that, she was named "Agent of The Year" for several years, some consecutively, over the years, Jacqueline was always" The Top Producer" in policies sold, selling over 100 every year.
Ms. Bennet is a Certified Financial planner, CFP, and her many other Life Insurance Courses qualifications include the CLU. She has also completed Manager's courses with LIMRA.
This outstanding Insurance Executive has attended the Million Dollar Round Table meetings on several occasions and became head of her own Agency in 2005 and had one of the Top Performing Agencies not only in Trinidad but in The Caribbean.
Marigot:--- Family and supporters of the United Volleyball Club youth teams are being encouraged to come out and support them in their matches at the Great Bay Sports Auditorium on Saturday.
The United youth teams are currently taking part in the annual tournament of the Ligue de Volleyball des Iles du Nord in Galisbay. However, because of a technicality with logistics, the League will be using the GBSA for the games this weekend.
This is a great opportunity for the United teams, says Rhoda Arrindell, club coordinator. "At least this way a lot of parents and supporters who don't usually get to see them play in Galisbay will get the opportunity to see how the children have been progressing. Of course, the parents know that their children train weekly with the coaches, Clevie and Raymond, but they seldom get to see their progress, and at least now they can't use the excuse of the distance," she added.
Because of inactivity of the sport in the South, the UVC youngsters have been participating in the adult tournament for the past two years. This year, when the League introduced the junior games in January, it was natural for the teams to participate. This means that UVC has male and female teams in the senior and junior divisions.
While the less experienced females have struggled in the senior division, the males have been doing very well and are well on their way to the playoffs. Both boys and girls are expected to do well in the junior division, which wraps up in June.
The games on Saturday start at 7:00 p.m. with the UVC females expected to face No Limit, and the males taking on WIS.
Recently a new option for HIV testing became available. You can now take the HIV test at home. However, home testing is not for everyone. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved HIV home tests are as accurate as the antibody tests done in doctor's offices and health departments, and they use the same ELISA/Western Blot/IFA tests. However, not all home test kits are the same, and some companies are selling unapproved tests, the accuracy of which is unknown (see below). Like other antibody tests, these tests are subject to the same six-month waiting period in order for the tests to be fully accurate. The FDA-approved home tests are more than 99% accurate beyond six months after a possible exposure to the virus.
There are certain pros and cons to using home testing kits.
Pros:• A person who's scared about being seen in a clinic can do the test without anyone outside their home knowing about it. They may feel more comfortable doing the test alone.
• These tests can be purchased in some stores, or ordered by phone or on the Internet, and can be an option for those who do not have transportation to local clinics, or who are home-bound due to disabilities.
• The FDA-approved tests are as accurate as antibody tests commonly used in clinics around the country. However, keep in mind that, unfortunately, there are unapproved home HIV tests being sold to consumers (see below).
Cons:• Home testing is more expensive than going to the local health department. Testing through local health departments, and some private agencies, is free or low-cost. Home test kits can cost up to $50.
• Another issue to be dealt with is confidentiality. If a person buys a home test kit in a store, everyone in the store will know that the person is taking an HIV test. Another option would be to purchase the kits by phone or through the Internet.
• When you order the tests (by phone or via the Internet), you must give your name and address. When you order by credit card, the charge for the test will appear on your credit card statement. Although your name is not linked to your test results, people who see your credit card statement may find out that you're being tested.
• When taking a test at home, after you're finished taking the test, all the packaging from the kit has to be well hidden in the garbage. If a garbage man empties your garbage, and sees the test kit packaging, they'll know you took an HIV test. Also, if your garbage gets ripped open by animals, or if the garbage can gets blown open by the wind (and gets blown all over your neighborhood), your neighbors can also know you've been tested. So for people taking the home test, I say "hide your garbage!"
• In a home test kit, a person has a test ID card that is used to identify the specimen by number. Anyone who has the number can get the test result over the phone. The person who is being tested has to make sure that nobody else sees the card. Otherwise, any person who sees the card or the number can get that other person's test results. So it's important that a person getting tested at home doesn't leave the ID number lying around the house, where other members of the household can see it. This differs dramatically from testing through the health department. To ensure confidentiality, health departments will usually not give test results over the phone or by mail. Test results through the health department are usually given in person.
• Getting test results over the phone can be hard to deal with, especially if the test is positive. A person can just hang up and never hear all the counseling and information they need to hear. For this reason test counseling is best done face-to-face, and is most effective this way.
• Using home testing, if a person is positive, there is no way to do partner notification (anonymously helping a person's sex/needle-sharing partners know they've been exposed). Partner notification is routinely done by local health departments around the country for HIV and other STDs. Home testing bypasses this important, and proven, preventive health measure.
• There are presently two home HIV testing companies that have received FDA approval for these types of tests, Home Access, and Confide, which is no longer on the market. Unfortunately I recently discovered at least three other companies that are selling home HIV tests that have not been approved by the FDA. The three companies I found were all advertising via the Internet. Beware of these unapproved kits and only use Home Access for now.
The test itself takes about an hour to do (which includes time for the specimen to dry and to package up the sample to send to the lab). It also includes a lot of reading material. I therefore recommend about two hours doing the test at home. This includes all the time to read the materials, and to do the actual test.
It is up to you to decide whether home testing is for you. However, you must first understand the pros and cons of home testing. It has its benefits, but it also has its drawbacks, as discussed above. But if you decide to take a home test, make sure that it is sold by a legitimate company. Otherwise, you may be wasting your money, and possibly endangering your health.
Philipsburg:--- Devon Otto would have to spend the next 30 years behind bars for the slaying of census office worker Stanley Orlando Gumbs. Stanley Gumbs was killed on March 31 2008, his body was found in front of Carolina Bar.
Among the ten charges against Otto, he was charged with manslaughter, theft with violence as well as threatening of two police officers. The court of first instance had sentenced Otto to 21 years behind bars but he appealed claiming he did not kill anyone. Otto was also wanted for rape and armed robbery on the French side of the island.
Philipsburg:--- Police have arrested the owner of a pawn shop located on A.T Illidge Road as a suspect in one of their murder investigations. SMN News learnt that police arrested Ricky Lake on Monday for his involvement in the shooting of a Kittian man known as Hensley at his father's guess house on the night of August 11 2007. Lake is also a suspect in a major robbery case that took place days before the murder.
Hensley was killed execution style in room at Lake's Guest House. During the shooting there were three persons in the room, two men and a woman all of whom it is understood was involved in a jewelry heist at Diamonds International at Oyster Pond. SMN News learnt that Lake, Charles Barry and the deceased man were friends while in prison. It is further understood that Hensley returned to the island and was staying at Lake's Guest House prior to the robbery, two days later the deadly shootout took place. Police arrested Lake in 2007 when he returned to St. Maarten from a trip to Puerto Rico. He was held for some ten days before being released.
Also in custody for these crimes is Charles Barry who was arrested some weeks ago. Sources say police managed to recover valuable evidence when they started the murder investigation of David Eustace Priest. Prosecutor Hans Mos confirmed the arrest of Lake. Mos said Lake is a suspect in the 2007 murder investigations.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—The Department of Education hereby informs all parents that the second phase of the implementation of compulsory education begins with the registration of students between the ages of 7 and 9. This registration is important in order to get an accurate picture of the number of students (whose status is not regulated – the so-called undocumented) that need to be placed within the school system for the upcoming school year.
Registration will take place
Date: February 22nd to February 26th
Place: Department of Education
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
And
Date: March 8th to March 12th
Place: Department of Education
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Parents are advised to bring along the following documents:
- An original birth certificate of the child
- The passport of the child (especially if the child was not born on St.
Maarten)*
- A valid residence permit (if there is one)
- 2 passport pictures of the child
- Identification (passport) of the person registering the child
- If the registration is not being done by the parent, proof of legal
guardianship
- Report card of child
- Immunization card
All birth certificates in a foreign language must be officially translated in English or Dutch. Please ensure that you bring along the original documents as well as photocopies of the requested documents.
The Department of Education is located on the N. Debrot Street (across from the post office). Should there be questions, please contact us at 542-3718 or visit the Department of Education during the registration period.
All parents of students who fit the category listed above are strongly encouraged to make use of this registration process.
*The information page of the passport should be photocopied.
PHILIPSBURG – Are you interested in pursuing a Master of Arts in Education (MAE) or a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree with the University of St. Martin in conjunction with the University of the Virgin Islands?
If so, the University of St. Martin (USM) will be having an information session on Friday, February 19, 2010 from 4pm to 5pm for you.
Dr. Ron Harrigan of the Education Division at the University of the Virgin Islands will be present to give information to all perspective students. The information session will in rooms 202-203 at the University of St. Martin. USM has been offering MAE program in conjunction with the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) since 2003 and the aim is to also offer the MBA. Some 18 students so far have received their degrees in the MAE program which runs for two years. The areas of concentration in this program include administration and supervision, counseling and guidance, and teaching.
"I am pleased to see this informative meeting regarding the master's programs finally coming to fruition. It is an important step for students, who have been waiting a while for the start of the program to receive answers to all their questions," USM Admissions Director Angelique Hazel said.
USM has also invited officials from the Education Division study-financing section to attend this session.
"We have a significant amount of persons on the island who are interested in pursuing their MAE degree and some who want to pursue their MBA degree. With St. Maarten heading to a new constitutional status, having advanced degrees will be important. This information session should be seen as an opportunity and all interested persons are urged to attend," said USM Marketing Director Michel Chance.
The Masters of Arts in Education and the Masters in Business Administration programs are open to students who have completed a Bachelor's degree and who meet the respective admissions requirements. All students have to meet the requirements as stipulated by the UVI and upon completion of the respective program, students will receive degrees from the University of the Virgin Islands.
"So much planning and personal preparation goes into furthering one's studies as this level. It's an investment, and after this meeting interested persons should have a better idea of how this program will fit in with their work schedules and personal lives. In the coming months the application timeline will be most important," Hazel noted.
Invitations have been sent out to those persons who have inquired at USM about the respective programs but members of the general public are also invited to attend the session on Friday at USM. Persons interested can call the USM Admissions Office at tel. 542-5171 ext. 1008 to confirm their attendance.
Philipsburg:--- On Saturday February 13th at approximately 10.45 a.m. a police patrol was sent to Francis Bar on the A.Th. Illidge road to investigate a case of a stolen air-condition. On the scene the officers spoke to the man with initials J.M.E.P. who stated that a few days ago unknown persons had stolen a air-condition belonging to MICRO DEVICE located on the Illidge road. The establishment in questioned belonged to a family member of his. J.M.E.P. further stated, that he recognized the same air-condition unit in the possession of the man with the initials N.A.M.D. The investigating officers spoke to N.A.M.D. who stated that he received the airco-unit from a unknown drug addict. N.A.M.B. was arrested on the spot and taken to the Philipsburg Police Station, where he was handed over to the Detective Department. The airco-unit was also confiscated for further investigation.
Bel Air:--- The police are currently investigating a drive by shooting which took place on Saturday at approximately 11.35 a.m. a police patrol was sent to Little Bay road # 5 to investigate a shooting incident reported police spokesman Ricardo Henson. On the scene the investigating officers said they spoke to a lady identified as C.M.R. who said that she had learnt that during the night time hours that two men who were riding on a scooter fired shots at a group of men living in the Down Street area. As a result of this shooting one of the bullets penetrated the frame of a bedroom window, hitting a closet and then penetrating the bedroom door. No one was injured during the incident and none of the persons who were shot at filed a police report. The Detective and Forensic Department have been called in to investigate the matter.
Philipsburg:--- Last week the Lion's Club of St Maarten presented the White and Yellow Cross Foundation with a check to support the foundation's latest project.
In September 2009 a group of 18 students started with the SBO Nursing Assistant Course level 2 at the Sundial School. This course is organized by SVOBE, under supervision of IFE Curacao (the Nursing School). The first block of the course consisted of theoretical hours and was completed successfully in December. At present the students have started their practical period, consisting of 4 days of traineeship per week at the White and Yellow Cross Foundation or the SMMC and 1 day theory at the Sundial School. The school fee has been kept very low by SVOBE to enable the students to take part in this two-year course. Books and uniforms are provided to the students free of charge. This resulted in a very high number of registrations and a full class.
During job training the SBO students do not receive any salary or other income and health care organizations would like to compensate these students with a small training fee. However, the WYCF already has financial deficits and difficulty to cover its basic operations, leaving no monies to spare for such a job training compensation. Therefore Bregje Boetekees-van't Hof, Operations Manager of the WYCF decided to approach service clubs to consider sponsoring some of these students by paying their job training fee. The Lion's Club was the first to be contacted and immediately responded positive. To sponsor and "adopt" several local students to obtain a diploma in nursing appealed very much to them and they did not hesitate to participate.
The WYCF and SVOBE hope that other service clubs, organizations and businesses will join this project and assist with this worthwhile cause. The total amount collected so far for this project is $ 3.500 and to complete it another $ 3.700 is needed.
Marigot: --- The gendarmes are busy investigating the death of Henri Almando Avalam (25) of St. Martin whose body was found in a home in Concordia early Thursday morning.
According to Prosecutor Jacques Louvier, Henri was killed while looking through a window at some bandits who were busy breaking into his car to steal materials.
Louvier said the young man was working as an electrician and he had lots of materials including a DVD player in his vehicle at the time.
Louvier said Henri was at his girlfriend's house at the time of the incident. He said it appeared as if Henri heard when someone was breaking his vehicle and he decided to look through a window to see what was happening but the bandits responded by firing one shot at the victim, which killed him on the spot. Louvier made clear that the victim was a working man and that he was not known by the Gendarmerie.
The French prosecutor said the gendarmes are busy investigating the case.
In the meantime, a press release from the Gendarmerie states that the SMUR and the fire brigade responded to the scene around 3:30 am but was unable to revive the victim. The gendarmes also confirmed that a number of their agents are now working on the case. Notably this is the second murder recorded on the French side of the island for the year 2010.
Philipsburg: --- Police on St. Maarten sent back former police officer Gregory Rogelio Koieman to Curacao on Thursday. Koeiman is wanted for a murder investigation on his native island.
Prosecutor Hans Mos said the suspect left the island on Thursday for Curacao. Police on St. Maarten arrested Koeiman on the request of Curacao Police as he is a person of interest in the shooting death of a musician identified as Gabriel Santos Castillo. Mos said the police squad team and other officers did an excellent job in locating Koieman and arrested in such a short period of time.
Koeiman was convicted for several robberies he committed while serving the police force. Sources close to the police on St. Maarten KPSSS said the former officer has disgraced the police force since he is constantly involved in criminal activities. One of the persons who openly showed his frustration towards reporters and the fact SMN News reported that Koieman was a former police officer is the spokesperson for the NAPB police union Carlyle Rogers. Rogers in a comment on this website and another website felt that reporters are targeting the KPSSS since they are still linking Koeiman to the police force even though he was fired some 16 years ago.
Philipsburg:---Acting on information received from an anonymous caller that someone was seen with two handguns, the Zero Tolerance team and patrols from the Philipsburg District went to St. Peters area to investigate the matter. At around 05.00 p.m while on the Grapefruit Road in Sint Peters, the driver of the rental car with the number plate R- 290 who was identified as the suspect with initials L. A. P. was stopped.
L.A.P. is from Sint Maarten and he is living in Sandy Ground on the French side. When asked if he was in possession of any weapons, he admitted he did. During a search of the vehicle two fully loaded revolvers caliber .38 special were found and confiscated. Both revolvers were loaded with hollow point bullets. 10 extra hollow point bullets along with two knives were also found and confiscated. L.A.P. was arrested on the spot and taken to the Philipsburg Police Station and handed over to the Detective Department for further investigation.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—The Sector Economy and Tourism, consisting of the Departments of Economic Policy and Research (DEPR), Permits and Licenses, Public Vending and Economic Control (VOSEC), and Control, Inspection and Security (CIB), held a workshop to deal with the implementation of Residential Economic, Vending, and Beach policies.
The training which took place at the UTS Training Center was to inform the controllers, inspectors, front- and back-office employees of the specific changes and new regulations.
The topics were opening hours, residential economic policy, land usage conflict, complaints, guidelines for the issuances of licenses, business activities prohibited in residential areas and those businesses allowed in residential areas, guidelines for controllers and inspectors, penalty structure, problem outline in the areas of vending and beach policy, and guidelines for issuance and control of vending licenses, approval for stationary permits, beach activities guidelines, vending licenses guidelines, and the board walk policy.
Business hours are extended on Thursday to 9pm and all businesses, unless otherwise restricted, are eligible to apply for extended opening hours on Sundays and days equal to Sunday from 11am to 3pm.
Business activities prohibited in residential areas (and only allowed in commercial areas):
• Bars
• Restaurants with music
• Discos and Nightclubs (entertainment establishments)
• Carwashes
• Automobile garages & salvage junkyards
• Adult entertainment
• Any other establishment that creates public nuisance
Business activities allowed in residential areas:
• Administrative offices
• Medical offices
• Spa facilities
• Day care facilities (pre-schools)
• Assisted living facilities (nursing homes, group homes and orphanages)
• Professional offices, such as but not limited to:
o Architectural firms
o Law firms, notaries, insurance companies, trust & management companies
o Accounting
Businesses are active when following 'burden of proof' is submitted at VOSEC:
• Documentation that business has paid SVB/BTP w/in last 3 months
• Copy of Wage Tax of last 3 months (employees)
• Copy of stamped monthly TOT documentation from Federal Receiver (3 months)
• Copy GEBE bill incl. receipts from last 3 months-> address business must correspond with address on GEBE bill
• Copy of business license
Underneath are some regulations regarding the operations of Businesses, namely:
• Businesses with unrelated activities are not eligible to establish at same location;
• Establishments that require a hindrance permit will not be issued a license w/in residential areas;
• It is prohibited for property owners, landlords, and renters, businesses and vending permit holders to allow their property, establishment or place of business to be used for noisy or unruly assembly (per article 46 of the APK St Maarten)
• Business licenses will not be granted in contradiction to the land usage as specified in Deed.
The following actions and penalties will be imposed on offenders:
- Scenario 1: In case the establishment has required documentation
- 1st and 2nd violation : written warning
- 3rd violation: closure for 1 week
- 4th violation: closure for 1 month
- 5th violation: closure for 3 months
- 6th violation: revocation of license
- Scenario 2: If establishment doesn't have required documentation, the penalty is immediate closure until all documents are in order. In case the documentation is in process, a letter by VOSEC needs to be shown as proof.
GREAT BAY,– The total number of returned ballot cards for the Netherlands Antilles Parliamentary elections was 1036. The Civil Registry Department will be embarking on a campaign to find out where these persons are in order to have its electoral registry up to date in time for country Sint Maarten elections.
A plan of action has been developed to deal with the 1036 persons whose physical address has been labelled as unknown.
The plan includes publishing the names of the persons; however a letter will be sent to them first to their last known address on file. If no response is received within a certain timeframe, the follow-up will be a visit from Civil Registry Control Officers who will determine if the person is still residing at that particular address.
The Civil Registry Department is seeking the cooperation of the 1036 persons whose address is unknown, to get in contact with the office as soon as possible.
For persons who have relocated overseas, their residential physical address information is required in order to make sure the registry files are up to date.
Persons who are still registered on the island, but have died while abroad, a family member is requested to visit the Civil Registry Department in order to have the persons file updated. The family member must declare the death with a legalized death certificate (apostille stamp).
Individuals who have moved from one address to another on the island are also requested to inform the Civil Registry Department.
The aforementioned requirements are based on Article 13 sub.2 of the Basic Administration Legislation AB 1999, nr.1 which says that registered individuals who have changed their address are responsible for ensuring that this information is given to the Civil Registry Department within five days. Persons who do not adhere to this are punishable by law.
For further information you can call the Civil Registry Department at 542-2457.
Philipsburg: ---The police and prosecutor's office is busy investigating what is considered a prank call to the Princess Juliana International Airport on Friday alerting them of a bomb threat. Prosecutor Rienk Mud said even though the detectives on St. Maarten are busy working on several murder investigations they are also putting a lot of focus on finding the person or persons responsible for calling PJIAE on Friday evening.
Mud said whenever the person or persons are caught they will be prosecuted since the island has lost a considerable amount of monies with the threat and scare. Fire fighters, police, and ambulance personnel were dispatched to the Princess Juliana International Airport on Friday to search the entire building and its surroundings after someone called the Airport Towers telling them a bomb was placed at the airport. For the sake of safety and security management of PJIAE and the police closed St. Maarten Airspace for the area to be searched.
The airport was reopened on Saturday morning for regular services. Hundreds of passengers travelling on KLM, US Air and other airlines had to stay over on St. Maarten Friday evening due to the bomb threat. It is not yet clear if the airlines and other businesses are going to file civil cases against the perpetrator of this cowardly act.
MARIGOT—A 24 year old man was sentenced to six months behind bars with one year probation for committing at least two armed robberies, the gendarmes reported. The convict committed two armed robberies on February 14 and 16th in both cases monies were stolen.
...
CHAA held consultation meetings with key stakeholders recently at five of its six offices throughout the Caribbean to share the organization's new Strategic Framework for the next three years and to engage in stakeholder dialogue regarding the framework.
The meeting was used to provide an overview of the work CHAA has done and continues to do across the region. The Strategic Framework outlines six strategic objectives, comprising work around promoting universal access to prevention, care and support services for key populations in the Caribbean region; the implementation of appropriate intervention strategies, based on evidence, to prevent the spread of HIV and AIDS for key populations; strengthening Civil Society to participate effectively in the response to the HIV and AIDS epidemic; increasing access to effective community-based HIV and AIDS programmes for key populations; working in partnership with key stakeholders for the eradication of stigma and discrimination and securing CHAA's long term viability and sustainability.
Following the presentations, stakeholders actively participated by expressing their thoughts on how CHAA can further support efforts to reduce stigma and discrimination; build capacity among civil society agencies in addition to sharing statistical data and information on lessons learnt. It was agreed that such collaborations would enable more effective, focused, and informed decision-making; as well as remove duplication of efforts, thereby resulting in better use of making more effective use of available resources at the respective agencies and lastly, information sharing which can be used to influence national policy.
The meetings concluded with unanimous consent that the consultation was a positive step forward; attendees applauded CHAA for taking the initiative to host such meetings and in leading the way in strengthening alliances throughout the Caribbean.
One representative indicated that the consultation meeting was greatly appreciated and said it was necessary to host similar meetings on an ongoing basis since it facilitates information exchange, the generation of ideas and greater involvement and partnerships.
Basil Williams, CHAA's executive director indicated he was very pleased with the outcome of the meetings and promised that CHAA will intensify its efforts to positively impact on the reduction of HIV and AIDS in the Caribbean. He stated that stakeholder partnership is essential to a comprehensive and effective approach when responding to the HIV and AIDS epidemic in the Caribbean. Officials who attended the meeting representing national, regional and international organizations' included: UNAIDs; the British High Commissioner to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean; Ministries of Social Development; Community Development; Youth Affairs; Education; Health and; Gender Affairs, as well as, Police Service; Red Cross; Peace Corps; Christian Council; National Aids Secretariats; Family Planning Associations; Centers for Disease Prevention and Control and; representatives from the medical fraternity, to name a few. The stakeholder consultation meetings took place at CHAA offices in Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, St Kitts and Nevis, St Vincent and the Grenadines and its headquarters in Trinidad and Tobago.
The CHAA was launched as a country programme of the International HIV/AIDS Alliance (IHAA) in 2003. CHAA became a regionally registered NGO and transitioned to a Linking Organization status of the IHAA family in December 2008.
Marigot: --- Mayor of the former commune of St. Martin Raoul Albert Fleming is facing a six months suspended prison sentence with a 10,000 Euros fine for not making sure all the necessary paper work were in place prior to granting Rainbow Transportation Services (RTS) a contract in December 2004. Collectivity worker Priscilla Bade is also facing a 5000.00 Euros fine and a six month suspended prison sentence for not complying with the French laws when she registered Rainbow Transportation Services (RTS).
Prosecutor Jacques Louvier told the court on Thursday that Fleming as Mayor of St. Martin and the President of the bidding commission did not execute his duties and verify if RTS was eligible for the contract that was awarded to them. Rainbow Transportation Services (RTS) was registered after the bidding process Louvier argued since the necessary paperwork was not provided. The case was brought to the attention of the justice system in 2005 when the preceptor of St. Martin found out that RTS was not fully registered.
Louvier asked the president of the Court of First Instance to impose a six month suspended prison sentence and 10,000 Euros fine for the administrative errors on Fleming and six months suspended sentence with a Euros 5000.00 on Priscilla Bade.
The presiding court president asked Fleming and Bade several questions as to what sort of relationship the two had. It was clear that the court wanted to know if Fleming and Bade had an intimate relationship or if she was paying the Mayor for the contract. "How far away is your office from Mr. Fleming and how often do you see him and who recruited you as a civil servant and are you qualified for the position were some of the questions posed to Bade by the court's president. Obviously shaken and nervous Bade was looking to her lawyer Maitre Aude Richards for assistance to provide the right answers. On several occasions during the trial Bade struggled to provide the answers to the questions posed to her by the court's president.
However, the court's president made sure he got the answers from Bade and not her lawyer. Bade is also accused of hiring four workers illegally since none of them were declared. She told the judge that she has minimum share in the company and that she did not fill in the necessary paper work. Bade said RTS belonged to her brother and she is just a shareholder. Asked how much she was paying each of the four employees Bade had trouble answering those questions since she claimed she was not the one paying the workers. She also indicated to the court that the four employees were not working for her instead; they were working for RTS.
Maitre Richards during his arguments said the person that filled in the necessary paper work for the December 24 2004 bidding was the father of Bade's only child and that the company was registered in September 2004. Maitre Richards also provided several documents to the court to show that his client and RTS did comply with the laws as stipulated.
Pricilla Bade was the head of communications for the commune of St. Martin when the company was registered and the bidding took place. Richards also argued that this case is based on discrimination since the court is doing its best to prosecute Fleming a well-known St. Martiner who gave 30 years of his life to public service. Richards also pointed out that the bidding commission had six members to which Fleming was the president. He said on December 24th 2004 there were four of the six members that handled the bidding and yet only Mayor Fleming is prosecuted. He asked where are the others and why is it they are free to live their lives while his client and the Mayor are being prosecuted. Richards said the judge of instruction also pointed out that the technician and the rapporteur that handled the files prior to presenting them to the commission should be held responsible.
In the meantime, Mayor Fleming made sure he indicated to the court that they need to pay attention to the choice of words they use when dealing with the case, at some point the court's president wanted to question Fleming about Bade and him and instead of using her name or function; he referred to her as Fleming's collaboratice. Fleming told the judge Pricilla Bade was not working for him personally, she is an employee of the commune now Collectivity of St. Martin. He also made clear that the young woman standing beside him in the court is a civil servant. As for charges, Fleming admitted that the bidding commission failed to examine the files properly. He said that the bids passed through a technician before it gets to the commission and that the only way a dossier would reach them is if it qualified. However, the court's president and prosecutor did not accept Fleming's argument saying that the least he could have done is open the envelopes when it was presented to the commission and verify them as President of the commission. Prosecutor Louvier said he was president of several commissions and he knows how the process works since there are statues on these commissions. Louvier argued that the files on each bid was in the hands of Fleming as well as the other members and the rapporteur and all they had to do was examine them. Fleming in his final statement to the court said that he does not know if the court has an idea as to how many files passed through him during the 30 years as public servant. He said the only contract that catches the eye of the court system is the contract granted to RTS and hoped they can consider an acquittal.
The court also summoned head of the human resources of the Collectivity Vernon Roper to question him on the relationship between Fleming and Bade. Roper was asked who recruited Bade for the job at the Collectivity and how did the hiring take place. Roper told the court that Bade was seeing the Mayor on a daily basis since she was the head of the communications department. Roper said in his eyes there was nothing extra-ordinary between Mayor Fleming and Bade. He was asked who recruited civil servants while Fleming was Mayor. Roper responded by saying that it would be either him or Fleming but in the case of Bade he did the recruitment, which the Mayor sanctioned. The court is expected to deliver its verdict on April 22, 2010.
In an invited comment Mayor Fleming said he was not treated fairly since the other three former deputy mayors on the commission was not prosecuted. He said should he be condemned then there would be a criminal record on his police report, which would change his integrity as personal life. Fleming said whatever the outcome of the case he is prepared to deal with it since this case begun some five years ago and this is the second time it was called. "All I need to do now is get the verdict and move on Mayor Fleming told SMN News.
Marigot: --- At least three elected officials from the territorial council and members of the executive board of the Tourist Office walked out of an executive board meeting on Wednesday afternoon after the President of the EPIC Ida Zin Ka Ieu ended up in an argument with first Vice President Daniel Gibbs. According to information, reaching SMN News Gibbs showed up at the board meeting after more than a year of staying away from the tourist office.
The source said even though Gibbs was invited to all the meetings he kept away from them since former director Yann Claysen was removed from his position. On Wednesday, the board was called to discuss at least two agenda points, which are the subventions, and to take decisions on pending contracts.
It is understood board members and territorial councilors Alain Richardson and Jean David Richardson called the meeting to order when they realized that Zin Ka Ieu and Gibbs were engaged in a heated confrontation.
SMN News has been reliably informed that opposition leader and member of the executive council Alain Richardson called on all the board members to walk out of the meetings to send a clear message to both Gibbs and Zin Ka Ieu who are at rift. Richardson it is understood said the walk out on Wednesday is to protest against the attitude of the EPIC president and to demand respect for each member of the executive board.
The source said that Alain Richardson made clear that the ongoing war between the two councilors representing tourism is not benefitting tourism and it is not conducive to St. Maarten. It is further understood that the EPIC president then took a turn at Alain Richardson telling him he was free to leave and he has her permission to go over on the Dutch side of the island and broadcast what took place during the meeting.
Alain Richardson on a number of occasions has said that Gibbs and Zin Ka Ieu have to resolve their problems if they are to work in the interest of St. Martin, but seeming no one took heed until Wednesday.
SMN News further understands that when Gibbs was given the floor to speak at the beginning of the meeting he said that it is of vital importance for his pole and the Office du Tourism to work together in the interest of tourism and St. Martin but somehow that did not sit well with the EPIC president. The source said it was clear that Zin Ka Ieu and Gibbs are not able to work together and the display that took place at the Tourist Office on Wednesday can well happen at one of the trade shows if the two are ever together representing St. Martin overseas.
SMN News has learnt that Gibbs accused Zin Ka Ieu of working illegally during the past year since he did not approve of the projects she executed during his absence. The source said Gibbs even told the EPIC president that he would be requesting an audit for the period she presided the EPIC board.
In the meantime, SMN News also learnt that that the EPIC president and her current director of Office du Tourism Corine Picaut are at odds.
In an invited comment, Zin Ka Ieu told SMN News that she would not be making any comments on what took place on Wednesday. "I have no comment and I am going to leave those who want to talk about the events of the meeting talk." Zin Ka Ieu said. While Jean David Richardson said, he agreed with the statements made by Alain Richardson during the meeting and he left simply because the orde du jour was not respected.
Efforts made to contact leader of the RRR and territorial council Alain Richardson on Friday for a comment proved futile.
PHILIPSBURG - "It is exciting to see the many persons who are interested in pursuing advanced degrees here with the University of St. Martin and I do hope that they commit themselves to realizing that goal," says University of St. Martin President Josianne Fleming-Artsen.
Her statement comes after the tertiary institution hosted an information session, in conjunction with the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI), for persons who are interested in pursuing their Master of Arts in Education (MAE) and Master of Arts in Business (MBA) degrees.
USM, in collaboration with the UVI, has been offering the MAE program since 2002. Two cohorts have already graduated and this group will be the third cohort of graduate students. In the MAE program, students attend classes at USM. Some classes are facilitated by local professors, while others are done via video-conferencing or professors from the Virgin Island who visit St. Maarten.
Some 45 persons attended the information session on Friday, February 19, 2010 while there were many others who have signed up at the university indicating their interest in pursuing master degrees. Dr. Ron Harrigan, Dean of Education at the University of the Virgin Islands, provided information to the prospective graduate students, while Ms. Olga Mussington, Career Counselor at the Department of Education, provided information about study financing for those who qualify. USM Dean of Academic Affairs, Mrs. Joyce Watson was also on the panel.
Dr. Harrigan was impressed with the number of individuals who came to the meeting and their desire to obtain a Master degree in Education or Business from UVI. He remarked that he will report to the UVI President, Dr. Hall and Provost, Dr. Musah about his meeting here in St. Maarten, with a focus on the number of teachers and business persons who have expressed an interest in the MAE/MBA programs expected to begin in the Fall Semester 2010. Dr. Harrigan also noted that he will share the information about the persons who are interested in pursuing an MBA degree at UVI with the Dean of Business at UVI
"We are working diligently with UVI to ensure that the persons who are interested in pursuing a Master degree in Education or Business, while remaining here on St. Maarten, continue to have that opportunity," Fleming said.
Like Dr. Harrigan, President Fleming indicated that she is optimistic that USM and UVI can start another cohort in the MAE program in Fall 2010 once an agreement can be reached concerning administrative and academic related issues in an MOU that is mutually accepted. President Fleming stated that she would be calling on the banks to assist the graduate students with loans as was done by the Bank of Nova Scotia in the past. The MAE program is expected to cost students approximately $21,600 for classes.
Some 18 students thus far have received their degrees in the MAE program, jointly offered by USM and UVI, which runs for two years. The areas of concentration in this program include administration and supervision, counseling and guidance, and teaching. Persons seeking more information about the MAE and MBA programs can contact the University of St. Martin Admissions Office at telephone 542-5171 ext. 1008.
Marigot:--- As news of the sudden and untimely death of a young pilot got around early Sunday, the Managing Director of WINAIR joined with the management team and staff of Winair in extending condolences to the family, relatives and colleagues of the late, Alexander Hodge who died in a freak car accident early Sunday morning.
At around 5 am on Sunday Hodge a first officer (co-pilot) with the company died while receiving medical attention after encountering the freak accident on the French part of the island. The young man who resided on the French side had worked with the company since 2008. According to confirmed reports at the time of the accident Hodge was returning home when the freak accident took place.
Managing Director Edwin Hodge commenting on Alexander's death hailed the young pilot as a big loss to the airline. He said that the 23 year old pilot had a lot of potential.
He was one of several pilots that were selected by the company to attend his regular 6 months training in Canada at flight safety where according to reports he performed very well. The Managing Director disclosed that the young pilot had commenced training with the company on June 28th, 2008 in an attempt to convert his pilot license. He however made his maiden commercial flight on January 20th 2009.
"We at Winair are saddened by Alexander's death as he had possessed so much potential and we are at loss also for words as he contributed significantly to this company," a visibly upset managing director said. He pointed out that it will always be painful to loose an employee noting that the pain is intense and severe when one takes into consideration the level and standard of performance that the young Hodge executed his responsibilities.
"We are definitely going to miss him dearly as his presence was always felt and I must have to admit that the management and fellow employees are convinced that he had left an indomitable mark on this company as his work ethics was of a very high standard," an emotional MD said.
He noted that a special book of condolence would be opened immediately for employees and the management team to sign in honour of Alexander Hodge adding that since word of Hodge's death became pubic, there have and continues to be an outpouring of grief. "Everyone is broken hearted, his colleagues are very sad and some of the female employees were very traumatized and inconsolable, we all miss him. However, I pray that his parents and his sibling would be granted the strength that they need by God to continue living as Hodge did make his mark in his very short lifetime on earth," the Managing Director said.
The Winair Managing director in commenting further on the tragic loss said that the Chief Pilot among other colleagues have already met with the family of Hodge. He pointed out that other colleagues of Hodge are shaken up with the loss adding that he feels the pain that his employees are enduring over the death of what he said would have been a very good pilot. The Managing Director noted that the supervisory board members along with Management of Winair and staff wishes the family of the late Alexander Hodge their sincere condolences.
Philipsburg: --- The executive council is set to discuss is set to the request of a building permit submitted by an island council member and former commissioner of public works on Tuesday. The former commissioner has requested a building permit for a gas station, which is to be built next to the Dutch Quarter round about. According to reliable information reaching SMN News is that the island councilman is planning to also build a shopping mall in the area.
On Monday one of the main concerns of the island council is lack of an environmental inspector. SMN News learnt that the island councilman visited the department ROB to get information about his building permit and was informed that it was not handled because there is no environmental inspector at ROB.
Philipsburg: ----The SHTA is commending leader of Government, Commissioner William Marlin for obtaining necessary funding to realize the development of a new Secondary Vocational School (SBO) on St. Maarten.
Apart from awarding scholarships for colleges and universities abroad, the SHTA has been encouraging Government to use available EU or Dutch funding to develop a Vocational Poly-technical/ Hospitality Training Institute on St. Maarten that could provide the local population with the training, skills and certification necessary to successfully enter the job market. This, the SHTA believes would not only protect the local workforce, but would reduce the need for businesses to seek foreign labor.
The SHTA, in its Vision for St. Maarten document, identified the development of a Vocational Training Institute as a solution for much of the issues affecting overall quality of life. In forum settings with members of the community, it was decided that expanding the number of educational facilities locally, would give low income earners and persons not eligible for scholarships abroad, the opportunity to gain certifiable skills locally. This in turn would increase their employment possibilities, leading to more disposable income and less financial stress. With more focus on career opportunities, youth delinquency could be significantly reduced.
It is for this reason that the SHTA has been supportive in the development of the SBO program. Aside from participation in the SBO workshops, the SHTA, through the assistance of its membership, advised on the curriculum.
The SHTA is looking forward to the development of this educational facility and continued partnership with the SBO with the goal of meeting the demands of the labor market.
GREAT BAY,– Preparations for St. Maarten to become country will continue on Thursday with the first mock session of Country St. Maarten's Social Economic Council (SEC). This meeting will be held at the UTS training center in Philipsburg.
This meeting is a continuation of the first SEC Seminar held on November 25th last year. At that seminar, moderated by Gracita Arrindell of the Island Government's Secretariat, an outline was given by Commissioner of Constitutional Affairs William Marlin on the importance of the SEC, a possible structure and the functioning of the council.
Other speakers included, Ludwig Quenniche, representing the employers, workers representative Theophilus Thompson, representing labour and the expert guiding the process, Glenn Camelia.
At this seminar the agreement and commitment was expressed to start up the SEC Consultation on a specific topic as part of the preparations for becoming country by 10-10-10. Among the things that Sint Maarten needs to have in place by 10-10-10 is a SEC, not one on paper, but one that is really functioning.
"As part of the preparations to have an up and running consultation body in place for when we become country, this Thursday four representatives of employers' organizations, four of the workers organizations and four independent members will start with the first of three mock sessions on the new draft ordinance: "Establishment Regulation" (Vestigingsregeling 2008) that the government wants to introduce. This new "Establishment Regulation" law will reduce the administrative burden on businesses," Commissioner of Constitutional Affairs William Marlin told the Government Information Service (GIS).
These three meetings of the SEC are in fact mock-meetings where the actual application of the law is being undertaken to demonstrate how it should function when the SEC starts to officially function under country Sint Maarten.
Being part of the democratic process of a country, a real functioning tripartite consultation system for Sint Maarten is a must.
French Quarter/Philipsburg: --- Representative of 5LINX voice over IP's Connelly Connor said he wants the people of St. Maarten/ St. Martin to give him and the products offered by 5LINX a fair chance at business.
Connelly and two other friends are currently holding meetings throughout the island providing information as to how they can become more connected with love ones throughout the world at a cheaper rate. During these meetings demonstrations of the different internet accessories are being done. A meeting was held last Saturday at Carl's and Sons Conference Room while another one was conducted on Tuesday night at the St. Peters Community Center.
However, information is circulating that the American based company is operating illegally in the Netherlands Antilles especially St. Maarten. Quizzed on that aspect Connor said he contacted the Bureau of Telecommunications to see if he or anyone else that are selling voice over IP equipments is working illegally in the Antilles. He said based on the information he received is that anyone could sell and purchase these equipments for their personal use but if someone began selling minutes they are breaking the law. Asked if he has registered a company or NV at the Chamber of Commerce, Connor said he did make contact with a notary as well as the chamber of commerce but the actual registration did not take place. The young St. Maarten man said he is willing to do whatever it takes to make the 5LINX operation on St. Maarten legal. "I am a man that loves to stick within the confines of the law and I have no problem doing what is legal. All I need is to be given a fair chance and someone to tell me what needs to be done." Connor also said that there is certain information he needs to be clarified since there are people on St. Maarten selling the Magic Jack while Skype can be purchased online and there is no actual company registered on St. Maarten. Connor further explained that there are people that are selling Avon, Amway and host of other products and are not registered so for him there needs to be clarity on what is legal and what is not legal. He immediately agreed that selling these voice over IP's would definitely affect companies like TELEM, United Telecommunications Services (UTS) France Telecom and other companies that are offering Telecommunications Services. "I am trying to offer people something else which would allow them to pay less at the end of the month" Connor also agreed that he is having financial returns from people that join the business. "As long as people sign up under me for any of the two packages available I am getting financial returns, for me it's doing business at home after work.
The young entrepreneur said he was introduced to the products offered by 5LINX by a relative and soon after he realized that, these products can become handy and useful on St. Maarten. While he agrees that the company works in the form of a pyramid Connor said that he does not own a store neither is he selling anything to anyone. Persons interested in joining the program are free to sign up online. Clients can sign up either for a $99.00 or a package that would cost them $499.
While there is information, circling on the island claiming that 5LINX is a way of swindling people several videos and other content on the internet shows otherwise. Connelly and his friends provided documents to prove that 5LINX is a legitimate company registered in the US with representatives throughout the globe. The company, which is registered in the United States of America, is a registered member of the Direct Selling Association and is mentioned in the INC 500 newsletter and website. 5LINX provides services in US, Canada US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, plus free unlimited landline calls to 75 calling areas.
Lt. Mr. Franklin Richards (m), received a courtesy visit from the solicitor general of the Higher Courts of the Netherlands, Mr. J.W. Fokkens (r), who was escorted by Mr. van Veen( L) Head of Courts of First Instance on St. Maarten.
SUCKER GARDEN: --- Students of the No Kidding with our kids afterschool program were treated to a musical performance by District Band on Wednesday. During the hour long program, this group of young musicians demonstrated their instruments and played a couple of songs including one of their tunes for Carnival 2010 entitled "hold yuh balance".
While playing, students could be seen doing the dance created for the song as demonstrated by the band members. After the performance, the children had the opportunity to showcase their talents on keyboards and drums. "This is one of the best audiences that we have had thus far," bandleader Calvin Mardembrough Jr. said expressing his appreciation for the love shown by the kids.
This is not the first time that District Band has given back to the youth of St. Maarten. Last year they performed at the Milton Peters College and continue to encourage young people to remain focused and positive.
"These type of opportunities allow us to encourage our peers and those younger than us are the driving force behind our band. We do believe that if given the opportunity and support, the youth of St. Maarten will continue to rise," bandleader Calvin Mardembrough Jr. said.
Branded as St. Maarten's next generation jam band, District Band took St. Maarten's carnival by storm last year and has been playing at private and public events ever since. Their debut CD entitled "We Takin Over" was released in November 2009 and the public was reminded that CDs are available at Van Dorp Madame Estate. The band recently released two music videos from the CD, which can be seen on YouTube and St. Maarten Cable TV.
As Carnival approaches, District Band indicated that they are ready to leave their mark once again in 2010. In order to book the band, persons may contact
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 5208014. District Band is all geared up and ready for their next performance on the main stage at the Heineken Regatta on Friday night at 6:00 p.m.
Today is International Women's Day all over the world. It is a day of reflection, of celebration and I may add, of action. The idea of an International Women's Day was born a century ago today in Copenhagen, where women had gathered at an International Conference of Working Women. At that conference in 1910, a woman named Clara Zetkin launched the idea of holding one day of celebration in every country to help women in their efforts to achieve their demands of equality especially in the workplace. The idea was carried unanimously by participants representing trade unions, socialist parties and workers from 17 countries.
The following year, the day was officially proclaimed in Europe, with resounding success, however, it was not until 1975 that the United Nations granted it official recognition.
Today, in places such as China, Russia, Vietnam and Bulgaria, International Women's Day is a national holiday. We may not have reached that far yet here on St. Maarten, but there is no doubt that women have made some tremendous strides in our community compared to a century ago.
St Maarten women, like their Caribbean sisters, have always been the pillars of their societies, holding up the men, caring for their children, and working both at home and outside, to make ends meet and provide for their families. The old-fashioned notion that the place of the woman is in the kitchen is no longer tenable in our times. I'm sure you are all aware of my passion for cooking. I feel quite at home in the kitchen as I do behind a desk, and can therefore attest to the work that women do, even in the kitchens of their homes, without pay!
We have come a long way from the days when women did not have the right to vote to a long period of women Prime Ministers in the Netherlands Antilles and women occupying the most important political positions here on our island, as well as around the region and the world. It is no longer "a first" for a woman to head a political party, a church, or a trade union, even right here on St. Maarten. Leadership has become gender-neutral, thanks to the gallant efforts of women who refused to be branded as the weaker sex, and have gone out there to fight for their rights. In fact, women's rights are universal rights and consequently, human rights as well. We men therefore have a big stake in ensuring that these rights are not denied, trampled upon, or otherwise watered down.
It is just a couple of weeks ago when I sat between two St. Maarten women who deserve the respect and admiration of all of us for their contributions in the political field. It was during the AVS Political Debate for the Parliamentary Elections and I could not but reflect on what sacrifices have been made and continue to be made for that to have been possible.
Political empowerment alone is, however, not enough to further advance women's rights. As we move forward with determination and conviction towards a new St. Maarten, economic empowerment must become the new terrain to conquer if the potential of our women is to be fully tapped for the development of our island nation.
Perhaps it is in recognition of this that the theme of this year's International Women's Day is "Equal Rights, Equal Opportunities: Progress for All." There can be no progress for us as a people until that day when women indeed can enjoy equal rights, equal opportunities, and equal pay for equal work. As a proud father of two daughters, I cannot think of ANY reason why they should receive less pay for the same work as their brothers, if they have similar qualifications.
It is important to highlight certain characteristics of our St. Maarten (and by extension, Caribbean women) which have been the main reason why we have survived as a people to this day. Our women are among the most resourceful in the world; they can turn left-overs into the most delicious meal! Our women are very hardworking and resilient – they endure hardship without grumbling, knowing that they are sacrificing for their children to do better. Our women are women of faith, their abiding faith in God, and hope for the future of their children, constitute the cornerstone of our march towards a brighter day for all. If you ask me, our women are living proof that beside – NOT BEHIND – every successful man stands a strong and courageous woman. I'm sure you know in your very own neighborhood, women with the characteristics I've just described. They are housewives, mothers, companions, union leaders, teachers, preachers, bankers, tellers, secretaries and politicians. They are nurses, doctors, vendors, seamstresses, dancers, hoteliers, policewomen and businesswomen. They are culture-bearers, and historians; architects and gardeners. There is simply no area of activity where they have not made their presence felt. What a man can do, a woman can do, sometimes, even better.
If we understand this, then we should understand that in today's world, there is no room for gender discrimination. In fact, anything we do to hamper a woman's progress is an act of sabotage against the progress of all.
Let me, therefore, join in celebrating our women – their dreams and aspirations should be our dreams and aspirations: a world of equal opportunities, equal rights and progress for all, or as one of our region's most famous musicians sang: equal rights and justice for all.
Philipsburg: --- On request of the Democratic Party, the Central Committee was privy on Friday last to a presentation of "St. Maarten's rebranding promotion." In requesting that this presentation be made to members of the island council, Council lady Wescot-Williams had asked if it was government's view that members should view this branding during their next visit to the United States, as many have seen this presentation locally, with the exception of the Island Council of Sint Maarten. The Government however did not let it go that far and had the presentation done to the Central Committee.
The presentation was quite straight forward, some unique photos of the island, both French and Dutch sides, prompting questions from the Democratic Party about the relationship between both sides of the island as far as promoting St. Maarten is concerned, as concerns have been expressed in several quarters as to the less than optimal relations in this area. The government assured the island council that the cooperation between the two sides is very much alive.
Members of the Democratic Party were also interested in tourism data as far as this renewed attempt at marketing the island is concerned. It was clear from the presentation and comments by government that the Tourism Master Plan of Sint Maarten is still the blue print for tourism-related activities by government.
This brought to the fore the statements attributed to Commissioner Frans Richardson during the Caribbean Market Place event, held in Puerto Rico recently. Newspaper reports suggested at the time that the Commissioner was making a pitch for "slowing down" tourism on Sint Maarten in favor of the island catching up with its infrastructure and the like. The Commissioner was unaware of these publications, citing him.
Again, it is not whether one agrees or disagrees with government's alleged policies or visions or the perceived lack thereof, but the ad-hoc way the NA/Heyliger/Laveist government is managing the country. The constant springing of ideas and plans from government, often times without any follow-up or feedback or credible and well thought-out plan is making it seem more and more that the left hand knows not what the right hand is doing.
On our way to country status, this attitude by government is counter-productive.
The Democratic Party has been notified that the meetings requested by them will be held on Wednesday and Thursday, March 10 and 11th respectively, both at 10 are.
The Central Committee meeting on Wednesday will be on the topic of "government's position on (incidental) subsidies/investments." This topic has been raised due to the lack of an adequate response by the NA/Heyliger/Laveist government on the matter of subsidies and the budget 2010. In addition, when one considers recent publications regarding the Carnival Foundation and the Heineken Regatta, it leaves one to wonder how this government views subsidies, the budget, and the ordinance regulating subsidies by government. Is this ordinance still in effect or is the government guided by other regulations? The Democratic Party hopes through the Central Committee to get clarity for the organizations affected and the public at large.
On Thursday, they hope to hear from government and its views on the draft 2010 budget. Again, the government has been evasive and outright arrogant in its reactions to the island council on matters of the budget. The government seems to have no issue with the fact that basically all they can do at the moment is keep government afloat based on the 2009 budget.
"We are taking this matter much too serious" has been government's response.
Well, let us see why the government in the face of all the criticism St.
Maarten is receiving due to this budget dilemma, can still tell us: "It's nothing to worry about." Says party leader Sarah Wescot Williams.
GREAT BAY, For Sekou, the commitment to struggle means working in all areas of literary production, forging communities across borders and languages," said professor and literary critic Juliana Spahr.
Dr. Spahr introduced the St. Martin writer Lasana M. Sekou to the Mills College Contemporary Writers Series (CWS) in Oakland, California, on February 23, said Jacqueline Sample, president of House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP).
Sekou opened his hour-and-a-half solo "literary event" with two new poems, "Labrish" and "Citizen," to a full house of students, faculty and other guests in the elegant Mills Hall Living Room, said Sample.
He then launched into varied St. Martin, Caribbean-wide and international-issue poems from his books 37 Poems and The Salt Reaper, both published by HNP.
The students of Spahr, a Mills associate professor, had studied The Salt Reaper before Sekou's arrival and were ready with questions for the author following his recital.
Spahr's introduction to Sekou was actually a critique of his work prepared by author David Buuck who called Sekou "a fierce advocate for the independence of his home nation St. Martin."
On February 24, Sekou spoke on campus to the comparative ethnic literature class of Dr. Vivian Chin. The students were treated to an impromptu reading of "The cubs are in the fields," said Sample. Mills is a historical women's university founded in 1852 (its graduate program is now co-ed).
Sekou's California appearance also took him across the Bay Bridge to the Small Press Traffic (SPT) reading in San Francisco on February 26. The St. Martin poet was again the main guest artist, said Sample. He shared the SPT mic with popular Bay area poet/author Taylor Brady on the political theme of "Empire."
SPT executive director Samantha Giles said, "It was a pretty spectacular night!"
The 35-year-old SPT is housed at California College of the Arts-San Francisco. Sekou autographed books at both readings.
"After returning home early last week Lasana got the news that his poem 'Haiti 200' was selected by Amazon.com for its Haiti earthquake 'MP3 albums' list," said Sample.
The poem, with music by Angelo Rombley, is from The Salt Reaper CD (2009), which is available in St. Martin bookstores and downloadable online.
As for the California trip, the author said that he enjoyed meeting the students, professors, community activists, authors such as Patricia Powell and David Buuck, upcoming poets like Raphael Cohen, and the CWS and SPT organizers.
The St.Maarten Lions Club will be holding its annual car raffle this month, which is a 2010 Ford Escape and is being raffled under Robby's
Lottery Smartplay numbers game on Sunday, March 28.
The Ford Escape features four-wheel drive, automatic transmission, power windows and locks, air bags and key-less entry/alarm system and
is a light gold color. Second prize is a 32 inch plasma screen television and third prize is a laptop.
Funds raised from the car raffle are in aid of the St. Maarten Lions Club community projects such as the Nelson van Der Linde Senior Citizens Party, Lions Health & Wellness Fair, Eye Testing Machines, Leo's Club Programs, Golden Age Projects such as basket giving to the elderly, Underprivileged Children Christmas Party and Lions Student Excellence Awards.
The general public can purchase tickets from any Lions member and are also available every Saturday and Sunday until the March 28th at Sunny
Foods, Cost-U-Less, Le Grande Marche, Fresh Market and ACE Cole Bay from 9am to 6pm. The Ford Escape can also be viewed at those locations on those days.
The board and members of the St.Maarten Lions Club hereby thanks the general public and businesses for their continued support over the 39
years of the club's existence, so that it can continue to carry out worthwhile projects that benefit the St.Maarten Community.
Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba, State Secretary for Justice Ernie Simmons and interim manager of the new organization Robert Barbij together with the 11 workers of the New Admissions Organization (NTO). In photo from Left to Right Richard ten Brink(advisor), Robert Barby (chef NTO) Ernie Simmons(state secretary of justice) Jonaida Mardenborough, Mylanda Proctor, Sheritsa Stroop (2nd row) Mina Lundi, Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba, Jacques Monsanto, Bernice Richardson, Norma Brill, Norman Marchena (advisor to the minister) (sitting) Ronald de Graf, Naomi Llamar, Roxanne Dollison, Judy LaPaix.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—On Friday, March 5, the Department of the Government Information Service took part in the Career Fair at the St. Maarten Academy PSVE School in South Reward.
The department had displays of their G.I.S. products, which range from the news program G.I.S. Bulletin to the Government Information Page which appears in newspapers from Monday to Thursday and gives the public information about various aspects of government. The Government Information Service is responsible for the dissemination of information to civil servants internally and to the general public externally.
G.I.S. also displayed the print materials of the department and other promotional materials on particular topics, like the H1N1 flu prevention campaign. Additional G.I.S. media products shown were, from Television Specials, Documentaries to Public Service Announcements; coverage of the Island Council meetings; special events; the Civil Server internal newsletter, and the Government Employment Opportunities pamphlet.
Interim Head of G.I.S. Rodney Richardson said that it was a good opportunity for the students to see what GIS is about, and to promote working in the field of communications. Additionally its also interesting for students to hear from G.I.S. staff members on their experiences of working in Government as a Civil Servant.
Several GIS staff members spoke to the group of students and explained about G.I.S. in general and/or about their function in particular.
The students were invited to visit the department and get hands-on tour and maybe a student internship in the future.
There were about 20 other organizations that were present at the PSVE Career Fair.
Philipsburg:--- Registration of Haitian nationals who fall under category three of the Brooks Tower Accord can register themselves to avoid deportation as of Monday March 15. Brooks
The registration will take place from Monday through Friday from 8 am non-stop till 4 in the afternoon at the Conference Center of the Salvation Army on the Union Road #59 in Cole Bay.
- The registration is only for the following groups of illegal Haitians who live in St. Maarten by before March 1, 2010. This relates to Haitian nationals who entered the Antilles between January 1st, 2006 and January 12th, 2010. January 12, 2010 is the day the devastating earthquake took place in Haiti.
- Those who applied via "Steering group" and who entered the Netherlands Antilles between January 1st, 2006 and January 12th, 2010. This is because they are not eligible to receive a permit via the "BTA" as they are not special cases.
- Those who entered before January 1st 2006, but who did not register for category 1 or 2 of the "BTA". By not registering, they automatically become illegal equal to category 3 "BTA".
By registering the illegal groups 1 and 2, the right is obtained to continue living in St. Maarten until the 31st of December 2010. Those of category 3 will get the right to stay until August 31, 2010. The registration does not give the illegal residents other rights.
All Haitians mentioned above will receive a copy of the registration form to have in their possession at all times. No photograph is on this form, only the signature of the illegal person who registered.
The illegal immigrant must show this form to the authorities during controls. This form indicates up to which day their stay is allowed on St. Maarten. Before said date, they can always leave St. Maarten of their own will. After said date, they will be deported.
Haitians who register for category 1 and 2 of the Brooks Tower do not need to register again.
The registration will not take more than 5 minutes, as long as the illegal immigrant brings his / her passport and a copy of the travel document.
It also applies here that if the illegal immigrant supplies information that is not based on the truth or makes use of a false passport, he / she commits a crime and will be deported immediately.
GREAT BAY,– A meeting of the Permanent Committee of Constitutional Affairs (PCCA) of the Island Council will take place on Thursday, March 18 at 10.00am in the Claude Wathey Legislative Hall.
The meeting has been called by its Chairman, Leader of Government Commissioner of Constitutional Affairs William Marlin.
The three main agenda points are: the Federal Government Ordinance regarding changing the Netherlands Antilles Islands Regulation (ERNA) making it possible to dismantle the Island Councils of Curacao and Sint Maarten.
The Consensus Kingdom Laws that are presently being handled by the Second Chamber of the Dutch Parliament, and the General Measure of State Administration that are presently at the Kingdom Council of Ministers for discussion, are the two other agenda points. These were requested by the Democratic Party faction in the Island Council.
A 15–year-old boy was discovered dead yesterday morning after he took his own life by hanging. When this newspaper spoke to a close relative who requested anonymity, he said that the dead lad's body was removed from a tree within the yard at Cane Garden some time after 6 am. The lad was discovered hanging after 5 am by family members who alerted the police however his body was removed from the scene after 8 am by the undertakers.
According to the confirmed source the lad and other family members had a heated argument the night before. It was noted that the argument stemmed from reports that the boy wanted to return to Guyana. "He told his mother that he wanted to go home because he was disturbed over a situation with someone from Guyana who was being harassed by immigration," the source said.
The source noted that the youth Yudesh Persaud was taunted by certain members within the community. "He is from Guyana so they use to trouble he and taunt he and I guess that may have contributed to him killing he self," the source said.
Sun learnt that when the boy demanded that he wanted to return home his mother refused noting that he needs to remain with her in Nevis. The boy reportedly marched off and it was the last time the mother saw him alive which the source said was about after 9 pm.
The source said that the boy was not known to have suicidal tendencies and as such they are baffled as to why the young man would take his own life. The mother was promptly hospitalized upon the discovery of her son. A medical source at the ---Hospital said that the mother was admitted as she was complaining of chest pains.
A young woman who admitted to knowing the boy said that she was still in shock since the incident is one that troubles her. She noted that he was constantly taunted by other youngster within the community who had indicated to him that he was not from Guyana and should return.
"I think that he had gotten fed up with the constant taunting and just wanted to return home as he never really settled in into Nevis. I guess that with some of his friends and even relatives being sent home many have caused him to want to return to Guyana," the woman said. The woman noted that there is a need for counseling of the child's colleagues and fellow country boys and girls in the neighborhood stressing that at the moment the tension is very high in Nevis among non-nationals.
According to a senior police source investigation are being conducted. This is the second suicide by a Guyanese since 2008 when a mother took her life by hanging in 2008 also.
Great Bay,– Six flamboyant trees – the national tree of St. Maarten – will be planted at six of the island's secondary schools on March 22, 2010, National Tree Day. The initiative is a joint effort of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau and the St. Maarten Archeological Center (SIMARC), who are teaming up once again to create awareness of the importance of trees in the environment.
This year's National Tree Day is being celebrated under the theme: "Youth and Nature Working Together."
"It is a very appropriate theme given the priority government is giving to the environment and youth," remarked Director of Tourism, Regina LaBega.
"We chose the flamboyant tree because it is a powerful national symbol and the six secondary schools because they represent the future of our island," she explained.
The schools where the tree planting event will be held include The Milton Peters College, St. Maarten Academy, St. Dominic High School, Sundial School, Learning Unlimited, and Caribbean International Academy (CIA). All the trees were donated by Mr. Jerry Speetjens.
Government and tourism officials as well as representatives of SIMARC will attend the tree-planting ceremony which will be held from 9:00 AM to 10:00AM at St. Dominic High School on March 22, 2010. In addition, posters of the St. Maarten National Day of Trees highlighting the significance of trees in our environment, will be presented to both primary and secondary schools as an educational aid.
It will be recalled that Leader of Government, Commissioner William Marlin, referred to the environment as "our most valuable legacy" in his New Year's Address and laid out government policy as it concerns the environment.
"I consider it a critical obligation to provide effective stewardship of our natural endowment of lands, our sea, our ponds, our vegetation, our hills, and the air we breathe," Commissioner Marlin said in the address.
Calling them "our island's primary assets" he stated: "I expect that as custodians of the environment, we will all be involved in protecting the natural riches with which nature has generously blessed us."
Marlin added: "We owe it to those to whom we will leave our island to ensure that our environment is an enhanced legacy."
"It is within this context of an 'enhanced legacy' that the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau in collaboration with SIMARC is marking National Tree Day by focusing on the youth," Regina LaBega stated.
GREAT BAY – Governor Franklyn Richards received confirmation that Luc Godefroy from French Saint Martin has been appointed by the Spanish Government as Honorary Vice Consul for the French side, Saint Barths and Sint Maarten.
Godefroy told the Government Information Service (GIS) that he was very honoured to have been appointed in that position.
Godefroy added that he is appealing to all Spaniards living and working in the three territories to visit his office in Marigot, 45 Bd de France (waterfront), where they can provide him with their contact particulars or for any assistance that they may require or call (590) 590 293807.
As Vice Consul, Godefroy will be able to offer legal and commercial services to Spaniards as well as visiting tourists, and at the same time provide information to Spaniards who are interested in relocating or investing in any of the three territories that fall under his responsibility.
TM Dwain Carbon was sworn in as a Toastmaster and did his first speech, known in Toastmasters as an Ice Breaker on Thursday 25 February. He is a real estate agent and successful network marketer. His reason for joining the club is to practice his communication skills and one day become a professional motivational speaker.
The St Maarten Achievers Club is one of the 4 Toastmasters clubs on the island. This club meet every 2nd & 4th Thursday of the month at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library.
Philipsburg:---The Minister of Justice who was in St Maarten for a one day working visit on Friday paid a visit to the registration of Haitian nationals at the conference room of the Salvation Army in Cole Bay. The Minister met with her advisors and the Project Team Members who explained the development of the first week of registration. The Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba, sat with some Haitian immigrants who had some personal unique problems and permission was given to them to stay till further down this year.
Over 500 Haitians registered so far and the Minister of Justice is asking all Haitian nationals who are undocumented on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten, to please go and register. This will be the last week that the registration will be open. After March 31st there will be no more opportunities to register. All Haitians who do not have legal status and did not register at the Salvation Army conference room, are in violation of the immigration laws and will be deported back to Haiti.
The Minister of Justice explained on a particular case that a Haitian person whose documents were approved in the BTA, came to the Police Station to pick up the permit with false documents. The Immigration Department arrested this person for having fraudulent documents in their possession. There is no way that we will arrest anybody from any nation when they come to pick up their BTA papers. But if they use false documentation, this means they broke the law and they will be arrested pending to be deported to their country of origin.
The Minister of Justice is hoping that many Haitians will use this unique opportunity to come and register so they will avoid any deportation.
GREAT BAY,– Leader of Government Commissioner William Marlin, would like to congratulate the staff of the Netherlands Antilles/Aruba Meteorological Service on World Meteorological Day 2010, which will be observed on 23 March.
This year's theme is "60 years of service for your safety and well-being."
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and its 189 members and the worldwide meteorological community on Tuesday will commemorate the entry into force, on that date in 1950, of the WMO Convention creating the organization.
In 1951, WMO was designated a specialized agency of the United Nations System.
"I express my gratitude to those working with the Met Office for the role that they play each and everyday in providing invaluable information to boaters, other stakeholders in the marine community as well as to the control tower at the Princess Juliana International Airport.
"The Met Office also plays a very important role during the hurricane season in cooperation with other weather agencies such as the National Hurricane Center out of Miami.
"Hurricanes and other weather related events do not stop at any nations borders. Cooperation between all Met services is necessary in order to save and protect people, their homes, businesses and their community. Congratulations once again on behalf of the people of Sint Maarten and the Island Government," Commissioner William Marlin told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Monday.
As Haitians continues to experience difficulties in garnering sufficient food and water supplies, tensions are growing among residents. However, compounding the situation further is the fact that because of rapidly growing security concerns a number of volunteers along with overseas security personnel are leaving.
Meanwhile, there are escalating fears that the food that some persons have been fortunate to receive may soon come to a halt as there are fears and rumors that the government will be moving sometime next week to stop agencies from distributing food stuff. This is what many say is as a result of perception that the agencies are crossing their line of responsibilities.
Arriving at the makeshift airport visitors are warned that security should remain their number one priority. "I urge you people regardless if you are returning home or visiting for the first time to be very careful as security here is weak," an officer at the airport said. In an effort to maintain some semblance of control and security due to the massive crowd of people that flocks the airport on a daily basis persons arriving to Haiti are warned to remain within the red tent as this is the only way that United Nationals can guarantee security for them. The red tent was set up as a means of protecting arriving visitors and nationals returning home.
As visitors, volunteers and media personnel waited in the red tent two young men who stood in the large crowd received a beating by what appeared to be security personnel. A young mother who works as a taxi dispatcher pointed out that while a number of relief efforts are being executed most of it are not reaching the people that needs it the most thus creating the growing tension. The mother of three said that as people become more frustrated they are acting on their frustration stressing that if not checked can and will result in devastating effects. She noted that because of what she said is viewed as the poor response by CARICOM and Caribbean governments people are turning to overseas and international agencies for assistance.
"You just have to look at when the white people come in, everybody wants to get some lil thing (money) from them as they know that they can get a lil help," she said. She noted that if one was to ensure that they remain safe they needed to be very cautious and careful when assistance is requested of them from the public. "I would advise that when someone asks for something just be exceptionally careful as being naive can cause you your life," the woman said.
According to a source close to two of the organizations providing relief efforts they have sought to increase bodyguards due to the evident tension of a number of people. One agency according to the source said that the current situation being faced by the public is as a result of the Haitian government's inability to take control, of the situation. The source said that they have been informed that government will seek to stop the distribution of food efforts as a means of controlling things noting that this is not helping but rather creating increase difficulties and challenges for all.
"The other Caribbean governments need to come forward and help in this situation as everything should not be left up to the US and UN agencies but other Caribbean governments should try and contribute in a bigger way," the distraught looking mother stressed. Attempts to contact government officials proved futile.
JCI Vice President visit local members JCI St. Maarten (local Jaycees organization) 2010 Local President Corinne Isaac and Immediate Past President Sen. Elroy Hughes received JCI Vice President Patricia Lorena Rodriquez March 20th, 2010, when she arrived from Ecuador, for her official visit to JCI Dutch Caribbean. Ms. Galarza met with some members of the local chapter and was treated to a local breakfast. During the meeting she outlined the JCI International mission for 2010: Combating Malaria in those
countries greatly affected by malaria. In an inspiring speech to members she challenged all present to help JCI Dutch Caribbean grow so our efforts to JCI will continue to progress as well.
JCI St. Maarten has also embarked on the malaria project, through JCI website we have raised several mosquito nets that will be shipped to the countries in need. JCI Board members supported this project and approved the promotion of the campaign considering that its target — to donate and deliver 1,000,000 mosquito bed nets by 2015 — is "tangible, quantifiable, and achievable." The VP. left on Sunday March 21st to Curacoa, where she continues her visit of JCI Dutch Caribbean.Preparations are in progress for JCI St. Maarten recruitment drive; this is the chance for young adults to become a part of the great benefits JCI offers. The Open House is scheduled for 15th April at Philipsburg Jubilee Library at 8:00PM.
In the meantime those interested can visit JCI St. Maarten, every last Wednesday of the Month upstairs the UTS Training development center at 7:30pm.
For more information you can contact the President Corinne Isaac 524-5728 or Elroy Hughes at 522 6365 or any member.
Philipsburg: --- Commissioner of Finance Xavier Blackman survived the motion of no confidence that was brought against him by the Democratic Party. Seven of the eleven island council members voted against the motion when it came up for voting on the floor of the island council on Monday. Councilman Leroy De Weever presented the motion against Blackman last week when the 2010 budget was being debated stating that Blackman is too arrogant and that he failed to work along with the CFT when preparing the 2010 budget. In the meantime, the members of the Democratic Party voted against the 2010 budget when it came up for voting on the floor.
Island Councilman and Commissioner Frans Richardson during his presentation on Monday attacked the members of the Democratic Party saying they wanted to smear Blackman's name even though the commissioner is a professional whose sole intention was to present a realistic budget. Richardson said Blackman did not commit a crime neither did he do anything wrong when he prepared the 2010 budget. The economic affairs commissioner said when the National Alliance/ Heyliger and Laviest government took office last year June they met the 2009 budget with a 30 million guilders deficit even though that budget was presented to the CFT and island council as balanced.
Richardson said the current members are self-destructive. He said members of the opposition all put their own spin on the budget and the CFT indifferences. He asked who voted in favor of the CFT and said they should take responsibility of having the CFT to dictate for St. Maarten. Richardson said the current government was focusing on country status when the finance commissioner prepared the 2010 budget. Richardson said had Blackman took the advice of the CFT and increased taxes then they would have been criticized by the opposition. Richardson said had they took the advice given by the CFT and increased all taxes then they would have been the worst thing since slice bread.
Richardson insisted that condominiums owners must contribute to St. Maarten's economy and not only the local taxpayers.
He argued that the entire island council voted for St. Maarten to become country and he do not understand why the same council members cannot stand together and vote for a budget that would ensure country St. Maarten on 10/10/10. Richardson said he does not believe the members of the opposition wants St. Maarten to become country since they are all siding with the CFT.
The commissioner said the same members once accused them of not voting for their own salaries or that of the teachers. Richardson said right now the council is divided and they simply do not know what they wanted for St. Maarten. He said the council members are their own worst enemies and that the adults in the council are worst than the youths that are called bad. He reminded the members of the Democratic Party that they were given a motion of no confidence by the people of St. Maarten during the January 22 federal elections since they were not able to maintain their only seat in parliament.
The National Alliance/ Heyliger and Laviest government also voted against the other two motions presented to the island council.
The second motion was to have the executive council to maintain the letters of intent given to Westin and Maho Resorts about the room tax. However, commissioner and leader of UPP party Theo Heyliger disappeared from the tribune of the legislative hall when the time came to voting against the motion. Despite Heyliger's disappearance, the motion was defeated since the five members of the National Alliance and independent island councilman Louie Laveist voted against the motion.
Richardson reminded that those letters were issued to the resorts since 2003 and the Democratic Party did nothing to island legislation. Another motion that also went through the floor was the motion for Mary's Fancy.
MARIGOT— The gendarmes arrested a suspect who it is believed is the main culprit in two armed robberies. According to a press release, the alleged suspect robbed a restaurant in Grand Case on Monday night. It is reported that the suspect entered the restaurant and robbed and held the owner at gunpoint, he managed to escape with monies from the restaurant. Half an hour later, the suspect and another accomplice entered a bar in Sandy Ground armed with a gun with the intention to rob the owners of the bar. A brave patron in the bar fought off the thieves, one of which managed to escape while the suspect now in custody was held until the gendarmes arrived on the scene and arrested him.
The gendarmes also arrested two other suspects ages 18 and 22 for their involvement in a robbery at a restaurant in Marigot on Thursday night. The two culprits were transferred to Guadeloupe while the third suspect will be summoned to appear in court in June.
Ma Pau casino has joined the list of many companies offering continued assistance to the people of Haiti. However, despite already making significant contributions in terms of financial and other assistance to aid continuous relief efforts, Ma Pau has stepped up further. The company has announced that it will be providing sponsorship to aid in the effective dissemination of information from Haiti. This sponsorship according to the company seeks to highlight the sufferings experience by the people.
As such, the casino will be playing major and key role in sponsoring the visit of a media delegation to Haiti. The three member delegation seeks to highlight, sensitize and promote the sufferings, challenges and issues of grave and serious concerns. The delegation will be in Haiti for some two odd weeks.
Manager of the St Kitts Ma Pau Casino, Charlene Edwards in speaking to this media house pointed out that her company is very excited and eager to participate in this initiative. Edwards who recently took over the reigns of the St Kitts operations after some 15 odd years in St Maarten noted that Ma Pau ha been known over the years for its continued charitable efforts. The St Kitts Manager stressed that the company recognizes the importance of contributing to charitable events in an effort to enhance and alleviate the difficulties and challenges faced by people. She said that her company will continue to seek to promote and assist organizations and individuals in enhancing and assisting those affected by natural and other disasters.
"Since the establishment of the first Ma Pau in 1992 in Trinidad we have always been coming to the aid and help of those that have requested it. As such, Ma Pau see its role as a good corporate citizen in assisting in whatever way possible," Edwards said. This she noted will aid in alleviating the sufferings and challenges being experienced by others. The St Kitts Manager pointed out that while the company continues to grow with a number of other Caribbean islands opening Ma Pau Casinos, the company's gesture to provide major sponsorship will seek to provide relief through highlighting the difficulties and challenges that the thousands of displaced Haitians are encountering daily.
According to United Nations, the January 12th 7.0 devastating earthquake has left some 350,000 odd persons dead while another 500,000 odd were injured and over 1.5 million displaced. Echoing similar sentiments that are being made by a number of corporate Caribbean companies Edwards stressed that the region should recognize the importance of educating and sensitizing the public on the real situation.
Edwards declared that her Managing Director has continued to give the assurance that a united and committed approach has to be taken towards Haiti thus ensuring that the people can make a full and successful recovery. She noted that the Ma Pau casinos around the world will continue to lend help adding that when Suriname open their doors later this year they will join the others in aiding significantly in their respective countries.
The Casino Manager declared that the company's founder John Wallis decision to open the Trinidad originated company has resulted in significant fruits adding that it has grown significantly resulting in Ma Pau casinos being established in several parts of the world.
PHILIPSBURG—GEBE conducted the same water test that was carried out with adults last week with 6th graders of the Genevieve de Weever School and the 4th graders of the Sr. Marie Laurence School. The students all received information on the importance of drinking enough water, they also received GEBE reusable water bottles and balloons to commemorate World Water Day which was celebrated on March 22, 2010.
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Airport:--- Frank Arrindell, founder and owner of Arrindell Aviation will travel to Geneva, Switzerland for the 10th year in a row this coming May to promote St. Maarten. The goal will be to influence where the roughly 11,000 attendees of the trade show will fly in the coming year.
European Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (EBACE), the largest educational event in the aviation industry in Europe taking place May 4-6, brings together business leaders, government officials, manufacturers, corporate aviation department personnel and all manner of people involved in nearly all aspects of business aviation travel. EBACE is a "can't miss" event for European companies and tourist destinations that use aircraft to help their businesses grow.
More than 400 exhibitors and nearly 11,000 people attended EBACE in 2009, marking the third largest attendance ever for the European event. Attendees included travel enthusiasts and industry participants from Europe, North America, the Middle East, Asia and Africa.
A recent study, the results of which were announced at the 2009 EBACE, found that in 2007, business aviation was responsible for 167,000 jobs and contributed $27.6 billion to the economy all over the world.
Frank Arrindell founded Arrindell Aviation Services at Princess Juliana International Airport with five employees 21 years ago. Since then, Arrindell Aviation Services has grown to over 100 employees who all personify a very unique corporate culture of excellence. They are now the largest private employer at the airport. The company has received many honors—such as number one FBO on St. Maarten and number five FBO in the Caribbean by Pro Pilot Magazine.
Frank Arrindell continues to give back to the community of St. Maarten, by traveling abroad many times during the year to promote St. Maarten for the benefit of all businesses in St. Maarten as well as the surrounding islands such as St. Barths, Anguilla, and Saba.
GREAT BAY,– Due to the Easter holiday weekend, the Civil Registry Department will not be open on Saturday April 3. This has now been rescheduled to Saturday, April 10, and is only related to persons who need an Identification Card after receiving their Brooks Towers Accord residency papers.
The Civil Registry Department apologises for the rescheduling and for any inconvenience that this may cause.
Persons who have received their residency permit under the aforementioned accord should make use of the last Saturday that is left which is now April 10. The office will be open from 8.00am to 1.00pm.
The public is also hereby informed that the office does not accept any laminated documents. Laminated documents do not allow the office the opportunity to verify the authenticity of the aforementioned.
Philipsburg:---The St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) will be hosting three important meetings this week, with the first two being held on Wednesday night.
At 7:00pm a meeting will be held for all registered booth holders followed by a meeting at 8:00pm for bands. Both meetings will take place at the Government Administration Building
On Thursday evening (April 8), at 7:00pm, a meeting will be held at the Government Administration Building for all road March contenders. Everyone is being asked to make an effort to attend.
General Manager President of the Caribbean Confederation of Credit Unions, Ralph Wharton has issued a call for schools in the region to push the issue of entrepreneurship. Wharton in an exclusive interview said that there is need for the school's curriculum to reflect a greater interest in entrepreneurial skills.
Wharton who recently took over the reigns as General Manager was outlining areas which he believed Caribbean countries can work selectively on to secure a prosperous future. He pointed out that the education ministries in the various Caribbean islands need to find a way where this issue can be properly addressed. "I firmly think that we as a region should look at collectively finding ways in altering our curriculum. As such, together we can work on it thus ensuring that it is done properly thus resulting in it being effective and efficient," Wharton said.
The CCC General Manager noted that working closely with the private sector will result in such an initiative being successful. "If the Ministries of Education and the private sector can working together on this with their stakeholders then it can work. We must understand that in the school's curriculum we have to find a way of instilling entrepreneurial behavior," he declared.
Stressing on his views Wharton stated that such a renewed interest help in going a very far way in promoting a strong and vibrant private sector. He cautioned that introducing the skill to youth as s/he grows old will be a mistake. The GM noted that it's pertinent to know that it is never too late to train early school leavers and even pensioners, the ultimate goal being to have a stronger workforce he reassured.
Wharton who previously had served the region as General Manger when the credit union used to be headquartered in Barbados pointed out that if the various sectors 'take off' as he said; there will be a critical labour problem regionally.
He added that the task for the future will be to ensure that everyone, including able-bodied and physically challenged persons, are provided with what he called skills to participate in this new economy. Wharton went on to note that in an effort to achieve this goal the region must recognize that there is a pertinent need for a more modern education delivery system which he said determines that the system is indeed doing an effective job at preparing the region for the 21st Century.
GREAT BAY:--– In order to accommodate persons who have received their residence permit based on the Brooks Tower Accord (BTA), the Civil Registry Office allocated several Saturdays to facilitate the process of obtaining an ID card.
This was done after persons had to wait in long lines for several hours.
After Saturday, April 10, BTA resident paper holders seeking an ID card can visit the office during regular office hours from Monday to Friday. This Saturday the office is open from 8am to 1pm.
International year of nursingFrom the lady with the lamp to nurse practitioner
100 years Florence Nightingale
The name of Florence Nightingale (1820-1910) has been revered and respected across the world.
The theme "Nursing, Culture and Community" The idea is chosen with the intention to combineds knowledge, and experience that encourages leadership amongst health care workers and to acknowledge nurses who have contributed to the development of health care on St. Maarten.
"You must inform public opinion..." Florence Nightingale, 1893
From her own deep and prolonged experience with personal health issues, she advocated for all nurses to be continually renewed to sustain their effective, compassionate and caring practices. She called all these approaches "Health Nursing."
To achieve these goals: "a symposium to share knowledge and enhance community care developments," is organized
The idea of this symposium is to share with others the developments in nursing and specifically nursing and psychiatry. Further more since institutionalizing psychiatric patients is now seen as the last resource, the main focus of the symposium will be on community-based care.
As organizers we believe that this mini-symposium fulfills a need, benefits patients and supports many in caring for psychiatric patients. The role of nursing and the social aspects of psychiatric care need more exposure in order to reduce the stigma on psychiatry.
The success of this symposium relates to professionalism, timely planning and organization but also in the supports of stakeholders and sponsors. With this awareness the organizers set out to successfully complete this mission during nurses week.
Lecturers at the Symposium are:
Dr. Matroos Psychiatrist who visits the Windward Islands on a regular basis and who has been active in promoting mental care on the Netherland Antilles for many years. He will discuss a multidisciplinary approach to sleeping disorders.
Sonja Eursulita, has a masters degree in nursing is well known on St. Maarten for her involvement in nurses education in cooperation with the education department of St. Maarten Medical center.
Remko Uenk, recently graduated as a Nurse Practitioner in Aruba, through one line education with the University of Nijmegen in the Netherlands. A nurse practitioner is registered nurse who has completed specific advanced nursing education (generally a master's degree or doctoral degree) and training in the diagnosis and management of common as well as a few complex medical conditions.
Ed van Leeuwen and Hans van de Moosdijk are Social Psychiatric Nurses who are specialized in assertive community treatments (ACT) a treatment model used in the US and Europe and know to be an effective model in approaching mental illnesses in communities.
Dr. Lockie Johnson is well know on St. Maarten, has done considerable research locally also with regards to culture and beliefs
Dr. Pytha Jessurun, is psychiatrists at Capriles Clinic in Curaçao has also work on St. Maarten and will deal with explanatory models of psychiatric illnesses.
www.mhf-sxm.com or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. call 5421677.
Great Bay - Sports Commissioner Frans Richardson on Friday presented trophies for winners in a recently held pool tournament, to RH Pool Production Foundation.
Jaylen Constance took top honours in the Battle of the Top Students from RH Pool Production Foundation recently. Constance -- in the eight year old division -- faced Edwin Derweer in the two day long tournament. The pair had faced off in 9-ball with Constance winning 8-2.
The pair played best of seven games of 8-ball with Constance winning 4-0.
The event also featured a 15 year old division. In the first round Alfredo Richardson had squeezed past Romario Romeo 4-2 in 10-ball. The pair played a run to nine in 8-ball when Richardson won 9-7.
The competition was organized by pool instructor Rudolph Hyman and sponsored by the Commissioner of Sports Frans Richardson, who has pledged his support to youth participating in sports events.
Philipsburg: --- The pathologist that examined the bodies of Bart Pasman and Simone Santos Montilla could not come up with a conclusive cause of death of both victims said Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos. Mos said toxicology tests have to be conducted and the results should be back on St. Maarten within six weeks. Pasman's body was found at his home early Saturday morning; the doctor that pronounced him dead said he died of natural causes.
While it is believed that Pasman died of heart attack further, testing would have to be conducted before that is determined. The medical doctor who pronounced Montilla dead on Saturday afternoon also said she died of natural causes but family members and neighbors of the deceased woman said she was suicidal and that she committed suicide to escape spousal abuse.
In the meantime the bodies have been released to the families for burial.
The Hague: --- An overwhelming majority in Dutch Second Chamber voted in favor of the ten Consensus Kingdom Laws, the amendments to the Kingdom Charter, and the Police Law paving the way for the dismantling of the Netherlands Antilles as well as early elections for Curacao, St. Maarten, and the BES islands. While the Consensus Kingdom laws for the BES islands are not yet handled State Secretary for Kingdom Relations Ank Bijleveld-Schouten said she was sure they were going to make it through to the Second Chamber.
Thursday has been dubbed as an historic day for St. Maarten and Curacao says leader of Government William Marlin. Marlin said the struggle to achieve country status for St. Maarten has been long and hard but the hard work paid off well.
The island leader said many times those working on the constitutional change felt that St. Maarten would not make it to the end but they all stayed optimistic and kept on fighting. While the celebration can begin the islands, Curacao and St. Maarten have not yet explained that several laws still have to be approved by the Island Councils and Antillean Parliament while the real governmental apparatus has to be built.
Marlin and his delegation are expected back on St. Maarten over the weekend and they are expected to meet in Curacao next week Wednesday, to continue with the Kingdom talks.
Some time in June a political steering group meeting will take place to decide on how to deal with the tasks that the two new countries will not be able to handle.
PHILIPSBURG, St. Maarten - As commissioner of Cultural Affairs I am a strong believer in preserving and promoting St. Maarten's culture in whatever form, style and fashion. Lending support for cultural activities is as natural as breathing a breath of fresh air or a drink of pure water, because culture represents the spirit and resilience of our people.
Carnival is a people's manifestation that has become a significant part of our annual cultural agenda. All persons in St. Maarten and the surrounding islands look forward in joining in with us in our celebration.
Government being an important stakeholder to carnival, a national celebration is committed to supporting Carnival in kind as well as financially, however any organization charged with organizing the event must live up to standard conditions of corporate laws regulating funding and giving of account to such funding.
To ensure that St.Maarten Carnival Development Foundation remains in compliance with its obligations, duties or commitments government has appointed an Emergency Task Force that will act in a supervisory capacity to the carnival foundation to create an environment wherein it may be possible for the foundation to fulfill its objective.
The task Force will make specific recommendations to the Carnival Development Foundation during the course of Carnival and ultimately report its findings, experience and recommendations to the Executive Council of the 2010 carnival as well as the future of Carnival two weeks after the festivity has burn "King Momo".
The Commissioner of Culture Mr. Hyacinth Richardson hereby wishes the people of St.Maarten, visitors and revelers a safe, sound and happy carnival 2010.
Philipsburg:---Union representative from the UFA the President mr Olivache informed the pensioners that the unions of Sint Maarten concerning SVB do not only want to know what will happen with the investments made by the workers from Sint Maarten in the sickness insurance fund from SVB, but also what will happen with their contributions for the old age pensions, the widow and orphan pensions, the cessantia, etc.? The unions are in favor of transferring the SVB assets and the organization to Sint Maarten and they will champion to be represented in the Supervisory board of SVB Sint Maarten to better watch over and represent the interests of the workers in SVB.
EQUALIZATION OF FZOG-HEALTH CARE PACKAGE AND ACTIVE CIVIL SERVANTS HEALTH CARE PACKAGE
Concerning the equalization of the FZOG health care package with the active civil servants health care package the union representative from ABVO in the Advisory Committee for the National Health Insurance System for Sint Maarten Raymond Jessurun, informed the meeting that the island government of Sint Maarten has decided to provide all citizens of Sint Maarten the basic health care package of the Netherlands. This was decided upon by two consecutive executive councils to be implemented in the new national health insurance system. This will be an improvement of all health care packages now being provided in the island.
PREMIUM SAVINGS FOR PENSIONERS IN SINT MAARTEN
Furthermore, he informed the meeting of premium calculations made by financial actuarial experts that will give the pensioners a substantial saving on their premium in the National Health Insurance System. The 10% of their pension income currently being paid to the FZOG-fund, also the 10.4% the SVB sickness insurance fund is collecting from private sector pensioners every month, definitely will be reduced substantially because of the larger scale of the NHI-fund. Pensioners were informed that two consecutive executive councils have already agreed to charge all citizens on Sint Maarten a 2.1% premium for the sickness insurance (5 times less than the premium they pay now) and a 2 % premium for the AVBZ for chronic diseases and treatments as the premium to be paid by all for the National Health Insurance.
The pensioners in the meeting were asked if they agree to wait for this substantial savings in their monthly premium another 14 months until 1-1-2012 as the government announced during the recent budget debate in the Island Council, or if they want government and the unions to guarantee this saving before or ultimately on 10-10-10 as has been promised in the meeting of august 2009 between the executive council of Sint Maarten and the civil servants unions on Sint Maarten? All pensioners by acclamation want this premium reduction to come into effect this year as soon as possible ultimately on 10-10-10.
PENSIONERS ASSOCIATION TO BE ESTABLISHED
The meeting concluded by forming a commission consisting of Elaine Gumbs-Vlaun, Carl Cooner, Frances Rovelet, Lloyd Temmer, Edo Larmonie and Patricia Flanders to establish an association of pensioners on Sint Maarten to defend the rights of older persons in Sint Maarten. A next general meeting will be called to inform the pensioners of the results of the meeting requested by the unions with the Executive Council of Sint Maarten to address the problems of the FZOG-card holders with the FZOG-fund.
PHILIPSBURG – District Band's CD for Carnival 2010 entitled "Hold Yuh Balance" will be on sale as of today at Van Dorp Madame Estate, Yellow Tail Bar and Restaurant at the Simpsonbay Fish Market and Clo's Hot Spot (booth number 18) in the Festival Village.
Leading up to Carnival 2010, District Band has been exposing their fans to the title track at private and public events. This song was well received when District played at the ASA after school activities and at the Heineken Regatta earlier in the year to name a few. The CD comprises of 9 tracks, one of which is "Unity" a song encouraging the youth of the island the jam in unity for this carnival and to stop the violence.
"We have been working really hard. After making our debut for Carnival 2009, we continued playing at events on and off the island throughout the year," Band leader Calvin Mardembrough Jr. said. "We are not just a Carnival Band, we play all year round and each time we play we do our best to improve the musical experience for our fans and at the same time hone our craft," the band leader stated.
On Thursday, District Band distributed flyers to young people at various schools with the lyrics of the song 'Unity' as they are serious about changing the image of the youth of the island. "We strongly believe that you cannot give up on the youth of this island, give us a chance to make a change and encourage us when we do well," the band said.
The CD cost $15 dollars or Fls. 25 and the entire community is asked to support District Band as they prepare to do it again for Carnival 2010. District Band would also like to remind their fans that they will be playing at the Festival Village tonight with headliner Krosfyah, so come out and show your support.
District Band was formed in November 2008 and took St. Maarten's 40th anniversary Carnival by storm. Branded as St. Maarten's next generation jam band, the band comprises of a group of young people whose mission is to showcase the talent of St. Maarten's youth and motivate their peers to persevere despite the challenges that they might face. Persons interested in contacting the band may do so at
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 5208014.
GREAT BAY: --- The application process for Mobility Passes for the 2010 Hurricane Season which starts from June 1 to November 30, starts as of April 19 only for the business sector and vital organizations. The pass allows the aforementioned to assess possible damage to their property. Potential applicants have until May 21 to present all relevant information related to the process of requesting a Mobility Pass.
For the 2010 season, the application form as well as information sheet can be downloaded from the Fire Department's website www.brandweersxm.net under the link "Hurricane Information."
Passes are issued to the following categories: government personnel, personnel of essential companies or organizations, (sub) contractors for Sector ROB-Public Works, transportation passes for hotel staff, business owners and members of vital organizations to assess possible damage to their property.
The hurricane pass application procedure is only intended for businesses and vital organizations with respect to their key personnel receiving an exemption to a curfew.
The Office of the Fire Department & Disaster Management is handling the application process for the passes on behalf of the Governor of the Island Territory of St. Maarten.
The hurricane mobility pass system is a mechanism to maintain public order during emergency situations. The Governor assesses the damage after a disaster has occurred and can impose a curfew if the extent of the damage poses a threat to the safety and security of the community.
After a disaster has struck, and a curfew has been imposed, the public roads can only be accessed by emergency crews. The Governor will ensure that the curfew is limited to the essential time that is needed to execute emergency and disaster relief and recovery efforts.
- Businesses and vital organizations can request personal passes for their key personnel. In principle only one (1) pass is granted per business, but for larger companies more passes can be requested.
- This pass will allow the bearer to visit his place of business to assess possible damage to the property, ONLY during certain hours that will be stipulated and announced by the Governor in a curfew situation.
- Proof must be submitted that one has a business on given address and/or is a member of a vital organization for which a pass is requested. Therefore a copy of the most recent business license (2010) should be submitted (or proof of registration at the Chamber of Commerce for vital organizations).
- The application form has to be completed and submitted to the offices of the Fire Department & Disaster Management, located at Jackal Road 5, Cay Hill before May 21, 2010, with all necessary documents attached:
- copy business license fee paid for 2010;
- copy new model Sint Maarten ID-card (old cards are null and void);
When the request is submitted per form Nafl. 50,- in leges stamps, to be obtained at the Island Receiver, needs to be included. This is a non-refundable handling fee.
One (1) passport picture must be submitted with the request for new applicants.
The emergency pass is only valid for the year 2010 hurricane season and will remain the property of the Island Territory. Passes have to be requested on an annual basis.
The Governor approves the granting of the hurricane passes to applicants.
Persons whose applications have been turned down will be notified on behalf of the Governor. Appeal is not possible.
Persons without a valid residency permit will not be issued a pass.
One will be informed by email or telephone when to pick up the pass at the Office of the Fire Department & Disaster Management on Jackal Road 5, Cay Hill (office hours are Monday – Friday, 9.00 AM – 4.00 PM).
The Island Territory is authorized to verify the information that is supplied by the person / business requesting the emergency pass.
Failing to comply with the above mentioned procedure, omitting information or handing in the form too late will result in the application being turned down.
Philipsburg:--- The island council meeting called on Monday had to be postponed for a lack of quorum since members of the Democratic Party faction did not show up for the meeting. Currently leader of government William Marlin and island council member Rudolphe Samuel is in the Netherlands while Commissioner Hyacinth Richardson is in Puerto Rico attending to family matters. Also off island is leader of the Democratic Party Sarah Wescot Williams. However the other members of the DP faction who are currently on island refused to give their support to the current government. In a press release Island Councilman Roy Marlin said the National Alliance/ Heyliger and Laveist Coalition must respect the role of the island council, thus the Democratic Party refused to lend its support to the meeting of the Island Council scheduled by the Executive Council and the ruling NA/Heyliger/Laveist coalition convened for April 19, 2010.
Marlin said the Democratic Party considers every meeting of the Island Council of utmost importance, however the actions of the ruling coalition government since taking office on June 8, 2009 leaves much to be desired. "We are experiencing an acceleration of the ruling coalition trying to thwart democracy." The release states that during the past couple of months on several occasions the ruling coalition government did not have a majority to convene meetings of the Island Council called for by them, but the Democratic Party gladly lend its support to ensure that these meetings continued. Despite these efforts from the Democratic Party, we see more and more that this government has no regard for democracy. Point in case is e.g. the meeting requested by the Democratic Party to discuss the consequences of the Island not having a 2010 budget in place. On two occasions, this meeting was convened and members of the NA/Heyliger/Laveist government while being present in the hall of the Island Council, refused to lend their support as good democracy dictates. Information and clarification from government being requested time and again by the Democratic Party faction on important issues, is met with deafening silence from the NA/Heyliger/Laveist coalition. The budget 2010 debate is a clear example of the coalition government again shirking its responsibility, by not providing the report to the Island Council to substantiate the projected income in additional taxes for 2010 of almost Naf 28 million guilders.
Central Committee meetings are requested and the Chairman of the Central Committee totally disregarding the timeline for convening of these meetings in accordance with the rules of order is yet another example of this NA/Heyliger/Laveist government's lack of adherence to our democratic system.
The Permanent Committee of the Island Council for Constitutional Affairs being sidelined by not obtaining information in a timely manner, or no meetings of this body being convened to update the members. In the meeting scheduled for April 19, 2010, the agenda of the Island Council included an agenda point which would deal with the Kingdom Law on the Plans of Approach for country Curacao and St. Maarten. Considering that this is a draft Kingdom Law it would have been prudent for the government to first have deliberations in the PCCA before taking the debate to a public meeting of the Island Council for decision making. These are just a few examples of the NA/Heyliger/Laveist coalition dodging its responsibility and these actions and the irresponsible behavior of this government needs to be stopped. The Democratic Party while accepting its role as the opposition party in the Island Council is always willing to lend support to ensure continuity within government, but the NA/Heyliger/Laveist coalition must start making a serious effort to respect the role of the Island Council.
Pointe Blanche: --- A riot broke out at the house of detention on Monday morning as some of the prisoners decided to protest against the transfer of two of their prison inmates to Bonaire. Police said they were called around 10:15 am when the prison guards on duty could not restore order. The Observation Center (the area from where the guards can oversee all the cells in the prison) was destroyed by the prisoners involved in the riot.
An investigation is scheduled to take place by detectives department to determine who is responsible for the damage. Currently order has been restored at the prison. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said the situation at the prison was extremely dangerous and police had to respond with their K9 unit to restore order. "All of the off duty officers had to respond to the scene totaling 50. Henson said the prisoners were searched and placed in a secure area while the cells were searched for weapons and dangerous items. Henson said there was major destruction by the inmates. Chief Inspector Carl John headed the operation, while Henson described the operation and situation during the riot as tense. He felt they caught the prisoners by surprise since the team of officers responded to the scene in full riot gear. Even though unusual and tense Henson said, no force was necessary since the prisoners understood the seriousness of their actions and cooperated with police during the search.
The "take back" of the prison lasted approximately 45 minutes after which the prisoners were returned to their cells and an assessment of the damage was conducted.
A press release from the prison director Russell Ricardo states that on April 19, 2010 around 08:30 am, two inmates were taken out of their respective cells and taken to the front section of the prison to be taken to the airport. They were being transferred to the prison of Bonaire because of their repeated misbehavior in the prison and for instigating bad behavior amongst the other inmates.
At this time the inmates, of the Juvenile section were getting air on the recreation field. Some remained in their section while others were on the field airing. When the prison guard came to the alley with an empty box to collect the belongings of one of the inmates that was leaving, he was told, "Nobody going anywhere with anything and nobody leaving from here." The inmates then destroyed the box.
The acting head of Safety and Security was informed of the situation.
When the other inmates on the recreation field learned that the particular inmates were being taken to Bonaire, they left the field and went upstairs to their section. They broke the lock of the section of another inmate and together the inmates from that section then proceeded to break all the locks off the other sections thus freeing the inmates of those sections. They began throwing all the locks they broke at the prison guards, at which point the prison guards started leaving the general housing section.
Two inmates were threatening the prison guards by telling them they know where they lived and who their families are.
The lock of the Central command office of the general housing area was also broken and all the keys were taken. The inmates also destroyed the ceiling lights, the porto-phones, the amplifier machine, chargers, the computer and printer, the padlocks, the public announcement system and the water cooler. They broke the water pipes, which resulted in the housing area being flooded with water.
The Inmates Association tried twice to reason with the inmates, but with no success. The police were called in to neutralize the situation.
PHILIPSBURG--As the most active part of the Carnival Calendar approaches, the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) will open the gates of the Carnival Village Wednesday night for one and all.
Entrance will be free and the general public is being urged to go out and support the booth holders and the entertainment that will be on center stage.
"Come out and support the booth-holders, with karaoke and other entertainment on stage. ST Maarten Carnival 2010 is in full swing, let's celebrate our carnival together," Vice President of the foundation Stuart Johnson said.
"We can't let mishaps slow down the fete and take away the spirit and fun. Carnival is about you so we hope everyone comes out on Wednesday in good spirit at Carnival Village," Johnson added.
Philipsburg: --- The police department is planning to begin their inspection this coming Thursday announced Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson. Henson said the Inspection department will be controlling all sites where objects are placed to make sure licenses were issued for the objects. In connection with the Carnival Season and mainly the upcoming jump-up and Carnival parades, the Police Department and the Department of Safety Inspection as part of their safety policy is informing the public of following:
The placing of scaffolding, stages, flatbeds, trailer-beds along- side the public roads is prohibited without a permit from the Lt. Governor.
Numerous stages, flatbeds, trailer-beds. have been placed along side the public roads and mainly on route of the jump-ups and carnival parades.
On Thursday April 22 starting from 04.00 p.m., the members of Police Department. and Safety Inspection Department will be controlling all sites where these objects are placed.
- To make sure that those objects have a permit to be placed on the public road and on that particular site.
- That objects to inspect on safety issues.
Philipsburg/French Quarter:---Environmental Awareness foundation Sint Maarten PRIDE foundation accompanied students of the Ruby Labega Primary school to the French side of the island to visit the northern side new Waste Sorting Center located in Galisbay.
Students and teachers listened to Manager Anthony Lefur explain how the drive through waste sorting center is beneficial to the French side General Public. Students toured the waste site and saw the various bins set up to sort the waste.
Each bin was marked with what is allowed to be dumped, for instance paper and carton, green waste like tree cuttings, bulk household debris, metal.
There was a special unit to store aerosol cans, household batteries, car batteries, and yet another unit that is marked for the collection of waste engine oil.
Students learned that waste is exported in most cases to Guadeloupe and other countries to be recycled into new products.
Later in the morning, the group headed over to the Sandy Ground Cultural Center where the Collectivite organized a Exposition and Symposium on Biodiversity.
The group learnt the importance of biodiversity, and how all living organisms are connected and important for healthy ecosystems to thrive in our environment.
Sint Maarten PRIDE foundation would like to thank Ambassador of Sorting Nicole Piper, Manager of the Waste Sorting Center Anthony LeFur and Vice President Mr.Pierre Aliotti for the warm welcome extended to the foundation, the students and teachers for Earth day 2010.
Special thanks goes out to Pizza Hut for donating easy to use tomato/parsley seedling boxes to the students.
This year was the 40th. Anniversary of Earth Day and also the 10th. year anniversary of the Sint Maarten PRIDE foundation.
Sint Maarten PRIDE will continue to provide educational awareness programs to our youth while striving to better educate the general population and government on the importance of preserving and respecting our local environment and natural heritage sites.
Philipsburg: --- The body that was found in a Sucker Garden home on Friday has been identified as Angela Georges (42) confirmed Prosecutor Rienk Mud. Mud said that the body has been confiscated since police suspected that there might be foul play in the woman's death.
Mud said, the woman is a national of Dominica and she most probably was residing on the island legally.
SMN News understands that the woman is known to her neighbors as "Angie" and she was married and living with her husband. Sources say the woman's body bore marks of violence while family members are claiming that their relative was ailing. |
SMN News also understands that Georges once lived in the US. Our condolences goes out to the bereaved family.
Philipsburg – "As we continue to celebrate our forty-first carnival celebration here on St. Maarten, we must also keep a keen eye on 2011," remarked Stuart Johnson Vice President of the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF). St. Maarten Carnival 2010 has seemed to have struggled here and there along the way, but it continues regardless. Johnson is of the belief that, "Carnival planning for 2011 must start as soon as we finish celebrating this year. An early start will set in place the right motion necessary to restore the confidence in people and bring back the joy/spirit into Carnival." There are several issues and changes which have happened throughout the past years which also have played a role in the situation we are today. Johnson cited the decline in sponsorship, bands not being able to enter the St. Maarten Festival Village and the lack of flexibility for certain concert show-times are among some areas of concern which should be addressed. He minced no words in expressing, "Our carnival is bigger than any individual or group, it's about the people, and we must always remember it shall continue no matter what."
Johnson congratulated those participating troupes and individuals who took part in the children's parade on Sunday. "Schools should be encouraged to produce a troupe with the support and assistance of especially the parents/PTA/staff. The business community should adopt a school enabling them the opportunity to participate as SCDF will do its utmost to foster such too," he stated. "I extend my best wishes to everyone as you have a safe and enjoyable St. Maarten Carnival 2010," he concluded saying.
GREAT BAY, – Leader of Government and Commissioner responsible for Constitutional Affairs William Marlin, live press briefing of Friday, April 23 upon his return to the island from The Hague, Holland, will be re-aired on Tuesday evening, April 27.
The live press briefing will be carried by Sint Maarten Cable TV Channel 15 at 9.00pm.
Commissioner Marlin addressed the Sint Maarten community and updated them on the accomplishments and about the presentations made in the Dutch Second Chamber of Parliament as well as the voting on legislation related to the constitutional renewal process.
Persons who did not get the opportunity last Friday to see the broadcast can do so on Tuesday evening.
The Commissioner also provides insight into the way forward to 10-10-10.
Philipsburg:--- Several members of the island council were in shock and total amazement as leader of government William Marlin attempted to answer to the island council on Tuesday on matters related to labor while the commissioner holding the portfolio looked on. Some wondered if commissioner Hyacinth Richardson was ready for the job he is now holding or if he was too nervous to stand up to members of the former Democratic Party Executive Council.
Members of the Democratic Party faction posed several critical questions on the labour situation on April 16th hoping that the executive council would have been able to provide them with the answers on Tuesday. On Tuesday afternoon when the meeting was called the chairman of the island council informed the island council that the executive council needed at least half an hour more for them to prepare the answers.
Members of the island council voiced their opinions openly on how the commissioner responsible for labour affairs is conducting his duties saying he was simply not ready and wondered in what spirit he would run country St. Maarten.
However, the meeting had to be adjourned to May 10th since Marlin told the council that most of the answers they were seeking are still not ready and the department is busy putting those answers together for them. The chairman of the island council also assured the council that when the answers are ready it will be provided to them in writing even though it is not customary.
As for the questions posed about the Brooks Tower Accord, Marlin made clear that the executive council could not provide answers about the BTA process since that fell under the Minister of Justice. He said the executive council shortens the procedures for persons falling under the category two of the BTA process by requesting a copy of the business license of the applicant's employer, their employment contract and a copy of their passport.
Marlin further explained that the BTA process did have some delays since the persons hired to verify the documents were not sure what they were looking for. He said this happened because many persons simply did not understand the process.
Marlin said during the BTA processed they discovered that St. Maarten had people living on the island for as long as 38 years and was never registered at the Census Office. He said many of the applicants came here as toddlers and attended school on St. Maarten and now they are adults and sought employment they were confronted with the need for a labour permit.
The island leader said something had to be done to make sure the people living on St. Maarten for years could regulate their statuses on the island and that is what the BTA facilitated.
Marlin said it would not be fair for St. Maarten to tell those persons who obtained a BTA permit that they were not going to get a regular working or residence permit as such they are currently in discussion with employers and other parties to move forward. He said the BTA is temporary and when it expires the people have to follow the local policy.
Marlin said the executive council already realizes that if amendments are not made to the current legislations then problems lie ahead for St. Maarten. He said it would be incorrect for government to allow people to live on the island illegally for years and now they have reached working age to refuse them a work permit based on the current labour policy that stipulates that persons under the age of 25 cannot be issued a working permit. Marlin said many of these persons were allowed to register under the BTA process and it would not be fair to implement the labour policy to the fullest extent when the BTA expires. As such the executive council has these legislations under review and decisions will soon be taken to make sure they do not create another nightmare for the applicants of work permits. Marlin said government is also looking into how to address the unemployment situation on St. Maarten and the alleged abuse of the short term labour contracts.
Marlin said he said before that St. Maarten needs to have open discussion with employers concerning the abuse of the labour laws. He said there are employers who prefer to hire immigrant workers because these people are willing to work longer hours for less pay and no insurance, while leaving locals out in the cold without work.
Responding to the executive council, leader of the Democratic Party Sarah Wescot Williams in her presentation acknowledged there is a collective responsibility in the executive council since the leader of government answered the questions. Wescot Williams said she particularly asked if the commissioner of labour has any intentions of answering the questions that was posed directly to him and if he was not going to address the island council then she would like to know if there is a particular reason behind his silence.
The Democratic Party faction leader also wanted the executive council to elaborate on what they meant when they said the tripartite committee is under review and to make the committee broad base.
Wescot Williams said she wants the executive council to say exactly what type of permits were given to the category two BTA and if the permits also expire on November 3 2010.
She said also wants to know if government has an idea as to how they would deal with the applications for extensions especially now that the central government has transferred labour to the island territory. Wescot Williams also used the opportunity to indicate that even though present during the historical transfer of tasks her faction does not know exactly what the central government and local government signed off on since she did not receive a copy of the documents. She called on the chairman of the island council to make sure members of the island council sees the "folder" and get a copy of the documents signed off on Tuesday morning.
Belvedere: --- The relatives of a handicapped woman were busy assisting her on Friday April 30 to remove her belongings from one of the police apartments in Delight Estate. The woman Connie Alias was married to a police officer of KPSSS. However, the couple separated over a year ago and has recently divorced. According to Connie Burgess Alias her ex-husband and his new companion showed up at her home on Friday morning and ordered her out of his apartment forthwith. The woman who is also handicapped and has been recently diagnosed with cancer said she called her mother and other relatives for assistance since the officer in question were behaving out of the ordinary.
Ruth Alias mother of Connie Alias said when she was informed of the incident she dialed 911 requesting police assistance knowing her daughter has serious medical conditions. Mrs. Alias said when she arrived on the scene with a truck to remove her daughter's belongings she overheard the newly appointed head of the Algemeen Division telling her daughter that she has to get out of the apartment by midnight on Friday April 30. Alias said she asked the officer in question if he thought it was normal for him to evict someone on a public holiday and the division head told her that he was just a messenger in this case. She said the officer told her that the decision to evict her daughter was taken by Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police Ademar Doran. Several efforts to reach Doran for a comment on the matter proved futile since Doran did not answer his cellular phone neither the SMS messages sent to him by SMN News. SMN News also tried getting a comment from Chief of Police Franklyn Richards but that too proved futile.
SMN News learnt from neighbors and other bystanders that several officers working in the police force for years were on the scene ordering the woman out of the house.
In an invited comment one of the officers told this reporter that he only went to the scene to make peace. When asked if he thought the procedures used by the police department to evict the terminally ill woman on a public holiday was correct or legal, the officer said he is prepared to soak his blows for the decision he took.
Connie Alias provided SMN News with two letters one to show that her lawyer wrote a letter addressed to Doran on April 15 2010 informing him that he is aware that his client would have to vacate the apartment she is currently living in since the woman was no longer living with her husband.
The letter attorney at law Jason Rogers wrote to Doran states that due to the fact the couple has irreconcilable differences the court of first instance pronounced their divorce on March 15 2010. However, the divorce is not a legal fact since the divorce is yet to be registered at the census office and that both parties are still awaiting the written judgment of the divorce.
Attorney at law Rogers explained to the Korpschef that his client was diagnosed with cancer and she is also a handicap due to an accident in the Netherlands a few years ago. Rogers indicated that based on humanitarian grounds his client Connie Alias would need time to find somewhere to live. He asked Doran to give Alias at least five months in which to find a place to live but Doran never responded to the letter sent to him by attorney Rogers, Alias told SMN News.
Alias also provided SMN News with a letter she received from her ex husband's lawyer indicating to her that she has to vacate the house she is living in since she is now divorced from her husband.
After this article was published Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police Ademar Doran sent an email to SMN News stating that he will not go into details because this matter regards people's privacy. Doran further stated "1. I did
not give Carl John any order to evict anyone and
no one was evicted. Neither John nor I do have that authority.
An eviction has an Order from the Court as legal basis. As far as I know there was
no Court Order in this specific case to evict anybody.
John was called to the home this morning. Since this case is of civil nature the police then will not mediate. John did
not evict anybody.", Doran's email states.
2. The rent for the house is paid for by the Central Government and the one responsible is the officer in question. After receiving the letter from the wife's lawyer, management wanted to speak to the parties involved to get clarity on the problem. It was then determined, taking into account the civil nature of the problem and their respective rights, that management was not the legal entity to grant the request of the wife. An answer to this respect will be forwarded to the wife's lawyer after the carnivals holidays." Doran further stated that he regrets to hear that once again incorrect/wrong and malicious information is being spread out.
Copies of both letters are below for clarity on this case.
Marigot: --- The support committee established to support Robert Romney head of the education department on St. Martin will be holding a protest march on Wednesday May 5th the committee announced.
The committee is calling on the people of St. Martin, parents, teachers as well as the younger generation to gather in front of the Marigot Stadium from 8:30 am on May 5th.
Organizer and member of the committee Aline Choisy said the marchers would be going to the Collectivity of St. Martin to demand recognition of the language, culture, social and economic specificities on St. Martin.
The committee also wants education to become the first priority for local and higher administrations and to insist that the students on St. Martin be given access to bilingual education which is the key to success in any society.
The goal of the committee is to ensue that the representative of the Rectorate Mr. Robert Romney stays on St. Martin to carry out all changes towards bilingual education for the students of St. Martin.
The committee held a public meeting last Tuesday at the Chamber of Commerce where they discussed their concerns and a plan of action was established.
Philipsburg:---The Board of the Windward Islands Civil Servants Union-PSU (WICSU -PSU) and the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU), would like to inform its members of the current situation with the retroactive payment of the new salary scales. In the April 2010 pay check the Cost-of-Living Adjustment of 2006-2007 was applied. In the new salary scales structure, it was agreed that the cost-of-living would be integrated to the salary scales. This is a total of 4.6% to be added to your current basic salary.
The one time lump sum payment consists of:
- Three months retroactive payment of the new salary scale of January 2010.
- The Christmas bonus, which is Nafls. 335,00 for those earning under Nafls. 2,845.00 and Nafls 250,00 for those above.
- Pensioners will receive Nafls. 145,00.
Furthermore, the Board of the WITU would like the teachers and all workers of the Private Subsidized School boards to take note that this payment might be forthcoming on a later date for them, due to administrative procedures for the school boards to claim this extra pay in their subsidy request. Most likely by the end of May 2010.
Copies of the new salary scales January 2010 was distributed to the members of the WITU at General Membership Meeting of August 2009.
Any additional information pertaining to these salary scales can be obtained by contacting the respective unions.
MARIGOT—Detectives from the VAMA unit and the criminal unit of the Gendarmerie are busy investigating a broad daylight armed robbery which took place on Tuesday around midday. According to a press release from the gendarmes, armed bandits raided a jewellery store on Rue de la Liberte. The armed bandits held one of the staff at gun point before taking off with the loot. Staff members were taken to the back of the store while the bandits gathered their loot.
In an unrelated incident, a security guard managed to apprehend a 26 year old man on Friday when he was caught stealing a microwave oven from a hotel. A guest at the hotel also assisted with the arrest of the culprit who was later handed over to the gendarmes. The suspect is summoned to appear in court in June.
The gendarmes also arrested an 18 year old during a routine control. The young driver was not in possession of his driver's license. A search of his vehicle revealed that he was carrying an undisclosed amount of cocaine and marijuana.
The gendarmes also arrested a gypsy driver who was caught transporting passengers without a driver's license and transportation permits. The unlicensed driver has to appear in court later this year.
An investigation conducted by the gendarmes showed that the man's license was suspended for one year for traffic offenses he committed. He was caught transporting 11 passengers in the Sandy Ground area on April 21.
The SHTA was recently awarded the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association's 2010 newsworthy award for its electronic membership newsletter that is distributed twice monthly.
The award was presented to SHTA's Jr. Project Manager Valya Pantophlet during a 2-day Leadership Conference hosted by the Caribbean Society of Hotel Association Executives (CSHAE) earlier this week.
According to CHTA spokesperson Richard Kahn, the SHTA outshone the other competing islands because of consistency in each edition as it relates to industry statistics, news and upcoming CHTA events.
This is not the first time that the SHTA has won such an award. It received the Newsworthy Award for Excellence in Tourism Communication for its printed bi-monthly publication, The Voice, in 1998 and 2006.
The SHTA is thrilled to have its work recognized regionally and hopes to walk away with both awards (for electronic and printed newsletters) next year.
Great Bay,– St. Maarten/St. Martin is ranked fourth in the latest TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Awards Top 25 Destinations in the Caribbean and Mexico, one spot ahead of Aruba, and just below Havana, Cuba. The first two places went to Chichen Itza, Mexico and The Bahamas respectively.
"Get the experience of visiting two island colonies in the same 37 square miles. Saint Maarten/Saint Martin's spicy marriage of Caribbean, French and Dutch cultures matches its physical diversity: the island is both urban and untamed, with rain forest-like landscapes, white beaches, and amazing caves and wildlife," TripAdvisor wrote about the island.
TripAdvisor is the largest online travel community in the world. It began its TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Destinations Awards in 2008 to "honor the world's top destinations, earning their distinction from those who know them best 'real travelers.'" In its inaugural edition, Philipsburg, St. Maarten was chosen as the third best vacation destination in the world, with only Milford Sound and Queenstown, both in New Zealand rated above it.
Last year when the Awards focused primarily on properties, Hotel Esplanade Caraibes in Grand Case was ranked number 7 in the region among the Best Hidden Gems of the Caribbean and Mexico.
"This is the third consecutive year in which our island has been chosen among the elite vacation destinations in the Caribbean & Mexico by those who matter most, real travelers – over 10 million of them, who give their unbiased opinions about places they have actually visited," noted Commissioner of Tourism, Frans Richardson.
"It is a testimony to the continued hard work of all stakeholders, particularly those who come in direct contact with the visitors – the taxi drivers, bell boys, waiters and waitresses, receptionists, etc.," Richardson continued, adding "the St. Maarten government will continue to work even harder to ensure that every visitor that touches our shores leaves with the most memorable vacation experience that will make them recommend our island to others."
Director of Tourism, Regina LaBega, for her part, noted that although the Island had slipped slightly from the number one ranking it achieved in 2008 when the first TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Awards were announced, "it is still very remarkable that millions of travelers were impressed enough to choose the destination among the very best in the region where competition for tourists is very fierce."
"It should be noted that the TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Awards has focused on a different aspect each year. For example, in its first year, the Awards were general in nature while last year the emphasis was on the quality of the properties at the chosen destinations. This year there are several categories, apart from the general one. This means that regardless of the focus of the Awards, the destination continues to rate high as a favorite among travelers. There can be no better recognition than what these millions of actual visitors say about us online," added LaBega.
Hugh Riley of the Caribbean Tourism Organization described the TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Awards as "of particular importance to the Caribbean as they reflect the unfettered opinion of our guests without provocation or persuasion."
"We want to impress our guests with an authentic Caribbean experience that can't be duplicated elsewhere in the world, whether they are looking for the perfect family, romantic or luxury getaway. This recognition proves that we are doing that and we thank our loyal guests for making their voices heard on our behalf," Riley concluded.
(Airport Road, St Maarten) Winair's ticket office was robbed earlier this morning by three gun touting youths. Managing Director of Winair, Edwin Hodge pointed out that the three young men posed as customers and held up the two female employees in the ticket office at the company's headquarters. He disclosed that the unfortunate incident occurred around 11.05 am earlier today and has left employees within the company traumatized.
"It is a very unfortunate incident that occurred today, however we are satisfied with the security systems that we have in place in detecting those responsible for this incident," Hodge said. Hodge pointed out that a small amount of cash, keys, and personal belongings of the two employees were stolen while stressing that fortunately no one was injured in the three minute ordeal.
He noted that after the three men entered the office they held up the employees while proceeding to hold other employees of the company at gunpoint. He said that however this was quickly aborted due to the quick reaction of staff.
"The safety and security of both our employees and customers are of paramount importance and therefore we will investigate this matter as we seek to ensure that those responsible for this unfortunate situation is brought to justice. I am very happy with the timely response of the police who were notified by employees and responded within minutes of the incident," Hodge said.
The WINAIR MD stressed that the company's security measures will be revisited in an effort to further enhanced it as it seek to maintain and guarantee employees and customers security and safety. He declared that all attempts will be made to ensure that justice is served. The three bandits escaped in a waiting car which was parked in front of the company's office.
Hodge expressed thanks and appreciation to the quick and timely response of employees who he said assisted in averting any potential damage to lives and property. The Human Resource Manager has contacted the company's doctor and psychologist to work with the affected employees.
Vice President of Marketing, Claudio Buncamper who was in his office a mere few yards away from where the robbery took place said that systems will have to be enhanced as its evident from the action of the young men that they were desperate adding that he is happy that no one was hurt.
Buncamper said that while it is the perception that large cash is held at the company it is a myth as the company has implemented strict security arrangements with regards to large amount of finances. Hodge and Buncamper expressed appreciation for the police timely response stressing that they are satisfied with the support and assistance being given thus far from the law enforcement officers. The police are investigating the incident.
GREAT BAY,– The Governor General of the Netherlands Antilles Frits Goedgedrag is scheduled to arrive on Monday morning from Curacao on an official visit to the three Dutch Windward Islands.
The Governor will also travel to Saba and St. Eustatius.
The Governor will be accompanied by his wife, the Director of his Cabinet and his Adjudant Lieutenant.
The Governor General and his delegation are scheduled to return to Curacao on May 13.
Philipsburg:--- A huge fire broke out at Bakkers Recyling on the Pondside yesterday evening. The entire Philipsburg was covered in thick black smoke as firefighters and police were battling to put the blaze out. From the look of the smoke it is clear Bakkers were storing chemicals and toxic materials among the wrekage.
Up to press time the cause of the fire was not determined. As bystanders stood on rooftops and alongside the road leading to Bakkers several explosions were heard.
Authorities at the fire department said they could not tell what is the cause of the fire.
Residents in the area said the fire began just around 4pm on Monday afternoon.
Efforts made to contact the managing director of Bakkers recyling on Monday afternoon for a comment proved futile.
Several residents in the area said they have been complaining to everyone about the danger Bakkers posed since the wrecks are piled up. One resident said that by the end of the month St. Maarten would be in hurricane season and with the piles of wrecks on the dump is something waiting to happen.
Jadira Veen of the St. Maarten PRIDE Foundation is calling on all residents living in the area to wear masks since the smoke and chemical emissions from the fire is a heath hazard. Veen said it is clear toxins is in the area and people should begin to take the necessary precautions. She further explained that it was unfortunate for this fire to take place since Bakkers is was looking to ship the car wrecks that were collected when it is feasible for the company.
SMN News learnt that concerned residents have already sent letters to the island government requesting that they do something to assist the company so they can ship off the wrecks more often.
During the commotion on the site police arrested photo journalist Gromyko Wilson because he crossed the line to take his photographs. It is not clear if Wilson was involved in any confrontation with the police at the time of his arrest.
Cay Hill: --- Officials of the fire department said they suspected arson maybe involved in the fire at the Bakkers Recycling on Monday. At a press conference on Tuesday Head of the Fire Department Winston Solomon told reporters that the police are now busy conducting an official investigation to see who are responsible for the suspected arson. Asked what made them think that the fire was set on purpose Solomon said that no one was at the scrap yard at the time when the fire broke out and most importantly the property is fenced in.
Solomon further indicated that there was a tank containing diesel at the location which caused the explosion at the site. He admitted that the fire department arrived on the scene a bit late but said the fire department had to make sure they had enough water to battle a fire of such magnitude. Fire Chief Frans Nieuwenhoven said they were forced to call in some of their firemen who were off duty to assist with the fire. Nieuwenhoven said at the site there were close to 2000 damaged cars which he found to be a lot.
He said when the firemen reached the scene the entire compound was on fire "basically the fire was from the right to left side which is already a lot of fire to put out." He said one should know that there is a lot of plastic in cars which is what contributed to the thick black smoke.
Nieuwenhoven said all of the fire trucks were on the scene to make sure there was enough water to battle the fire. The fire chief further explained that the fire department continued to pump water throughout the night to make sure the fire was completely out. "Actually we stopped the pumps at 8 am on Tuesday morning."
He said one of the reason, they were keeping people away from the scene was for their own safety due to flying debris and the explosions during the fire.
Solomon said one of the concerns of the fire department was the thick smoke emitting from the fire. He said they did all that was possible to drown the fire to stop the smoke, he also confirmed that the smoke was indeed toxic and that the excess gasoline and diesel that was on the site made matters worse for the firemen.
The management of the firemen expressed sincere gratitude to the 33 firemen who worked tirelessly to put the fire out. Solomon said they are very pleased with his personnel because they all worked hard on Monday afternoon. Many of them he said sustained minor injuries due to metal scrap. They also expressed gratitude to the police department and sector ROB who loaned them two excavators to remove the scrap vehicles.
Philipsburg:--- Members of the College Financieel Toezicht (CFT ) are doubtful that St. Maarten's executive council would get the green light and approval from the Central government to implement the extra one percent turns over tax by June 1. For this to happen the central government would have to amend the law and most importantly St. Maarten has to have an agreement with the other islands to allow them to increase turn over tax on St. Maarten only. While members of the CFT are not questioning St Maarten on its ability to get this done within the next two weeks they would be monitoring the situation to make sure it is feasible. Currently the tax compliance on St. Maarten is between 30 to 35% said the CFT. Max Pandt said based on administration information in Curacao, St. Maarten has a tax compliance of 30% which to him is rather low.
The CFT feels that with the suggestions they provided to the executive council St. Maarten would be able to yield more tax income in the years ahead. They said one of the requests they made to the executive council on Wednesday were for the island government to work harder on the suggestions made to them on tax revenues and to allow the CFT to closely monitor the island's financial development. They also agreed that the island council of St. Maarten should be aware of the new and additional conditions implemented on St. Maarten by the CFT.
They said the executive council has agreed to inform the CFT on a monthly basis the actual financial development so that they can determine at an early stage if there is going to be a crisis.
At a press conference on Wednesday CFT said that even though they are optimistic of the approach they are still willing to give the island government of St. Maarten the benefit of the doubt. Chairman of the CFT A.M Vliegenhart said the executive council could have chosen to implement other measures to increase revenues on St. Maarten rather than to increase the turn over tax. The chairman said St. Maarten has the lowest taxation compared to the other Caribbean islands and taxes could have been added elsewhere.
However, he made clear that the decision has to come from the island government of St. Maarten and not the CFT. The chairman said at this point in time there is no need for them to report to the Royal Dutch Government a negative report on the budget since they are still in discussions to balance the budget based on higher supervision laws, while making clear that they did not rule out that possibility neither given up that right.
The chairman said the moment they get indications that things are not going as stipulated in the budget then they would have to begin discussing other measures which would bring about a balance budget. One of the requests of the CFT is to make sure there is more tax compliance on St. Maarten since the taxes here are much lower that the other Caribbean islands, and they felt there is still room for St. Maarten to get more income tax. Should the island government explore these possibilities then they would definitely be able to reduce the other tax rates. However, these decisions have to be taken by the local politicians.
The chairman of the CFT said during their discussion with the island council members of the opposition expressed doubt about St. Maarten being able to increase the turn over tax by June 1. He said the opposition did not believe in the increase of the turn over tax and they made some other suggestions to the executive council.
The opposition believes that the executive council should look into getting the Dutch Antilles to transfer additional income to St. Maarten. The CFT feels that is a solution that could be considered by the island government and not the CFT.
They said that the federal tax receivers had given the executive council wrong figures when it comes to income tax. That they said had to be adjusted by 23 million guilders. Currently the budget lacks about 27 million guilders before it can be balanced and government has decided to make cuts of about 13.5 million guilders while they believe if they increase the turn over tax from 3% to 4% percent they would yield another 13.5 million guilders within a six month period which would balance the budget. Considering the economic down trend it is not possible to say if government would be able to collect that amount of monies.
Roland Tuitt and Max Pandt of the CFT committee admitted that the current finance commissioner Xavier Blackman has inherited a lot of set backs when he took office. Tuitt said Blackman did submit a realistic budget in the beginning. He said anyone who is dealing with the current process would do exactly what Blackman did by adding the monies the island was expecting with the transfer of the federal government to St. Maarten, but said the budget was submitted too late. Tuitt said when the budget was submitted the CFT had already approved the Curacao and the Federal Government budget. "Had St. Maarten submitted that budget in June last year then it would have been approved by the CFT." Tuitt said. Tuitt said St. Maarten did not get the opportunity to have a transition period and the figures they are presenting were not verified. He said when the CFT requested St. Maarten to remove the departments from the federal government from the budget then they ended up with a huge deficit which is not acceptable to the higher supervision laws. He said at that point the budget had a deficit of 25 million which is difficult for any government to fill.
While the island government is still looking for solutions to rectify and balance the 2010 budget they are supposed to present the 2011 budget to the CFT by August 15 and May 1 to the Island Council based on the rules of order.
Great Bay:--- As the tourism authorities take the new branding image of the destination on the road, State Secretary for Kingdom Relations, Mrs. Ank Bijleveld, is among the VIPs expected to attend the official launch in Holland of the new branding of St. Maarten scheduled to be held on May 20, 2010. Top executives of the firm representing the destination in The Netherlands, Interreps B.V., are leaving no stone unturned in order to get her to be present at this special occasion.
However, due to circumstances beyond his control, the Minister Plenipotentiary of the Netherlands Antilles, Mr. Marcel van der Plank, has expressed regrets he won't be able to be present. In his place, Mr. Robert Candelaria, Director of Antillenhuis, has confirmed his participation.
Commissioner of Tourism, Frans Richardson, will be leading the St. Maarten delegation to the event, accompanied by the Director of Tourism, Regina LaBega and Section Head Marketing, Edward Dest.
"It is very important to re-position St. Maarten in the Dutch market, especially taking advantage of the new branding of the island, which has been receiving rave reviews in all the other markets," said Commissioner Frans Richardson.
He added that he expects that the presence of high-profile Dutch authorities at the launch would further add weight to the initiative and bring greater media attention to the event.
"It is indeed an important component of our marketing strategy to ensure that the new branding of the destination reaches the target segment we are seeking to attract and this opportunity will hopefully result in the Dutch seeing St. Maarten in a new light," Director of Tourism, Regina LaBega said.
The new branding has already been launched successfully in the United States, and the Latin American markets.
"We are expecting similar positive results from the Dutch market," LaBega added.
MARIGOT— Someone who witnessed a thief as he was attempting to break into a car in the tourist office parking lot confronted the bandit and held him until the gendarmes arrived on the scene. The suspect who is 46 years old will be summoned to court later this year.
On Friday traffic blocked up for hours and workmen and gendarmes tried to remove a huge truck from the road way, the gendarmes stated that the vehicle overturned on the Belle Plaine road leading to the border. The driver of the truck was taken to the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital to treat his injuries. To date there is no explanation as to why the truck overturned.
The gendarmes also conducted a major road control in Sandy Ground and Cheverise. The control was aimed at the anti- delinquency. The gendarmes arrested two persons for drug possession and seized 46 grams of cannabis.
The operation that began at 5:00pm and ended at 7:30pm was carried out by some 70 armed Gendarmes from different divisions, split into patrols, and with numerous vehicles.
The Gendarmerie noted the objective of the operation ordered by the Prosecutor was of a preventative nature generally but also to seek out any criminal intent. The operation also offered an opportunity to have direct contact with the population, and answer questions. It said such operations are organised in the interests of citizen's safety and security.
The helicopter from Pointe-a-Pitre, Guadeloupe, is used to find missing persons, transporting Gendarmes into inaccessible areas, for reconnaissance, and to track criminals that are running from the law and to report their positions to ground units.
In collaboration with the Jewel Foundation and HAVO 1 students, the Sint Maarten PRIDE foundation coordinated a cleanup of marine trash at the Guana Bay Point last week.
The rocky coastline of the Guana Bay Point was littered with plastic litter, much of it was washed up trash originating from our local and surrounding coasts.
The volunteers found countless plastic bottles, sneakers, fishermen rope,house hold objects, medicine bottles, a discarded fish trap and Styrofoam pieces from boating activities.
This activity is part of the Jewel Foundation program to engage young students in volunteer work and to expose them to the islands environment.
The Jewel foundation facilitators are Edna Rijkaard and Oldine Bryson Panthoplet, they meet with the students every Friday to keep an open communication on the progress of their school work. The Program is sponsored by Dutch funding agency AMFO.
Sint Maarten PRIDE foundation President explained to the students how important it is that we respect our beaches and coastlines, and while the Guana Bay Point is a rocky coast and not a beach, we must do all we can to stop trash from entering our oceans.
Students learned that trash in our oceans and trash along our coastlines can kill our marine wildlife, and by simply taking a reusable eco-shopping bag to pack groceries and volunteering in cleanup campaigns is one of many ways they can positively contribute to helping our planet and keeping our island clean.
The St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) has taken note of the comments by its former President Kendall Dupersoy and questioned if he has not been paying attention. Dupersoy is late to the news.
The recommendations Dupersoy mentioned is exactly what the SCDF has already put in place some two weeks ago to guide Carnival forward and improvement upon our organizational structure. An advisory group consisting of former, well-standing presidents of the SCDF, business people, cultural experts and others is in place and in working on a plan in collaboration with the SCDF.
This group won't be the only entity assisting us professionally, financially and otherwise as we are implementing a complete new structure being led by the most reputable and successful Presidents the SCDF has ever had, Mr. Erno Labega.
While it may be topical to complain about Carnival, it should be noted by the public that through our actions to solicit the assistance of the advisory group, we have acknowledged that there are some areas of Carnival that require the input of several stakeholders and are committed to the improvement of said areas.
The SCDF is grateful that the aforementioned persons have decided to forgo complaining and finger pointing and help develop St. Maarten's largest cultural festival.
Furthermore, we do not hide from the fact that mistakes were made or that there are shortcomings, but we ask the public to consider the source of the latest criticism. We also remind the public that this current board inherited a number of issues from Dupersoy's short tenure as President including some which led to him being the only president in the history of the SCDF to be ousted from his post. Issues which we would not like to revisit again and as they have been thoroughly reported upon.
As we move forward in our preparations for Carnival 2011 we ask the general public for its patience and understanding and assure you that we will publicize our plan as we move along in the coming weeks.
Marigot:--- The committee that is supporting Robert Romney planned to take stronger measures to ensure that St. Maarten be given justice and that Romney remains on St. Martin to complete the work he began in bilingualism and education on St. Martin.
Aline Choisy, Lenny Mussington, Louis Jeffry and President of the MOCSAM Julien Gumbs said that they are ready to block the streets of St. Martin and to make sure the Rectorat respects St. Martin's wishes.
"We are ready to do whatever it takes and right now we are busy informing our people of the current situation so they can join and support the efforts of the committee" said Aline Choisy. Choisy said teachers are planning to strike on Tuesday and they are working towards incorporating the Romney affair in the strike.
Fourth vice president Louis Jeffry said he already made contacts with all the media in Guadeloupe to highlight the current issues facing St. Martin, while the unions are also took up Romney's case.
Aline Choisy said it is her belief that violence would increase in the schools since many persons are unhappy with the current situation, she also acknowledged that Romney did not receive the full support of all the teachers and principals of the schools on St. Martin. "There are some who wants him out saying he did nothing, but I am urging people to go to Romney's office so he can show you the amount of work he did including an exchange program between the Dutch and French side for teachers and students without the means." She said Romney does not even have a secretary and that the person who is currently working in his office can be removed anytime the Rectorat wishes.
At press conference on Wednesday members of the committee produced documents to show that the Rectorat has published Romney's position as vacant even though they never formally notified Romney that he was going to be removed. Choisy said the President of the Collectivity of Saint Martin wrote the Rectorat and to date he did not receive a response, a clear indication that the Rectorat has no respect for St. Martin and its people. She further explained that she personally met with the Deputy of Saint Martin Mr. Victorin Laurel who promised to intervene on St. Martin's behalf in Paris while he would also demand an explanation from the Rectorat. Choisy said the vacancy was published two days after the May 5th protest march.
Asked if the Collectivity of St. Martin received a response from the Ministry fourth vice president Louis Jeffry said to date no one responded to them. However, he assured that the case is going much further since he is not giving up.
The committee also provided an Arête which showed that the Rectorat has appointed the Principal of the College Mireille Choisy of Saint Barths as the representative of the Rectorat in St. Barths. Choisy said Romney is still waiting on his decree from the Rectorat while all that was given to St. Barths is what the teachers on St. Martin held a strike for last year. Lenny Mussington said Robert Romney is a competent son of the soil who understands the predicament of education on St. Martin and thus he is calling on the community of St. Martin to support Robert Romney and to defend education on St. Martin.
The committee members said that they believe that Romney was set up to fail since he was not given the required materials and manpower to function over the past year. They said the Rectorat never gave Romney any monies for office supplies and he has been spending his own monies to get the job done.
Furthermore, the MOCSAM said that what is happening today with Romney is history repeating itself when it comes to locals being appointed to top positions. Gumbs said just last year they fought against the decision taken by the Collectivity and the Sous Prefecture when they appointed Laurent Fuentes as St. Martin's representative at the Social, Economic, and Cultural Council even though Rene Arnell received more votes. He said the MOCSAM has been speaking out against the injustice and they took the streets on more than one occasion but this time stronger measures will be implemented.
Philipsburg:--- What was once considered a rumor and efforts to stain well known businessman Bobby Velasquez is now a reality as detectives from the local police force arrested the businessman early Thursday morning.
According to information reaching SMN News, a close relative of the businessman filed an official complaint with the police department stating that the businessman and uncle to a 16 year old girl sexually molested her during the 2010 Heineken Regatta.
Public Prosecutor Rienk Mud has confirmed that Velasquez has been arrested but refused to give any details into the arrest and ongoing investigation.
Sources close the investigation and family members told SMN News that the young girl is highly traumatized by the incident and that her school board played a major role in the complaint and subsequent arrest of the alleged suspect.
SMN News also learnt that lawyers representing Velasquez claimed that the child's mother wanted to settle the matter for the sum of 1.5 million United States Dollars. However, other relatives and the school board felt that Velasquez should go before the court of law.
SMN News further learnt that Velasquez has filed a case against the family for extortion.
Some years ago a man who is currently serving a lifetime prison sentence raped and murdered Velasquez's seven year old daughter Amy Velasquez. The body of the young child was found in the Cole Bay Lagoon.
The entire team of Saint-Louis Stars football club would like to express its truest and honest appreciation for all those whom have contributed to the dollar drive held these last two Saturdays in Marigot. On May 15th, 2010 an total amount of $1937.81, after conversion of euro and NAf., was generated; May 22nd, totaled $1892.33 for the same manoeuvre. The Club gives a special thanks to those parents who have played their role to the fullest by participating and thus encouraging the fundraising efforts. The purpose of this operation was to enable the Saint Louis Rooster squad in a joint effort with the St Maarten Soccer Educational Foundation to participate in the "Disney Memorial soccer tournament" which will be held from May 27th to June 1st, 2010
The general public is thanked for their generosity.
GREAT BAY,– The Collective Preventive Services Section Youth Health Care (YHC) is encouraging parents and guardians to visit the Open House scheduled for Saturday May 29 at the Vineyard Building in Philipsburg.
All children have to be properly immunized and the vaccinations are free. The open house is from 10.00am to 5.00pm and is being promoted under the theme "Reaching Everyone."
All parents/guardians should use the weekend – Saturday –and bring their children 0 thru 17 years of age to the Open House and have their child's vaccination status reviewed and then vaccinated against preventable communicable diseases.
YHC has an on-going campaign to promote a culture of prevention against vaccine-preventable diseases.
YHC's aim is to promote general information on the vaccination program as to the reasons why we vaccinate and stimulate the participation of parents in the vaccination program. The ultimate aim is to increase the vaccination coverage by getting more children on board as an act of love.
Immunization is a way of protecting children against serious vaccine preventable diseases. Once a person has been fully vaccinated, their bodies can fight those diseases if one comes into contact with them.
Vaccinations have proven to prevent outbreaks and the spread of contagious diseases and as such every parent is urged to ensure that their child's vaccination is up to date.
Vaccinations are given starting with the first one when the child is two months of age and finalized at age nine when the last series are given unless for whatever reason a child needs to catch up on his/her immunizations.
Vaccines have been proven to be the key factor in preventing childhood diseases, disability and death.
Parents should bring along with them their child's vaccination booklet/card. If you are not sure of the status of your child, you should contact either your general practitioner, your paediatrician, YHC or the White & Yellow Cross Baby Clinic for children up to four years of age. Parents who are unable to make it can send another 18+ adult with their child along with the signed consent form.
Philipsburg: --- Lt. Governor of the Island Territory of St. Maarten Franklyn Richards is scheduled to leave St. Maarten on June 1. While it is understood that the governor would be off island for 12 days to attend a conference in the Netherlands.
SMN News understands that Richards would also begin using up his vacation days that are due to him pending his retirement on August 10. Sources say Richards had asked to be paid for his vacation days but the island government has advised him that he would not be paid for those days and that he should take them starting June 1.
Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards will be making his 60th birthday on August 10 making him eligible for pension. However, he was appointed to the office of the Governor of St Maarten on September 22, 2000.
Asked about his departure on several occasions Richards said he would remain in office until 10/10/10. He once said that several reporters have written articles relating to him leaving office all of which are misleading. However, SMN News tried effortlessly on Tuesday to contact Richards on the information we received but he did not answer his phone. He said in the past that he would never leave office without informing the media and the people of St. Maarten whom he said were good to him.
Reliable sources have informed SMN News that the executive council have sent a proposal to the Governor General and to the council of ministers requesting that Richards be sent on vacation as of June 1. It is said the proposal was sent sometime ago but another letter was dispatched Monday evening.
If the proposal of the executive council is ratified then two well known persons in the community will be appointed as acting Lt. Governors until St. Maarten achieves its new status on 10/10/10 and a governor of country St. Maarten would then be appointed.
The source said the executive council is also asking the cabinet to remove the current acting Lt. Governor Millicent De Weever since her brother Leroy De Weever is an island council member. The current executive council have pointed out to the council ministers that De Weever should not have been appointed to office since having her brother as an island council member creates a serious conflict interest.
GREAT BAY,– Emergency Services Week (EMS), under the theme, "Anytime, Anywhere, We will be there," will come to an end late Friday afternoon with a Big Five Motorcade comprising of approximately 30 emergency vehicles from both sides of the island.
The Big Five Motorcade will kick off at 6.00pm from the Fire & Ambulance Building in Cay Hill and head towards Churchill Roundabout at Le Grand Marche; down the Bush Road; over the Prins Bernard Bridge; pass F.W. Vlaun & Son; down Front Street.
The motorcade will then continue to Emancipation Roundabout near the Sundial School and then down the Pondfill; turn right on the A.T. Illidge Road just before the Prins Bernhard Bridge; head up to South Reward and then back down to Churchill Roundabout; and back to the Fire & Ambulance Building in Cay Hill for refreshments.
The motorcade will be led by the Police and police vehicles will regulate traffic flow at various intersections as the motorcade approaches.
The number of vehicles involved and from the various departments and entities are: Police four; Island Government and Airport Fire Departments three; Ambulance Department five; WIEMS one; Red Cross four; Voluntary Korps two; Funeral Services two; and approximately seven vehicles from the North side Fire and Ambulance Services.
Ambulance Department Head Cylred Richardson said he was very pleased with the activities that have been organised for EMS Week.
"We have made much progress during the week that started on Sunday with a church service and now will conclude with the Big Five Motorcade. A lot of energy and effort has been put into promoting the ambulance emergency number which is 912. This was our primary objective for EMS Week 2010," Richardson told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Thursday.
The Ambulance Service which falls under Sector Public Health is committed to providing timely pre-hospital medical care and transport for the sick or injured persons 24 hours a day seven days a week.
If you have difficulty reaching the 912 emergency number for whatever reason, the other two numbers that you can call are 5206262 or 542-2111.
Philipsburg:---A delegation of the Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles consisting of the parliamentary group leaders or their substitutes and headed by the Chairman of the Parliament, Mr. Pedro Atacho, will participate in the parliamentary contact meeting between the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba, which is to be held in Bonaire from June 1 through June 4 next. This meeting will take place at Passangrahan.
During the parliamentary contact the undermentioned topics will be dealt with:
- State of affairs with respect to the implementation of the Final Declaration;
- State of affairs with regard to the constitutional reforms;
- The free movement of persons between the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba;
- Draft Kingdom Act on the movement of persons;
- Discussion relating to the foreign policy of the Kingdom;
- Evaluation of the Parliamentary Consultations between the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba;
- Situation regarding the airspace between the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba;
- Registration of ethnicity in the Netherlands;
- Presentation by the Ombudsman of the island territory of Curacao
- Airport tax between the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba.
The opening discourses on June 1, 2010, starting at 10.00 o'clock, are public: the press and the public may be present. The deliberations on the specific points, will be held in closed sessions.
During the parliamentary contact a presentation will be given by the Minister of Constitutional and the Interior Affairs, Mr. R. Duncan, on the situation regarding the constitutional reforms.
A presentation will also be given by the Minister of Transport and Communication, Mr. P. Illidge, about the situation concerning the airspace between the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba.
A presentation will also be delivered by Ms Alba Martijn, LL.M., of the Office of the Ombudsman regarding her duties as Ombudsman.
All the presentations will be public. In addition, the delegations will pay a working visit to Cargill Salt Bonaire and Water en Electricity Company of Bonaire.
In conclusion, the chairmen of the respective parliaments will hold a press conference at the end of the parliamentary meeting in order to present the results of the parliamentary contact.
Philipsburg:---UTS donated Chippie prepaid credit to the St. Maarten Soccer Educational Foundation for their young soccer players that traveled to Orlando yesterday to take part in the yearly Memorial Day Soccer Tournament in Florida. This credit will be used for the young soccer players to keep in touch with their parents while they are away. "When kids travel abroad for something like this it is an exciting time, but naturally parents are also a bit nervous about their child travelling abroad without them. A simple phone call, letting mom and dad know that you arrived safe and sound is important for some peace of mind. If Chippie can help in making that possible, then we will gladly do so" says UTS Marketing and Communications Officer Ivy Lambert. "You are able to roam with your phone service in many countries using your Chippie prepaid phone. One important thing to keep in mind though, is that when you are roaming, you also pay for incoming calls. With the summer break coming up, many people are making travel plans, so if you want to stay in contact using your Chippie phone while you are away, be sure to have enough credit on your account." Lambert continues.
Thanks to UTS's donation of the call credit, the group of youngsters will able to stay in contact with their parents while they are away. They will be in Florida to participate in the Annual Disney Memorial Day Soccer Tournament from May 29th thru 31st. The tournament will be held at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex located in Buena Vista, Florida, where they will be competing against teams from the United States and other parts of the world as well. Over 300 teams are expected to participate this year. The competition will give the youths a chance to showcase the soccer talent on St. Maarten. "This is not our first time going to this tournament and our players who competed last year are excited to be able to do so again." says Foundation President and coach, David Forsythe. The St. Maarten Soccer Educational Foundation's was founded with the intention to educate the general public about the game of soccer and to develop and train players, coaches and referees.
In picture: UTS representative, Ivy Lambert and Foundation President and coach, David Forsythe and another trainer pose with the excited, young players of the St, Maarten Soccer Educational Foundation at the Princess Juliana International Airport prior to their departure on Thursday.
MARIGOT:--- A special tribute to the late Laurelle "Yaya" Richards, one of St. Martin's acclaimed cultural activists, will air this weekend on Conscious Lyrics radio magazine, said host/producer Shujah Reiph.
Richards died on Wednesday, May 26, after a reported massive heart attack. She was the founder and president of St. Louis Cultural Women Association, and founder of the St. Louis-Freetown-Rambaud fête, celebrated yearly in mid-May.
Part one of the two-part radio program will air on SOS radio 95.9 FM, on Saturday, May 29, 12 noon. Part two will broadcast on Radio Soualiga 99.9 FM, on Sunday, May 30, at 12:30 noon.
In July 2008, Richards journeyed to South Africa as part of Conscious Lyrics Foundation's 160th anniversary celebration of St. Martin Emancipation. "Yaya always talked about returning to Africa again," said Reiph. "Now, as we say, she is with the ancestors in Glory."
Her first volume of poetry is scheduled to be published posthumously. The Collectivity's department of culture, with the enthusiastic support of Pres. Frantz Gumbs, has been busy working with a publisher on the book project since late last year.
Author and poet Lasana Sekou, one of the persons talking about Yaya on the radio programs this weekend, said that, "As a folklorist she projected the folklore aspect of the nation on modernity, with pride and confidence."
Philipsburg:--- Commotion broke out at Court House alley on Friday morning with the relatives of Bobby Velasquez and the relatives of the victim who claimed Velasquez sexually molested her.
According to eyewitnesses, relatives of Bobby Velasquez were waiting outside of the court house to see Velasquez who made his second appearance in front of the judge of instruction for pretrial detention.
Eyewitnesses and those involved in the commotion said an aunt of the victim was at the scene with a placard that reads "Stop the Abuse, R.V is 140% guilty". While relatives of Velasquez said the victim's aunt was insulting the relatives of Velasquez.
They said one of Velasquez sisters and niece approached the victim's aunt and told her that the matter is a family matter and both the suspect and victim are relatives and that she should allow the judicial system to take its course. However, tension flared as the two sets of relatives began arguing.
In the meantime, the judge of instruction has suspended the pretrial detention of Bobby Velasquez. His lawyer Jairo Bloem said his client was released about 6 pm on Friday afternoon. Bloem said the investigation of the case will continue.
SMN News will bring you a more in-depth story of this case on Monday.
It is frightening what some persons will do try to destabilize a secure and stable government in order to kill progress and change. Their only priority is scoring political points, not the progress of the island. This is clear from their hostile political ranting that they call press conferences. It is lamentable that never before has there been such desperation and hostility in St. Maarten politics. Each day seems to bring a desperate new set of attacks and misrepresentation from the DP.
The National Alliance also shares the concern of the people why the Democratic Party would give so much credibility to the King of Pinheads Bill O'Reilly who, according to the Washington Post and CBS news, supposedly settled millions in a sexual harassment lawsuit by his former producer Andrea Mackris. Why would DP praise someone whose authority and integrity is so questionable and yet at the same time seek to destroy one of our very own shining Antillean professionals in the Island Council? But then again, what do you expect from a party that takes advice from people who allegedly run around our neighborhoods in their underwear? As suggested by the young DP Vice President, who recently placed his position at the disposal of his party, young, educated and talented professionals do not stand a chance under the selfish DP Leadership.
True "Country Above Self" puts people above party politics and personal gain. It is about working together for St. Maarten. It is about building people up, not tearing people down. That is why the National Alliance Party stands resolute in our belief that Commissioner of Finance Xavier Blackman is qualified, competent and capable to help take us into country-status. Xavier Blackman is a professional financial expert. He has an excellent background and he is highly respected in the Caribbean and Europe in both the private and public sectors. He has also served exceptionally as State Secretary for Finance on behalf of Saba in the Central Government, and as the Associate director of distinguished firm KPMG. We are confident that Mr. Blackman will emerge as one of the best Finance Commissioners St. Maarten has ever had.
The challenge before us, therefore, is to change our political habits, to renounce political tribalism, to purge ourselves of the old selfish political bickering, enmities and divisions, to renew our St. Maarten nation, and put aside once and for all the bitterness that fan the flames of hostility and anger sweeping our friendly island. The St. Maarten people deserve better. We all saw for ourselves once again that how the Democratic Party had an opportunity to show the people of St. Maarten that it could rise above crab mentality party politics, but instead they chose to try every trick available to them to derail and sabotage the constitutional process. It is clear that DP is posturing for the next Election, but the National Alliance is still working for the future generation. Together, we are moving St. Maarten forward.
For O'Reilly Law Suit Settlement see:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A7578-2004Oct28.html
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2004/10/20/entertainment/main650282.shtml
MARIGOT—Two men were sentenced on May 28th for attempted murder after they fired shots at a man in Sandy Ground on Tuesday May 25th. According to a press release from the gendarmerie a 22 year old man was the main suspect who was sentenced to three years behind bars while his accomplice was sentenced to six months suspended sentence with 18 months probation.
The duo fired shots at a 20 year old man but missed. They then escaped by car but were apprehended the next day by the investigating officers.
Philipsburg: ---Applicants of the Brooks Tower Permits (BTA) who have not yet picked up their permits now have until June 15 to pick up their permits at the Philipsburg Police Station. Tiara Haselhoef advisor to the Minister of Justice told members of the media on Tuesday that all the permits have been signed and are ready to be picked up. Haselhoef said that they do not intend to make any more publications and those persons who does not pick up their permits will definitely have to deal with their statuses because as of June 16th the BTA application declaration would expire, while all permits not picked up by June 16 will become invalid. Persons who did not report to the police station to pick up their refusals would also have to leave the island by August 31, instead of having the six months grace period.
Persons picking up their permits must have a valid passport, two passport size photographs, valid medical insurance policy and their deposit payment.
The BTA project group processed some 4132 applications during the November 3 to December 15 registration, while the Steering Group processed 975 applications.
Haselhoef said some 1936 persons received the category 1 permits, 1143 category 2, the steering group she said issued 743 permits out of the 975 applications they received. Some 802 persons fell under the category 3 and should have left the island already, while 241 persons received a negative response on their application.
Haselhoef said the Minister of Justice is working on a new policy which is geared at helping the BTA holders to apply for their regular permit. She said the Minister wants to have the policy in place for July but unfortunately the different stakeholders did not send in their input to create the policy. Stakeholders had until May 31 to submit their suggestions but so far none of the islands did not comply with the request of the Minister. Haselhoef said the Minister is planning to hold a brainstorming session next week in order to gather information to formulate the new policy.
UTS donated Blackberry smart phones to the newly appointed board members of the St. Maarten Red Cross. 'We are happy to assist organizations such as the St. Maarten Red Cross because they are very important in coordinating and facilitating relief efforts in the face of a disaster.' says UTS Commercial Manager Eastern Caribbean, David Melling. 'They are an organization that contributes greatly to the health and safety of the general public of St. Maarten and if we can offer them the technologies to fulfill tasks more effectively, we will not hesitate to do so. With the hurricane season just started, they are of course very busy with preparations and coordination. We wish the new board much success in the task ahead of them.'
St. Louis: --- Residents from both sides of the island as well as elected officials gathered under the tamarind tree in St. Louis on Thursday night to celebrate the life of the island's cultural icon and mom's confidant Laurel Richards better known as Yaya or Red Bird. Yaya passed away suddenly last Wednesday at the La Samana Resort from a massive heart attack.
Residents and relatives of the late Richards decorated the area as they would always do for their Jollification or St. Louis fete. Cultural wear were displayed including Yaya's favorite pots, coal pots and plants. A slide show of photographs of all that Yaya did for her village was shown as several speakers expressed their thoughts of Richards. Her immediate relatives were all dressed in their cultural wear that represented St. Cultural Women's Association.
Those that paid tribute were Mayor Albert Fleming, Senator Louis Constant Fleming, Sarah Wescot Williams, Daniel Gibbs and Ruby Bute with her poems. Steel pan players, Ruben from Boo Boo Jam all participated in the night's events. Also among the villagers were Guillaume Arnell, Alain Richardson Louis Jeffry, Jean David Richardson, Maude Gibbs, and several Collectivity workers.
Many of them spoke of their experiences with Yaya. She was remembered as being caring and loving. One that meant what she said and would walk to the ends of the earth to get what is needed for the St. Louis Women's Association. Villagers expressed how shocked they were when they learnt of her passing and what that would mean for them and the village in which they live.
Mayor Fleming issued a challenge to the relatives of Yaya to replace her and what she was actively doing to preserve the island's culture mainly that of St. Louis. He said Yaya knew all the plants and bushes that were good for every ailment and that she did her best to make sure the island especially her village shine. While Senator Louis Constant Fleming said the last time he spoke to Yaya was when she went to see him expressing her concerns about the social homes that was rumored were going to be built in her village. Fleming said he promised Yaya back then that as long as he has political power no one would be allowed to build social homes in St. Louis. Fleming also assured the gathering that his pledge to Yaya still stands.
Wescot Williams said the last time she saw Yaya was some Sunday's ago when she attended the St. Louis fete. She said when learnt of Yaya's passing she too was shocked but she has learnt to deal with any type of news. Wescot Williams also called on the residents to carry on Yaya's legacy.
Residents in the area said Yaya would tell them that they had to continue her work whenever she died and on several occasions she would tell them not to forget what she taught them. Young and old were all heard reminiscing on Yaya's abilities to get things done and her achievements.
The funeral service for Yaya is scheduled for Friday at the Marigot Catholic Church.
The New Era foundation is holding its Foundation's Awareness Week 2010 from Sunday, June 6 – 13, 2010 and is appealing to all young people for their support with the activities that will be held during that week. The foundation's objective is to promote the wellbeing of young people, regardless of color, race, gender or religion whether spiritually, economically, culturally, educationally and socially. Eights months ago the foundation started its monthly youth program where they assist young people to discover the true purpose for their lives by Promoting Unity, Respect, Patience, Obedience, Sacrifice and Excellence. A motivational speaker from St. Maarten that we properly screen is also requested to deliver a motivational speech to the children. One of our projects was also the composition of the song Entitled: "St. Maarten will live on" which was launched at the Westin just last year in July.
This foundation has organized this week of activities to seek support not only from Government or businesses but also from citizens in any way or fashion whether it is financially or by the giving of your time. We also hold monthly fundraising barbeques for a small sum of US$ 5.00 to cover or expenses because of us being a non-profit organization which is not allowed to have a profit when holding any function.
We will be beginning our awareness week by attending the Philipsburg Methodist Church and we will end our week at the Sevenday Adventist Church in Belvedere thus beginning with prayer and ending with prayer which we know will be a tremendous blessing for the many plans we have for our organization. We will also have a number of interviews on several talk shows outlining our plans for this fiscal year 2010/2011. The highlight for the week will be on Friday where we will be appealing to all parents to send their children to the PMIA Hall on Backstreet opposite the old Photo Gumbs Building on Friday, June 11, 2010 from 7.30 pm – 9.30 pm. That evening we will have a lecture entitled: "YOUR CONSTITUTION IS YOUR FUTURE" for the young people to discuss and breakdown the draft constitution for St. Maarten seeing that they eventually would be the ones that will have to know what the contents of this document entail. The Youth today will be our leaders tomorrow and we feel therefore that they should be included in the entire process.
After this week we would be taking some time out to evaluate where we are at and where we will be going because we already have a number of projects on line which we will be revealing to the public as time goes by.
Sunday, June 6, 2010 at 9.00 am – Attend the Philipsburg Methodist Church
Sunday, June 6, 2010 at 5.00 pm – Monthly Youth Program @ PMIA Hall, Backstreet
Monday, June 7, 2010 at 12.00 pm – Interview on People's Voice with Lloyd Richardson
Tuesday, June 8, 2010 at 9.00 am – Interview on SOS Radio with Billy D
Wednesday, June 9, 2010 at 7.30 pm – Attend the Lecture on Constitutional Affairs by USM @ USM, Pond island
Thursday, June 10, 2010 at 7.30 pm – Interview on AVS
Friday, June 11, 2010 at 2.15 pm - Registration Drive at Shell St. Peters Gas Station
Friday, June 11, 2010 at 7.00 pm – Lecture entitled: Your Constitution is Your Future @ PMIA Hall, Backstreet
Saturday, June 12, 2010 at 9.00 am – Attend Sevenday Adventist Church in Belvedere
Guana Bay:--- Vice president of the St. Maarten Pride Foundation Ruben Thompson discovered a spot on Guana Beach on Saturday where construction materials are being burnt. Several reporters were on hand to see hundreds of burnt nails sticking out of the sand where the materials were burnt. While burning materials on the beach is a form of pollution, danger is awaiting the children and beach goers who frequent Guana Bay Beach.
Thompson reminded those on the location that rusty nails can poison anyone who gets stick with a rusty nail especially if the person did not take their tetanus injection. He also said Guana Bay beach is one of the locations where sea turtles nests and it is rather unfortunate for someone to burn construction materials on the beach.
PHILIPSBURG – Young people seeking a career should go into one they are passionate about, advises Leandra Edwards, a 2010 University of St. Martin (USM) Teacher Education program graduate.
Edwards is one of 32 USM students who will be graduating from USM on June 12, 2010. The graduation will be held at the Westin hotel beginning at 7:00pm.
"If it is not your passion, do not go into it," says Edwards, while adding that she first wanted to be a forensic pathologist and left home to go abroad to begin studying for that profession.
She laughs as she recalled her mom not being too enthusiastic about the idea of her becoming a forensic pathologist since that is a profession which deals with examining the dead. While abroad, she realized that she had a passion for teaching as she would tutor classmates and friends during her free hours. Being far from home and her family, however, impacted her and after two years, she decided to return to St. Maarten and enroll in the Teacher Education program at the University of St. Martin.
"It has allowed me to stay close to family, while becoming a professional," Edwards notes, while adding that the she liked the atmosphere at USM where "communicating with teachers and sharing views and opinions were easy."
Edwards, who worked in administration full-time while attending USM, says working while going to school was "tough," and that often she had to spend her lunch hour reading and studying. Her colleagues were very supportive, she notes, while adding that they would help her collect many items, such as small plastic containers and cans that she needed for projects for different courses. Some of them often came to her to discuss different ideas and issues surrounding teaching and their personal concerns about their kids' education, Edwards adds.
"It was sad leaving but they always knew I would follow my heart's desire," says Leandra, while thanking her former employer and colleagues for their support.
Leandra notes that encouragement from family and classmates also helped push her forward. She says that her classmates and her would sit and discuss about the type of teachers they would like to be. Many of my classmates and I have already vowed to be a "different breed of teachers," the newly graduated teacher said, while adding that they are aiming to focus on educating the whole child.
"I believe in teaching the whole child and also in a classroom where a child can develop and focus on more than math and reading," says Edwards, while adding that moral values, social skills and emotional well-being of the children also have to be taken into consideration in the learning process.
She adds that being a teacher means that one has to be "selfless as the children will be on your mind (all the time.)" Edwards also alluded to the fact that as a new teacher she will be also learning and looking at using any new experience to enhance her classroom and the students' education.
The new graduate already has a teaching job lined up. She has to report to school this August where she will begin teaching.
"I am very excited," says an enthusiastic Edwards.
Edwards, who also represented the university at many functions as a former USM Ambassador, is very persistent and says that she does not like to give up. She is also aiming to pursue her Masters degree within the next five years.
USM wishes Leandra much success in her future endeavors.
Philipsburg:---In an ongoing effort to support young musicians and bands Council lady Maria Buncamper-Molanus, on behalf of the Sky Is The Limit Foundation, financially assisted the Island Heat Band over the weekend.
Manager of Island Heat Band Wilfred Simmons expressed many thanks to Buncamper-Molanus for coming through for the band in such a timely manner. He said it was good to know that Buncamper and the foundation are there to assist musicians and bands whenever possible, adding that the foundation is a true friend of the arts.
Simmons said the financial assistance will go toward purchasing four new speakers. The band will continue its tour of playing at hotels and restaurants while working on a new video clip and CD of their new music. The band is also looking forward to being a competitive part of Carnival 2011.
Buncamper said Sky Is The Limit remains committed to assisting young artists when feasible, helping them to sharpen their skills and showcase their ability in the art form they love.
"We are very happy to be able to support the Island Heat Band, a hard working local band who has big plans for the immediate and long term future. We wish them the best of luck and encourage the general public to support them by purchasing their CD's and even attending some of their fundraising events," Buncamper-Molanus said.
GREAT BAY:- –Sector Public Health, Social Development & Labor (VSA) Inspection VSA, has been investigating fast food chain McDonald's recall of 12 million drinking glasses promoting the new Shrek movie because painted designs on them contain the toxic metal cadmium.
Inspection VSA food safety inspectors checked with McDonald's on the island and was informed that they do not have those types of promotional materials on the island.
The glasses have been sold in the United States and are available in four designs. They were released last month in the US.
The US Consumer Product Safety Commission has warned consumers to stop using the glasses immediately because the metal cadmium can damage the liver, kidneys, lungs, nervous system and brain.
The concern is about the long-term exposure to low levels that can occur by the of Shrek glasses, where the metal paint could leach from the paint onto a child's hands and then enter the body if the child put the unwashed hand to his or her mouth.
Good hygiene is an important preventive and protective action to your general health which lies in basic washing of hands.
PHILIPSBURG– The St Maarten Sea Rescue Foundation (SSRF) received a substantial donation from the St Maarten Marine Trades Association (SMMTA). The handover of the check was held at the St Maarten Yacht Club in Simpson Bay. Representatives of both organizations were in attendance.
Due to the tightening of the financial environment for most businesses and private persons on St Maarten over the course of this year, the SSRF was experiencing a short fall in donations to meet its operating budget.
This lack of donations coupled with the need for technical repairs on Rescue 02 - the SSRF's main Search and Rescue vessel, was placing operational availability in jeopardy.
According to Serge Bakker, secretary of the SSRF – "the operational cost of the SSRF are generally around $15,000 yearly. These funds are generated through donations from generous sponsors, however this year sponsors have not been able to cover all of our costs. Our regular sponsors in general donated to the Haiti Relief funds, a very noble and much needed cause without question, but this had some negative impact on donations presented to the SSRF because this depleted donation budgets at the beginning of this year". With
the financial availability for the SSRF dropping to a very low level the SSRF requested help from the SMMTA.
The SMMTA immediately responded with financial aid to this valuable organization. St. Maarten Sea Rescue provides emergency search and rescue operations for vessels in distress in the territorial waters of St. Maarten. They come to the aid of all size vessels local and visiting, commercial and private; often in life threatening situations, the Sea Rescue foundation is operating completely on a volunteer basis.
The membership of the SMMTA is comprised of companies that are focused on providing, products, support and services to the marine sector. The foundation's charter is to promote the island to visiting sailors and vessels of all sizes, as a destination for pleasure sailing, supplies and quality skilled workmanship.
The president of the SMTMA, Kass Johnson-Halliday, described the Board's decision on the request of SSRF:
"The board of the SMMTA quickly concluded that the services offered by the rescue volunteers is invaluable to local and visiting yachtsmen and therefore we unanimously agreed to come to the financial aid of the SSRF. The St Maarten Sea Rescue Foundation and its volunteers are a vital part to our community and safety at sea. It was not an option to not support their cause". Rescue board members Jan Drost and Serge Bakker were available to receive the undisclosed donation from the SMMTA Board and urged other businesses to follow the SMMTA example. "Offering life saving services on the sea can only be done by the tireless effort of our volunteers and through financial assistance from the
general public". The donation received will be used to cover the cost of the repairs on Rescue 02 so that she can return to fully operational status, helping people in need of assistance once again.
More information about the SMMTA can be found at www.smmta.com; about The Sea Rescue Foundation on www.sxmsearescue.org and on their Facebook page. Questions about the SSRF can be sent to
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PHILIPSBURG – As human beings, the love for children can be a driving force but, do we really know how much an impact children have on us?
You may be pondering this thought all now but for Liesel Toss, the love for children is the main driving force behind her preparation for a career that helps educate, develop, and nurture children. Toss, who is enrolled in the Teacher Education Program at the University of St. Martin, is one of the 13 graduates who will be receiving their Associate of Arts in General Liberal Arts degree this Saturday, June 12, 2010 at the USM Commencement Ceremony. A total of 32 students are expected to receive degrees at the event which will be held at the Westin Hotel beginning at 7pm.
According to Toss, who has about a year and a half left of studies before she obtains her Bachelor's degree, her journey so far at USM has been "mentally challenging but very invigorating." She adds that "having to find the motivation to attend classes was not the problem" but the challenges were mainly scheduling and finding the financial means to attend school.
Toss originally planned to study business but after spending a summer in Sweden with her family, she unexpectedly ended up spending more time with her nieces and nephews, who she often baby sat. This is where she said she began pondering whether she would be happy sitting in an office all day or interacting with children in some capacity. When she came back to St. Maarten, she made her choice, enrolling in the Teacher Education Program at USM.
"I love kids. I have not had any regrets," says a smiling Toss, while adding that her USM experience has afforded her the opportunity to stay on the island, close to her family.
Currently, Toss says her philosophy about education in general is in flux since "a good teacher has to be willing to adapt and change as time passes." Her belief in a child centered curriculum is currently a focus. She says that in such a curriculum the teacher is the guide and the aim is to bring out the individuality in every child.
The teacher in training says that she is looking forward to her Student Teaching in Fall 2011. She adds that she is very open minded as to where she will do this training. Although she says that she would prefer Kindergarten to grade three, she is flexible and her focus is primarily on being the best teacher she can be.
Education and studying to be a teacher has impacted Liesel profoundly. She candidly notes that when everything else around her was not going as it should, education was her haven. Despite many people questioning her about the reasons she did not go and study another profession like medicine or a lawyer, Toss admits that she is driven by her intrinsic desire to become a teacher.
"This is my thing, completely, that I have done and doing for myself," she says without any apologies. She adds that her interest in mathematics, child psychology, and counseling might have her seeking to pursue her master degree in one of those areas.
Toss notes that besides teaching regular subjects, teachers have to end up counseling children because some come from broken homes, have problems or even due to the fact that their parents may be young.
"The little window that we (as teachers) get into a child's mind is not enough to deal with all the challenges the child may be facing," says Toss.
She adds that anyone going into the teaching field needs to put their whole heart into it because in her opinion being a teacher is a calling. "Teachers need to strive to their greatest capability for their students to succeed because if a student fails and you as their teacher did not give it your all, you have not only failed your student but you have failed as a teacher. Being a teacher is a demanding profession but the rewards well outweigh the hardships."
Toss has been a USM Ambassador, representing the institution at various functions, since fall 2007. Currently, she is the incoming president of this organization. She advises anyone who has a dream to strive to fulfill that dream.
"We have been blessed with one life to live and if you are going to follow someone else's dream, you will never be truly happy," the general liberal arts graduate notes.
USM wishes Liesel Toss much success in all her future endeavors.
PHILIPSBURG – The University of St. Martin (USM) will be celebrating another milestone this Saturday, June 12, 2010 as a batch of 32 students will be receiving their degrees from the island's institution of higher learning at the Sixteenth Commencement Exercise.
This event, under the theme " Reaching New Heights in Higher Education," will be held at the Westin Hotel beginning at 7pm and the keynote speaker is Past President of the Dominica State College Mr. Hubert Charles.
Besides remarks from the Board of Directors, remarks are also scheduled to be made by Minister of Education, Ms. Omayra Leeflang and Commissioner of Education, Mr. William Marlin. The Class of 2010 address will be delivered by Mrs. Mary Magdalene Bary, an Education major, who graduates with Cum Laude honors.
Some seven (7) students will be receiving an Associate of Arts Degree in Business. These students include Maria Alexis, Michel Hyman, Esthesia Lastennet, Moreland Leblanc, Everonique Levenstone, Deborah Richards, and Kevin Spence.
Thirteen (13) students will be receiving an Associates of Arts Degree in General Liberal Arts. These students include Vesta Benn, Iota Claxton, Clifford Gumbs, Altagracia Hawley, Corinne Isaac, Christine Lake, Nieves Morillo, Jennifer Oduber, Joan-Ann Porchette, Cassandra Richardson, Zamada Solomon, Liesel Toss, and Roxana Williams.
Besides Mary Magdalene Bary, the other Bachelor of Arts degree in Education recipients are Jhonella Aventurin-Fitzpatrick, Rhea Courtar, Sharleen Dickenson, Leandra Edwards, Shanirah Illidge, Iesheda Jeffers, Jaya Nair and Noelani Riley.
Julo Drigo is the sole student receiving his Bachelor in Arts Degree in Business Administration, a program that is done in collaboration with the University of the Virgin Islands.
Tiffany Hassell is the sole graduate with the Bachelor of Business Administration degree, a program offered by USM in conjunction with Mount Saint Vincent University in Canada.
Sonia Constance Cannegieter will be receiving her Certificate in Teaching from USM.
USM will also be recognizing two graduates who have received their Master of Arts in Education from the University of the Virgin Islands, via a program facilitated at USM with UVI. These are Nina Joseph and Valerie Giterson Pantophlet.
"The University of St. Martin is proud again to deliver to St. Maarten another group of professionals who will contribute to its making. The joys of earning a degree and knowing the efforts it has taken is priceless and I congratulate each and everyone of the graduates for a job well done. I am very proud of all of you and wish you all the very best in your further endeavours or educational career. Do not stop here...the journey continues...,"says USM President Mrs. Josianne Fleming-Artsen.
The keynote speaker Hubert Charles is a Dominican educator with extensive national, regional and international experience. He has worked in education in different capacities for a number of years. He has also worked for UNESCO in places like South Africa, Mozambique and Nigeria. The published author and educator also served as President of the Dominica State College. He holds a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in History and Economics from the University of the West Indies and a Master of Arts in History and Anthropology from John Hopkins University. Mr. Charles was recently appointed Ambassador to the USA by the Dominican Government.
USM faculty member Danny Fleming is scheduled to deliver the invocation and benediction at the Commencement Ceremony while musical selections are scheduled to be performed by Gisella Hilliman, the Class of 2010, and Andre Robley.
Founded in 1989 by the late Dr. Claude Wathey and Hushang Ansary, the University of St. Martin began as the Mullet Bay Training Institute and now offers a wide array of degree and non-degree classes. Throughout USM's 20 year existence, approximately 494 Associate of Arts and Bachelor of Arts degrees have been conferred by USM.
Cay Hill—"Awesome!" "Excellent!" "Exactly what St. Maarten needs!" were just a few comments made by the audience in attendance at the launch of Victorious Living's Wealth Creation Series, held at the Belair Community Center in Cay Hill on Monday night. The audience was engrossed with African American NY Times bestselling author and entrepreneur Omar Tyree, the guest speaker at the launch of the Wealth Creation Series. He spoke about the concept he has studied and developed called "The Equation." His audience, a combination of young and old, turned out to the Community Center to hear the 41 year-old businessman talk about what it takes to become a successful entrepreneur as presented in his "Equation" concept.
He explained the four components of the equation which are: Love, Art, Support and Business. The first component comprises a passion for the idea that will become the business, a commitment to the idea, dedication, loyalty and consistency. "Art," which is the idea or product, includes the characters of adoration, presentation, purpose, execution and excellence. "Support" means attracting people to support the product and the person who conceptualized it in order to make it into a successful business. Here, Tyree stressed that people, especially the youth today have to dress in a manner that will attract people with money to invest in their idea and for consumers to support their idea.
He drew attention also to the civil rights movement, which he said prompted people to act. In business, entrepreneurs have to prompt people to "move" in support of their product, because saying you like the idea without moving to support defeats the purpose of attraction.
The "Business" component involves taking the idea from support to a point of generating income. Other aspects of "Business" that then come into play are productivity, progress, power and responsibility.
The audience was enthused by the event and many inspired persons stated they are ready to get their business started. Commissioners William Marlin and Frans Richardson also in attendance, endorsed the initiative; while, Lt. Governor Franklin Richards endorsed this initiative with a support letter addressed to local businesses.
The Wealth Creation Series begins with a symposium on August 6-7, 2010 and runs until March 2011. It is designed for both seasoned entrepreneurs and those wanting to enter into business; young people or adults. The first 200 people for the symposium in August are being registered now. To register people can contact the VLF office or visit www.victoriouslivingsxm.org. Tyree's presentation is available on DVDs and audio CDs and persons interested may contact the Victorious Living Foundation at 542-2663. The Wealth Creation is a joint venture of the Victorious Living Foundation and Ascendant Strategy.
Philipsburg:----With the announcement of the BZV management to stop the administration of the health care costs of PP-card holders and civil servants from the island government of St Maarten as of July 1, 2010, the government of Sint Maarten must consider an urgent solution before July 1, 2010.
We, the civil servant unions on Sint Maarten urge the Executive Council of St Maarten to transfer the Social Security Bank (SVB) of the Netherlands Antilles to Sint Maarten, so that it will be the Executive Council and/or the Island Council of Sint Maarten that can decide upon how the SVB SXM has to administer the social security in Sint Maarten. Since the signing in April 2010 of the transfer of all legislation, tasks and responsibilities from the central government to Sint Maarten, the island government here in Philipsburg now has the right and the responsibility to decide who and how the current health care costs administration of the island government guarantee cards should be handled.
For the basic health insurance packages in St Maarten the government and the island council of St Maarten can decide before July 1st , that SVB SXM not only administers the health care costs of the sickness/accident insurance for private sector workers, but also the sickness insurance for civil servants (FZOG) and private sector pensioners (SVB 60+), the PP-card holders and the active civil servants on the island of Sint Maarten can be brought under the administration of SVB SXM like is happening already in the island of Curacao. The content and the conditions of the health care insurances can be determined now in Philipsburg and can be different from the decisions being taken in Willemstad.
In a meeting with the Executive Council of St Maarten last week Thursday concerning the problems facing FZOG and BZV cardholders we the civil servant unions on St Maarten have proposed to transfer the FZOG and SVB funds and the FZOG and SVB organization to Philipsburg before 10-10-10. With the problems facing the island civil servants and the PP-card holders now that BZV stops the administration per July 1, 2010 we propose to accelerate this transfer of the FZOG and SVB to Philipsburg and take the decision to let the SVB SXM administer also the island guarantee cards. Because the ExCo announced a postponement of the starting date of the National health Insurance untill 1-1-2012, the unions have asked the ExCo to consider a phased equalization of the health care packages from the FZOG-pensioners and the island government workers and PP-card holders now before 10-10-10. We have illustrated the need to do this this with the following example.
The civil servant pensioners with an FZOG card still has to go to the SVB here in SXM who have to fax everything to the FZOG office in Curacao. Our pensioners still have to experience a decision taking process which takes too long. Where pensioners from FZOG (apart from taxes) have to pay 10% of their pension for the sickness insurance premium, 5 times more than all other workers in our society, two executive councils have already decided to eliminate this discrimination in the health care package per 10-10-10. By transferring the FZOG and the SVB to SXM these decisions can be implemented now.
JOINT PRESS RELEASE ABVO COUNCIL OF PENSIONERS, ABVO ST MAARTEN, WICSU/WIFOL AND WITU.
French Quarter: --- The gendarmes have arrested nine students attending the French Quarter College suspected of vandalism. The students are accused of vandalizing the entrance of the school on Sunday May 16. According to a press release from the gendarmes the nine students are summoned to appear in juvenile courts later this year.
The gendarmes also arrested a drunken driver on Wednesday evening. The suspect it is reported was driving recklessly in French Quarter. A test conducted by the gendarmes determined that the 43 year old man had exceeded legal limit of alcohol in the blood. Further investigations showed the suspect was residing on the island illegally and he will be deported.
Philipsburg: --- The special arms robbery unit is busy investigating an armed robbery which took place on Saturday June 12 on Cannegitter Street at the Cuchara Alegre Bar. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson in a press release said eye witnesses told police that two men dressed in black were brandishing handguns when they entered the establishment and threatened everyone. Henson said the bandits also fired one shot while robbing the establishment of the days' sales and the customers of their wallets.
Henson said everyone cooperated with the thieves in fear of their lives. Despite the ordeal no one was injured.
In an unrelated news police is busy investigating a case they suspected to be arson. Henson said the detectives visited a man at the St. Maarten Medical Center who was nursing burn injuries. The man who has been identified as O.S.I.V told police that he was awaked by a loud noise Friday night and when he got up he saw his front door was covered in flames. The man told police he made several attempts to get out of the burning house and it was only when his neighbor broke down the door he managed to get out. The neighbor also suffered minor burn injuries. Henson said the flames were put out by bucket-brigade but the case Henson said looks more like arson compared to an accidental fire. The detectives department is busy investigating.
Marigot: --- Territorial councilors from the Union Pour les Progres were called to the Collectivity to see and comment on the house rules of the UPP party on Monday morning. SMN News learnt that the document that was in preparation for the past three years was on the desk of the DGS and it is signed by the party's president. Councilors it is understood were called individually to read the document and were told that they have the rights to submit written comments before Friday this week when the UPP members would meet to vote on the house rules.
SMN News has been reliably informed that the UPP councilors were told that if they want to remain part of the Union Pour les Progres then they would have to sign the document as is.
Sources close to the UPP said the document presented to them is a carbon copy of the one former Mayor Albert Fleming gave the councilors of Solidarity St. Martinoise in 2005.
Tensions erupted over the weekend after the leader of the Union Pour les Progres decided to publicly call on first vice president Daniel Gibbs and territorial councilor Marthe Ogoundele Tessi to resign if they are not on the same wave length as the other UPP councilors.
Leader of the Union pour les Progres Louis Constant Fleming told SMN News that he wants Gibbs and Ogoundele Tessi to resign and Gibbs would have to give up his portfolios should he follow the wishes of the party.
Philipsburg:---- Students and Teachers of the St. Maarten Academy were given all day counseling with several professional counselors on Thursday to help them deal with the tragic death of one of the students of the institution.
Counselors were at the school all day talking to students who witnessed and were part of the tragic but freak accident on Wednesday which claimed the life of 17 year-old Patrison Isarac. Four other students who are currently attending the learning institution were also injured.
Principal of the St. Maarten Academy PSVE Solange Duncan said the school would resume its regular schedule and programming on Friday. Students would go back to doing their exams on Friday while the examinations that were cancelled on Thursday will now be held on Monday. Asked how the students are coping Duncan said the students are stronger than the adults and they are coping very well with the tragic situation.
On Wednesday Patrison Isarac lost his life when a pick up on which he was hitchhiking toppled on St. Peters main road. The youth died at the St. Maarten Medical Center the same day. Other students involved in the accident were treated and sent home.
Marigot: --- The members of the Union pour le Progres met on June 9th to select someone to take up the position as director of the Tourist Office now that Corrine Picaut was forced to resign.
SMN News learnt that some six candidates submitted their resume to the president of the EPIC Ida Zin Ka Ieu who already submitted her choice to the majority on the board.
The source said three of the candidates are from St. Martin; they are Vanessa Williams, Kate Richardson, and Silivane John. SMN News learnt; that first vice president Daniel Gibbs is trying to get his colleagues on the EPIC board to vote for Kate Richardson, but his efforts they said has fallen on deaf ears.
SMN News further learnt that the board of the Tourist Office is scheduled to meet this Wednesday where they would be informed of the president's choice. SMN News further learnt that of the six candidates there are only two persons who fit the profile for the job description. The board it is understood would be given the opportunity to see the profile of all six candidates before they vote for the candidate who is scheduled to fill the vacation position on September 1 2010.
While researching the information pertaining to the tourist office SMN news discovered based on the selected candidate's profile that the president of the EPIC seems to have made a wise choice when she selected one of St. Martin's best in the person of Silviane John to take the helm of the tourist office. John is currently working at the Pole Economic (sector Tourism) alongside Stephanie Bessier on Strategies and Policies for Tourism.
Since the Union Pour les Progres took office they already chose two foreigners to fill the position of director of the tourist office. It appeared that both candidates were unable to manage the tourist office causing them to leave the job. The first foreigner to be brought in was Yann Claeysen then Corinne Picaut both of whom left St. Martin with a huge paycheck and benefits that our locals never managed to obtain even though many of them applied for the positions in the past.
It appears that the members from the UPP council has finally realized that St. Martin has qualified people who understand our region. It is not clear if these council members woke up or if it is a new political strategy they are using since many of them began campaigning for the 2012 elections.
For the sake of information we have decided to profile Silviane John so that our readers would be able to judge for themselves the capabilities of a local professional who is on St. Martin. If hired it is clear that the Collectivity and the Office du Tourisme would not have to endure unnecessary expenses to relocate this person. John holds a Bachelors Degree in Business Administrations from the University of Virgin Islands and an Associate's degree in Business Management from the University of St. Martin.
John has worked for the Office du Tourisme under the helm of Romeo Fleming from 1993 to 2003. She was also the technical advisor to Mayor Albert Fleming when he represented St. Martin overseas. John then worked at the University of St Martin from 2003 to 2009 as marketing and promotions manager. She then returned to the French side to work on the strategic plan for tourism. Besides being a local this dynamic mother also has international connections as she lived in the United States of America for over 20 years. The candidate we understood has strong connections with the Caribbean nations and she could be instrumental in bonding the islands.
One of the decisions new director would have to take is to regain the American market, and to rebuild its relations with the Dutch side tourist office if they are to enhance tourism on the French side. Promoting St. Martin in North America would have to be their number one priority if the French side is to survive the current financial crisis.
PHILIPSBURG,– In his ongoing efforts to provide sustainable Health Care Services commissioner in charge of Public Health Hyacinth Richardson has secured the continuous provision of Health Care Services by actively promoting and approving payments to various health care providers and health care administrators.
In agreement with BZV, payment arrangements have been made and funds transferred so that the necessary services are ensured. Further agreements have also been made with the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) and the Pharmacy Association (PAS) to be paid directly for their services. The Executive Council will contact other service providers to address the possibility of direct payments.
While these matters are ongoing, the interim director of BZV has been invited to St. Maarten to continue deliberations already started to possibly extend the services of 'Bureau Ziektekosten Voorzieningen' (BZV) on the island.
Commissioner Hyacinth stated in a press release to the Government Information Service (GIS) that he is very cognizant of the current affairs in our health care system and as a consequence of these matters the necessary steps are being taken to secure the continuity of adequate services for all persons.
Government is busy working and communicating with all stakeholders and will continue working with all relevant parties while pursuing options that will solidify the provision of health care on the island to maintain a level of service that is right for every person.
During the upcoming days all stakeholders especially government will actively consider the following scenarios for implementation; Social Insurance Bank (SVB) taking over the task of BZV in providing administrative services or government outsourcing this activity to an administrative office.
"We will achieve success when there is cooperation based on the mutual understanding that the provision of health care is pivotal."
Zagersgut: ---- Words cannot describe the pain and grief the mother of Patrison Isarac is going through this past week after losing her 17-year old son in an accident while hitchhiking home last week Wednesday.
At the funeral service on Tuesday the mother could not control her pain as she wailed throughout the funeral proceedings. Many times she screamed out in the Creole language. It was indeed an unbearable sight for many parents and the students of the St. Maarten Academy (PSVE).
Her constant wailing brought tears to the eyes of almost every parent and teacher among the mourners. Close friends of Patrison were also seen weeping openly as they saw their friend lying in the white casket.
Patrison's mother was taken to the church by her husband and other relatives clutching her by the arms. During the final viewing she had to be pulled away from the casket as she continued to scream about the loss of her son. Friends and classmates of the late student were wearing tee-shirts bearing his photograph. Some of them were wearing blue tee-shirt with graffiti writings.
Many of the students took photographs with their cellular telephone of their friend and schoolmate as they passed his casket. Many of them said that was one way of remembering one of the kindness young men they ever knew.
A poster with Patrison's photograph was placed at the main doorway of the church for his friends and teachers to autograph.
Patrison was described as being playful, a student who was part of the school football team and a boxing club in French Quarter. The late Patrison was also known as a peacemaker, one that did not like anyone to be mad at him.
The late Patrison also wrote a song to express his true feelings about he felt with everyday life. His song entitled "Hold it Down" was read out loud to the audience.
It was clear from the words in the song that the young man was trying to cope with discipline and the departure of his father from his life. His song spoke of what takes place in a ghetto and how much money and power matters in society. He described the divorce rate and school dropout as the same as the crime rate. It appeared that Patrison found a way to express how he felt when no one listened to him or hugged him through his song.
President of the FAVE board Josianne Fleming Artsen said Patrison just recently graduated from the rebounce program and he was described as being playful yet loving and kind by his teachers and school counselor. Fleming Artsen spoke of the pain the tragic accident has brought on the students of the St. Maarten Academy PSVE as well as his parents and close relatives. She said Patrison was full of life and spirit when he was snatched away.
While the funeral proceeding was taking place at the Zagersgut Adventist Church a fight broke out between some young men in front of the People's Supermarket. One young man was severely injured to the head. SMN News learnt that the fight was among some gang members.
Paying last respects to the relatives of Patrison Isarac were Leader of Government William Marlin, and several persons from the education department and the management and staff of the RBTT bank. The late Patrison was laid to rest at the Cul de Sac Cemetery.
GREAT BAY--– Vaccines aren't just for kids. A number of adults become ill, are disabled, and die each year from diseases that could have been prevented by vaccines.
According to the Collective Preventive Services (CPS) of Sector Public Health, Social Development & Labour (VSA), everyone from young adults to senior citizens can benefit from immunizations.
Some adults incorrectly assume that the vaccines they received as children will protect them for the rest of their lives. Generally this is not true for the following reasons: some adults were never vaccinated as children; newer vaccines were not available when some adults were children; immunity can begin to fade over time; and as we age, we become more susceptible to serious disease caused by common infections.
Recommended adult vaccines are Hepatitis B for health care workers; Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) for post-partum women; DT (Diphtheria) or Td (Tetanus) for women in childbearing age and gardeners for example; and seasonal influenza vaccine for the elderly 65 and over and other specified groups and people suffering from long term conditions.
Marigot:--- A small but radical group of people came out in support of Robert Romney on Thursday to send a strong message to the Recteur and the Minister of Education on Thursday. While the support committee organized three protest marches only a handful of people on St. Martin decided to heed the call of the committee. It was clear that the committee and its supporters meant business on Thursday when they gathered in front of the Nina Duverly School.
The protest will be continuing on Friday said Louis Mussington. Supporters, parents and teachers are asked to make a sacrifice and to come out and support the cause in front of Nina Duverly School. Mussington and Aline Choisy who are heading the support committee said they are prepared to do whatever it takes to make sure the Rectorat and the Ministers in France understands that St. Martin means business and that they have had enough when it comes to disrespecting St. Martin and its people. It is understood that the committee will go as far as stopping the Brevet de Colleges next Monday and Tuesday. Should this happen then the entire French Region will be affected since the Brevet is a national examination for all students in the final classes of the junior colleges. Should the examination be stopped on St. Martin then the other islands in the Region would not be able to do examination.
The protestors decided that their first message on Thursday must be sent to the people of St. Martin and they did so by blocking the road at the junction of Rue de la Republique and Rue de Hollande leaving a number of motor vehicle users in traffic jam.
The protestors were carrying posters saying that St Martin people are not"kounoumounouz". "Respect the St. Martin and its People" and We want to decide for Ourselves."
Territorial Councilor Louis Mussington made clear that the people of St. Martin have had enough and respect must be given to the island's people. Head of the support committee Aline Choisy called on the Spanish speaking nationals and Haitians who are making use of the public schools to come out and support them in their cause. "This is not our cause alone but it is also yours since your children is making use of our schools" Choisy also sent a message to the European community who fought against the turn over tax to take the streets to defend a worthy cause. "I want to see you all fight this cause just like you did when it was meant to hurt your pockets." Choisy said. The marchers held their posters high in the air and human chain was formed to make sure there was no flow of traffic through Concordia. While the road users were caught by surprise, there was no public disorder.
Among the protestors were first vice president Daniel Gibbs, Jean David Richardson, Alain Richardson, Louis Jeffry, Louis Mussington along with Mayor Albert Fleming.
Territorial Councilor Louis Jeffry who is also part of the committee led the protest with a car that had loud speakers. The idea was to make sure the people who were in their shops and homes heard their cry for help. Inside the vehicle Aline Choisy kept informing the people that they have had enough and that Robert Romney did nothing wrong for the Recteur to reproach him. Choisy said the people of St. Martin have taken a decision and that decision will be upheld at all cost. "We have decided that Romney is not leaving St. Martin and our elected people would have to do what is necessary to make sure the people's wishes are kept. Romney they said have been working effortlessly to implement bilingual education on the French side which is aimed at improving the education system.
In an invited comment Mayor Albert Fleming said that the committee needs to do more to get to the people. Mayor Fleming said that they have to handle this matter as if they were campaigning house to house. "Make sure you get into the Quartier's and the homes and inform the people of the situation. Not everyone reads the newspapers or listen to the radio. Make contact with the people because one handful of people will not move the French Government. "Right now the people of St. Martin don't care what happens. The committee has to also find a way to get to the children who could convince their parents to come out, the adults have their agendas but their children can change it". Mayor Fleming said another idea is to hold a march such as this one on a Sunday when people are at home and not working. They have to also invite everyone that could walk and the students would also be able to participate in the protest.
Fleming said Romney is a St. Martiner and he has worked for many years with the Education Nationale. Second to that Romney was sent here to do a job which was to implement bilingual education. Mayor Fleming said Romney could not complete his task in two years and he cannot understand why the Recteur wants to stop him half way.
Protestors Demands Answers from Elected—Council Meeting Suspended.
At the Collectivity a territorial council meeting was in process when the marchers arrived there. The Support committee said it was necessary for them to walk into the meeting hall and make sure the elected officials do what is necessary to force the Recteur to respond to them.
Several of the protestors made it clear to the council that they need to pack up and go home if they are not able to represent the people who elected them. "Send them home, send them home" chanted some of the protestors in the Salle de deliberation.
Aline Choisy posed two questions to the council mainly to President Frantz Gumbs who was presiding the meeting and Senator Louis Constant Fleming who was also part of the council meeting. "Today we are faced with a serious problem since the Recteur wants to remove Romney from St. Martin even though he was nominated by two ministeries. "We want to know if the President got any response from the Recteur as to the reasons why he wants to remove Romney from St. Martin. We also want to know if Romney killed someone or what has he done wrong Mr. Senator." Choisy said the Recteur sent a letter to Romney telling him his competences has been largely recognized and they want those large competences to remain here. "We want to know if these elected officials who voted a motion only voted because they had to or if they were convinced that Romney has to stay on St. Martin." Choisy called on the councilors to take out their blackberries and call their contacts who they said they have in Paris namely the UMP. She said the elected officials namely the senator has made a number of promises when he asked for Romney's file.
Territorial Councilor Louis Mussington said when there is disrespect there is no other alternative but to stand up boldly and demand respect. Mussington pointed out to the President that the arête did not have the 'signatures du delegation" and that is an insult to the people of St. Martin. "Each and every one of you in this council said Romney was the best person to enhance education on St. Martin. Secondly we cannot understand how the subordinate of the Minister could could send Romney a letter to remove him. Most of all we as elected people have all voted on a motion and to date the Recteur has not responded." Mussington declared.
Furthermore, he told senator Louis Constant Fleming that he asked for a dossier to take to the Palais de l' Elysees to defend Mr. Romney and to date the senator has not reported back to the people. "Mr. Senator since your return you are somewhat silent and we need answers today. We want you all to take out your blackberries and call those in the UMP and Palais de l' Elyees to get us some answers. "Take out your blackberries and call your contacts in Paris and the Overseas Ministries." Mussington and Choisy both demanded.
President Frantz Gumbs immediately suspended the council meeting that was in process to make some phone calls to get the required answers.
President Frantz Gumbs confirmed that to date the Recteur has not responded to his letter neither has he received any response from the Minister of Overseas or the Minister of Education.
Senator Louis Constant Fleming also informed the protestors that he already indicated to the Minister that the people of St. Martin would not accept for Romney to be removed. Mussington immediately told the senator to stop playing games with the people of St. Martin since he said that he would have used his contacts in Palais de l' Elyees to make sure Romney remains on the island. "We need to know what you did for Romney and education Mr. Senator. You said you were ready to defend the cause, you took a dossier and you went to Paris now tell us what transpired there." Mussington demanded. Aline Choisy also informed the council that the President of the Republic is receiving a footballer and she cannot see why St. Martin could not get the President of the Republic to receive them.
Leader of the RRR Alain Richardson also addressed the president telling him that there comes at time when a decision has to be taken. Richardson said efforts have to be made to made to meet with the Minister to make clear St. Martin's position.
"It is known that the wheel that squeaks is the one that gets oil and unless the president and the senator lead this protest then nothing will happen. Richardson said that St. Martin have seen the response of the State when they took away the Octroi de Mer and the effects of the tax department who is not holding up to their responsibilities. He said despite the examples it seems that the elected are not learning. Richardson said while the senator said if it takes him marching the streets to keep Romney on the island he would do it but to date that did not happen. He said the people can no longer be taken for rides.
"Use this as an opportunity where the stick is pushed in the door to get answers."
President of the MOCSAM Julien Gumbs also indicated to the council that the schools are under the competences of the Collectivity and if it means closing them down until an answer is given then "damn" it lets do just that Mr. President.
After a moment of silence the protestors allowed the president and senator along with a delegation from the support committee to leave the sale deliberation to make some phone calls to the Minister of Overseas Affairs and Minister of Education.
It was understood that the Recteur did respond to Deputy Victorin Laurel informing him that the removal of Romney was administrative procedures and that Romney would still be at St. Martin's disposal.
Louis Mussington said that so far the demands of St. Martin has not been met and when they called the Recteur demanding that he answers the territorial council they were told that he would be visiting St. Martin on June 30. Mussington said this is no news to the people of St. Martin since they already knew of the Recteur's visit. A plan of action will be determined on Friday as to how the committee plans to deal with the Recteur and his delegation next Wednesday.
After two months of hard work by all Public Schools Care Team Members, teachers, Education Officials of the Department of Education and DERPI, with the assistance of drs. Kurt Schoop consultant from UNU the draft Policy for Student Care in the Public Schools is completed.
On Tuesday June 22, 2010 all members of the Care Teams in the Public schools came together at the Ruby Labega School to receive the completed draft copy of the Policy for Student Care in the Public Schools. Drs. Kurt Schoop, contracted to assist and guide the process of developing the policy, presented to all Public School Care Team members the final draft copy of the Student Care Policy for Public Schools.
The position of Student Care Coordinator was introduced with the implementation of Foundation Based Education in the primary schools. The Student Care Coordinator represents one of the internal support structure within Foundation Based Education and the main role of the Student Care Coordinator is to monitor and guide the holistic development of every student in the schools.
Another task of the Student Care Coordinator, together with staff and school management, was to develop a Student Care Policy for their schools. At the beginning of this year, DERPI received a request from Public Education asking for assistance in writing a Student Care policy for Public Education.
DERPI then contracted drs. Kurt Schoop to provide guidance and assistance to the Public School Care Teams in executing this tasks. The Care Teams of all Public Schools, Department of Education officials and officials from DERPI met with drs. Kurt Schoop on two separate occasions to work on the document. After two intense sessions and ongoing emails between school teams, Dept. of Education officials DERPI, and the consultant, all information was compiled into a draft and presented to the Management of the Department of Education on Monday June 21st 2010.
Management of the Department of Education also submitted their contribution to the policy by giving comments and suggestions for improvements. The changes were made and on Tuesday afternoon, June 22, the final draft was ready and presented to the Care Team Members.
The draft policy will be sent with an advice to the Executive Council for approval.
DERPI would like to thank, drs. Kurt Schoop, all student care team members, management of the Department of Education, DERPI officials, who have contributed towards the completion of the draft Policy for Student Care in the Public Schools.
This project has been financed by USONA with Dutch Development Funding.
Philipsburg:---While some 400 odd delegates gathered in St Maarten for the staging of the 53rd Annual International Convention and 39th Annual General Meeting three individuals received accolades for their sterling, significant, long-lasting and invaluable contribution to the continued growth and development of the Credit Union within the region.
The two individuals and company honored were Melvin Edwards, Trevor Alleyne and CUNA Insurance. CUNA Insurance was presented with the Director's award for what was described as service over the years to the Caribbean Confederation of Credit Unions. It was noted that from the establishment of the CCCU in Barbados in the mid 1980's, CUNA Mutual Insurance has been an invaluable strategic partner. CCCU in their citation pointed out that the successive Chief Executives of CUNA who serve as ex-officio members of CCCU's Board, have contributed immensely to the effective working of the board. It added that the confederation was grateful in recognizing CUNA Mutual Insurance Society Ltd. The company's General Manager, Anthony Hall accepted the award on their behalf.
CCCU in their tribute and recognition of Trevor Alleyne said that he epitomizes the golden age and spirit of voluntary service and has been a stalwart of the Caribbean Credit Union Movement for several decades. Alleyne who is a national of Trinidad and Tobago begun his long Credit Union crusade when he became a member of the Telephone Workers Credit Union Co-operative Society Ltd in 1957. In the citation presented to the Credit Union stalwart it was noted that he began his climb up the Credit Union Director's ladder when he was elected to the Board of his Credit Union in 1962. Subsequently Alleyne served as President from 1968 until 1985 when he relinquished that position.
CCCU said that Alleyne's elevation continued in 1989 when he was elected to the Board of the Northwest Regional Chapter and almost simultaneously, a member of the Board of the Co-operative Credit Union League of Trinidad and Tobago. He was elected as President of the League in 1994, and was subsequently also elected to the Board of the Caribbean Confederation of Credit Unions, serving as Vice President from 1985-1999; President from 1999-2000; and Secretary from 2001 to 2004. It was disclosed that Alleyne remained a member of the board until 2009 when he demitted office. The citation said that although he has finished his course at the regional level, he continues to lift the standard high in Trinidad and Tobago where he still serves as a director on his credit union as well as the league
Accepting the organization's final award was another stalwart in Melvin Edwards who according to the citation was described as friend of all and a satellite of none who has served the Caribbean Credit Union Movement with distinction in various capacities for more than twenty five years. The St Kitts and Nevis national who resides in St Lucia were elected to the board of the Confederation in 1991 serving first as secretary. It noted that in 1992 he was elected Vice President, a position that Edwards held until 1995 after he was elected President which he served until 1999.
CCCU said that as a member of the board, Edwards tirelessly sought to promote the advocacy and Development agenda of the Confederation and was accredited for helping in the modernization of Co-operative Legislation in the Eastern Caribbean. It added that he demitted the office of President in 1999 where he continued to serve as a Director and chairman of various sub-committees, until he resigned from the board in 2009.
The citation stressed that Edwards outstanding contribution to the development of the Caribbean Credit Union Movement began when he was employed as the Education and Training Officer of the Confederation in the mid 1980's. it was pointed out that during this time, he passionately pursued the strategy of developing capital City open-bond Credit Unions, resulting in the formation of the City of Bridgetown Cooperatives Credit Union Ltd in Barbados and Kingstown Co-operative Credit Union Ltd in St Vincent and the Grenadines.
Edwards's service culminated in his election to the board of the World Council of Credit Unions, where he became the first Caribbean citizen to be elected as chairman of that body. It was noted that the service rendered buy those honored were "beyond the call of duty" to the region. President of CCCU, Yvonne Ridguard hailed the three awardees as true Credit Union heroes and role models to all within the movement telling those gathered that they have a reason to be proud for being associated and members of the credit union. She reassured them of the union's gratitude for their dedication in developing a number of persons who volunteers within the Credit Union.
Ridguard pledged that CCCU will continue to recognize and honor those making invaluable contributions to the union declaring that the era in which people gave so much of themselves and were hardly recognized had come to an end. She declared that it was important to recognize the labors of members who over the years contribute to the development of credit union.
The trio in their separate acceptance speeches all expressed profound gratitude and underscored their enthusiasm to continue serving the Credit Union in whatever way possible so as to ensure that the achievement of the credit union continues to be achieved.
Marigot: --- The committee members supporting Robert Romney were extremely disappointed on Monday morning when they showed up at the Nina Duverly School to continue their protest against Romney's removal from St. Martin. Members of the committee told SMN News that they did a lot of leg work over the weekend hoping they would have convinced the population to join the action.
Julien Gumbs of MOCSAM said he personally spoke to certain people who promised to assist with the blocking of the roads and the people they said promised to get involved but by Sunday afternoon they switched off their telephones. At least three owners of heavy equipments were supposed to join the protest on Monday morning where their vehicles would have been used to block the three main entrances to Marigot but they too did not live up to their promises.
Teachers of the Nina Duverly School were seen outside as padlocks were on the school gates. Later employees of Service Technique and two officers of the Police Territorial showed up and cut the chains off so the teachers and students that were waiting outside the school compound could enter and begin their day's work.
Gumbs said the situation on the French side is critical and they did whatever they thought necessary to mobilize the population regarding the cause and the dignity of St. Martiners. He said the cause they are fighting today is not only about Romney but the general affairs of the French side.
The MOCSAM president said that over the years they are told St. Martin does not have qualified people to hold key positions reasons why the Collectivity and other departments are importing foreign labor. Gumbs said Romney's case is an example because today there is a qualified local who wants to give back to his island and he is being removed. "Robert Romney has reached to the highest level of administration and he understands the situation regarding the delinquency and school drop out on the French side and he wants to help. This should not be about Romney and how much money he makes. It is about how badly St. Martin students are performing in school and what would be the end result. "Robert Romney worked hard to develop his career and whether or not he has a good salary, it is something he earned." Gumbs said. Gumbs said St. Martin students are the worst for the Academie and for France and Romney has felt the distress of the island's students and he wants to help.
Several persons told this reporter that they are not supporting the Romney issue because no one could hurt Robert Romney. They said he is almost to the end of his career and he has a very well paid job. However, protesting and blocking the streets would hamper the already weak economy. Responding to that Gumbs said the people has to set their priorities right because when the delinquency rate increases, crime would definitely increase and that would also damage the economy. He said if the students are given a well rounded education they would contribute positively to the economy and the population needs to analyze the situation correctly.
Gumbs said the committee would meet again to access the situation and to see how they would move forward. He said one of the things the committee would have to decide is if they would continue to move in the name of the people when the people themselves are not present. Gumbs said he is also concerned about how the members of the Territorial Council are acting. He said the councilors voted a motion unanimously to keep Romney on St. Martin while the President said he has sent a letter to the Recteur requesting information yet they are working against the Support Committee.
At the office of Robert Romney and the Inspector, glue was placed in the locks which prevented the workers of the department to open their doors to enter the building. The inspector who was seen outside said he was not at liberty to speak to the media and that he needed authorization from the Rector to speak.
SMN News learnt that the inspector who is scheduled to leave on pension sometime next month already contacted some members of the committee that are teachers to find out what is their mission. According to our sources the teachers are fonctioneers (civil servants) and they are bound by the droit du reserve unless their unions are involved in the protest.
In the meantime, the Recteur is scheduled to visit St. Martin on June 30th.
Philipsburg: --- Senator and Island Councilmember George Pantophlet in a press release said he had to take time out to address the bickering and complaining made by
member of the Democratic Party former commissioner of Finance Mr. Roy Marlin. Pantophlet said Marlin said on a radio broadcast that commissioner Xavier Blackman is not managing the Finances of this country in a good manner, and that they are coming with a motion for his dismissal. But he Marlin has failed to mention that for almost 10 years the budgets for the island territory of St. Maarten was never balanced. Marlin also failed to mention that during the debate on the 2008 Budget he stated that the accounts receivables were in excess of 1 billion guilders; he also failed to tell the people of St. Maarten of the 107 million guilders deficit.
The former finance commissioner also failed to mention the report of the General Auditing Chamber in which it states that Financial accounts were in such a deplorable condition that they just decided to overlook some of them and therefore they were never approved. Marlin also failed to mention a statement in one of our daily newspapers by the State Secretary of Kingdom Relations Ank Bijeveld-Schouten who because of the mismanagement of the former Democratic Party government finance commissioners said that the people of St. Maarten don't like good governance and Balanced Budgets. Now that we are trying to clean the mess they have left behind he wants to remove a qualified and capable commissioner. Pantophlet said the longer the National Alliance remain in government the more discoveries will be made of the mismanagement of the former Democratic Party government. And finally Councilman Roy Marlin the Democratic Party should be the last to talk about the ill treatment civil servants because the Democratic Party wrote the book the senator said.
Philipsburg: --- Ambulance personnel and other top officials of the St. Maarten Police Force KPSSS had to rush to the Philipsburg Police Station on Wednesday night after an inmate who is custody injured himself. SMN News learnt that the inmate was trying to commit suicide.
Chief Commissioner of Police Peter De Witte confirmed that the inmate managed to injure himself while in the cell. De Witte said the inmate was taken to the St. Maarten Medical Center for treatment by ambulance.
Philipsburg:---In an effort to always support the performing arts, Council woman Maria Buncamper-Molanus, on behalf of the Sky Is The Limit Foundation, made a financial contribution to the Imbali Center for Creative Movement on Wednesday.
Buncamper-Molanus, whose early years included dance, re-iterated the importance of supporting centers like Imbali and committed persons like Imbali's Director Clara Reyes as they continue to mould young people in their formative years, through the arts.
The donation will go towards the annual teacher/student upgrading program, which will take a group of teachers and students to New York City where they will attend classes and view several Broadway performances.
"Whenever and wherever we can, we have to support the arts. The Sky Is The Limit Foundation is proud to do its part in helping positive organizations like Imbali and initiatives such as the New York trip. We wish them the best of luck as they sharpen their skills in representing St. Maarten," Buncamper-Molanus said.
She went on to encourage other to assist financially as Imbali is still in need of funds. Despite many requests for sponsorships that were sent out, Buncamper-Molanus was the first to respond to Imbali.
Chippie recently sponsored Dows Musical Foundation to assist with the monthly rental expense of the current location the foundation holds on the A. Th. Illidge Road. The foundation currently uses this location to teach approximately 80 students to play the traditional musical instrument called the steel pan. Foundation president, Mr. Isidore York has been teaching children and adults for many years and stated that it has become increasingly difficult to obtain support from various partners in the community to continue doing so. In the past we would be able to teach at certain schools, which would make a big difference in the expenses of the foundation. This also made it easier for the students at these schools who want to learn to play, to learn more about this musical instrument. The classes would take place at their own school or closer to home so students would have something to do after school and .
'The steel pan music and is an important part of Caribbean heritage that needs to be preserved and passed on to younger generations as an artform.' says UTS Marketing and Communications Officer, Ivy Lambert. 'In supporting the foundation financially, we are trying to make sure that this happens. We hope that other stakeholders in the community will also seek to support Mr. York in his efforts to teach young and old to play the pan.' 'Most of my students are children and young adults, but anyone can learn to play the steel pan. I try to encourage anyone that is interested to give it a try. A new student can learn to play something fairly quickly.' Dows Musical Foundation currently teaches approximately 80 students to play steel pan music.
In picture: UTS Marketing and Communications Officer, Ivy Lambert, presents Dows Musical Foundation President, Mr. Isidore York, with a check donation towards the foundations' expenses while surrounded by a few of the foundations young students playing the steel pan.
CAY BAY—An oil spill was discovered on Friday morning at the GEBE power plant. It is thought that the oil spill occurred during the night but could not be detected by GEBE personnel in the darkness. The effects on the environment are at this point yet to be determined. GEBE has dispatched a team with oil pads and a vacuum truck to clean up the oil.
The cause of the oil spill has been linked with the overloading of the Waste Oil Treatment System (WTS) that is used to skim off any waste oil from the production process.
GEBE had begun putting containment measures in place in the form of an oil boom and WTS re-training to mitigate any effects of oil spills, but these are still pending to be completed. Further a valve has been installed to be able to shut off the runoff of the WTS in case a leak is detected.
Mitigating measures currently in place have prevented more oil from flowing into the sea. A lot of oil accumulated on the Western side of the boom allowing the clean-up crew to remove it quickly.
On Wednesday, the oil boom was placed in the ocean and the necessary attachments were being made by the contractor. Unfortunately, the oil spill occurred before the boom could be fully completed. This resulted in oil escaping from the not yet attached section of the enclosure and drifting out to sea.
GEBE will continue its cleanup efforts to minimize the effects on the environment.
In the meantime the Nature Foundation has responded to the spill said once again a significant Oil Spill originating at the GEBE power plant on Friday morning. Staff of the Nature Foundation responded with their vessel Yellow Tail to monitor the situation and asses the environmental impact the spill is having on the marine environment. Initial assessment found that a large quantity of oil has been entered into the sea due to overflow at the GEBE Power Plant. During the assessments executed by the Foundation it was found that the spill stretched for approximately five kilometres in a west south westerly direction, which indicates a large amount of oil was leaked and the oil slick could be seen from the top of Cole Bay Hill stretching to the horizon. Contact was immediately established with the Environmental Department of Anguilla so that they were made aware of the situation and so that they could monitor for oil in their coastal waters.
The Nature Foundation determined that the oil slick covered a large section of beach in Cay Bay and offshore coral reefs, both of which have a significant ecological and tourism value to the island. Contact was made with the dive operators advising them that certain dive sites should be avoided because of a large amount of oil in the water and swimming in Cay Bay and certain areas of pelican should be avoided. Fishermen were also informed that they should avoid fishing along the south-western shore of the island until the oil has been dissipated offshore, as the consumption of petroleum contaminated fish could cause significant health problems. The nature foundation will be conducting survey dives to determine the extent of the damage which occurred on local coral reefs and the possible compensation which can be requested for their damage. "Aside from the damage caused to the coral reef ecosystem this oil spill is also disastrous to the sea turtle population. We are in the middle of sea turtle nesting season and inevitably turtles will die because of all of this oil," commented Tadzio Bervoets, Manager of the St. Maarten Nature Foundation.
GEBE was busy conducting clean-up efforts in the Cay Bay area and meetings and consultations were held with the EPIC and St. Maarten Pride foundation, the Prosecutors Office, ROB, VROM, the Fire Department, and GEBE on the origin of the spill and the follow up actions which should be taken to clean the spill and to ensure that such an event does not happen in the past.
"It is unfortunate that something like this is still happening, especially considering that this is the fourth incident of an oil spill in the past few months, and especially considering what is currently happening in the Gulf of Mexico. St. Maarten depends heavily on the Marine Environment for tourism revenue and for fisheries so if events like this continue to happen the island will eventually loose the value of its tourism product and its fishery will collapse. Without proper protection, such as the approval of the Marine Park Ordinance, events like this will continue to happen and will go unchallenged," commented Bervoets.
The Foundation will be active all weekend monitoring the situation and investigating the effects the spill is having on the Marine Environment. The Foundation can be contacted on 5444267 or on 5270490.
GREAT BAY,– The Island Territory Government of Sint Maarten has a new official website online which can be found at www.sintmaartengov.org.
The site features the structure of the Executive and Legislative branch of government along with the different sectors responsible for providing various services to the island community.
The site also carries the latest news developments within government besides links for residents, business, visitors and students.
The site also has a count-down clock to country status along with a civil servants corner, health update, government information page news, as well as employment opportunities within the civil service corps.
The site which is managed and updated by the Government Information Service (GIS) webmaster Jeanelle Mardembrough on a daily basis will also feature weekly news and special video programs of the government news service. The site is still in development and additional information will be added in the coming weeks and months.
The site will also feature the various organic laws for country Sint Maarten along with the Constitution. At the moment the Kingdom Charter is link listed followed by Constitution (Staatsregeling) of the Netherlands Antilles as well as a link to the Island Regulations of the Netherlands Antilles.
The site has been established to facilitate information and news in a timely accurate manner to internal and external publics on the policies, programmes and projects of the Government of Sint Maarten.
Acting Head of the GIS Rodney Richardson, is inviting the public to get online and check out the new official government website. Richardson pointed out that the site will under-go dynamic changes as the island transits from a territory to country Sint Maarten.
PHILIPSBURG – The University of St. Martin is formally without a president, and the disrespect to the staff continues since to date the staff members have not been formally informed as to who will take on the responsibilities of the former president, now that she has officially retired.
Josianne Fleming-Artsen resigned as USM president on June 30, and during her last meeting with the staff, she announced that an acting president would be appointed in the interim, until a new president is appointed at the start of the new year.
The WIFOL chides the USM Board for lack of transparency and respect for the staff and for ignoring the principles of proper corporate governance.
"The USM Board members, who have been touting transparency, are themselves not transparent and lack professionalism and accountability. It has been days since the president resigned and the staff is entitled to know who they should give account to," says WIFOL President Theophilus Thompson
Months ago the board promised to come clean to the public and to date we have not heard a squeak. The board raised over a million dollars in pledges and donations from the community but to date has not given an account of the funds raised. In 2008 three persons-- a dean, chief financial officer, and librarian-- were hired at substantial salaries to turn the institution around. Since then the dean has left after one year of a two year contract, and a substantial amount of the staff has left. There is still not a fully functional library at USM, the CFO is constantly meddling in managerial matters including attempting to do away with key functions critical to the accreditation process, and the institution is practically bankrupt.
The WIFOL, which represents the workers at the university, on previous occasions has requested a meeting with the USM Board to find out what its succession plans are. To date board representatives have avoided such meetings.
The WIFOL reiterates its call for the current board to do the honorable thing and let qualified people with St. Martin's interest at heart take over the reigns of the university, the island's only tertiary level institution.
MARIGOT—The gendarmes have arrested the parents of a 3 year old boy who died at the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital. According to a press release from the gendarmerie the boy was taken to the hospital with severe wounds about his body. The gendarmes opened an investigation after the child was admitted to the hospital brain dead.
The Gendarmerie opened the investigation on Monday after the child was admitted to hospital brain dead. The child's body also bore marks of violence which is consistent with beatings. According to the release the parents who are now in custody will be transferred to Guadeloupe. They along with three children were homeless over a week ago. The children were ages 1, 3, 7 years old were found to be living in a car. An order was issued for the two other children to be taken into protective custody.
Airport:--- Frank Arrindell, Owner and Founder of Arrindell Aviation Services, accompanied by Roy Mingo, Managing Director, and Matumi Shigemoto, Operations Manager will depart for Hampshire, England next week to promote Arrindell Aviation and St. Maarten at the Farnborough International Airshow (FIA). They have meetings planned with NetJets Europe as well as numerous FBOs from Russia, Dubai and Asia during the weeklong event and hope to bring business to St Maarten as a result of this trip.
FIA, a bi-annual trade show, is one of the worlds' most iconic global aviation events and takes place July 19-25. The first five days of the show are traditionally trade days only, followed by a weekend where the exhibition is opened up to the public. FIA is expecting 1,300 exhibitors from the private, commercial, civil and military sectors. The show is specifically designed to facilitate tailor-made and unrivalled opportunities to meet, negotiate and announce business transactions.
The most recent airshow, FIA 2008, was a record-breaking year for business with $88.7 billion worth of orders announced during the show. 2008's event also featured 165 aircraft in static displays and spectacular flying displays and the public weekend attracted a staggering 153,000 visitors.
Arrindell Aviation is the guest of Aviation International News (AIN) Managing Director, Wilson Leach. Remarked Frank Arrindell, " We are honored to be AIN's guests at this renowned airshow and to be able to promote St Maarten to all."
Frank Arrindell founded Arrindell Aviation Services with five employees who set out to provide unmatched service, while meeting the meticulous demands of the industry. By never compromising this goal, they grew to 100 employees who personify a unique corporate culture of excellence. Arrindell Aviation has received many honors—such as number one FBO on St. Maarten and number five FBO in the Caribbean by Pro Pilot Magazine. Arrindell Aviation Services personnel travel frequently to promote St. Maarten and the surrounding islands.
Philipsburg: --- The armed robbery unit of the KPSSS is busy investigating an armed robbery which took place on Monday morning at the Queen Fine Jewelry Store on Front Street. Acting Police Spokesperson Humphrey Giterson said when police arrived on the scene they were told by the store manager that three men armed with a hammer and pepper spray stormed into the store and began breaking the glass showcases. Giterson said the robbers also bagged the jewelry that was on display before escaping on foot. "The suspects ran towards the Down Street Area" Giterson said.
The police spokesman said while there were three suspects in the store, a fourth suspect was on the outside looking out.
Humphrey Giterson further explained that robbery was captured on camera and that one of the suspects also left biological traces behind which can used as a sample to identify one of the culprits. The acting police spokesperson said one of the suspects was injured either on his upper or lower arm section. "We were able to collect blood samples from the crime scene because the suspect was bleeding when he was injured. Giterson said the robbers also used pepper spray on the employees while committing the robbery.
In unrelated news on Saturday July 10th a rental car Toyota Yaris 2006 with license plate 82ZAL97 was stolen. The vehicle was parked in front of a residence on Melford Hazel Road in Ebenezer. Anyone who have seen this vehicle are asked to call the police station at 54-22222 or 911 emergency number. While on Sunday July 11th police patrol was dispatched to Sia Pialo Dutch Quarter Road number 7 for a case of ill-treatment. Upon arrival the patrol found the man identified as. F.J.C residing at aforementioned address F.J.C was bleeding from a wound on his head. He told the police that he was ill-treated by two men whom he doesn't know. It appeared that hours before when F.J.C was dancing at the Lucian bar at Oyster pond he got involved in a scuffle with the two men. Onlookers succeeded to part them after which F.J.C decided to go home. However, to his surprise, shortly after he reached home he noticed that a grey car had stopped in front of his house. The two men, one armed with a shotgun and the other with a revolver caliber 38 special, stepped out their car and approached F.J.C. Both men ill-treated him by hitting him with the butt of one of the weapons on his head. They also threatened to kill him but his mother who saw what was happening to her son rushed in and intervened. She managed to avoid the worst. After the crime both suspects drove off.
F.J.C was transported to the SMMC where he received medical treatment. The detective department is investigating the case.
Philipsburg:---Council lady Maria Buncamper Molanus, on behalf of the Sky Is The Limit Foundation, has come to the assistance of St. Maarten's reigning District Queen Marjorie Ramirez who will be competing against girls from 11 other islands later this month at the annual Caribbean Culture Queen Pageant in Nevis. The pageant is part of the annual Culturama festivities.
Buncamper-Molanus and the foundation are continuing to assist young persons and youth oriented events who are excelling in various art forms and are proudly willing to represent their island in local as well as regional events. "We wish to congratulate Marjorie in advance and wish her the best of luck at the pageant. I am sure she will do us proud," Buncamper-Molanus said.
The 19-year-old won the District Queen pageant for her hometown of Philipsburg during the 2010 St. Maarten Carnival. The Caribbean Culture Queen Pageant is scheduled for July 27. Culturama is a two-week mix of music, culture and entertainment. Marjorie's video clip can be viewed by logging on to Facebook and searching "nevisculturama".
French Quarter:--- A Portuguese national and resident of French St. Martin has claimed that employers on French St. Martin and other territories are abusing the labor and human rights in their territories. The 58 year old man identified himself as Rui Bagini said he began a hunger strike some five days ago in the hopes that government would pay attention to the labor situation on the island.
Bagini said he had fought a number of court cases all of which he won but to date his employers are not living up to the court's decision and his lack of finances is preventing him from going after them. The frustrated father of two said that even the legal aid services on the French side is of no use to workers and victims who are not able to dish out huge sums of monies to pay them. "The aid jursidictionelle does not pay for hotel and airline tickets when cases such as these are tried in Basse Terre." Furthermore the case takes forever to go to court.
As for government he said they are negligent which the main reason employers are abusing their workers. "This is one reason our crime rate is so high, there is no place in society for the youths and when they find a job they are being abused. Employers are stealing tips and service charges from their waiters and these workers cannot say anything fearing that they would be fired. Bagini said he wrote letters to the Inspector du travailler on several occasions asking them to come and visit the workplace where workers are working seven days a week and is not paid overtime and to date the French labor department has not shown any interest. He said there are employers who are not giving their workers pay-slips and to date nothing is done.
Bagini said he has decided to challenge his bosses because on several occasions he witnessed the theft and abuse and being a holder of a European passport allows him to contest the abuse.
Bagani also accused certain lawyers who are representing many of the French side employers for blackmail. He said on three occasions he was terminated after one year service because the lawyer that represented one of his employers made sure she informed her other clients about him. "This lawyer openly told a handicap woman who had no rights being on St. Martin to get rid of me because I am someone who fights against labor abuse and unfair treatment." Bagini said.
Bagini has worked in British and French Guiana prior to moving here some 12 years ago. He won two court cases in French Guiana and to date is not paid according to the court's ruling. He also worked several places on French St. Martin and won many court cases. Bagini said he also worked on the Dutch side and the experience was the same and government on that side of the island is also negligent.
Why Stay on St. Martin?
SMN News posed some questions to Bagini who is currently on hunger strike and this is how he responded.
Q. Since when are you on hunger strike?
A. Today (Thursday) is my fifth day I have not eaten anything since Saturday.
Q. Has anyone in government on the French or Dutch side contacted you?
A. No one except two reporters. About a month ago I went to see the President of the Collectivity of St. Martin and I explained him my situation and I also told him that I wanted to leave St. Martin since I can no longer take this and the President told me to write him a letter and I should also tell him where I want to go and I did just that but to date I have not heard from President Frantz Gumbs.
Q. Where exactly do you want to go and work?
A. I would like to go to Canada because based on my research the labor laws are respected and workers are given their benefits. Besides that I can no longer find work here because the employers are now telling me that I am too old.
Q. Why Canada and not your home country?
A. I don't want to go there because I lost my father who committed suicide some years ago. And I feel responsible because I had promised my dad that I would have returned home to be with him but my financial situation has prevented me.
Q. Where are your family, wife and children.
A. My wife and two children went back to Guyana they are also very depressed since I cannot fully provide for them. But they are coming back soon.
Q. Do you have food and water in the house?
A. Bagini opened his refrigerator to show that it was empty.
Q. Are you drinking water at least?
A. Yes, I drink water because my son and wife insisted that I do that.
"The hiring of Merchant and Jeffers is another example of government wastage and mismanagement of already scarce financial resources," says PAM Leader Lindsay Grant
Basseterre, St.Kitts (July 17th 2010):- Peoples Action Movement Leader Lindsay Grant is questioning the wisdom of the Minister of National Security's recent announcement that former Police Chief Robert Jeffers and former Attorney General Dr. Dennis Merchant have been hired as consultants in the Ministry. In a press release dated Friday 16th July from the Police Public Relations Office it was revealed that both Jeffers and Merchant were introduced to members of the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force at the Police Recreation Room, Police Headquarters, Basseterre, by the Minister of National Security the Hon. Sam Condor as consultants to the Police Force via the Ministry of National Security.
"It is difficult for me or any fair-minded citizen of this country to uncover the wisdom of these two appointments," said Peoples Action Movement leader Lindsay Grant. "Here we have two gentlemen who have held two of the most significant posts in our justice system as well as our national security within the last 5-6 years. Dr. Merchant was our country's Attorney General and Mr. Robert Jeffers was our country's police Chief as recently as 2008. None of these gentlemen while holding these offices were able to curb the crime in our country. In fact under their watch crime escalated every single year. So it begs the question why are these two gentlemen who have essentially failed in their former roles as prominent figures in our justice system are now hired and paid as consultants in the Ministry which they made no positive impact to crime while they were there," Grant lamented.
Jeffers retired in 2008 after having successive years of record breaking crime including the number of murders which saw a drastic increase during his tenure as commissioner.
Merchant was Attorney General for the Federation of St.Kitts-Nevis for the last 4 years before which he served as Director of Public Prosecutions. During his tenure as Attorney General the number of murders in the country grew from 16 in 2006 to 27 in 2009 a more than 50% increase. In 2009 he became the first Attorney General in the entire Commonwealth to be held in contempt of court.
"The hiring or appointment of Merchant and Jeffers is another example of government wastage and mismanagement of already scarce financial resources. These appointments are another means of lining or filling the pockets of party activists," said Grant. Grant asserted "What can they bring now that they couldn't while they served as Attorney General and Police Chief respectively up to as recently as last year".
The Federation National Security has come under tremendous pressure as crime continues to escalate with significant increases in robberies, shootings and murders. Within the last 2 weeks at least 7 incidents of robbery including the attempted robbery of the Royal Bank of Canada as well as a number of shooting incidents have taken place raising the concerns of citizens about their security and safety. St.Kitts-Nevis has had 17 homicides for 2010. In 2009 they country recorded 27 murders.
Airport--- Within one hour of being launched a number of persons have already entered a regional competition being promoted by regional airline WINAIR. The competition which was launched by the airline's marketing department seeks to provide two free tickets to five of the airline's destinations for their Carnival and Cultural Festivities.
The competition has been launched on the airline's social network, face book and like its previous competitions continued to generate increased and rapid interest.
According to Vice President of Marketing, Claudio Buncamper he pointed out that these tickets can be used from any of WINAIR's eleven (11) destinations to the respective festive islands. Buncamper said that in totals some ten tickets would be given away for this promotion which has been growing rapidly with keen interest being shown.
Explaining about how the campaign will be run, he said that the promotion is from July 14th to July 22nd at 4pm. However, Buncamper noted that taking into consideration that St. Lucia's Carnival falls on the 19th and 20th of July, the decision for that destination will be made on Friday 16th July, 2010.
Quizzed on how someone can win, the VP of Marketing said, "...it's very simple as we want as many persons to win. What they need to know that for them to qualify to win they must answer via comment to the question "Which Island Carnival would you like to attend and why?" he said.
Buncamper added that the list of the various islands carnivals have been added so as to provide the public with a better opportunity of making an informed decision. St. Lucia Carnival July 19th & 20th, Saba Carnival July 31st & August 1st, St. Eustatius Carnival July 31st & August 1st, Antigua Carnival August 3rd & 4th, Nevis Culturama July 22nd - August 3rd, British Virgin Islands Emancipation Festival 23rd July - August 7th,
Commenting on the specified travel period, Buncamper disclosed that this must be completed between July 18th and August 8th, 2010. He stressed that the pubic should note that the prizes does not include any relevant airport taxes and fees, and hotel accommodation.
Winair is pleased to announce that Davina Toussaint has won the competition for the two free tickets to St. Lucia with her remarkable comments.
The Marketing boss added that based on the response thus far it has shown that the public's favorite choices are Nevis, Antigua and Saba.
...
Philipsburg:---During the change of board meeting the St. Maarten Rotary Club, in particular outgoing president Pierre Decelles, recognized several Rotarians for their outstanding contribution. In a series of articles Rotary would like to share this recognition starting with Fredrick Fleming.
All Rotarians strive to improve their club and community to the best of their abilities, but once in a while, if only by shear perseverance in serving, a Rotarian must be recognized and acknowledged for his continuous effort in pursuit of the ideal of Rotary, "Service Above Self". This year's Presidential Citation is awarded to a Rotarian who has been considered controversial, obstinate, often inflexible and even at times downright difficult. But, he rarely misses a weekly meeting, attends every fellowship events and always assists in all club and community projects. His commitment to Rotary, our Club, his Fellow Rotarians and the Community is second to none. He is well versed in all aspects of the Rotary world, keeps abreast of new developments and his years of experience in Rotary give him an insight to understand and resolve the Rotary issues he is confronted with daily.
If he's never late for the weekly meetings, it could be due to the fact that he insists on sitting in the exact same chair and table every week. He rarely engages in any discussions, usually simply waiting for the most opportune moment to express his straightforward comment on the issue. One could say, a man of few words but always to the point. He's a Rotarian who cares, a man who devotes himself to his family, a community minded person willing and able to listen and serve.
It is my honor and privilege to award this Presidential Citation which reads:
"In recognition of your dedication and continuous commitment to Rotary and the Community, as well as your remarkable effort in serving the Rotary Club of St. Maarten for the past 23 years".Now past president Pierre Decelles concluded: "To my Friend, my Fellow Rotarian and Past President Fred Fleming".
Philipsburg: --- Members of the island council will be discussing the draft constitution for country St. Maarten on Wednesday confirmed leader of the Democratic Party Sarah Wescot Williams. The leader of the Democratic Party said that the draft constitution was discussed in the central committee meeting on Friday but her faction is still unsure as to whether they will support it. Wescot Williams said her faction would continue discussing the matter on Tuesday prior to going to the island council where it will be publicly discussed.
The former commissioner of constitutional affairs said during the year 2009 they did not hear anything on the draft constitution and just recently they are bombarded with copies which showed that certain articles must be changed. One of the articles of concern is the one which states that there must be a two third majority vote by members of parliament for loan agreements Island Councilmember Roy Marlin said this is one of the proposals of government and the DP faction wants to know why there would be need for a two third majority vote for loan while the country budget is carried by a simple majority of the members present.
Marlin said when this matter was raised in the central committee meeting government then acknowledged that has to be changed since it made no sense.
Wescot Williams said a number of other changes were made to the draft constitution which was voted by her executive council in October 2006. She said that they also noticed that government made several changes to the article which stipulates that any elected official can face removal of office if they are convicted or suspected of a crime. She said just recently they noticed that government added another clause to the article that states that the article on removal of elected officials will not be retroactive. Government went as far as adding in specific offences which constitute the removal of office of elected officials.
"While St. Maarten was lauded in the past for having this in the constitution it now becomes a matter of infringements on ones constitutional rights. "Right now we are discussing the active and the passive right to vote." She said if government is still thinking on how to add this article in the constitution then it should be taken out completely from the constitution and regulated by an ordinance at a later date.
The matter of the dismissal of a politician if convicted or suspected of crime goes back very far and St. Maarten was praised for taking the initiative to add it in their constitution.
She said there was a lot of vetting and discussions that took place prior to October 2006 and another one was available after the RTC meeting in December 2008. That draft was available in January 2009.
Government she said also changed the constitution to have country St. Maarten with a two year and balanced budget. Another concern for the Democratic Party is the fact the document is in the Dutch language which limits the input of the people. She said for 2009 nothing was done with the constitution and now government is pressed with time now that 10/10/10 is almost here.
Philipsburg: --- Independent member of the island council and caretaker commissioner Theo Heyliger who recently resigned from the executive council is scheduled to launch his own party on Saturday afternoon on the boardwalk. Heyliger confirmed that the official launching will take place at 4:30pm.
A meeting was held with members and supporters of Heyliger at Great Bay Hotel on Wednesday night as they prepare for the launching. SMN News has been reliably informed that former island council lady and leader of the People's Progressive Party Gracita Arrindell has agreed to run as the number two candidate on the United People's Party list headed by Heyliger. SMN News also understands that the discussions were on the party logo, and details of the party. It is understood that the board was also introduced to the candidates and supporters of Heyliger's new party.
SMN News also learnt that Josianne Fleming Artsen who resigned from her position at the University of St. Martin to concentrate on politics would not be a candidate on the list. The source said Fleming Artsen is a member of the UPP board. SMN News further learnt that many persons who were supporting the other two major parties were at the meeting on Wednesday night showing support for Heyliger and his team.
Philipsburg:--- The police department are busy investigating a shooting incident which took place on Wednesday. According to police spokesman Geronimo Juliet police were directed to the St. Maarten Medical Center where they met two met who were shot. Juliet said one of the victims identified as C.C told police they were leaving an establishment to go to his car when he was shot by unknown persons. Police could not interview the second victim in this because he was intensive care at the time. So far no witnesses have been heard by police because all of the other patrons of the establishment had already left when police reached the scene.
Juliet said police are also busy investigating another armed robbery which took place on Monday July 19th at the Golden Island Restaurant. According to the police spokesman the owners of the restaurant was at the back of the establishment relaxing when two gunmen surprised them. The robbers they said were carrying a sawed off shot gun. They managed to rob the business approximately $300. After committing the act they ran in the direction of the board walk. The suspects were said to be wearing black clothing, one of wearing a black hoody over his head while the other used a red cloth to cover his face. They are both slim and of dark complexion and about 1.75 meters tall.
The detective department also arrested four persons who were caught in the vicinity of SOL Gas Station on Sucker Garden Road. The men were seen in a vehicle and looked suspicious which prompted police to conduct a body search. A number of ATM cards were found on the culprits. Further investigation revealed that the owners of those cards told police that their homes were broken into and their cards were stolen.
Grand Case;--- The gendarmes are busy investigating a case where at least eight masked men slammed a vehicle carrying four persons inside. It is understood that the men attacked the victims and robbed them of their personal belongings. SMN News learnt that one of the suspects even tried raping one of the victims.
In an invited comment Commandant Stephane Brunet did not give much details about the incident except to say that the victim was not raped. Commandant Brunet said it appeared as if one of the suspects fondled with the victim during the freak robbery. The suspects he said robbed the victims of all their personal belongings while severely damaging their vehicle.
Philipsburg: ---The discussion on the current crime rate on St. Maarten served as an eye opener to those that attended and viewed the live discussion on Sunday afternoon. The five panelists comprising of St. Maarten's youths were invited to by the executive council to share their views on the rising crime rate on St. Maarten. They spoke out against the lack of the community's involvement in shaping their environment.
Surprising is that even though the discussion was organized by the island government of St. Maarten, persons working in the department of education, social affairs, and policy making were nowhere to be seen. One would believe that if government is looking for possible solutions to curb the escalating crime rate then these persons working for government would have been there to gather first hand information. The question one would ask is if the information provided by these youths who took time out of their busy schedules to engage in the discussion would go on deaf ears.
The panel was specifically asked to elaborate on rehabilitation of youths who have chosen the wrong path, education and saving today's youths. The panelists as well as the experts believe that the community needs to play a bigger role in their surroundings. They also referred to the old saying that says it takes a village to raise child.
The five member panel and three experts within the community elaborated on how important it is for parents to take on an active role in the upbringing of their children. Parents were criticized for not spending enough time with their children, for allowing the television to be the parents of their children simply because they do not want to be bothered. Teachers and schools were criticized for the fact they focus on academia rather than skills and tradesmen. Suspending students who are not behaving well in school they said only promoted delinquency at the expense of the community. Teachers they said need to work on their relationship and bond with their students. Discipline they said need to be brought back in the schools. Students they say have no fear for their parents and teachers simply because the current mechanism in place is not working.
The entire panel agreed that there is too much focus on academic education based on the current system and availability and the lack of a proper trade school on St. Maarten and more importantly the lack of juvenile detention center. The panel believes that while the youths on St. Maarten are labeled as delinquent, there is simply not enough opportunities provided to them. They also believe that youths have to take the initiative if they are to shape their lives in a positive direction.
The panel also agreed that the business community should play a more active role in giving youths a fair chance to work. These businesses they said need to participate more so that schools and government could work on providing the right kind of employees that are needed in the job market.
The police force took shots for being unfriendly, and not being able to respond to the full needs of the growing community simply because they are short staffed.
Leader of government William Marlin whose office organized the event said that things have changed today as from when he was a teacher, he said society has allowed the rights of the child has taken away the island's values. While Marlin made clear that he was not advocating abuse he said that there needs to be some level of discipline in schools. Agreeing with the commissioner of education was someone in the audience who said today the police are making it their duties to arrest parents when they try to correct their children.
GREAT BAY– The Collective Preventive Services (CPS) of Sector Public Health, Social Development & Labour, is asking persons who travelled to this year's World Cup in South Africa to watch for the possible development of measles.
A laboratory confirmed case was found in Australia after a 24-year-old male traveller was diagnosed with the measles after attending the FIFA World Cup.
The patient's symptoms first appeared on Friday, July 2, 2010 and the rash appeared on July 4, 2010. It could be speculated that he became infected in either Cape Town or Rustenberg.
The first signs of measles are usually a high fever, which begins about 10 to 12 days after exposure to the virus, and last four to seven days.
A runny nose, a cough, red and watery eyes, and small white spots inside the cheeks can develop in the initial stage. After several days, a rash develops, usually on the face and upper neck. After three days, the rash spreads, eventually reaching the hands and feet.
The rash lasts for five to six days, and then fades. On average, the rash occurs 14 days after exposure to the virus. It can be transmitted by an infected person from four days prior to the onset of the rash to four days after the rash begins.
The virus remains active and contagious in the air or on infected surfaces for up to two hours.
As of April 28, 2010, there were over 12,000 cases of confirmed measles in an outbreak that started in South Africa in January 2009.
CPS is requesting persons who have travelled to South Africa to monitor any health conditions evolving and immediately consult their physician.
Everyone from young adults to senior citizens can benefit from immunizations. Some adults incorrectly assume that the vaccines they received as children will protect them for the rest of their lives.
Therefore, it is very important for adults to review their vaccination status by checking with their physician or if the adults have attended school on Sint Maarten, they can check with CPS for their vaccination status and records. One of the recommended adult vaccines is Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR).
CPS is also urging parents/guardians to take their child during the school summer vacation to Youth Health Care at the Vineyard Building in Philipsburg to check their child's vaccination status and/or have them vaccinated against preventable communicable diseases.
Those requiring further information can call 542-3003 for further information.
Philipsburg: --- The Detective department is presently investigating several cases of
theft where the suspects distract their victims by intentionally letting the air out of a tire of their car during their absence. When the victims want to drive away with their car, they would realize that one of the tires has no air. The suspects will then offer the
victim their assistance to have the tire changed or repaired. While distracting the victim another suspect would gain access into their vehicle steal whatever items the victims have in their vehicle. In connection with the ongoing investigations the detective department has arrested a Mexican man and woman as suspects in these cases. The detective department is cautioning the entire community to pay very close attention to these type of criminal activities. Also the detective department is encouraging anyone who has recently experienced this type of criminal activity to come into the department
to file an official report.
Philipsburg: --- Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards may have a lot of explaining to do to the people of St. Maarten or maybe law enforcement officers if an investigation is opened to determine his involvement with Olzina NV.
At the island council meeting convened on Monday to discuss the appeal filed by Olzina NV, leader of government William Marlin opened the Pandora's box when he informed the council that Richards allegedly said someone forged his signature when he signed documents pertaining to the building permit that was requested by the developer for additional floors.
Marlin said one would want to know that if in fact someone forged the governor's signature why he did not request an investigation be conducted by the prosecutor's office. The island leader said he later learned that Richards retracted those statements and it was said that Richards probably signed the documents by mistake. Marlin said another turn of events was that the governor even visited the work site in Cay Hill and he did not instruct ROB to issue a building stop even though the developer did not have the required permits. Furthermore, the governor's cabinet Marlin said ordered general affairs to send all documents pertaining to Olzina NV directly to his cabinet instead of it going to the executive council.
Marlin said he does not know if the documents they have are all the documents that relates to the request filed by the developer. Also questioning the statements of forged signature was island councilman Louie Laveist who said that he wished Richards was the one chairing the island council meeting on Monday because the people has a right to know. Laveist also asked the chair that if any member of the council is directly involved with the businessman or the company that is being discussed by the council if they are entitled to vote. It appears that the island councilman was indicating that there might be some sort of conflict of interest taking place and that would question the integrity of the council. Already it has been determined that an island council member is doing business with the developer who is renting tour bus licenses from the council member.
Marlin said a number of mistakes were made when the file for Olzina NV was handled beginning since 2007. He asked if the island council should continue to cover up the wrong doings of the other members of the council. He said it would have been good if island council members were called to pay for the mistakes they made. Marlin further explained that those that handled the processing of the building permit mislead the developer who went to court to force the council to make a decision. The court is expected to rule on July 28th. Should the council not take a decision then they can be fined by the judge to pay Naf, 2.500 per day to a maximum of Naf. 5000.00
Split Executive Council.
Caretaker commissioner who holds the ROB portfolio in his presentation explained to the council that a number of mistakes were made when handling the requests of Olzina NV. However, Heyliger wants the council to grant Olzina its variance permit with an added condition that Olzina NV submits and carries out all beautification-greenery plan, which will be subjected to approval by VROM. While the other members of the executive council feels that the island council should admit the appeal of Olzina as admissible but deny them the permit based on a decision taken by the executive council. Marlin said it is ridiculous for the commissioner in charge of Public Works to submit such a proposal when he voted in favor of denying the variance permit on October 20th 2009. Marlin further explained that he was not even present in the meeting when the council took the decision. He said the developer was informed of the council's decision on October 29th after which he proceeded to court.
The members of the executive council clearly indicated that the council was split when they discussed the variance permit on Vorst Estate in the Little Bay area submitted by Olzina NV. Leader of government William Marlin said while the council has different opinions based on the amount of mistakes made with the handling of the file. He said it is his firm belief that that a judge should rule on the case that is presently before the court of First Instance. Marlin described the Vorst Estate file as "unusual case which has been dragging on for years now. "Granting the permit now would be setting bad precedence especially since St Maarten has a bad report card. Marlin said the island has promised to go forward clean. He said the majority of the members in the executive council who were present when the legal experts gave their advice have decided not to grant the variance permit and to let the courts decide.
The Democratic Party leader Sarah Wescot Williams asked that the two proposals be provided to her faction prior to any decision taken by the council. Wescott Williams also asked for clarification as to the current executive council. She said she wants more explanation on the majority and minority in the executive council.
Theo Votes against the Denial of Variance Permit.
Despite the pleadings of Marlin the council members of the island council was clearly split when they voted. Members of the council voted in favor of one part of the proposal submitted by the executive council which is to admit the appeal submitted by Olzina NV. However, when it came down to second point which was to deny the variance permit there was a hung vote since the members of the Democratic Party and caretaker commissioner Theo Heyliger voted against the denial.
The council it is said will be voting on this issue again on Wednesday. Clearly the members of the Democratic Party and independent member of the island councilor Theo Heyliger were looking into ways to clean up the mess they created some years ago regarding the granting of the building permit and the letters sent to the developer telling him that they would grant his permit. Listening to the entire proceedings on Monday was the developer Sameer Andramos and his attorney Cor Merx.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—Preliminary results show that economic activities in St. Maarten have decreased with 0.9 percent in 2009 compared to the year 2008 as measured by the real Gross Domestic Product.
Analysis by industry shows that the decrease was primarily caused by a decrease in economic activities in the industries "hotels and restaurants," trade, and "transport and communication."
Economic activities in the hotels and restaurants industry have lessened by more than 6 percent. This is mainly related to the world economic recession of 2009. St. Maarten's stay-over tourism has dropped in all its main markets.
The main US tourist market dropped with about 7 percent, South America with 9 percent, Europe with 4 percent, and the Caribbean region with 19 percent. For the rest of the world there was an overall drop of 12 percent.
Economic activities in the trade industry have dropped with 3 percent. Trade plays a major role in the economy with a gross share in GDP of about 25 percent. The decrease in trade is related to a drop in merchandise imports of about 10 percent, which influences the overall activities percentage.
Economic activities in "transport and communication" have lessened with 0.2 percent in 2009. In particular, cargo activities have declined.
If a comparison is made among the islands of the Netherlands Antilles with regards to economic activities, St Maarten has a lower outcome (-0.9%) than Curaçao (-0.5 %) and Bonaire (+0.4%). Compared to other regions, the decline was relatively modest.
Real economic growth in the US, the Euro zone, and the Caribbean region has dropped in 2009 with respectively 2.5, 3.9 and 2.3 percent.
Philipsburg :--- "We've got a Country to build, and a people to protect," remarked Stuart Johnson Democratic Party (DP) of St. Maarten parliamentary candidate in the last Central Government Election held in January. "As we approach a historical election, we must be cognizant of the woes affecting our island and its people. We will be saying, "farewell" to the Country Netherlands Antilles and usher in a new era with Country St. Maarten," Johnson said. Johnson ran as the number seventh candidate on the DP slate. Johnson vehemently stated, "this and any election you shouldn't sell your vote; your vote is a priceless and powerful gift. I've always held firm to this belief, do you?" Johnson questioned.
He stated, "Country status is within sight but there is far more issues still left unsolved such as our education system, health care system, and justice system."
I firmly believe a ban should be placed on the use of any cellular phones, video cameras, and cameras in the voting booths on Election Day. Johnson said, "I call on the Acting Lt. Governor Reynold Groeneveldt and the governing coalition to do the right thing in keeping with the principles of democracy and transparency throughout the entire election."
Johnson questioned, "Has the sale of the votes improved anyone's situation after an election?
Have there been sustainable non government jobs created by the buying of an election?"
"Our people must progress while jobs must be created, opportunities must be fostered for our youth, our heritage/culture must be preserved and our environment must be protected. We cannot change the past but we are surely shape the future," Johnson said. "For those individuals who've engaged in those sorts of activities in the past or the present, let their conscience by their guide and let them deal with whatever consequences should come their way," Johnson added.
"I hold firm these beliefs and have always remained committed to the cause of working in the best interest of our island all the time, unlike some individuals who only pop up around election time to disappear afterwards again. Remember, "We've got a Country to build, and a people to protect," Johnson concluded.
PHILIPSBURG,– As a result of many ongoing deliberations between Health officials, the Executive Council, and representatives of BZV St. Maarten and Curacao crucial steps have been taken to ensure that there would be a continuous working relationship between the Island Territory of St. Maarten and BZV.
It was determined during the meeting that new applicants will be receiving a guarantee letter which is valid until October 10, 2010.
The Executive Council of St. Maarten on July 30, 2010 received a letter from BZV confirming that the services to ensure the continuity of Health Care for the insured will continue until 10-10-10.
The Commissioner in charge of Public Health, Mr. Hyacinth Richardson stated on behalf of the Executive Council late Thursday, as a reaction to the decision from BZV that this result was to be expected.
He has stated in the past that there would be no interruption in the provision of Health Care Services on the island during his watch.
He further stated that he is requesting the cooperation of all Health Care providers on the island; as we work towards a new chapter in the history of St. Maarten.
The Health Care Providers and all relevant stakeholders will receive a letter stipulating the details pertaining to the provision of continual Health Care Services on the island within short from the Executive Council.
Philipsburg: --- The tripartite committee which was formulated by the Democratic Party executive council and the office of the commissioner of labor is at odds SMN News has learnt. Source says that the commissioner of labor is trying to get the committee around the table with other persons from the community to discuss certain matters in the amended labor policy which is currently in effect. SMN News also understands that the commissioner has intentions to restructure the committee since it was never ratified by the executive council of St. Maarten. SMN News further learnt that while there was an informal proposal the former executive council never deliberated on the installation of the committee. "One hears a lot about the tripartite committee and the role they play in labor related matters but the former government did not make it their business to legalize the committee" said one source.
However, other sources say that the members of the tripartite committee have documents that were signed by the former government and the Minister of Labor Bruney Elhage.
Well placed sources say that the commissioner has invited the committee to a meeting on July 15th and members of the committee requested a postponement which was granted to them. The new date for the meeting it is understood was set for July 28th at the government administrative building. However, some members of the committee caucused at the WIFOL building and decided they were going to boycott the meeting and submit a letter to the commissioner's office.
SMN News learnt that the members of the tripartite committee did not inform all parties that they had intended to boycott the meeting because the secretary of the UFA showed up to the meeting and was highly embarrassed with the tactics used by the members of the tripartite committee.
SMN News also learnt that while several members of the committee had agreed to attend the meeting, one member representing the Chamber of Commerce is the one they said instigated the other members to boycott the meeting for political reasons.
According to the letter submitted to the commissioner's office on Thursday afternoon it states that "following the second request to have a meeting with the Tripartite Committee that will include other partners in the community and has an agenda point "Restructuring of the Tripartite Committee" as mentioned as an agenda point in your mail of July 15th we the SHTA, the Chamber of Commerce, the UFA, and the WIFOL are hereby informing you of the following. Considering that the Tripartite Committee that was officially established through the recommendations of the Minister of Economy and Labor Bruney Elhage and confirmed by besluit 3993/06 on July 19 2006 and also ratified in a letter from the executive council 1175/09 on April 2 2009.
The committee is officially established comprises of two representatives from labor, the UFA, and the WIFOL representing the island government: The labor department and a representative of the Minister.
As such the members of the committee are of the opinion that before any initiative to be taken with regards to any changes to be brought to the present tripartite committee a meeting should take place with the current members first.
SMN News further learnt that the intention of government is to broaden the committee with other members from the private sector and the unions. One of the persons they said government intends to add to the committee is the CBA representative Elco Rosario someone the business sector is contesting because this person they said filed bankruptcy and he should not be a representative of the private sector.
Currently the office of the labor commissioner is dealing with several cases where workers are being penalized based on the current labor policy and they were hoping that the committee would have assisted in finding solutions for the grey areas of the policy.
While some adjustments were made to the age limit in the amended labor policy they said that are several persons who are currently working and had working permits in the past can no longer get their permit renewed. SMN News learnt that several security companies on the island are scratching their heads into finding a solution for their workers.
Managing Director of Checkmate Security Michael Kuiperi said currently his company has four workers working illegally due to the age limit. Kuiperi said one of his employees is 24 years of age and she has working documents three times before and now her papers were denied because she is not 25 years old. The businessman said his workers have been contributing to society and they are paying their dues yet government is not able to find a solution to regulate the so called grey areas in the labor yet they were able to find perfect solutions for those persons who applied for the Brooks Tower Permits.
GREAT BAY,– The 2010 Hurricane Season should start to get busy in the coming weeks as we move into the month of August with the formation of tropical waves and depression weather systems. This is one reason why the community should not become complacent, according to the office of Disaster Management and Preparedness.
The 2010 season has taken off from a slow start this year with two named storm systems to date, however this may change soon in the coming weeks.
The Office of Disaster Management & Preparedness is calling on the community to make sure everybody has everything in place and storm ready. Everybody must take the required actions to minimize the risk of injury and damage to property in case there is a hurricane strike, and the time to act is now if you haven't already.
Being prepared is essential prior to a hurricane strike. Businesses and government must survive and recover from a disaster as quick as possible which would ensure that the economy can be up and running and our way of life returns to a semblance of normality.
Residents, business owners and contractors have been advised from the beginning of the season to draft plans that would protect their families, business operations and construction sites.
When a hurricane threatens our island, what is left for residents, businesses and contractors to do to prepare should be minimal.
The hurricane season runs through November 30.
Union Farm: --- An emotional yet intelligent Jeffry Richardson former executive assistant to former commissioner Roy Marlin and Louie Laveist at a press conference on Saturday gave some reasons why he decided to found the Concordia Political Alliance (CPA). Richardson said while he called the press conference at a place he called ground zero, the party will be officially launched on August 15th where all the candidates who will be postulating the upcoming election will be presented.
Richardson said the time is now and there is no turning back since the people on St. Maarten has been neglected by elected officials. Jeffry said since he has been moving around the island he met with several persons who are suffering, especially the families that are living in the emergency homes in Union Farm. The houses he said needs to be repaired while the roads are hardly accessible. "This is a forgotten corner on St. Maarten and there are people who don't even know this place." Richardson said the reason why the island has so many gangs is because there is nothing for the youths to do. "There is no place they can socialized, no sporting facilities are here. The current government and those that were there before did not give the youths an opportunity for them to fulfill their dreams. The CPA he said intends to make changes that are structural to St. Maarten while their main objective is to strengthen and preserve St. Maarten's Cultural identity.
Politicians he said is not listening to their people who elected them to office. Richardson said it is time for everyone to place their hands on deck to change the current situation. He said the people have to now put their hands together for St. Maarten since Unity is Strength.
The youths he said cannot find jobs, no recreational center, no homes can be found while government is not doing anything to assist these people, one of the reasons he said crime is escalating. Richardson said people are being victimized depending on which party they vote for, a trend he intends to stop. The CPA founder said they do not want to be part of the "lump" of the past but their mission is to be the future of St. Maarten. Change he said can only come if the people are ready to make that change. His party's mission is to conquer the current situation where people are neglected. He said government is supposed to work for and to empower their people.
Richardson also said that the CPA will be focusing on being the representative for the native St. Maarteners and they would strive to give natives an equal opportunity in their country.
Jeffry Richardson resign from the St. Maarten Nation Building Foundation now that he has decided to enter the political arena. He presented his resignation to the President of the SNBF on Saturday during his press conference.
Supporting the CPA is president of the St. Maarten Nation Building Foundation Drs. Leopold James. James in his speech said he is proud of Richardson whom he said has stepped up to the plate to make a difference. He said Richardson has decided to take on a responsibility to form a political party that is long overdue for those people whose ancestors has formed the basis for St. Maarten and have been forgotten for decades. He also commended Jeffry for the way he has decided to form his party which is among the ordinary and working class people of St. Maarten. James said doing so has showed that the CPA has a solid foundation which would give the natives an alternative and a clear choice.
The members of the island council took sharp criticism from James who failed to say what and who are St. Maarteners in the constitution for country St. Maarten.
James said the elected officials on St. Maarten betrayed their country when they adopted the constitution for country St. Maarten. James said the leader of the National Alliance has turned his back on the St. Maarten people when he asked "What is the St. Maarten people who is St. Maarten people."
James said all the other political parties on St. Maarten are the same as they are all in the same political system, this he said was proven when they denied and rejected the St. Maarten people. "Each and every island council member betrayed the St. Maarten people at a moment when it mattered. A moment when our people needed to be protected and defended every one of them betrayed the St. Maarten people." He said these are these people who want to lead a country but when push comes to shove they abandoned the people they ought to be representing or defending. James said all those persons who have chosen to align themselves with the National Alliance, the Democratic Party and the United People's Party has the blood of the natives on their hands which cannot be washed off, simply because those people has betrayed their ancestors who built the island.
James said now the people have a choice with the CPA from the current "lump" that has the same political hybrid under different political parties. He said any party that does not want to build on solid foundation and has decided to abandon their people, those political parties cannot include others who have denied their own. James also presented the founder of the CPA with an identification card which would align him with his native ancestors.
GREAT BAY (GIS) — President of the St. Maarten PRIDE foundation and local coordinator of the International Coastal Cleanup Jadira Veen presented the 2010 International Coastal Cleanup report to Acting Lt. Governor Reynold Groeneveldt. The report Trash Travels; from our hands to the sea, around the globe and through time highlights the summary of trash data collected every year in September.
This year the International Coastal Cleanup will be celebrating 25 years anniversary and as such the worldwide coastal cleanup will take place on September 25th.
In 2009, half a million volunteers in 108 countries including St. Maarten picked up trash from the worlds coastal waterways and below the ocean surface.
The report is a comprehensive data report on each category of trash collected, this report can be used by local governments to introduce anti-litter programs and sensitizing the population on recycling.
On September 25th, the public will witness hundreds of local volunteers descending on Mullet Bay Beach from 7am-10am to take part in the Grand Cleanup. Underwater cleanups will take place with the dive industry under the guidance of Tadzio Bervoets Manager of Nature Foundation.
The International Coastal Cleanup enjoys volunteer participation from many youth groups, service clubs, schools, SHTA, government agencies, animal and environmental activists on the island, as well as the many concerned citizens.
Philipsburg: --- The island council of St. Maarten bade farewell to Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards who will reach his pensionable age of 60 on August 10 2010. Richards who is currently on vacation will be relieved of his duty by her majesty on August 10th.
Leader of government William Marlin in his address to Richards and the island council said the executive council has decided to appoint the outgoing governor to take up the position on council of Judicial Affairs. Marlin said the executive council has met with Richards to discuss their proposal to which he has accepted. Richards even though a pensioner when this council is established will be representing St. Maarten on the three member council who would have the task of overseeing good governance in the justice chain.
The council known as
lid zan de Raad voor Rechtshandving will have a member from St. Maarten in the person of Franklyn Richards, a member from Curacao and one from the Netherlands. It is understood the chairman ship of this council would be rotating every three years. SMN News further understands that the members of this council will be appointed based on the Royal Decree.
During the farewell ceremony there were representatives of the government owned companies, former senator Marcel Gumbs, former Acting Lt. Governor Millicent Acuna Lopez De Weever, the first lady Angela Richards and other well wishers.
Several of the island council members including Sarah Wescott Williams, Louie Laveist, Frans Richardson and Theo Heyliger referred to the Sheriff and the Cowboy statement that was used by Richards to describe his role compared to the role of the politicians.
They also wished the outgoing governor well on his future endeavors and credited him for the way he held his ground when chairing both the executive and island councils. Heyliger in his address spoke of the several heated discussions he had with Richards during his tenure as well as the advice he received from Richards when they worked together. Councilman Louie Laveist made known that he has no grudges against Richards even though they had their differences. Laveist said he on several occasions spoke of the difference of opinion he and Richards had during the ten years Richard served as chairman of the island and executive council. Island Councilmember Roy Marlin reminisced on the days when he and Richards were growing up and the days the spent together discussing. Marlin reminded the council that even though Richards was appointed by Her Majesty, the appointment he said is done based on political recommendations. The members of the council gave praise and they expressed their gratitude to first lady Angela Richards for allowing her husband to serve St. Maarten in such a capacity. Marlin said if they or the Democratic Party had the power they would have kept Richards in his position until St. Maarten achieves its country status which is 10/10/10. Councilman Leroy De Weever considered the statements made by the council members and the praises they bestowed on Richards to be hypocritical. De Weever said Richards had to be sent home because the hammer fell.
In his own address outgoing Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards said he was honored to hold the governor's office for close to ten years. Setting the record straight Richards said on September 12, 2000, he was appointed by Royal decree as Governor of the island territory of St. Maarten by Her Majesty Queen Beatrix, and as he approaches retirement age he will be consequently discharged by no one other than Her Majesty the Queen on August 10, 2010.
Richards said as he looks back at the decade he recognizes a most fascinating period which so many have played a crucial role in the development of St. Maarten and he is more than grateful to have served the island territory of St. Maarten as "Gezaghebber".
He said his departure comes at a time when currently, great changes are taking place. "We stand on the verge of becoming country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. This after, the citizens of St. Maarten expressed their desire for a change in status during a referendum held 10 years ago."
He cautioned and hopes that with St. Maarten achieving its country status, the welfare of the inhabitants of St. Maarten will not be taken lightly. Richards also called on the future Ministers and members of parliament to promote good governance and transparency and participation of the people in the deliberation and decision-making of Government. The presence of proper checks and balances is an indispensable condition for the proper functioning of authorities.
Some of the members of the island council and civil servants saying goodbye to Richards after the extra-ordinary island council meeting on Wednesday.
Philipsburg:--- On Friday August 6th a meeting in the presence of the Acting Lieutenant Governor Mr. Reynold Groenveldt between representatives of the Indian Merchant Association, the United Task Force Against Crime and the Management Team of the Police Force was held at the Police Head Quarters in Philipsburg.
The meeting was held in regard to the ongoing increase of crime presently taking place on the island. During the discussions one of the main focuses was to strengthen the relationship between all organizations, business communities the police department and the community at large. Other organizations and business associations not represented during this meeting will also be contacted, involving them in the battle against crime.
Also issues such as crime in general, youth crime, criminal and other illegal activities during the night time on the island and community policing were discussed. Community Policing which is a very important tool in combating crime by involving the community to give information to the police concerning crime in general or any illegal activities is one of the main points that were discussed. Also were discussed were plans how to effectively and jointly tackle these problems.
The discussions between parties were very informative. Periodic quarterly meetings between parties involved were agreed upon when discussions will continue about the progress or any other issues concerning this joint effort.
...
Philipsburg:--- Leading Information and Communications Technology (ICT) experts from the region and across the world will be converging on the tiny Caribbean nation of St Maarten for an intensive week of technology meetings. The Westin St. Maarten Dawn Beach Resort & Spa will be the venue for the 6th Annual Caribbean Internet Governance Forum being jointly hosted by the Government of St Maarten, the Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU) and the Geneva-based non-profit ISOC (Internet Society).
"The event is part of St Maarten's ICT Week", stated Ms. Peggy-Ann Brandon a member of the local organizing committee. She added, "We are proud that St Maarten has been chosen to host such a prestigious event and we are looking forward to demonstrating to the world St Maarten's own achievements and capacity."
The Caribbean Internet Governance Forum, now in its sixth year, attracts high-profiled speakers and participants from across the globe to discuss critical issues centered on the development and evolution of the Internet in the region.
The meetings are coordinated by the CTU, the region's inter-governmental agency responsible for promoting and advancing the adoption of ICT in the Caribbean.
According to Ms. Bernadette Lewis, Secretary General of the CTU, "We are excited to be staging this important forum in St. Maarten. The issues on the agenda speak directly to practical concerns and solutions to the challenges being faced by Caribbean nations in designing an information society."
Among the presenters is Dr. Steve Bratt, Chief Executive Officer of the World Wide Web Foundation, a not-for-profit organization, founded by Web inventor Tim Berners-Lee and focused on connecting and empowering all people on the planet through the Internet.
Also among the feature speakers at the event is Caribbean tech-guru, Mr. Bevil Wooding, Programme Director for the Caribbean ICT Roadshow. Mr. Wooding has been serving for many years as a technology evangelist for the Caribbean, focusing international attention to ICT issues relevant to the region.
He recently brought international media attention to the region's technology sector when news broke that he was one of only seven persons from across the globe specially selected to hold keys to the Internet.
"Mr. Wooding is the region's very own technology ambassador," stated local IT expert Mr. Gregory Richardson. "He was the lone representative from the Caribbean and Latin America selected to participate in very significant Internet milestone. Having him here for our ICT Week is a real privilege."
St Maarten's ICT Week is designed with activities tailored to every sector of society. The events will explain and demonstrate the transformative power of ICT in national development. The week will feature technology presentations, hands-on workshops, training, panel discussions and executive lecturers.
The events run from 15th to 20th August and kicks off with an opening ceremony on Sunday 14th at the ballroom of the Westin St. Maarten Dawn Beach Resort & Spa. The event will include the inaugural Caribbean Network Operators Group (CaribNOG) Regional Meeting, the first Caribbean Innovation & Entrepreneurship Workshop, and the Caribbean ICT Roadshow and will feature ICT Camps for the youth. Admission is free to the public and all are invited to attend.
GREAT BAY:--- In one of his last acts as Governor of the Island Territory of Sint Maarten prior to traveling to Holland on government business and taking a well-deserved vacation at the end of May, Governor Franklyn Richards was presented with a complimentary music CD from calypsonian King Jacko.
Richards said the island heading into a new constitutional status, from island territory to country status, strong leadership will be needed once the island receives its new status on October 10, 2010, as their will be additional responsibilities and obligations attached.
The CD is entitled, "A Strong Leader," and during the presentation Governor Richards told King Jacko to keep up the good work and wished him the very best with his endeavours in music.
Franklyn Richards term as Governor concludes on Tuesday, August 10, 2010.
The Vice Consul of the United States for the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba will be in St. Maarten for American Citizen Services on:
Friday August 20th, 2010 from 09:00 - 12:00 and 14:00 – 17:00 hours.
At The Parliament Building in Philipsburg and on a "first come, first served" basis only.
The Vice Consul will provide the following services only:
* Accepting applications for U.S. passport
* Accepting applications for Report of Birth Abroad to a U.S. citizen.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION :
ACS Services Form New fees
Minor passport (under 16 yrs) DS-11 $105
Age 16 and 17 DS-11 $105
Adult passport DS-11 $135
Adult passport DS-82 $110
Report of Birth Abroad DS- 2029 $100
Passport Card Adult DS-82 $30
Passport Card Minor DS-11 $15
Additional passport pages DS-4085 $82
*Applicants applying for a regular passport renewal can use the form DS-82. Please go to our website for instructions.
* All applicants using passport form DS-11 must appear in person.
* Passport applicants under 16 years of age must use the DS-11 passport form and must appear in person with both parents.
* Bring both originals and copies of the parents' passports and the child's birth certificate.
* If one parent cannot appear in person, a notarized statement of consent of renewal of the minor's passport (DS-2053) by the parent not appearing is required.
* Please bring photocopies of all original documents, including passports for each application.
We ask that all applicants bring a prepaid courier airway bill so we can send your passport back from Curacao. Some express courier services are now changing fees on a monthly basis, which makes it difficult for us to establish a set fee. We apologize for any inconvenience.
An additional $30 fee is necessary for mailing the passport back to you from Curacao if you are unable to provide a prepaid courier airway bill.
Only cashier's checks in U.S. dollars and negotiable in the U.S. will be accepted.
All cashier's checks should be made out to "U.S. Disbursing Officer".
NO CASH OR PERSONAL CHECKS.
Please check our webpage at http://curacao.usconsulate.gov or www.travel.state.gov for new fees, to download application forms or for any other detailed information on passport applications and consular reports of birth abroad.
You may also contact us by e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.
Please make sure you have all the documents required for the type of service you are applying for to avoid delays! Please complete the necessary forms prior to arriving but do not sign the form until in the presence of the Vice Consul!
To make an appointment for a non-immigrant visa at the U.S. Consulate General in Curacao, please call: 001-602-567-9833 or go to this website https://www.usvisa-info.com/en/selfservice
Philipsburg:--- Members of the Police 0-tolerance team during their general controls on Wednesday spotted a white Toyota Yaris with the license plate 46ZBD971 and darkly tinted windows driving on Long Wall Road. The vehicle was driving in the direction of Front Street.
The patrol also noticed that at least two persons were in the vehicle at the time. The patrol ordered the driver of the car to stop to carry out a routine control however the driver instead increased his speed and continued on his way.
The patrol chased the suspect vehicle to the vicinity of Radio Shack where the car was brought to a stop and both men stepped out and took off running. The patrol started chasing both men on foot. While running away one the officers saw that man who later turned out to be the driver had an object that looked like a fire-arm in his hand.
The men were ordered to stop however the suspect who was spotted with object in his hand continued running. A warning shot was fired by the officer however the suspect succeeded in avoiding his capture. The other suspect with the initials L.L. from Guyana was caught and arrested on the spot. A description of the suspect that escaped was given to the other patrols. Shortly after a man fitting that description was arrested in the Philipsburg area.
During a search of the suspect with the initials E.A.D. from St. Maarten back-pack the suspect , had with him the barrel of a revolver which was confiscated for further investigation. During further investigation L.L. stated that he ran because he does not have any documents to stay on the island. He was handed over to the immigration department for deportation. The suspect E.A.D. was turned over to the Narcotic and Fire Division for further investigation, however turned out not to be the driver of the car. The driver of the car has not yet been located.
Philipsburg:--- The Nature Foundation St. Maarten officially presented their Lionfish Action Plan to the Acting Lt. Governor of St. Maarten Reynold Groeneveldt. The Lionfish Action Plan clearly outlines the steps the Nature Foundation is taking to control the Lionfish Infestation. Present at the presentation were: Mr. Jan Beaujon, Chairman of the Board of Nature Foundation St. Maarten, Tadzio Bervoets, Manager of the Nature Foundation St. Maarten presenting the Nature Foundation St. Maarten Lionfish Action Plan to the Lt. Governor, Mrs. Marie-Louise Carty-Vialenc of the Nature Foundation St. Maarten Board and Mr. Frank Boekhout of the Nature Foundation St. Maarten Board.
Gracita states; "Following the attendance of a 2 day congress in Curacao on domestic violence, by organizations such as Peridot Foundation, Women's Desk, Safe Haven, the aforementioned organizations informed the public via the media that a similar workshop would be held on Sint Maarten. This workshop will take place on Friday August 13th from 8.30 to 4 p.m. at the Belvedere Community Center. Invited to attend the workshop are several non profit organizations and professionals on St Maarten who are directly, indirectly involved in the campaign again domestic violence within our community".
Arrindell continues; "We are happy to announce that several expert speakers will attend and participate in the work shop and share their views with organizations on Sint Maarten on the origins of abuse, violence and how they are dealing with the matter from within their respective organizations.
Speakers who will address the 1 day workshop include; Police officers R. Mauricia from the local police force, officer Ivan Wild from the police force Curacao recipient of Policeman of the year award in 1991 and 1992, Miss Gisette Wedervoort, clinical psychologist, just recently back from attending a specialist seminar in the US on this issue ,will share as we stated before the ' hard facts of the effects of domestic violence on children, especially boys, and their violent actions as adults as well as share her experience as a psychologist in dealing with convicted young criminals. Other speakers include; Ms Joy Arnell former head of Women's Desk, drs. Jorien Wuite sector director social and women's affairs, Mrs. Monique Dennaoui- Simon from the public prosecutor's office, and a domestic violence survivor".
Gracita concludes: "Act. Lt. Governor Mr. R. Groeneveldt will do the honors of providing the opening remarks to the workshop. We are also happy to be informed of the participation by several police officers to the work shop and take this opportunity to express our gratitude to management and staff of the police corps in general and in particular to officer Carl John as well as the public prosecutor's office for their respective cooperation and participation in what is slated to be a very timely work shop. The main of objective of the workshop is in collaboration with the local experts to Really better prepare and equip our local cadre of professionals and entities to deal with the challenges and continuing campaign in the prevention and combating of domestic violence".
Philipsburg:--- Chantal Jones, Martha Gumbs and Mansfield Webster concluded this year's Summer Work Program at the Ministry. Miss Gumbs and Mr. Webster are students at the Sundial School and Miss Jones is a student at the Milton Peters College.
During the beginning stages of the program students were given a basic introduction to the executive, legislative and judicial apparatus on the Kingdom, Federal and Island level. Louis Duzanson's book "An Introduction to Government Island Territory of St. Maarten" and Edgar and Julian Lynch's book "Know your political history", among others, were required reading for the Summer Work Program.
The students visited several government departments on both Island Territory and Central Government including the Coast Guard, Disaster Management, Prison and Ambulance Department. They also got in depth information on the constitution of St. Maarten from the Bureau of Constitutional Affairs and from Acting Lt. Governor Mr. Reynold Groeneveldt. They also attended a session of an Island Council Meeting.
Ms. Ari Sutton, Policy Assistant and Mr. Terry J. Peterson, Special Advisor to the Minister of Constitutional Affairs were the coordinators and supervisors of the summer program.
GREAT BAY:--- Executive Director of the Tallahassee-Sint Maarten Foundation (TLH-SXMF) Arthur (Arturo) Lugisse, has extended his stay on the island due to the high interests shown in the Tallahassee/Sint Maarten partnership.
Lugisse who was scheduled to leave on Friday, August 13 will stay until Monday, August 23 and is available to meet with Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), individuals, students, businesses, associations and other entities up until and including Friday, August 20.
The partnership includes joint relationships in the following areas, infrastructure, environment, human resources', health, police matters, EMS Ambulance services, meteorology, agriculture, fire department, technology, arts and culture, youth issues (juvenile delinquency, gang development), sports, financial options, and assorted joint ventures including education possibilities for those who didn't get study financing (Dutch, French or a Caribbean national) to still enter the Florida A&M University in Tallahassee at in-state tuition which is almost one third of the costs of out of state.
Businesses and educational institutions seeking to explore and develop programs/projects/policies/products/services in conjunction with entities out of Tallahassee for Sint Maarten can contact Arthur Lugisse up until and including Friday, August 20 at the Victorious Living Office, Backstreet #158B or call 520-1802, 542-2663 or send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via the foundations website www.tlh-sxmf.org
GREAT BAY (GIS) — The Control, Inspection, and Security dept. of the Island Government hereby informs the general public that the school bussing inspections that took place between July 28 and August 13, 2010 has concluded successfully. The inspections took place at the Jose Lake Sr. ball park.
During these inspections all 64 school busses, that transport school children on behalf of the island government, were inspected. School busses that failed the initial inspection were given the opportunity to make the necessary repairs before being re-inspected. At the end of the inspections a total of 57 school busses had passed the physical inspection and 7 failed. Substitute school busses have been provided by the respective owners and will be available to transport the students to and from school. All substitute busses have also been inspected in accordance with Chapter 4 of the Island Traffic Ordinance.
While the inspections primarily focused on the specifications of the Island Traffic Ordinance, the inspections also focused on aspects such as, working emergency exits, fire extinguishers, conditions of the seats, sharp and or potential dangerous objects protrude from the school bus, insurance, and cleanliness. The inspection carried out by the Control, Inspection and Security dept. is more a physical inspection and not a technical inspection as annually carried out by the inspection Center on Bush road.
According to the Section head of school bussing at the Control, Inspection and Security dept., Ms. Martha Thewet, all school busses transporting children on behalf of the Island Government will be operating on the public road for the 2010/2011 school year and are all insured, clean, and are comfortable to ride on. Most importantly the buses have all sufficiently met the safety requirements of the Traffic Ordinance.
Furthermore the management of the Control, Inspection and Security dept. would also like to inform the general public that the daily directing of traffic in the Cul de Sac area by the members of the Control Unit will resume. Motorists are requested to adhere to the directives of the persons directing traffic at all times in order prevent obstructing the flow of the traffic during the morning hours.
Motorist operating the public roads are also asked to be more vigilant and cautious when driving on the public roads, particularly due to the fact that school has resumed and more children are expected to be walking along the public roads, traveling to and from school. Management of the Control, Inspection and Security dept. would also like to wish all the school children a Happy and Safe 2010/2011 school year, and to conduct themselves in an orderly manner especially when traveling to and from school via school bus.
MARIGOT: --- The security guards of Anse Marcel managed to catch three youths ages 16 years of age who stole a number of multi- media equipments and moneys from some of the hotel rooms. According to a press release from the gendarmerie the teenagers found some of the hotel keys which allowed them to gain access to the rooms. The security guards caught them shortly after they committed their acts. The stolen items have been recovered and returned to their owners. The suspects are scheduled to appear in court on August 15.
Shortly after midnight they were apprehended by the hotel security guards who called the Gendarmes. The stolen items were all returned to their legitimate owners.
Philipsburg:--- The Democratic Party held another successful contact meeting on Sunday, August 15 in the district of Fort Willem at the home of DP candidate Harry Brown. Many persons attended this meeting to hear from the DP its views on the upcoming election, but equally important to give their own views on matters affecting St. Martin.
As we go into the September election for country St. Martin, we are as an island at a point not often seen before.
A government that knows not what it is doing, crime out of control, cost of living skyrocketing, high unemployment, inefficient social services, social discord, in other words an island in peril.
It is beyond imagination that after a bare 14 months of a NA/Heyliger/Laveist coalition , this island could have spiraled to such a low.
Can it be, that this was willful planning by the NA and Heyliger to make our people beggars in their own country and as such control them with whatever crumbs can be thrown at them during campaign time?
It is with this reality in mind that the Democratic Party has planned its campaign for the September 2010 election.
It is with this reality in mind that the Democratic Party has chosen its candidates for the September 2010 election.
It is heartening to see the good will amongst many still, notwithstanding the serious times facing our island. Young and old alike have stood up to bring back St. Martin to its rightful place after 14 months of an NA/Heyliger/Laveist disaster.
14 months of a government consisting of basically the running of the harbor only by Heyliger, and William Marlin responsible for everything else, as Blackman only made error after error as far as the finances of the island are concerned.
14 months of some government members hardly uttering a word to the people and all are left to wonder where we are going.
These are not times for gimmicks, for grandstanding or shams.
And so, with confidence in our people to overcome the past disastrous 14 months, the Democratic Party will present its candidates this Tuesday evening, August 17, at the Cabana Lounge in the Royal Palm Hotel at 7 pm.
In the words of the leader of the Democratic Party: "The next month will separate the men from the boys and the women from the girls".
GREAT BAY:--- The Caribbean region must create a new evidence-based decision making framework if they are to survive or maintain their sovereignty over the next decade, says futurist Dr. David Taylor. Dr. Taylor, a speaker at the Caribbean Internet Governance Forum being held in St Maarten stated that current ad-hoc, short-term approach to policy formulation was driving the region to the brink of disaster and that "virtual re-colonisation" is an imminent threat.
Dr. Taylor warned that the Caribbean must start formulating its own unique intelligence services to inform all aspects of its political, social, human and technological development or else face "virtual re-colonisation" as global companies, criminal organisations and other states impose their foreign policy on the region. Asked about the specific case of country St Maarten, he stated, "St. Maarten celebrations of self-government may be short-lived unless political leaders actively build a new evidence-based decision making capability that transcends short-term political promises. We simply cannot afford to guess our way towards our future".
Dr. Taylor, Chief Scientist at London-based firm Congress Global Consulting, commented that the decades old development patterns and strategies are being challenged the world over. "The biggest impact of India, China and Brazil is that they are offering developing countries an alternative model for economic growth and development" he said. "But neither existing models nor alternative models are suitable to our unique Caribbean context, or in fact, many other developing regions".
The promotion of systemic evidence-based intelligence systems is a necessary pre-requisite to provide an accurate context for any development roadmap and a practical tool for managing government policy and national security. "Futurism is not a mystical, quasi-spiritual stab in the dark. It is a systematic methodology for more accurate decision making," he concluded.
Dr. Taylor is one of the keynote presenters at the Caribbean ICT Roadshow being held as part of the St Maarten ICT Week. The programme is being jointly hosted by the Government of St Maarten and the Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU) and is currently underway at the Westin Dawn Beach Resort and Spa. The event is open to the public and free of charge to the people of St. Maarten.
About Congress Global Consulting.
Congress Global Consulting (CGC) is an international firm specializing in values-based Leadership Development and Organizational Transformation.CGC approach focuses on impacting the long-term performance of organisations and their people through the promotion of ethical leadership models and systems-transformation strategies. Through industry specialist and experts drawn from over 50 nations, CGC is able to provide a unique perspective on global trends and issues, and to deliver comprehensive, values-based insight, expertise and resource to every engagement.
Philipsburg: --- The members and candidates of the National Alliance can fairly say they were the best looking team on Wednesday when the marched from Parliament Building around the block to the government administration building to submit their list of candidates to the main voting bureau for the September 17 election. The supporters and members of the National Alliance rallied through the street carrying a white balloon as they marched behind the party leader, deputy leader and the other candidates currently in the island council. Among them was island council man Louie Laveist the number 9 candidate on the NA slate.
It was clear that the National Alliance did not have difficulty finding people that would meet the criteria for this election, they also made sure the selected candidates running for public office has what it takes to be in government. Among them are seasoned politicians, doctors, the head of the census office, a candidate with a degree in criminal justice. The supporters of the National Alliance sang to the drum beat and shouted "follow the white line". The list of candidates was presented to the chairman of the main voting bureau by Henrietta Doran York the number 6th candidate on the National Alliance slate. After the list was presented and accepted the supporters of the National Alliance began whistling and screaming in the building signaling they are ready. They were asked who the winning team is and in an overwhelming the response was the National Alliance.
Deputy leader of the National Alliance Frans Richardson was overheard telling the chairman that he was signing off on the winning slate, and that each of his signatures meant 3 seats for the National Alliance.
Leader of the National Alliance and leader of government William Marlin told reporters that the National Alliance presented the winning slate and they would be having an all out victory which would give the National Alliance the mandate to govern for the next four years, to continue the process St. Maarten is currently on to become country. "We are confident that we will have the support of the electorate on St. Maarten on September 17th, our team is one that reflects the people of St. Maarten but also has the experience and knowledge necessary to run country St. Maarten. Marlin said the September 17 election is a serious election, "it is not only about voting but it is about electing a set of people that are serious and most importantly competent that will form the first parliament of St. Maarten out of which they would get the government." Marlin said St. Maarten still has a lot of work to do in terms of putting the necessary institutions in place and transforming the island territory to country. He said the voters will be able to identify with the candidates on the list which was created for the people and by the people. The National Alliance list comprises of a blend of candidates that are experienced. Marlin said he personally has been a member of the island council for the past 24 years consecutively. Marlin said the list has a wealth of new candidates that has the experience and education necessary to govern St. Maarten. Marlin said Louie Laviest is running with the National Alliance despite the efforts made by the other party for him to throw down government and the offers made to him. Asked about Narda de Windt whose photograph is in another party advertisement Marlin said that there are several of his candidates who openly said they were in discussion with the UP and the DP yet they signed his list and is running on the National Alliance slate.
Furthermore, Marlin said that up to Tuesday night the two other parties the UP and DP were busy calling members of the island council from the National Alliance making huge offers to them to join their party. "This is politics and people cannot go by what was instead they have go by what it is. Asked if De Windt is in some sort of situation that they took advantage of as alleged by the Democratic Party leader, Marlin said he will not engage in gossip but if the DP failed to secure the candidate's confidence then they need to take responsibility for it and not blame another party. Marlin said his number 22 candidate Jean Boasman was asked by both the UP and the DP and he declined. Marlin said he has posters designed for candidates that are now on the UP party and he will not cry over spilt milk. He said all three of the major parties contesting this election has a slate and that should be the focus of this election.
Asked if having Laveist on the list would not create problems for the National Alliance Marlin said the law allows Laveist to be a member of the island council and even a commissioner. He said every man is innocent until proven guilty and Laveist is still fighting his legal battles in the court of law.
UP Slate
The United People's Party led by caretaker commissioner Theo Heyliger, his candidates and supporters braved the early morning sun on Wednesday to submit their list to the chairman of the main voting bureau. The UP leader and his supporters had to wait for almost half an hour before they could have submitted the list of candidates that will be contesting the September 17 elections. The UP candidates began gathering at the Great Bay Sonesta Hotel at 8 am. They began marching through Front Street chanting UP, UP all the way until they reached the government administration building. Commissioner Theo Heyliger went over to the statue of the late Dr. Claude Wathey and touched it before moving towards the stairs of the AC Wathey Legislative Hall.
The lists of candidates and the request of the party's color was prepared by Joe Richardson advisor to Heyliger, prior to handing over the folder to Heyliger, Richardson said "commissioner I have worked very hard in preparing your list of candidates and I trust that I did not let you down." Commissioner Heyliger in his brief address to Acting Lt. Governor and chairman of main voting bureau said "Governor Groenevelt I would like to present you on behalf of the family of St. Maarten the United Peoples Party the winning slate the United People's Party slate." The chairman after verifying the list said he wishes the leader and his candidates all the best for the upcoming elections and he would be looking forward to the contributions and participation in building country St. Maarten.
Speaking to reporters shortly after submitting his list Heyliger said the board and members of his party was waiting for a long time on postulation day. He said they worked really hard to submit the list with 23 candidates, none of which are appearing on anyone else's list. Asked how confident he is especially since most of his candidates are new, Heyliger said everyone started out new at some point. He made reference to when he ran in 1995 everyone was asking what was that "little boy" going to do for government, but he is there for the past 15 years.
On the UP slate, three of the 23 candidates are persons who ran in elections previously. They are Theo Heyliger, Gracita Arrindell and Johan Janchi Leonard. Heyliger said he confident that his "young team will bring new country St Maarten forward." Heyliger said he will soon present the UP manifesto and the critical issues affecting St. Maarten. However, the main focus will be on public housing, education, and fighting crime on St. Maarten.
Low Turnout for Democratic Party ---Sarah Says she is Confident.
The second political party to submit their list on Wednesday was the Democratic Party led by island councilmember Sarah Wescot Williams. The candidates, members and supporters of the long time party were scheduled to meet by the cemetery next to the Methodist Church on Front Street at 1pm. However, board members, and the candidates of the DP seemed disappointed when just a handful of people showed up to support them.
Just about 1:20pm the Democratic Party leader felt that they were unable to march through Front Street as planned claiming the sun was too hot. A bus was called to the scene to transport the DP supporters and candidate to the government administration building. The bus took over an hour to reach its destination. SMN News later learnt that the bus was also used to pick up people from different locations before heading to the administration building.
At the government administration building the supporters of the DP was significantly lower as compared to the past years. Even though smaller in number the crowd screamed out DP, DP as they entered the AC Legislative Hall as they showed support for their party and its leader, as well as the 23 candidates that will be contesting the elections.
Party leader Sarah Wescot Williams surrounded by her candidates including members of the DP board gathered around her as she addressed the chairman of the main voting bureau. Wescot Williams in her address said she is extremely honored to present the list of candidates of the Democratic Party of St. Maarten that will be participating in the September 17 elections. "I am extremely proud of the other 22 candidates who join her to vying for political office with a strong commitment to represent St. Maarten and its people. We do this at this time in history convinced that if they look around today and see what is happening especially with the current government, they believe that the people of St. Maarten deserves better and with that conviction she is presenting the list of candidates on the Democratic Party slate. Governor Groeneveldt that it is his privilege and honor to accept the list of candidates that are going to take part in the upcoming elections, Groeneveldt also wished the candidate well with much success and God's guidance and he knows for sure that all persons who are taking part in this election is doing it with the interest of St. Maarten at heart.
Shortly after submitting the list Wescot Williams told reporters that the presentation of the Democratic Party list signifies the start of a very short campaign. Wescot Williams said that she and the rest of the candidates on the DP slate are quite confident that with the platform that they intend to present to the people also with the commitment and dedication they will turn things around on St. Maarten. She further explained as they look around on St, Maarten and listen to the people on the street then they need to be in the election of September 17 because it is her opinion that the people deserves better.
Wescot Williams said she will be presenting her party platform in next couple of days, "right now it is available digitally but the print copies are not yet here." The Democratic Party leader said if they are elected they would be continuing the governing program they had in place for 2007 -2011. She said the DP is still one year away from their 4-year term and as such there are still things they must do based on their governing program. "As country St. Maarten we will be taking on new responsibilities in the area of crime, immigration, legislation in the area of education and health and labor." The highlight she said is to complete the programs they started. She said while the NA/Heyliger/Laveist government has tried to execute the program of the Democratic Party they have not been successful at doing it.
Asked about the candidate she has on her slate and is on the National Alliance slate, Wescot Williams said the DP has a full slate of 23 candidates. The DP leader said postulation day is about her and her 22 candidates that are on their list but her party intends to address the situation with the candidate that is on more than one list. Wescot Williams said that the candidate who is on the National Alliance list Narda de Windt is not on their slate, she was replaced by Melvin Gomez. Wescot Williams said it is rather regretful that a political party would take the hardship of people and use it as a pawn. She stressed that her party will be addressing this issue at a later date. Asked about the size of her crowd which is smaller than the previous years, Wescot Williams said she believes the people could not take the sun, while some of them did not make it to the government building. She said even though small her people are enthusiastic and upbeat.
In the meantime, leader of the Concordia Political Alliance Jeffry Richardson showed courage, and strength when he went to the main voting bureau and presented his slate. Jeffry is the lone soldier on the CPA slate. When SMN News contacted Jeffry on Wednesday to know exactly what time he was going to submit his list he said he was at the census office regulating his paper work. Acting Lt. Governor Reynold Groeneveldt confirmed that Jeffry was the only candidate on the CPA slate.
GREAT BAY:--- Governments, Telecommunications firms and creative enterprises were challenged to develop a comprehensive framework to drive competitiveness and better encourage and support producers of cultural content in the Caribbean. This according Josanne Leonard, a leading Caribbean media, communications and entertainment expert.
Speaking at the CTU's Caribbean ICT Roadshow in St Maarten on the topic 'Developing a Sustainable Content Creation Industry', Leonard stated that "the value of our cultural economy has been neglected by regional governments and private sector development initiatives".
In a wide ranging presentation covering policy and business strategy, Leonard touched on the need for Governments, Telecommunications firms and creative enterprises to flesh out a policy framework for ICT Networks, electronic communications, spectrum, roaming networks, e-commerce and information security.
"It's not business as usual in the cultural and creative sectors" she said. "Now that local and extra-regional economic shocks have caused massive dislocation in traditional sectors like agriculture, tourism and energy, we have to align creativity, innovation, technology and business entrepreneurship to make and distribute our local cultural content."
Leonard noted that while the cultural economy is widely recognized as the flagship of the modern knowledge-based economies, the region's governments were still too slow off the mark in addressing structural imbalances and biases that continue to impact negatively on the cultural sectors. She added, "We must do a bit of navel gazing quickly to address the barriers that inhibit the wider creation and distribution of local online and mobile content."
Leonard also highlighted some of the critical next steps, stating "What is required are partnerships geared toward promoting the competitiveness of Caribbean content in music, film, sports and other creative areas through the strengthening of Intellectual Property regimes, interoperability and e-commerce settlement systems and digital rights management to make content secure."
She continued: "Here in the Caribbean, we should be strategic about increasing integration between tourism and heritage, sports, entertainment to develop and retain lucrative tourism products on which to hang our different and individual appeal."
Leonard acknowledged that while regional telecoms and ISP's have made some tentative steps to embrace content, she said there was need for more strategic partnerships with leading content creators and rights holders to build strong on-line distribution platforms for content. "Our content producers, aggregators and entertainment enterprises have not been enabled to reach local, Diaspora and new consumers through affordable band width and fast digital networks. It is a paradigm shift that the Caribbean has to embrace more earnestly", she said.
About Josanne Leonard.Josanne Leonard is a leading regional expert with over twenty five years experience in the Media, Communications, Entertainment and Cultural Sectors She combines industry acumen with knowledge of the public and industrial policy issues related to the media, cultural and technology industries and has built up strong networks of media and entertainment industry professionals and firms internationally. She can be contact at
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Philipsburg:--- All of us as young people must be fully cognizant of the fact that, in recent times, St. Kitts and Nevis has recorded an unprecedented increase in violent crime and murders. These crimes particularly affect young people, especially when it comes to gang-related activity and when considering the fact that the majority of gun-crime victims are under 25 years of age.
In my view, the escalating wave of violent crime and murders now presents a serious national security crisis for the Federation and we cannot speak of or realise any meaningful national development unless we can first ensure the security of our people.
We lost a heart-stopping 27 of our fellow sons and daughters of the soil to murder in 2009 (a new record) and it appears that we are on track to tie this appalling record as thus far there have been 19 homicides in 2010. Even though it is often claimed that "crime happens everywhere", we can put this into perspective. Our population comprises, let's say, roughly 40,000 persons; we have had 19 homicides. For comparison purposes, Grenada with a population of 100,000 has had 5 murders for 2010. At a rate of 2.4 murders per month, violent crime has now become the leading cause of death among our young men. It is a matter for deep regret and concern that many of these recent homicides remain unsolved today.
It is against this backdrop, we are told, that the Interception of Communication Bill is being proposed by the Government. It is interesting that the proposal for the Bill seems to emanate, not from the Ministry of National Security, or in conjunction with it, but from the Ministry of Information.
According to the Honourable Minister of Information, Senator Nigel Carty, the Bill will give power to public authorities to obtain a Court order to intercept communication by cell phones, land-lines, telegraphs [OK, who uses telegraphs these days?], wireless networks and devices, mailing systems including parcels and couriers, and other means of communication – so, basically, nothing would be off-limits.
The Honourable Minister told the media that when this proposed legislation becomes law, it will help to solve crimes which have been problematic to solve before. The Attorney General, the Honourable Patrice Nisbett, has stated that the Bill will be broad-reaching and it extends to both capital crimes and non-capital crimes.
Now let us examine this more closely and scrutinize it carefully. Even though the Bill is not yet before the Honourable House, it cannot hurt to form an opinion on it from a young person's point of view.
Section 3 of the Constitution of St. Kitts and Nevis stipulates:
"Whereas every person in Saint Christopher and Nevis is entitled to the fundamental rights and freedoms, that is to say, the right, whatever his race, place of origin, birth, political opinions, colours, creed or sex, but subject to respect for the rights and freedoms of others and for the public interest, to each and all of the following, namely-
c) protection for his personal privacy, the privacy of his home and other property and from deprivation of property without compensation..."
The right to our personal privacy, as this section illustrates, is a fundamental right and freedom which is enshrined in our Federation's Constitution. It is a constitutional guarantee; and as we all know, the Constitution is our supreme law and always takes priority over any Bill which is placed before Parliament.
As I understand it, our Constitutional rights can only be limited by something that is "in the public interest". This Interception of Communication Bill is probably going to be introduced under that premise – that is, that the Bill is proposed in the public interest and should therefore be passed on that basis.
But is it really in the public interest to pass this particular Bill, even against the backdrop of the unprecedented crime and murder wave?
Decades ago, George Orwell's famous novel entitled 1984 had warned us all very gravely against the rise of "Big Brother" and the intrusion of "Big Brother" into our personal lives and liberty.
As young people we must realize that this Bill proposes a restriction on our personal freedoms which are guaranteed by the Constitution. We cannot shy away from that fact or pretend that it is otherwise. It is immaterial that the Bill will not be used on all of us in the country and only a few of us. It is a limitation. Any violation of my neighbour's freedom is a violation of mine.
It is the rise of Big Brother. And, I assert, it is not in the public's best interest.
Let me say plainly, for the avoidance of doubt and question, I am not any criminal. I am not backing up for any criminals or defending their atrocious and horrendous activities. But seriously, what is the Government really thinking they will overhear when they listen in on a conversation of these criminals? It's a serious question, because the criminals these days are much more sophisticated and aware, as I'm sure we can all imagine. So what do they think they will hear these criminals say, after they get the Judge to make a Court order? And what do they think they will see when they intercept some text messages? "Yo David, this Brian. I using Andrea phone. Don't forget we robbing Stone Walls first thing tomorrow morning eh. Shawn say he want come with us. You still picking me up in you blue jeep right?"
You get the picture.
Now, let's be real. How many unsolved crimes do YOU honestly think will this Bill help to solve?
And by the way, how much has crime gone down since the Government put up surveillance cameras in various places around Basseterre?
As I said before, I am no criminal. I have no intention of committing any crime. I like my house. And frankly, I could not last even an hour in prison. But I'm sure many of us young people know how annoying it is when your Mom or Dad is looking over your shoulder on the computer while you're chatting on MSN or when you're on Facebook, and trying to read what you are doing. How does that make you feel? You're not doing anything criminal or wrong on Facebook. But you want your privacy! And there's nothing wrong with that. It's your right and you deserve it. You are entitled to feel funny about it. We can all relate to this. It's pure vexation, right? When you can't get to enjoy your personal space and privacy like you should?
I must say that Benjamin Franklin put it better than I ever could: "Those who will sacrifice their liberty for a little temporary safety deserve neither." In America, they call it 'fear-mongering'. You see, sometimes, when our leaders want something, they use scare tactics to get their way and place restrictions on the freedom of us law-abiding citizens and then tell us it's for our own good. They will say, "Yes, we can all agree that crime is out of control. Therefore we are going to start checking all communication. Not to worry, we'll get a Judge to sign an Order before we do it to you. You don't want to get robbed do you? Good. Now, let us check all your BB messages."
It's the principle of the thing. We must defend our liberty and our constitutional rights, no matter what.
They want to keep tabs on us. But can any of us keep tabs on them? Bear in mind, the Government leaders are our servants. Their duty is to serve us and encourage our pursuit of happiness. Their duty is not to find ways and means to restrict that. We live in a democracy. And that means we elect them to do our will.
Where is the Freedom of Information Bill, the Bill that will allow us to hold the Government accountable, and let us monitor if they are doing what we put them in office to do? Where is the Integrity in Public Life Bill that will help to prevent corruption and maintain the utmost transparency in government dealings and the affairs of the State?
Does anyone else see a double standard here?
Some persons have been making the argument that other democratic nations have wiretapping laws to prevent crime, so why can't we have it? But guess what. Other countries have Freedom of Information Acts, too. Other countries have Integrity in Public Life Acts, too. Their citizens can know all the goings and comings of their government officials. They are fully abreast of every single expenditure that their governments make. So why can't we? Why don't our leaders lead by example and give up their privacy first?
And, honestly, do we want to give credence to the argument that other countries have this and that law, so we can have this Bill? Do we really want to go there? Because other countries have legalized gay marriage, too. In fact, the legislation in favour of gay marriage is increasing all over the world today. Does that mean it will automatically be good for us? Should we pass these same laws just because other countries are passing them? Seriously?
I will only say, in conclusion, that while government is killing up itself to make this unnecessary and unwarranted intrusion into our personal lives and liberty and monitor us like 'Big Brother', we had better stop and consider this - Who goin' guard the guard?
Philipsburg:--- Leader of the Concordia People's Alliance Jeffry Richardson is moving to court to force the main voting bureau to add a candidate to the CPA list which was submitted on Wednesday. Richardson in an interview with SMN News said that he approached the prosecutor's office on Friday but they were not willing to intervene and as such he is moving towards the court of first instance for justice.
Richardson said one of his candidates, Leo Richardson whom he introduced to the media on Sunday last registered at the census office on July 16th so that he can contest the September 17 elections, while registration for the elections closed off on August 8. However, on Tuesday the CPA leader said he was informed by the head of the main voting bureau that there is no record of Leo Richardson at the census office. He said on Wednesday he returned to the census office with his candidate and the stamped receipt given to him when he registered on July 16th to show that Leo Richardson did submit his registration. Richardson said despite providing the necessary proof to the census office he was informed that the file could not be found and that Leo Richardson would not be able to contest the election. Richardson said he spent most of the day at the census office on Wednesday hoping that they would have been able to find his candidate file but that did not happen which forced him to present his list to the chairman of the main voting bureau with one candidate. "On Thursday when I returned to the census office to get the necessary signatures to qualify the CPA for the September 17 elections I asked about the Leo Richardson file and I was informed by the department that the file was found but unfortunately the candidate still cannot be added to the CPA's list because the registration period is officially over."
Asked if he wrote a letter to the chairman of the main voting bureau to inform him of his predicament the CPA leader said he did not write the chairman and he is waiting to see what decision the chairman will take by Monday when all the lists that were presented are finalized. "I am not going to blame anyone at any department but I will ensure that whatever happened with the file will come out because my party and supporters will be going after the truth." Jeffry Richardson said it's a pity that Leo Richardson did not get to run on the CPA slate since he is competent. "We are going to do all in our power if it means going to court to remedy the situation."
SMN News learnt that while Leo Richardson registered on July 16th he was required to submit other documents to the census office so that they could complete his registration. The source said that Richardson was born in Aruba and he has to submit proof that Aruba was his last known address prior to him being registered on St. Maarten. The law states that anyone who was born on Aruba before January 1 1986 has to have a permit to register.
The source added that Richardson has been living on St. Maarten for over a year now and he never registered himself on the island. Furthermore, Jeffry Richardson and Leo Richardson could have gone to court on August 11 to utilize his rights to register and to contest the September 17 election. The source further explained that only one person residing on St. Maarten utilized that right even though the census office made several publications urging residents and citizens to verify and to make the necessary changes to their address prior to the election. "Right now no judge could do anything for Leo Richardson he is the one who did not do what was necessary to make sure he is registered. It does not mean that because he holds a Dutch passport he can live and register on St. Maarten without following the necessary procedures."
SMN News also learnt that the census office is faced with a severe backlog due to the current Brooks Tower Registration. Normally persons registering at the census office are told that their documents would be ready within two weeks after they were registered but now it takes over a month to complete the process.
Richardson said the people of St. Maarten have ensured that the CPA gets in the race because he already knows that the CPA has 146 signatures before he left the census office on Thursday evening. Richardson expressed gratitude towards those persons who signed for the CPA which validated them for the election. "For us this is our first victory which was to be able to present a list on Wednesday despite the hurdles, and to have the required amount of signatures." Richardson said he will do whatever is in his power to make sure that St. Maarteners are not excluded in the development of the new country.
Ever since Jeffry Richardson announced that he was going to contest the September 17 election under the CPA it was clear that Richardson is fighting his battle alone and that members of his family was not supporting him. Asked if the lack of support from his love ones and relatives is affecting him Richardson said he is not affected since God is with him. "God is first in my life and everyone else is after, in the bible it is written that when your mother and father forsake you it is then God will pick you up and take you where you are going and this is what I am holding on to. My major hurdle was to be able to postulate on Wednesday and to get the signatures on Thursday." "I also want to say that I love my family very much despite what they have done, it is also their prerogative and my brother's prerogative to vote for whoever they want to vote for but one thing for sure is that we will remain brothers and loyal to each other."
Asked if his family is worried about him and is concerned about his inconsistencies knowing that he ran with the Democratic Party in January 2010 despite the fact he was evicted from his job when he ran some years ago against his former boss Roy Marlin. "I think my family is concerned about me and that is their right, however, I must say I am 45-years old and must be able to pursue my dreams with the help of GOD and I will do whatever it takes to follow my dreams because everyone must follow their dreams. Even if I fail I will get back up, because failure is when someone fall and they refuse to get back up" Richardson said he is urging everyone whether or not they are from St. Maarten to follow their dreams, because that is the only way they will know what God has in store for them.
As the nation awaited the result of the most recent General Election, held in January, on a panel of pundits discussing the unfolding events over the long election night Sir Probyn Inniss, eminent scholar, lawyer and former governor voiced his discomfort at the prospect of an elected dictatorship taking shape in these two hitherto halcyon islands. He was speaking about the shocking conduct that occurred in Half Way Tree and the cruel sham that masquerades as an electoral process but it is doubtful that even he contemplated that before this year was through this Federation would even contemplate much less actualize the power of government to violate the personal correspondence of an individual.
The Constitution of this Federation expressly protects the right of every person to privacy. In s 3 it states "whereas every person in Saint Christopher and Nevis is entitled to the fundamental rights and freedoms, that is to say, the right, c) protection for his personal privacy". In s 12 it also protects the freedom to conduct private communication as the freedom of expression. It states that "except with his own consent, a person shall not be hindered in the enjoyment of his freedom of expression, including freedom to hold opinions without interference, freedom to receive ideas and information without interference, freedom to communicate ideas and information without interference (whether the communication is to the public generally or to any person or class of persons) and freedom from interference with his correspondence".
The Constitution also outlines the conditions under which a government may with the permission and supervision of the High Court abridge these fundamental rights and freedoms namely those "reasonably required in the interests of defence, public safety, public order, public morality or public health" but only if "the things done under the authority thereof are shown to be reasonably justifiable in a democratic society".
It is clear the constitution foresees both that special circumstances may arise that require extraordinary responses and that even then it is important that governments do not have a blank cheque for no circumstance justifies arbitrary power. The proposed new law is intended we are told to deal with the explosion of criminality but such an assertion is extremely unconvincing. This Labour government has absolutely no credibility in its dealing with the crime scourge.
It has consistently refused to recognize the current situation as a crisis. The Prime Minister has infamously refused to take responsibility for crime and has declared that his tenure as Minister of National Security which saw the highest number of homicides in a calendar year, 27 in 2009; was a success. There have been 102 violent, mostly gun related homicides from 2006 to the present time and hardly any have been solved. The Commissioner of Police has had to complain to the BBC about the detrimental lack of resources given the police force to tackle crime. The police force has been politicized out of any semblance of professionalism or efficiency and abused verbally by the Prime Minister himself in parliament and in the inhumane conditions they are forced to work under. The former parliamentarian Mr. Astaphan has publicly revealed how him plans and programs as Minister of National Security were deliberately undermined and sabotaged by this Labour government and with the crime rate rising the budgetary allocation to this vital Ministry has actually been reduced in 2008 and 2010.
Basic interventions like consistent visible police patrols, enforcement of law against loitering on the streets which just creates targets, destruction of derelict buildings that are gang hideouts, putting the faces of convicts in public places and so on have been resolutely ignored but precious constitutional rights are to be infringed for "defense". The only defense this Denzil Douglas administration is interested it is the defense of its own illegitimacy and power to rape the Treasury. The evidence for this is clear and not only in Half Way Tree. Citizens must rally to preserve constitutional rights or soon there may not be any fundamental rights and freedoms.
Philipsburg:--- A commencement ceremony was held on Saturday last for Chantal Jones, Martha Gumbs and Mansfield Webster who recently concluded the Summer Work Program at the Ministry. Miss Gumbs and Mr. Webster are students at the Sundial School and Miss Jones is a student at the Milton Peters College.
During their first week at work the students were given a basic introduction to government on the executive, legislative and judicial apparatus on the Kingdom, Federal and Island level. Louis Duzanson's book "An Introduction to Government Island Territory of St. Maarten" and Edgar and Julian Lynch's book "Know your political history", among others are required reading for the Summer Work Program.
The students visited several government departments on both Island Territory and Central Government including the Coast Guard, Disaster Management, Prison and Ambulance Department. They also got in depth information on the constitution of St. Maarten and were able to attend an Island Council Meeting.
Ms. Ari Sutton, Policy Assistant and Mr. Terry J. Peterson, Special Advisor at the Ministry of Constitutional Affairs, served as coordinators of the three week Program.
GREAT BAY:--- Hurricane specialist have reportedly stated that they expect things to heat up in the coming weeks and that we could see two or more storm systems forming per week.
Apparently cool, dry air has impacted the slow formation of storm activity during the past weeks and this reprieve is expected to end as Caribbean islands go into the peak period of the 2010 hurricane season.
The Office of Disaster Management is imploring the nation to make sure that all hurricane season pre-preparations are in place before storm warnings are issued. Residents are urged to update their family plan and restock their first aid kit and their supplies of non-perishable food as the lead time for preparation of a hurricane strike can be short and you don't want to be caught off-guard. Services such as supermarkets, gasoline, banks, running water, electricity and many other items that residents have grown accustomed too may not be available right after the passing of a hurricane.
The normal requirement is to have enough supplies in-house for three to five days. So far four systems have already formed for the hurricane season, namely Hurricane Alex, Tropical Storms Bonnie, Colin and Hurricane Danielle. There is currently a low pressure system near the Cape Verde Islands in the far Atlantic Ocean, and this system is expected to become a Tropical Storm and will be called Earl. Both systems at this time pose no threat to any land area and are forecasted to pass several hundred miles to the North of St Maarten. Forecasted are 18-20 named storms and 10 to 12 hurricanes, five to six of those are expected to be category three or stronger.
Some of the preparations that residents need to look at are: for those with a generator, to make sure that it is in good working order; check your shutters, make sure that they fit and you have all the parts; remove debris from the yard; trim back trees; ensure that travel documents are up to date and check on insurance policies to ensure they are current.
For weekly hurricane season preparatory tips and a listing of the hurricane shelters, you can check the Government Information Page published in both daily papers from Monday to Thursday. The remaining names for storm systems are Earl, Fiona, Gaston, Hermine, Igor, Karl, Lisa, Matthew, Nicole, Otto, Paula, Richard, Shary, Tomas, Virginie and Walter.
The hurricane season runs until November 30.
Philipsburg:--- On Wednesday August 25th at approximately 03.00 p.m. a police patrol was stopped on the St Peters road by the man with the initials M.H.A. who was victim of a break in of his home earlier during the day.
During this break in several electronic appliances and jewelry were stolen. The victim also informed the patrol of the vehicle the three or four suspects were driving in. At the same time the victim was speaking to the patrol the suspected vehicle in which four men were driving was spotted heading towards the Cul-de- Sac area. The patrol stopped the car in question in the vicinity of Cake House on the L.B.Scott road.
During a search of the Jeep a Play Station belonging to the victim was found in trunk of the vehicle. All four suspects with initials S.J.A., R.K.A., D.N.R., and F.J. from St Maarten were arrested on the spot for further investigation. The investigation into this case is still ongoing.
Philipsburg:--- The detective department is currently investigating another shooting incident that occurred on Wednesday night on Madrid Drive Dutch Quarter.
Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said at approximately 08:40pm police were sent to the location where they met a 37 year old Jamaican identified as A.S lying in a pool of blood on the street. Henson said the victim was shot in both of his legs and he told the police that three unknown masked men approached him and threatened his life.
The man said he tried running away but his attackers shot him four times in his two legs. The victim was transported to the St Maarten Medical Center for treatment. He was operated on and then admitted for observation. This case is still under investigation by the Detective and Forensic department to determine what exactly happened and the exact reasons for the shooting.
In an unrelated incident police are investigating a stabbing where the victim was seriously injured.
Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said at approximately 04.00pm police and detectives were directed to Welfare Road Cole Bay in the vicinity of Peiking Supermarket for a stabbing incident.
On the scene the investigating officers did not encounter the victim and were told, that he was taken by private vehicle to the St Maarten Medical Center for treatment.
On the scene the officers did not receive the necessary cooperation from those persons present to find out what exactly took place. Henson said when police contacted the medical facility to enquire about the condition of the victim the officers were informed that no one involved in a stabbing was brought in to receive any medical attention.
After contacting the hospital on the French Side, the Police Central Dispatch was informed that the victim with initials C.V. was brought-in in a very critical condition and had to be operated on immediately. The victim has been admitted to the hospital on the French side for observation. When the victim is in condition to speak a statement will be taken from him. The investigation into this case is ongoing.
GREAT BAY:--- The Office of Disaster Management is urging the public to closely monitor the progress of Tropical Storm Earl which is approaching the North Eastern Caribbean islands.
The Office of Disaster Management will continue to monitor the progress of the storm system very closely and will inform the public if and when necessary with respect to what actions if any are required with respect to the approaching storm.
Tropical Storm Earl according to the Netherlands Antilles & Aruba Meteorological Service, due to uncertainty on how it will exactly influence local weather conditions, no local effects is expected before Sunday morning.
Tropical Storm Earl is expected to become a Category one Hurricane by Monday midday and is expected to be approximately 160 miles Northeast of Sint Maarten at 2.00pm on August 30.
GREAT BAY:--- Sint Maarten (GIS) – Operational leaders of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) 10 Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) met at the Fire Department in Cay Hill this morning to assess the situation on the island with respect to post Hurricane Earl clean-up as well as approaching Tropical Storm Fiona.
Curfew: The curfew was lifted at 10.00am by order of the Acting Lt. Governor Reynold Groeneveldt. This was done because of the accelerated clean-up efforts carried out by the Departments of Public Works, Fire and private contractors of the main road network system.
Acting Lt. Governor Groeneveldt recommends those persons who don't need to be on the road should remain at home cleaning up their yards in order for the national clean-up effort to continue in the various districts.
Groeneveldt would like to thank all government departments and emergency services that played a role in the pre and post hurricane period for their efforts and doing a great job.
Schools: An assessment of schools will be carried out on Tuesday and a decision will be taken quickly to determine when schools can reopen.
Electricity/Water: GEBE continues to be confronted with the situation of rough seas at the Cay Bay Power Plant. A number of generators that use sea water to cool the systems are still offline due to the sea state. Load shedding will be necessary and you are hereby advised to use electricity moderately in order to limit load shedding in the various districts.
GEBE crews are out assessing overhead lines and the distribution grid and making the necessary repairs.
Water levels in the storage tanks are at low levels. A transformer at the Water Plant has some problems and technicians are busy working on repairing the problem. Until that issue has been resolved water production is limited and residents are advised to use water sparingly until this problem has been resolved.
Clean-up & Debris Removal:
The Public Works Department has teams out clearing the various districts. Front and Back Street should be cleared of most debris within the next few hours. The Boardwalk will be cleared once an assessment has been made with respect to Tropical Storm Fiona which is forecasted to pass over 100 miles from Sint Maarten.
Drains are to be cleared prior to any inclement weather.
Airport/Harbour and Hotel Infrastructure:
No damage has been reported at the Princess Juliana International Airport. The airport will provide information about flight operations.
Assessments are to be carried out at the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise and Cargo facilities. No major damage has been reported based on a preliminary assessment. Divers need to assess the water depth before the all clear sign can be given. As the seas clear and subside these assessments will be carried out immediately.
The hotel plant infrastructure is all intact. No major damages have been reported other than minor water damage.
Food Safety/Dengue Fever Prevention: Health inspectors are out in the field assessing food safety matters where supermarkets, grocers and restaurants are concerned.
Residents are urged to implement measures to prevent mosquito breeding by removing any and all containers that can hold water.
Tropical Storm Fiona: The public is hereby asked to monitor the progress of Tropical Storm Fiona which is several hundred miles East of Sint Maarten. The island is under a Tropical Storm Watch.
The EOC meeting was chaired by Acting Lt. Governor Reynold Groeneveldt. Also present was second Acting Lt. Governor Nilda Arduin-Lynch.
ST. MAARTEN--- Pelican Resort Club and Pelican Marina Residences in St. Maarten say goodbye to Hurricane Earl with relatively minor damages mostly contained to the resorts' extensive gardens and shrubbery. On Sunday, Aug. 29 and Monday, Aug. 30, 2010 Hurricane Earl – the first major hurricane of 2010 to impact the Caribbean – passed 25 miles Northeast of St. Maarten as a Category 2 storm.
Royal Resorts Caribbean CEO Richard Corso remained on-site throughout the entire storm. He credits the hard work and preparedness of Pelican Resort's staff for protecting the resort and owners' interests ensuring the safety and comfort of guests.
Despite high winds and heavy rain, Pelican Resort's staff attended to the needs of its nearly 500 on-property owners and guests. Led by General Manager Jules James, the staff worked around the clock to ensure safety, and also coordinated the in-house food and beverage teams to make certain everyone was comfortable and fed. Although Mr. James is new to the company by Royal Resort's standards (less than three years), the native St. Maartener is the President of the St. Maarten Timeshare Association and is a tremendous addition to Royal Resorts Management team.
Damage from the storm was primarily contained to the resorts' extensive garden area. The rains and flooding brought employee transportation to a halt, but by 6 a.m. workers arrived at the resort on foot and began the task of cleaning the grounds and readying the pools and beach for anxious sun worshippers who had been stuck indoors for the previous 36 hours. By 6:30 a.m. this morning, Royal Resorts Sales Director Jozef O'Niel was driving around the island picking up workers in need of transportation.
"I am very proud of the staff," said Richard Corso, CEO of Royal Resorts Caribbean, who stayed on-property throughout the storm to assist with the implementation of safety measures.
"There is a lot of preparation for a potential storm in the Caribbean. We have been working almost non-stop for the last two-and-a-half days and everyone continues to perform with a great attitude and the highest concern for owners and guests," he added.
Hurricanes are nothing new for Corso and Royal Resorts staff members. Royal has been operating resorts in the Caribbean since 1977.
"It kind of brings back memories of Hurricane Wilma in 2005. I look around and see everyone pitching in," said Corso. "Our Financial Controller (Ricardo Iman from Merida, Mexico) is sweeping up leaves and debris, and our Sales Managers (Lance Vaugh and Ric Corsello from Cancun) are cleaning and hauling away trash. Accounting and sales teams work right along side the operational staff to take care of the guests," he added. "It is the Royal way."
The infrastructure of Pelican continues to improve. During the storm the resorts maintained continuous power and AC through its generators. The TV signals and guest wireless services were virtually uninterrupted.
As of Tuesday afternoon (Aug. 31, 2010), the pools are open and all services have returned to normal. Sun bathers have tucked their toes back in the sand, but high tides have resort management suggesting guests stay out of the ocean until tomorrow. Concierges have already invited all the guests to tonight's Rum Party at 5:30 p.m. to bid farewell to Earl.
Cay Hill:--- Island Council member Roy Marlin was rushed to the St. Maarten Medical Center on Tuesday suffering from chest congestions and high blood pressure. SMN News learnt that the island councilman was admitted to the medical institution for treatment.
In an invited comment President of the Democratic Party Michael Ferrier confirmed that the councilman took ill on Tuesday complaining of chest pains and that his blood pressure was high.
Philipsburg:--- The Prosecutor's office has sent a letter informing the Attorney General Dick Piar in Curacao of the findings involving prosecutor Jan Bart Develing and the traffic accident he was involved in on Saturday afternoon. Prosecutor Develing was arrested and spent almost six hours in custody shortly after the accident.
The letter was sent on Wednesday. Press Prosecutor Rienk Mud told SMN News that his office is still awaiting the police report from the police department regarding the accident which took place in the Middle Region. Mud said the only the reason the letter sent on Wednesday was because of the curfew on Monday and Tuesday due to the passing of hurricane Earl and tropical storm Fiona. Mud explained that the prosecutor's office also did not have electricity due to the hurricane and as such they were not able to communicate this information before. Mud said the Attorney General will take a decision on the course of action against his colleague Develing based on the letter that was sent to him.
Mud also explained that the attorney general has to be careful when taking decisions to sanction a federal officer of the law. Mud said no one can be suspended when there are no serious crimes committed and even though Develing is a public prosecutor he also deserves a fair trial.
The press prosecutor said his colleague Jan Bart Develing admitted to being involved in the traffic accident and he also gave his office the reason he drove away from the scene of the accident. According to Develing he was not sure if he was the main contributor to the accident or if it was someone who wanted to rob him. Mud said his colleague also said he took a split second decision to drive away from the scene simply because he was fearful and his intention was to call police the moment he got home which is not far away from the scene of the accident.
Mud further explained that based on article 9 of the traffic ordinance of the Netherlands Antilles gives a person 24 hours after an accident to report it to the police. However, Develing was stopped moments after he left the scene and was arrested by police. Mud also explained that Jan Bart Develing was not the traffic prosecutor some two years now and that he admitted to them and the police that he drank three beers prior to the accident and that was the reason police smelled alcohol on him at the time. He said the police conducted the sobriety test at the police station and they found that Mr. Develing was fit to drive. Mud also explained that the Dutch justice system does not have any other means to text drivers who are suspected of being under the influence of alcohol.
Apart from the letter that was sent to the attorney general by the prosecutor's office the police department has to continue their investigation into the accident. Mud said when the report is submitted to them they would have other colleagues outside of St. Maarten study the report and then they would decide if Prosecutor Develing will face prosecution for the offence he committed on Saturday. Mud said one of the reasons they have chosen to allow outside experts to study that report is to make sure Develing is treated fairly while justice is served.
Asked if the prosecutor's office was trying to cover up the case or if there is any type of class justice given to Prosecutor Develing, Mud responded by saying absolutely not and to avoid such accusations they have decided to send the letter to the attorney general so that he can decide on a course of action while they will also take other measures based on the police report.
Philipsburg:--- The Management Team of the KPSSS invited its members and members of the VKS to a social gathering at the Philipsburg police station.
This gathering was organized to express gratitude to the officers for the great job they have been doing under the challenging circumstances. Both Acting Lt. Governors Mrs. Rachnilda Lynch-Arduin and Mr. Reynold Groeneveldt were also present during this event and expressed words of gratitude and encouragement to the officers.
The Chief of Police Commissioner Peter De Witte was not present because he is off island on official business. He was represented by the Acting Chief of Police Commissioner Carl John. The officers were treated to snacks and drinks after a small speech by Commissioner Carl John and both Lt. Governors.
Dutch Quarter:--- On Monday 6th of September The DQ Community Council Center and the I Can Foundation received Fls. 1000.00 each from Minister Patrick Illidge towards purchasing of food items and educational material for the benefit of the youth who attend and reside at the two institutions in the Dutch Quarter District.
Marigot:--- Territorial Councillor Jean David Richardson has sent a letter to the President of the Collectivity which was also sent to the media informing that he has resigned from the Commission of Youth, Culture and Sports Affairs. Richardson said that he is sure that the President of the COM will not be surprised by his letter since he already drew his attention to the uncomfortable situation since the President has shown little consideration for the commission and its role. Richardson also accused President Frantz Gumbs of not having any regard for democracy based on the manner in which he took decisions. He also reminded the president that he is an elected official and a member of the territorial council.
Richardson said in his letter "I'd like to remind you that we have been elected by the people to serve the people and not to use the people to our advantage and satisfy our personal ambitions. Your actions are leading our young community to a downfall and one would have to be blind not to see it and that's in every field."
The territorial councillor reminded President Gumbs regarding the failures of the elected officials.
"What have we done in favour of the youth? We have talked and talked some more, but you have never considered it worthwhile to consult with the youth in the districts like I had recommended that it should have been done.
You even refuse to admit that the youth is left up to themselves, and so they are blamed for all the wrongs that are occurring in the community.
In the RSMA (Adapted military service) file, I proposed a joint action with the CLSPD, prevention group against delinquency. What have you done since? Nothing at all ! This means to me that you don't believe in seconds chances for the young people who are in difficulty that live here, where ever they came from."
Richardson complained about the lack of finances to sustain the youth programs he suggested but the President he said has always said there was no money, yet there is money to finance other activities or to give contracts to private entities.
Richardson accused President Gumbs of overturning an agreement made by the commission regarding domain land.
"Whereas our Commission, in agreement with the concerned departments, had decided not to grant a new authorization for a private individual to occupy the public domain in the area of Grand-Case, you, in your own right decided to over rule our collective decision. The request that we had previously turned down, you approved and had us look like a bunch of fools. And then, you have the nerve to send the requests emanating from locals, which you clearly discriminated against."
"In the matter regarding public water and the board in which I sit, a recent audit shows that the price of the water in Saint-Martin is 2.6 times more expensive than in Guadeloupe or than on Dutch St. Maarten. Our people are held hostage by these prices, so when are you going to confront this situation?
You are mute on this important matter in which lots of money is being wasted and lost and the same goes for many other matters. But to whose benefit?
Definitely not in benefit of the people of Saint-Martin that you say you love so much!! "
The letter continues to attack issues regardin the Grand Case Airport
"In the bid regarding the airport of Grand-Case, as a member of the board, I deeply regret that we are not, in fact, part of the decisions. Even if you have the power to act, don't you think it would be wiser to let the Island Council give his opinion on such important matters which will engage us for years?"
We are elected officials, we have commissions that cannot give us information to make a right decision for our population. The majority group meetings never prepare the Territorial Council as it ought to be, so I will no longer attend these majority meetings.
As an elected person I don't even have the agenda of the Executive Council, so I don't even know when it concerns the Commission that I preside! And like most of my colleagues we learn things from third parties or by the media.
I have been elected by the people of Saint-Martin to work on their behalf and not on our personnel agendas. There is not a day that passes without having many of them express themselves about how they feel and about the functioning of our Collectivity. And your way of being president of the Collectivity is more than I can continue to bear and be silent about because it is, in no wise, respectful to the initial commitment of our programme announced during the election campaign."
The Hague/Philipsburg:---The vote by the chamber of the second chamber that allows St. Maarten and Curacao to move forward with its country status as scheduled for October 10 is another boost for the island during the RTC meetings which is scheduled for Thursday September 9th in the Hague. Representing St. Maarten is its leader William Marlin and the team of experts and advisors along with former commissioner of constitutional affairs Sarah Wescot Williams.
The motion presented by the PVV to stop the process was voted down with the PVV and Sp voting in favor.
The Kingdom Law on the Movement of persons, considered to be the most important of the four motions which was submitted by the VVDE was carried with 73 votes in favor with 63 against. The members of Parliament was asked to vote individually with a simple "yes or no answer" The motion on the debt reorganization was also rejected with only the PVV voted in favor of its motion.
Leader of the Democratic Party and former commissioner of Constitutional Affairs Sarah Wescott Williams who joined the delegation on Tuesday said that the final hurdle has been cleared for St. Maarten's coveted country status after 10 years, two months and 17 days of work. Wescott Williams said after much sacrifices, trials, and disappointments the time now is to make a success of new country which is in the hands of the people of St. Maarten.
The former commissioner of constitutional affairs said the people of St. Maarten deserves to be congratulated for the decision they took in 2000 and congratulated for their steadfastness and endurance during the past 10 years and finally for their confidence in their leaders to see the process through. Wescott Williams said the work for St. Maarten has only now begun and that the people have the chance to mold and shape the nation into what they want it to be. She also acknowledged that building St. Maarten would take time but the people will see the fruits of their labour.
St. Peters:--- One week away from the September 17 elections persons from within the community of St. Maarten has begun vandalizing bill boards belonging to political parties. SMN News camera lens captured photos of a huge billboard belonging to the leader of the National Alliance William Marlin that was destroyed the same evening it was put up next to the St. Peters gas station. Marlin is currently in the Netherlands finalizing the discussions with the Kingdom partners for St. Maarten to achieve its country status.
Philipsburg:--- Police are currently investigating the drowning death of a one year old baby boy who died around midday on Thursday in the family's Jacuzzi in Beacon Hill.
According to information reaching SMN News the toddler mother left him alone for few minutes and he somehow got out if the house and crawled in the Jacuzzi. The child was found by his mother shortly after. The hysterical mother drove the child to the hospital where he was pronounced dead. The child's grandfather Mr. Harry Bosch confirmed the tragic death of his grandchild. Police could not be reached up to press time for comment on the incident.
GREAT BAY:--- The Office of Disaster Management is urging the public to closely monitor the progress of major Hurricane Igor which is approaching the North Eastern Caribbean islands as of Sunday.
Igor is expected to make a turn to the Northwest on Tuesday. The powerful hurricane on Sunday had wind speeds of 140 miles per hour with high gusts.
The Office of Disaster Management will continue to monitor the progress of this powerful hurricane very closely until it safely passes the island at a comfortable distance.
...
Philipsburg:--- "As we approach the final days in this short campaign, for first parliament of Country St. Maarten it is imperative we embrace commitment, experience and professionalism," remarked Stuart Johnson candidate number seven on the Democratic Party of St. Maarten. Johnson's platform launched weeks ago focuses on his commitments in Education, Crime, Culture, Youth, Sports and the Environment. "If all this has been done out of Government, imagine what we can do, together in Government as a united people," remarked Johnson.
Johnson also has launched his redesigned web-site which focuses on the issues and solutions affecting soon to be Country St. Maarten. For further information you may visit his facebook page as well as the campaign web-site which www.wevotingjohnson .com.
As an educator committed to the issue of education, I cannot imagine, why an issue such as the salary scale increase has gone unnoticed by this Government. "I find it a pity after years of hard work and dedication by all teachers, this Government has failed to deliver on the commitment of providing what is rightfully due to teachers this year again," Johnson said. "Are we going to keep waiting for a New beginning, which will never begin?"
Johnson is an educator himself working in the public school system, and called on the Windward Islands Teachers Union to "do the right thing," as the legal entity representing teachers. Questioning the silence of the matter Johnson said, "No stone will be left unturned, as what is due to teachers should be given to them and promptly too." Johnson said in closing, "We've got a Country to build, and a people to protect" as we head into our new Country status this should be the motto.
Hope Estate:--- The agreement to expand and maintain the Genevieve De Weever Primary School was finally signed on Wednesday by Leader of Government and commissioner of education William Marlin and the contractor from FM Contracting that will begin the construction work and maintenance that will cost the island government and USONA a total of 3,157,232.12 Antillean guilders . The project which is expected to last about one year is to build five much needed class rooms said the commissioner of education. Marlin said the maintenance for the school falls under division A and will cost Naf. 1,592,903.88 while division B which is to improve and construct the second floor will cost Naf 229,613.04. Marlin said the total cost of the project will cost Naf. 3,157,232.12.
Principal of the school Mrs. A. Doncker Rogers said the expansion and upgrading of the Genevieve De Weever School has taken 15 years before the project could be realized. She said she was involved in lengthy discussions to have the project realized. Doncker-Rogers said the importance of education is something they could not put aside and when one wants to educate a child they can do so under a tree and achieve the same results. However because of the hurricanes and other natural disasters it is necessary for educators to have secure building which is conducive to learning. She said because of their determination to educate they held on to the wooden building and containers that are being used as makeshift classrooms.
Doncker said when the construction begins the students attending the school as well as the teachers will face some inconveniences. The intention is to move at least four of the classrooms to the University of St. Maarten while the construction takes place. The school principal said she has a resilient staff will cooperate to make the inconveniences as pleasant as possible for the staff, students and parents as they are sure the end results would be in the interest of everyone.
Head of New Projects Kurt Ruan also said they have been working on this project for years but somehow it took years before it could have been realized. Ruan said on several occasions when he would see Doncker on the road he could not provide answers as to when the project would have been finalized.
Commissioner of Education William Marlin said some 15 years ago government bought the property in Hope Estate to construct a few buildings for social projects, including the Genevieve De Weever School, another sets of classrooms for early stimulation students and the senior citizens home. Marlin said when he entered government in 1994 was to make sure schools and other facilities are built the same way investors are leasing and purchasing land for privatized businesses. He said back then one of the excuses that were used was that government did not have land space to construct schools. Marlin said 15 years ago just two days prior to election then a few persons gathered to conduct the ground breaking ceremony to construct the current building that housed the school. He said it is like a leap of faith that now again two days before this election they gathered to sign off on the agreement to expand and maintain the school. Marlin said unfortunately when he left government in 1999 the plans that were in place to continue the expansion was either aborted or shelved.
GREAT BAY:--- Twenty-two fire fighters this week will conclude their two-week training exercise in emergency techniques, according to Section Head Prevention, Preparation, and Education & Training of the Fire Department ing. Silvanico Pauletta.
At the end of the course, the participants will receive a diploma "Manschappen A- Hulpverlening," which is recognized within the Kingdom of the Netherlands and is part of the standardized rescue techniques testing within the Kingdom.
The exam is according to the curriculum of the Dutch Fire Department Exams Board (NBBe).
On September 6 personnel of the Fire Department started a two-week training course related to emergency rescue. The course allowed the personnel to be tested with respect to their existing skills and how they handle their personal safety.
Within the two-week period, the fire personnel have covered exercises in motor vehicle accidents (stabilizing of the incident); rescuing persons from buildings with structural damage caused by an earthquake or persons trapped under a tree and teamwork.
The personnel have been taught how to use their skills and equipment during natural disasters and weather related-emergencies.
Sessions have also been held between the different operational leaders of the emergency services in order to better coordinate the emergency response during an incident.
This upgrade comes at an opportune time at the height of the hurricane season where fire fighters need to be prepared to deal with any eventuality.
A theoretical and practical exam is part of the course. The course is part of the training cycle 2010, which has been organized by the Fire Department and its counter-part, twinning partner, the Fire Department from the Dutch Municipality of Dordrecht.
CAY BAY:--- With the passing of Hurricane Igor, the rough seas have caused the GEBE power plant to reduce the output of the sea water cooled engines as the cooling units are becoming clogged with seaweed and sand. Unfortunately a mechanical problem developed on engine #18, one of the radiator-cooled engines this morning. The power plant technicians are currently opening up the engine to determine the extent of the problem as well as the duration of the necessary repairs.
The power plant may need to resort to load shedding if the repairs cannot be completed by Monday morning at 9:00 a.m. when the demand begins to rise with the opening of the many businesses, schools, and other organizations. Updates will be posted as the situation develops and more information is available. GEBE is urging residents and businesses to prepare for possible load shedding by protecting sensitive electronic equipment to prevent any damage, check surge protectors and back up power units as needed. And when in doubt, plug it out.
Here are some tips to prepare for an electricity outage:
- Unplug any sensitive electronics to avoid damage.
- Turn off all lights and electrical equipment. Leave on only one light or radio to alert you when the power has been restored.
- Try to minimize the time your fridge and freezer are open to keep the cool air in.
- Gather any flashlights and check spare batteries.
- Be careful if you decide to use candles. Do not leave them unattended.
- Prepare by equipping your house with automatic power failure safety lighting so that it does not go dark when the power goes out. That gives you time to locate your flashlights and other items.
Great Bay:--- The young and the elderly are the two focal groups the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau is targeting for involvement in the various activities it has lined up for the celebration of this year's World Tourism Day, which falls annually on September 27.
The activities kick off on Wednesday, September 22, 2010 with award-winning environmentalist Rueben Thompson of the EPIC Foundation giving a tour and a presentation to the students and teachers of Sr. Borgia School.
In an attempt to get "locals to experience St. Maarten" as Mr. Gus Priest head of Product Development at the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau put it, several groups will participate in the 12-meter race, which is popular among tourists and also visit the seaside Nature Park in Cay Bay for an exciting horseback riding tour.
An island tour will also be organized for senior citizens on September 24th which will include a complementary lunch.
The theme of this year's World Tourism Day is "Tourism and Biodiversity".
"That is why we focused on the youth and the elderly," said Priest. "The youth will inherit the land, and the elderly still have a lot of wisdom to impart regarding our island's bio-diversity."
Priest disclosed that other activities planned include a Radio Quiz with "attractive prizes" that will be aired on September 27th on PJD-2 Radio Laser 101, PJD2, and Pearl FM. On that same day, Tanny & the Boys will be providing entertainment to welcome all visitors arriving at the Princess Juliana International Airport, who will also get a taste of the island's famed brew, Guavaberry.
The curtain will be drawn on this year's World Tourism Day with a gala dinner at which the recipients of the Lifetime Achievement Awards will be announced. The dinner will be held at the Westin Resort.
"This is always the highlight of our celebrations of World Tourism Day," noted Director of Tourism, Regina LaBega. "This year's award as usual is being kept under wraps so that it will come as a complete surprise to the recipient."
Philipsburg:--- The main voting bureau has decided to stop the recounting of the ballots that was casted on Friday September 17th saying that the recount will not make any significant difference to the outcome of the election.
The decision to halt the recount was taken on Tuesday night after the members of the main voting bureau made their concerns known. Ever since Monday when Frans Richardson made the request the members of the main voting bureau were overheard grumbling saying the request to recount all the ballots was unnecessary and a waste of tax payers monies.
On Tuesday Richardson was asked to waive his decision by the main voting bureau who said they can check the ballots of the districts that raises concern but Richardson said he wanted a total recount and that his request was not based on him losing or gaining votes. He said already the recounted has shown that there were lots of mistakes and that people who were not elected could have gotten into office. Richardson said a number of people have been complaining and when asked if a recount was ever done he was told that the main voting bureau has never taken on such an exercise. Richardson said this is outrageous and if St. Maarten wants to do things right they would have to start now and not continue with their old ways of doing business. Furthermore, the law gives citizens the right to request a recount and also gives the main voting bureau the right to over-rule the request of the citizen.
"When the ballots were being recounted we saw a number of inconsistencies and mistakes that were made, ballots that were counted as invalid were in fact valid votes at the different polling stations. In one district seven votes were given to the wrong candidate while in another district there was one case 30 votes were given to the wrong candidate. Also in the Cole Bay area a number of votes belonging to the National Alliance were not even counted." Richardson said that the decision taken by the main voting bureau is rather unfortunate because there was about five or six more districts that had to be recounted and it is his belief that the recount would not be in favor of those conducting the recount. He said this is the first time in history a recount was requested based on the law.
Also expressing displeasure at the decision taken by the main voting bureau Louie Laveist, Laveist said that stopping the total recount is a violation of the democratic rights of the voters who participated in the election.
The island council man said a recount was requested and in his opinion that is what should have been given to the people of St. Maarten. He said the main voting bureau should not be the ones to decide whether or not they would continue with the recount. Laveist said he was informed that because of the recount a candidate that participated in the election now has an opportunity of becoming a parliamentarian and for him that makes a huge difference for that person.
In an invited comment the chairman of the main voting bureau Reynold Groenevedt said that the recount was not stopped. He said those districts where a total recount was not done the blank and invalid votes were checked. Groeneveldt said the law states that while a citizen and voter can ask for the recount the main voting bureau can decide whether or not to grant the request.
Furthermore, the chairman explained that the case of Jesus Richardson and Octavio was identified since Friday evening based on the process verbal and that is not something that was identified through the recount. Groeneveldt said while Richardson said his reason to ask for the recount was based on the amount of invalid votes two other candidates Silveria Jacobs and Leona Marlin indicated to the main voting bureau that there might have been problems at the Belvedere Community Center, Charles Leopold Bell School and the Melford Hazel Community Center and the members of the main voting bureau counted the ballots from those districts ballot by ballot.
Groeneveldt said he also intends to send an advice to the main voting bureau for future elections because they need to train and regulate the system better so that it can function better. Groeneveldt said it is his opinion that those people who began working from 6am and sat in those polling stations all day until 7pm when the polling stations closed should not be the ones counting the ballots. The main voting bureau needed to have fresh people who are not tired from a long day of work."It is unfair to those people who worked all day to count the ballots they are tired and obviously rushed the matter to get out of the polling stations."
The chairman said those persons who are not happy with the decision taken can take their concerns before the judge for further satisfaction.
Furthermore the ballot by ballot count is stalling the process the chairman said. He said letters have to be sent out to those persons who were elected so that they can get their credentials together so it can be validated before they are sworn in on October 5th.
Philipsburg:--- The head of the census office on St. Maarten Leona Marlin is furious at the statements made against the census office as it relates to the issuance and controls over passports on the island. Marlin who has been at the helm of the department since 2005 said ever since she took office there has been no incidence of fraud at her department and she wants to know based on what the Dutch has made their analysis of the department.
Marlin said ever since she took over the helm of the department they have been following all of the guidelines and rules laid down by Holland. She said in addition to that all of the audit reports have been positive. "The census office gets audited twice a year and all of our reports are positive since 2005. Marlin said passports always falls under the Lt. Governor and since there would be no more Lt. Governor the task will fall under the Governor's cabinet."
Marlin said the article which was published in one of the daily newspapers said the governor will be responsible until the office is professionalized. "She asked what do they mean by professionalized. When these people want to talk then they need to define what they are talking about." Marlin said Holland has always been talking about the census office database.
Marlin further explained that the database of the census office is not quite up to par but St. Maarten island government has been investing monies to regulate the problems. She said even though the passport belongs to the State they are not offering St. Maarten any financial assistance with the upgrading and or assistance to regulate the database. "The problem with the database began since 1997 when they did the transfer, back then not all the information in our system was transferred to the new system and up until now Holland has not returned to conduct an analysis of the system neither did they conduct any upgrades." She said whatever was done since 1997 was done at the expense of the island government. "There have been no attempts by those that own the Dutch passport to rectify any of the problems the census office is facing. While we don't have the expertise to correct these problems ourselves we have hired people to assist in correcting the problems. A specialist was brought in from Bonaire while another person was also brought in from the Netherlands to check the system."
Marlin said the BES islands have received all the assistance from the Dutch Government to optimize their database in accordance to what Holland wants. The department head said the Dutch wants to send people here to work for a specific period of time but these people are not interested in providing the necessary training to the employees of the census office who have been working hard to prevent fraud and all other types of irregularities.
Marlin said based on the information she gathered in their last meeting was that St. Maarten and Curacao would not be getting the assistance the BES islands are getting to clean up their database. Marlin said she is of the opinion that if Holland wants all the civil registries in the Antilles to be up to par then they would provide the same services and equipments to St. Maarten for that to take place.
The department head said two civil servants from the census office will be leaving to Holland next week for additional training on how to clean up databases.
Philipsburg:--- The police zero tolerance and immigration officers assisted by VKS conducted a raid on Thursday morning at an address in Well Road. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said the raid was conducted after police received information that narcotics and possible fire arms were hidden there. Taking part in the operation was the chief public prosecutor Hans Mos and acting judge Mr. Luijks. Henson said the raid did not yield any positive results. However, one person was arrested at the scene for residing on the island illegally.
The controls continued later down in the evening in the areas of Cape Bay and Philipsburg. During these controls 7 persons from Jamaican, 3 from Guyana, 1 from the Dominican Republic and 1 from St Lucia were brought in because of their illegal status on the island.
In other news the police patrols have been directed on at least on two occasions to the St Peters/ South Reward area to intervene fights in which students were involved. During these fights no-one was injured, however, the students were all brought to the police station and severely reprimanded concerning their behavior. The police department has decided to again start focusing on students in the school areas.
Philipsburg:--- The leaders of the United Peoples Party Theodore Heyliger and the Democratic Party Sarah Wescot Williams who formed the coalition government last week has sent a letter to the chairman of the executive and island council Reynold Groeneveldt informing him that he should ensure that the sitting executive council does not take long term decisions that would affect country St. Maarten's budget. The two leaders said the current executive council will be in office until October 5th and they should not take decisions such as entering into long term contracts for garbage collection, the issuance of licenses in the public transportation sector, entering into financial agreements that may have a long term effect on the budget of country St. Maarten. The appointments of new personnel in key functions, entering into long term rental contracts, awarding of construction contracts for infrastructural projects and other such matters.
The letter further states that they are expecting that the acting Lt. Governor in his capacity as Chairman of the Executive Council will guard against any of these matters taking place.
The coalition partners said they expect cooperation for the sake of good governance and the incoming government being able to adequately commence its governing term without being confronted with decisions taken which may affect the ability to properly govern.
Philipsburg:--- "No one is currently in custody for the murder of Clemencia Julot" says public prosecutor Rienk Mud. Mud said the TGO team detained two persons last week, a male and female and they have been released since police do not have enough evidence to keep the suspects in custody much longer.
Mud said the police are working diligently and endless hours to solve the Julot case but they need more help from the community if we are to solve the brutal murder of 21 year old Clemencia Julot.
The public prosecutor also explained that since they are exhausting so much and manpower on this particular murder investigation, the investigations of other murder cases have slowed down. Mud said they have not neglected any of the murder investigations currently being investigated but much focus is placed on solving the Julot murder investigation. "This young girl who was in the bloom of her life was brutally murdered and we are doing all we can as law enforcement to bring those responsible for her death to justice" Mud said.
Philipsburg:--- Four police officers are now the subject of an investigation that is being conducted by the police internal affairs to determine if the officers sold their votes. SMN News learnt that at least four police officers received monies from the United Peoples Party in exchange for their votes. SMN News learnt that two officers, a VKS and a civil servant working at the police station went to the UP head office in Pointe Blanche to control a crowd that was misbehaving. The source said when the officers reached the scene they were invited inside the office and monies were offered to them. SMN News further learnt that later that day someone working at the UP office called the officers informing them that their monies were ready to be picked up. "At that point the two police officers identified as C.L.R.C and A.M. sent the VKS R.J Sr. to pick up their monies. The person at the UP office gave R.J four envelopes containing $300 for each of the officers, but R.J got greedy and he opened the envelope supposedly belonging to the civil servant identified as G.W and distributed it among the two officers and himself." SMN News learnt that when G.W did not get her share of monies she contacted the UP office and she was informed that her envelope was also picked up. SMN News learnt that at that point G.W freaked out and began using obscene language saying she needed her share of money to pay her rent. The source said at that point the watch comander intervened and brought the matter to the attention of the acting chief of police.
Sources close to the investigation say that if internal affairs is able to prove that the officers sold their votes then they will be suspended or fired depending on what comes out of the investigation.
Chief Commissioner of Police Peter De Witte confirmed that while he was off island the acting chief of police Carl John initiated the investigation based on constant rumors. De Witte said the investigation currently taking place is more like a fact finding investigation. "We need to know if they were given monies and for what" De Witte said.
Earlier SMN News released an article which stated that officers of the law were part of the crowd of people that was seen at the UP head office in Pointe Blanche seeking monetary and electronic gifts in exchange for their votes. SMN News learnt that some officers requested flat screen televisions while others asked for laptops and blackberries.
Philipsburg:--- The prosecutor's office in Curacao has decided that prosecutor Jan Bart Develing will be prosecuted for the hit and run accident he was involved in on August 28th 2010 in Middle Region.
Press prosecutor G.M. Veen-Jonkhout said Develing is set to appear in court on October 6th Veen-Jonkhout said the decision to prosecute Develing was taken by the prosecutor's office in Curacao. Currently Develing is on leave pending the outcome of the investigation and subsequent prosecution.
Prosecutor Develing was accused of driving under the influence of alcohol on the day of the accident. He told police he had three beers on the day of the accident and the only reason he did not stop when he was involved in the accident was because he was of the opinion that someone was about to attack and rob him. Develing was arrested moments after the accident not far away from the scene of the accident by officers who were conducting a road control.
PHILIPSBURG:--- St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce has team up with local runner Andi Siegers to herald in Country St. Maarten. The chamber has sponsored Siegers' participation on the annual Chicago Marathon on October 10.
Chamber President Glen Carty said when he learnt about the run and the significance of the date, the business association was immediately on board. The marathon of some 45,000 runners is an excellent forum to send the message to the world that St. Maarten is now a country in the Dutch Kingdom.
While in Chicago, Siegers will deliver messages to the Chambers of Commerce there about the status change and inviting the people of the city and state to visit and consider doing business on the "Friendly Island."
Carty said the chamber is always seeking ways to improve the visibility of St. Maarten in the region and the rest of the world, because with proper and positive exposure the island's economy will grow and strengthen in the benefit of its people.
Siegers, the only St. Maartener in the race, is honoured and overwhelmed to have been named the chamber's ambassador. He has been training intensely for the marathon and expects to complete the race in just over three hours.
As for his task of representing his island of birth on such as historic day, Siegers said he couldn't think of a better way to tell the world of the achievement of the people of St. Maarten. "The right to self determination was ours and we took it and I will run with that in my heart."
The local runner, who owns the Little Cigar Factory, will be wearing a shirt printed with the St. Maarten flag and 10-10-10 and the Chamber logo. When he crosses the finish line, it will be like the high point of this island's new status. The end of the marathon will be the beginning of more to come just like the attainment of country is just one hurdle in the run to a better St. Maarten.
Andi Siegers has participated in the Charlevoix Marathon in Michigan in June.
Philipsburg:--- The prosecutor's office on St. Maarten is expecting an additional prosecutor next week confirmed press prosecutor Rienk Mud. Currently the prosecutor's office is short staffed. Mud said his new colleague Bart Denhartigh will join them next week and he was requested as a back-up prosecutor.
The press prosecutor said the prosecutor's office will do well with some interns since they are overloaded with criminal cases while it is very time consuming of the prosecutors to do all the necessary paperwork.
Philipsburg:--- The police internal affairs and the chief of police of the KPSSS Peter de Witte is yet to inform the commander of the Voluntary Korps(VKS) about their ongoing investigation involving a VKS officer. The VKS officer identified as R.J Sr. is accused of taking monies from the United Peoples Party in exchange for his vote. On Wednesday the Chief of Police confirmed to SMN News that internal affairs are busy investigating two police officers, a civil servant and the VKS accused of taking monies from the UP Party. De Witte said the motive of the investigation is for the police management team to find out exactly what transpired and what the officers were paid for.
Jean Illidge of the VKS told SMN News that to date he did not get any official notification from the police force about the investigation. The commander said he learnt of the incident via the news and he believes that if the management of the police force is investigating one of his officers then they will follow proper procedures and inform him so the VKS will also be able to take action. "As the commander of the VKS, I would need to know what the officer is accused of and the outcome of the investigation so we too can take measures to prevent such incidents." Illidge said.
De Witte said police internal affairs started the investigation while he was off island on working business. The VKS officer allegedly transported monies destined for two police officers a civil servant and himself from the headquarters of the United Peoples Party, but on his way to the police station where the monies were distributed he opened an envelope belonging to the civil servant and shared the money up.
Asked about the notification Chief of Police Peter de Witte said he could not say if the commander was notified since he was off island and just recently returned. "However, if that was not done then I will personally inform him today Friday." De Witte said. De Witte also said when the investigation is completed a decision will be taken as to how the police management would deal with the matter.
SMN News further learnt that while these four officers were caught taking monies from the UP Party several other officers took monies from other political parties and individual politicians. "I received text messages from police officers who have identified themselves as officers of the law that was looking for something in exchange for their vote and the votes of their family members. But I texted these persons back telling them that I do not engage in such behavior. This election I lost votes considerably and that was because I decided not to engage in vote buying." Said one politician that contested the September 17 elections.
In the meantime Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba who was on St. Maarten on a working visit said even though she was on the island and met with the management of the police force no one informed her of the investigation. However, the minister said she learnt of the investigation via the news and as such she is commending the police organization and especially the management team for initiating the investigation. "This year's election was not about who worked and who could work for countries St. Maarten and Curacao, instead it was about who had the most monies on both islands." Jacoba said voters were given laptops, blackberries, monies and other material items in exchange for their votes on Curacao and St. Maarten and if officers of the law were caught selling their votes they should face the consequences.
Philipsburg:--- In accordance with its articles of incorporation, the St. Maarten Carnival development Foundation (SCDF) held elections this past week for a new board which will guide Carnival for the next two years. The SCDF consists of an Executive Board of three supported by seven board members.
After serving the foundation for nine years in various forms, Stuart Johnson was elected as President of the SCDF. Rounding up the Executive Board are two former presidents of the SCDF. Erno Labega and Michael Granger were elected by acclamation as Treasurer and Secretary respectively.
Immediate past President Gina Illidge will remain with the board, along with Roland Rommy, Edgardo Lynch, Edwardo Radjouki and Vida Boyrard. Board member Martin Wilson was appointed as Vice President of the foundation.
"The organizing of carnival is a daunting task requiring the support of the entire community. Carnival is bigger than any individual or group. The board of SCDF is calling on your support and cooperation as we continue to prepare for Carnival 2011," Johnson said.
"We would like to extend my thanks to all those individuals who have contributed in making our annual cultural celebrations possible every year. We shall be celebrating the first carnival as Country St. Maarten, so let us make sure to embrace it as we celebrate it in grand style.
"Special appreciation goes out to the outgoing President Gina Illidge and all members of the outgoing board. Your work and dedication is appreciated and hasn't gone unnoticed. On behalf of SCDF, we thank you for your dedication and commitment," he concluded.
Philipsburg--- As seen on ESPN, "The And 1 Street ball Live Tour" of the B-Ball and Company Inc will be brought to St. Maarten for the first time by the Youth Beat Foundation on 29th October. The basketball Tour promotes education, health awareness, and encourages youth of all cultures to stay away from negative behavior such as drugs, gangs and violence.
The B-Ball and Company Inc: "In 2010 our mission is to present this exiting form of basketball not only to the major cities in the United States, however to many international countries around the world. Some of the countries we have travelled to include Taipei and Hong Kong in China, Toronto-Canada, Bangkok-Thailand and forty states in the United States. Our mission is to stress the importance of education and healthy lifestyles within all cultures."
The event will be held at the L.B. Scott Sports Auditorium. Tickets will be on sale at PJD2 Radio Station and Van Dorp Offices in Simpson bay and Madam Estate. The And 1 Team will feature stars like The Professor, Hot Sause, Highrizer, 50, Springs, Bone Collector and the Showstoppa.
The organizers of the event include President of the Youth Beat Foundation Mr. Emmanuel York with support from Mr. Lennox Fleming.
Philipsburg:--- The island council meeting called on Monday to ratify the Service Level Agreement between the Social Insurance Bank and Country St. Maarten (ZBO) was accepted unanimously after a heated and long debate on the floor of the island council.
Commissioner of Health Hyacinth Richardson urged the council to vote in favor of the SLA a proposal given by the SVB some days ago. Richardson said the National Health Insurance (NHI) is not ready and this is why the island needs the SLA which would last until the end of the year.
The members of the opposition posed several questions when the SLA was discussed in the Central Committee meeting and some of the answers they said were not provided to them for the meeting. Questions pertaining to how much this would cost St. Maarten and what would happen to the SVB employees after 10/10/10 they said are yet to be answered.
The opposition also spoke of how long the NHI is being worked on and to date it is not ready even though the NHI was scheduled to be implemented last January. Former Commissioner of Health Maria Buncamper said government began working on the NHI since 2006 and to date it is not completed. She criticized the National Alliance Government for not having the NHI in place and having to opt for an SLA.
Island Council member Louis Laveist obviously having enough of the bickering and questions posed by the opposition reminded them that the people of St. Maarten do not want to hear what was done and what not done since they were at the helm of government for almost ten years and they did not ensure everything was in place for country St. Maarten yet they were the ones who said the island was ready for Country.
Laviest looked squarely at the opposition and told them that he knows they are the ones who are going to be handling health in the new setting and what the people wants to hear from them is how and when they are going to finalize the NHI.
"The NHI is going to affect each and everyone on St. Maarten and the people do want to hear any bickering. I am also urging the speakers who spoke before me to change their attitude when attending to the people's business. This blame game must stop. When we are talking about the health insurance plan for the people the blame game does not cut it." Laviest said the people are sick and tired of the blame game.
The island council man said he could also take the lectern and play the same blame game because he knows who was at the helm of the constitutional process for ten years. He asked if he did so if that would benefit the people regarding their status after 10/10/10. Laveist said the people do not care who was in charge all they want to know is who will get the NHI done. He said the people just want to know if they will have health insurance and when it will be done. "These people in here including my family and your family do not want to hear anything about tires on a police car at this point in time."
The people know that you the opposition members will be part of the incoming government and they also know that you will be responsible for the health portfolios. So, come here and tell the people if you will get the NHI done and when and how it will be done. The people know that when this process began you were the captain of this wheel and they also know that there was no parliament building in place. They also know who said the island was ready and that the civil servants positions were not in place too. Laveist said the time for petty politics has long gone and no one cares who is teaming with whom to run their affairs.
GREAT BAY:--- The Collective Preventive Services (CPS) is calling on the Sint Maarten community to support Breast Cancer Awareness activities for the month of October.
The health survey of 1999: "How Healthy is St. Maarten", revealed that for self-examination of the breast, a preventive action against Breast Cancer, 89% knew about the test and 57% did the test, while only 27% had done the test with the recommended frequency of once a month.
Regular breast self-exams can help women learn how their breast normally feels and make it easier to notice and find any changes. Remember doing a breast self-exam regularly is not a substitute for regular mammograms.
CPS is encouraging women to make breast cancer screening a regular part of their life.
Breast Cancer is linked to the uncontrollable division or growing of cells. Cells in the body normally divide (reproduce) only when new cells are needed. Sometimes, cells in a part of the body grow and divide out of control, which creates a mass of tissue called a tumor. If cells that are growing out of control are normal cells, the tumor is called benign (not cancerous) If however the cells that are growing out of control are abnormal and don't function like the body's normal cells, the tumor is called malignant (cancerous).
Cancers are named after the part of body from which they originate. Breast cancer originates in the breast tissue. Breast cancer refers to a malignant tumor that has developed from cells in the breast. Usually breast cancer either begins in the cells of the lobules, which are milk-producing glands, or the ducts, the passages that drain milk from the lobules to the nipple.
Like other cancers breast cancer can invade and grow into the tissue surrounding the breast. It can also travel to other parts of the body and form new tumors, a process called metastasis.
At present there is no known cause on what causes breast cancer; however there are certain risks factors, which may put individuals at higher, risk of developing breast cancer, e.g. person's age, genetic factors, personal health history and diet.
Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women after lung cancer and is the leading cause of cancer death among women ages 35-54. As a woman ages the risk of developing, breast cancer increases.
Philipsburg:--- The three bodies representing the Christian churches of St. Maarten have been for days now in contact with the organizers of the 10-10-10 celebration since the newspaper article surfaced, that a parade was being organized on Sunday, starting 8.30am in the morning.
The churches on October 5th 2010 sent out a joint letter that they advised to delay the start of the parade until mid-day.
After waiting for a confirmation the churches up till now have received not and therefore have no other alternative than making their concerns public.
The churches stress that they are not against the people culturally celebrating the 10-10-10, however especially, since this is a Christian community and the government having adhered to the churches proposal to recognize God in the constitution, they believe that the time of worship and fellowship must be safe guarded and respected.
The churches –SMUMF, Foundation SDA and the St. Maarten/Saint Martin Christian Council- will like to make known that they are committed to:
- Invoking God's presence during the flag ceremony on October 9th 2010 at 11.00pm;
- The ecumenical service to be held on Sunday October 10th at 6.00am in the New Testament Baptist Church.
The churches are further committed to having the parade start at mid day.
May we all be blessed to have attained the Separate Status within the Dutch Kingdom and may the good Lord continue to bless St. Maarten and her leaders.
Philipsburg:--- The executive council has taken a decision to implement the National Health Insurance Organization as of Monday announced commissioner Roy Marlin. Marlin told reporters that since there is no agreement between Curacao SVB and St. Maarten, the council has decided to go ahead and implement the NHI.
Marlin said the island council already approved an independent organization to handle the NHI but government also has to enter into a Service Level Agreement (SLA) with Curacao. He said so far there is no agreement reached with Curacao because the proposals sent to St. Maarten is not in the island's best interest. Marlin said SVB Curacao wants to manage all funds (ABZ, AOV) while St. Maarten would have very little input into the management of these funds. Marlin said the executive council believes that this would be very risky and as such no agreement has been reached. Government he said will be dispatching another letter to Curacao with a final proposal. However, government wants those persons who are insured with SVB to receive continuity.
Marlin said the executive council intended to meet with the staff of SVB on Thursday where they will present a proposal which is to take the staff of SVB into the employment of the island government's territory temporarily and place them at Sector Health Care until the NHI institution is fully established. Marlin made clear that when the NHI is established then the staff of SVB will be employed by that institution.
The commissioner also said that the island government is not yet out of the woods with the SVB discussion. He said the proposal they are sending to Curacao is to allow them to manage the SVB funds until December 31 2010 until the establishment of the NHI is finalized. Marlin said it is too risky to turn over millions of guilders that are part of the reserve funds to an institution while government has very little say into the management of the funds.
CAY BAY:--- Despite best efforts of GEBE technicians during the past several days, due to a change in the wind direction on Thursday, an excessive amount of seaweed and sand entered the seawater intake cooling system in Cay Bay forcing all but two generators to shut down knocking out electricity to 60 per cent of the island for approximately five hours.
The two new generators which are radiator cooled were able to supply 40 per cent of the island.
It took technicians almost five hours to clean the filters and other pieces of equipment of sand and seaweed.
Once sand and seaweed entered the filters, the generators started to overheat and the emergency shutdown systems were activated thereby shutting the engines down to protect them from serious damage.
The Meteorological Service of the Netherlands Antilles & Aruba in its 5.00pm Thursday advisory stated that winds were South to Southwest of 12 to 22 miles per hour mainly in or near heavy showers to near gale or even gale force of 40 miles per hour. Waves were five to eight feet or higher during heavy showers or thunderstorms.
Cyrus Wathey Square:--- While country St. Maarten was dubbed as the people's affair and that having a new status is all about the people that was not what politicians and those that organized the official ceremony for the official dawn of Country St Maarten displayed.
According to the program that was released by the island government the reception held at the Holland House was only for those invited by those that would be in government and their VIPS. Members of the various media houses were told they were not invited to work or even be part of the reception. Festivities and other entertainment that was supposed to begin at 7pm at the Cyrus Wathey Square got under way at 9:30pm. Persons who came out to witness history were left to loiter around until the dignitaries and their invited guests arrived at the Cyrus Wathey Square at 11pm.
The seating that was prepared in the court yard of the court house (Cyrus Wathey Square) was also for those that were invited and the dignitaries while the people of St. Maarten, and the younger generation that left their homes to witness history was forced to stand around the court house and to peek over the fence to witness this historic event. Organizers claimed that the activities was scaled down due to the weather conditions and that the official ceremony will be announced at a later date.
Among those invited were the Minister of Justice of the Netherlands Ernst Hirch Ballin, President of the Collectivity of St Martin, the Prefet Jacques Simmonet, representatives of Anguilla, and other local dignitaries.
The only speaker for the evening Acting Lt Governor Reynold Groeneveldt told the gathering the Kingdom is now reformed after years of negotiations and hard work. He said during the last 50 years the islands under the Netherlands Antilles enjoyed prosperity, and growth while some had to face austerity measures.
Groeneveldt said St. Maarten has become a beacon of hope for many persons from many parts of the world and the people should be proud of the Netherlands Antilles and what it meant for them.
The acting Lt. Governor thanked all those persons and island's that were part of the Antilles and most importantly he thanked Queen Beatrix for the cooperation and that of the Dutch Government.
Groeneveldt said while there were times the negotiations for the islands to go their separate ways was not at all easy at no time there was need for revolt, violence or war, like in other countries.
The governor said that while St. Maarten has embarked on another stage in pursuit of full internal self government within the Kingdom it is his hope that the island can continue to count on the support of all the partners in the Kingdom while they look forward for closer ties and more cooperation which would result in the mutual benefit for the people.
The official ceremony started off with Pastor Allen's invocation, then the bringing down of the Antillean Flag which was given over to Minister of Constitutional Affairs Roland Duncan who the presented the flag to the Acting Lt. Governor Reynold Groeneveldt who immediately turned over the flag to a representative of the St. Maarten museum who would have it their marked as a piece of St. Maarten's history.
Immediately after the removal of the Antillean flag, the St. Maarten flag was hoisted signaling the dawn of country St. Maarten. Those in the crown began cheering at the hoisting of the St. Maarten flag while they joined in singing the St Maarten's song with the Methodist men's choir. The moment the flag was in its place the dignitaries began moving around congratulating each other now that the island has officially become a country within the Dutch Kingdom. The official ceremony closed off with fireworks which lighted up the sky.
Philipsburg:--- A well known Simpson Bay resident John Halley was the lucky winner Caribbean Lottery jackpot last week. Halley bought his winning ticket at the Li Far East located in Simpson Bay. The lucky winner received a check of $4,800,000.00 after taxes. The lotto jackpot was at $5.4M, while the restaurant will receive $13,500 for selling the winning ticket. The winning numbers were 7, 8, 14, 19 and 23.
Management of Caribbean Lotto said the winner had three chances to win. The agents they said are very excited about the win. It is the first won locally since the game was introduced last year, which is played in six different territories.
Guyana:--- Under the theme Reflection and Renewal, the Pan Caribbean Partnership Against HIV and AIDS (PANCAP) will commence observing its decade of existence at its Tenth Annual General Meeting from 31 October to 2 November 2010, in St. Maarten.
Keynote speaker at the official opening, former United Nations Secretary-General Dr. Kofi Annan, Chair of the Kofi Annan Foundation will address several Caribbean Heads of Government, high-level government officials, regional and international representatives of the Partnership and other specially invited guests.
Also during the opening, Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretary-General, His Excellency Edwin Carrington and Executive Director for the Global Fund, Professor Michel Kazatchkine will sign the PANCAP/Global Fund Round 9 Agreement on behalf of their respective institutions. PANCAP received US$31 million from that initiative.
Other highlights of the official opening include the inauguration of the PANCAP Award. Several Caribbean citizens will be recognized for their outstanding contributions over the past 10 years, to the Region's response to reverse the spread of the HIV and AIDS epidemic. The Juanita Altenberg award for Excellence conferred by PANCAP member, the Caribbean Vulnerable Community Coalition (CVC), will also be presented.
The agenda for the meeting includes three special plenary sessions which reflect on the key successes and challenges of the Partnership and defines the essential agenda for its further progress.
Titled, PANCAP at Ten, the first session explores the main factors that have contributed to the development, growth and sustainability of the Partnership. It is intended to analyse critically main achievements, challenges and lessons learned.
The second session: Towards strengthening the country focus on PANCAP, seeks to obtain a country perspective of the main programmatic achievements since its inception and to provide concrete examples of how regional goods and services provided, have advanced the national responses to HIV and AIDS.
Session Two will also look at the ways and means by which PANCAP can assist Haiti in meeting some of its current and future needs with regard to universal access to HIV-related services.
Session Three: Members' Forum, will receive the input of PANCAP's constituents on what ought to be the future strategic directions of the organization, in order to maintain partner interest and to accelerate universal access to HIV-related prevention, treatment, care and support services in the Caribbean.
The meeting opens at 6:30 p.m. on 31 October at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort and Casino. A number of addresses will be given by key leaders in the Region, including the Honourable Sarah Westcott-Williams, Prime Minister, St. Maarten; the Honourable Dr Denzil Douglas Prime Minister, St. Kitts and Nevis and Chair of PANCAP; Mr. Michel Sidibé, UNAIDS Executive Director; and Professor Kazatchkine.
PANCAP is a regional Partnership which was established in February 2001 to respond to the HIV and AIDS epidemic in the Caribbean. Its vision is to substantially reduce the spread and impact of HIV and AIDS in the Caribbean through sustainable systems of universal access to HIV prevention, treatment, care and support. Its goals are
By 2012, to reduce:
- the estimated number of new infections by 25%;
- HIV mortality by 25%
- the social and economic impact of HIV and AIDS on households by 25%
Philipsburg:--- The trustee representative for the Eastern Caribbean Cellular (ECC) Lucas Berman in interview with SMN News explained that the company has total debt of $22M to its creditors while their income was a mere $20,000 and its operational costs stands at $200,000.00 per month.
To listen to the interview, select the audio from the list below:
Berman said that the trustee for bankruptcy cases are appointed by the judge and their job is to investigate in the interest of everyone. He said right now they are busy investigating the estate in order to make the necessary payments.
Already, the trustee held meetings with the tax department whose claim is very high. As for the employees, he said they were paid based on the labor laws while they still have a claim for their six weeks' notification payment.
After that he said SVB or National Health Insurance has to take over the employees, while the trustee still has to deal with the other expenses such as the bills coming in from GEBE, land and other property rents. SMN News learnt that the total claim from the employees stands at $80,000 and the company does not have assets that can be sold to meet that sum.
He said the employees were paid their last salary up to October 7th and were sent home as of Wednesday. Berman said for the interest of everyone it was necessary for the company be closed to limit the damages.
Attorney at law Berman said he already indicated to another telecommunication company that these employees were terminated and that company might be willing to hire some of the workers. However, the trustee believes that the employees should begin looking for work in the job market where they will be guaranteed a salary at the end of the month since this other company will not hire the entire group of workers.
He said bankruptcy cases are complicated and it takes an enormous amount of time to get a fair settlement.
Berman said the next step is to deal with the creditors whose interests they are representing. Furthermore, the trustee is trying to see where they would make the most money in order to save the creditors further loss.
Berman said the tax department submitted a very excessive assessment on ECC and they are looking to see if this can reduced to save the estate some monies which would ultimately benefit the creditors of ECC.
Asked if the trustee is negotiating the sale of the company, Berman said there are few people who said they are interested in buying the company but so far no one made a fair proposal. While the trustee may want to entertain the sale of ECC, SMN News has been reliably informed that the license for the company has been seized by government.
A circular from the employees lays most of the blame on the company's managing director Beulah Jonis. The employees also vow to take their case further as they intend to seek justice. A scanned copy of the circular is posted at the end of this article.
Great Bay:--- The organizers of the annual breast cancer awareness walkathon; the Positive Foundation and Elektra have stepped it up a notch this year and are incorporating a number of other activities for the participants this year.
The walk which is playfully dubbed the "Pink Phit and Phabulous walkathon" will begin at 6:30 am this Sunday at the Grand Marche parking lot to the Princess Country Club and Spa at Port de Plaisance via the Cake House Hill Road.
President of the Positive Foundation; Shelly Alphonso said that although the walk begins at 6:30am; participants are asked to be there in advance to receive some of the goodies they have in store.
"We want everyone to be there on time so that we can begin on time before the sun comes up, this way the walk will be more comfortable and enjoyable," she said. "Also at 5:30 am we will be distributing T-shirts to the participants; free of cost."
The St. Maarten Road Runners will lead off and guide the walkers along the route to the Port de Plaisance destination, where breakfast including croissants, apples coffee, bush tea and water will be served, free of cost to all participants. After the walk a number of fitness activities like: zumba, aerobics, spinning, stretching among others will be demonstrated to the group, then a brief tour of the Princess Country Club and Spa will be given.
"In addition, to highlight the main reason behind the walk, we will be showing an eight minute video presentation on how to do breast self examinations and students from AUC S will be doing demonstrations on how to do these breast self examinations," Miss Alphonso said. "We want to ensure that the message gets across and that the people who participate and attend will be armed with the knowledge to be able to detect breast cancer early so they can better protect themselves."
The St. Maarten Diabetes foundation will also be on hand at the Port de Plaisance Country Club and Spa to do free blood sugar and blood pressure screenings.
"There will also be two other booths set up solely for the purpose of disseminating weight loss and fitness information," Alphonso explained. "And of course our table, the Positive Foundation will have breast cancer awareness literature, breast cancer awareness pins, bracelets and other signature material for sale."
Participants are also advised to wear or bring their bathing suits, as the pool will be available to the participants until 3pm and a 15% discount on spa treatment will be available only for that occasion.
"You may lounge and swim in the pool up until 3 pm and for those who have children and would like to bring them, we encourage you to do so and allow them to take advantage of the beautiful play area on the premises," she said. "Should you decide to stick around until lunch; the Port de Plaisance staff will be serving lunch buffet style at a simple cost of US$12.00."
For others who do not want to participate in the walk, they are also invited to attend and be part of the other events and to support the event.
Sponsors for this event are Divico, Princess Country Club and Laser 101.
GREAT BAY--- The theme for the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations (UN) World Food Day on Sunday is, "United Against Hunger."
The theme was chosen by the global organization to recognize regional and national efforts around the world to combat hunger.
Minister of Public Health Maria Buncamper-Molanus said that country Sint Maarten fully supports all initiatives to alleviate global hunger.
The Minister added that, World Food Day reminds us that nearly a billion people around the world suffer from hunger and this prevents them from leading healthy, active, and safe lives.
Last year the global hunger crisis reached unprecedented levels, where one billion people were left hungry. The UN's World Food Programme along with other stakeholders around the globe, are working together to curb rates of hunger.
"Food security is an important challenge of the 21st century and a key issue in view of realizing the international commitments of the Millennium Development Goals (MDG).
"The right to food is the inherent human right of every human being. The right to food is the right to be able to produce or purchase safe, nutritious and culturally acceptable food. The right to food is not the right to free handouts.
"The right to food was first recognized in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948, and it has been gradually strengthened by the ratification of the International Covenant on Economic Social and Cultural Rights of 1966," Minister of Public Health, Social Development & Labour Maria Buncamper-Molanus told the Government Information Service (GIS).
This recognition of World Food Day is also part of the Ministry of Public Health annual calendar of observances.
GREAT BAY:--- Minister of Public Health Maria Buncamper-Molanus commends the Mental Health Foundation (MHF) in its efforts to increase awareness about mental wellness during its Mental Health Month activities.
A mental illness is a disease that causes mild to severe disturbances in thinking and perception, and behavior.
If these disturbances significantly impair a person's ability to cope with the ordinary demands and routines of life, then he or she should immediately seek proper treatment from a mental health professional.
With the proper care and treatment, a person can recover and can resume normal activities.
This years MHF theme is "Mental Health in Primary Care: Enhancing treatment and promoting Mental Health."
"A one-month period set aside to create awareness about mental health and the importance of mental wellness would allow members of the community to have an understanding of what it's all about. As they say, knowledge is power.
"Our own MHF has come a long way since its inception and is now an entity that is working diligently in building healthy relationships and therefore building healthy communities.
"I wish to recognize families and caregivers of persons who suffer from any form of mental illness as well as those who have devoted their lives to the care of those who suffer from mental illness.
"Government is committed to further assist where necessary in building a healthy Sint Maarten," Minister of Public Health, Social Development & Labour Maria Buncamper-Molanus told the Government Information Service (GIS).
There is a wide range of mental illnesses, and many mental illnesses are believed to have biological causes just like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. Some mental disorders are however caused by a person's environment and his or her experiences.
Mental illness can strike anyone as it knows no limits of age, economic or social standing, race, creed or colour.
This recognition of World Food Day is also part of the Ministry of Public Health annual calendar of observances.
Philipsburg:--- As part of the activities to commemorate its 50th anniversary, The Windward Islands Bank Ltd. will be hosting an educational treasure hunt. The event will be held on Friday October 22nd.
A total of 8 local High schools will each have three representatives competing for prizes in this unique event organized by WIB.
The purpose of this event is to have youngsters learn more about St Maarten's history, Social studies, Government etc. in a friendly, yet competitive atmosphere.
Participating High Schools are MPC; Sundial; St Dominic; SXM Academy; CIA; LU & Sint Maarten Vocational School. The Bank is collaborating with the United Student Government Front in organizing the student treasure hunt.
Each high school will be represented by three students
A total of 15 locations (companies) throughout the Philipsburg area have been secretly selected. Information placed in the form of an educational riddle will be used to point participating students to the locations. Participating students must find the place by solving an educational riddle for the first set of points
Once they solve the riddle and find the location(s), at the location they will be provided with an envelope with questions for the second set of points
The questions will be on areas such as history, social studies, Government, Monuments etc.
Total points per participating group will depend on the amount of correct responses to riddles and questions.
Prizes will then be awarded based on the total amount of points.
Activities have been organized by WIB to involved different segments of the community and we feel that the Student Treasure Hunt is a great way to get the youngsters involved, while having them learn at the same time; Chairman of WIB 50th anniversary committee Rolando Tobias stated.
Companies throughout the Philipsburg area are being requested to cooperate with the youngsters as they move around the capital solving the riddles and collecting clues in the WIB 50th anniversary student treasure hunt on Friday afternoon.
For questions, please contact Rolando Tobias, Chairman of WIB's 50th anniversary Committee at 580-5915.
GREAT BAY:--- Nativity, the new poetry book by Lasana Sekou, is being taught at the University of Birmingham, in the United Kingdom, said Jacqueline Sample, president of House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP).
Nativity is one of two core books for the course "Introduction to the Spanish Caribbean: History, Literature & Popular culture." The class is taught by Conrad M. James, professor of Latin American and Caribbean Studies.
One of the course objectives is to allow students to "Demonstrate an understanding of the creative strategies used in Caribbean literature, film and music to respond to major issues in the region's history," said Dr. James.
"Nativity is a quintessentially Caribbean work," said Dr. James, "It is partly this commitment to understanding the Caribbean in regional rather than narrow national terms, which accounts for the brilliant erudition of the text" by the St. Martin writer.
Nativity was published here and launched in Marigot last June as an English, French and Spanish edition. Its extensive glossary of cultural, political, and historical terms, personalities, places, events, and dates, is also in the three languages, said Sample.
In other news reaching HNP this week, Sekou is featured in Poetas del Caribe inglés: Antología edited by Canadian professor Keith Ellis, said Sample.
"With Nativity and Poetas del Caribe inglés among the 2010 books getting attention, more people will come to know about St. Martin and Caribbean people, their writings and cultures," said Sample.
The Venezuelan book is part of the country's "unprecedented" boosting of literature among the population and making books available at affordable prices, said the publisher Perro y la rana.
In the book's preface the novelist Austin Clarke writes that Poetas del Caribe inglés (Caribbean Poets Writing in English) "is a marvelous collection of the very best of West Indian poetry." The Spanish-English book is a Poetry of the World series title from the Simon Bolivar Center geared toward the Venezuelan academic and mass market.
Sekou's poem "Liberation Theology" was selected for the book.
The title includes works from rising literary stars, established authors, and lyrical poetic legends such as Christian Campbell, Jennifer Rahim, Kamau Brathwaite, Frank Collymore, George Lamming, Rei Beroa, E. Markham, Jan Carew, Claude McKay, Derek Walcott, Louise Bennette, Martin Carter, Obediah Smith, Merle Collins, Arnold Itwaru, Afua Cooper, Bob Marley and Mighty Sparrow.
About 69 poets from 13 countries and territories in the Caribbean are found in the two-volume Venezuelan anthology.
Philipsburg:--- On Friday, five members of the Royal Marechaussee who was sent to St Maarten to assist the Police Force of St Maarten was sworn in. The oath of these officers were taken by the Minister of Justice for Country St Maarten Mr. Roland Duncan, in the presence of the Chief of Police Chief Commissioner Peter de Witte, Secretary General Ligia Stella, Chief Public Prosecutor Hans Mos, Commander of the Marechausse Jan Ploegstra, and head of the Judicial Department Chief Inspector Denise van Geertruij-Jakobs.
The officers will be working in the Detective Department and directly under the leadership on the St Maarten Police force. After the swearing-in of the officers the Minister of Justice and the Chief of Police congratulated them and gave them a warm and hearty welcome and told them to be looking forward to fruitful working relationship.
The incoming officers are Eric Wagenmakers, Jan Hendrik Steenge, Robert Jan Bakker, Klaas Rollema, Lana Martiene Coenradie.
GREAT BAY:--- The Head of the Office of the Dutch Representation in Philipsburg Lars Walrave, on Friday met with President of Parliament Drs. Gracita Arrindell.
Besides expressing congratulations on behalf of the Dutch Government, according to Arrindell, Walrave also expressed his assistance to the parliament. He was given an update on the state of affairs regarding the islands legislative body, parliament.
"Some of the issues that we discussed were the current status of the parliament building, voting bureau, incoming new members of parliament and the position of vice president of parliament. The meeting was of an informative nature," President of Parliament Arrindell told the Government Information Service (GIS).
Cole Bay:--- Dignitaries such as Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams, Deputy Prime Minister Theo Heyliger, President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell, formers Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards and his wife Angela and former Lt. Governor Denis Richardson were among the invited guest to witness the official opening of the Princess Club and Gym on Saturday evening. Prime Minister Wescot Williams did the official cutting of the ribbon just after her short speech. Wescot Williams said is amazed to see what Cathy Oscan has to done with the remodelling. Wescot Williams said she was a visitor of the gym and salon in the past and only those who knew what the facility looked like can appreciate what it is today.
Wescot Williams said if more people join the centre it will be more affordable to maintain. She said she is calling on government to pool their resources together and join the centre since health and fitness goes together. Cathy Oscan told the gathering that the fitness centre is not about the quantity but the quality of services that would be offered at the Princess Country Club.
Great Bay:--- The island's leading restaurants and chefs are signing up to set the Boardwalk aflame with their "taastys" offerings when Flaavors of St. Maarten Food and Wine Festival hits the Boardwalk in its final day Sunday, November 14, 2010. Dubbed Sunday Flaavors Fest, the event will gather more than 30 local restaurants under a giant tent on the Boardwalk from 12 noon until 5:00pm, who will be offering bite-size samples of their food to the public.
"Flaavors of St. Maarten Food and Wine Festival is an innovative concept that will back up our claim as the 'Culinary Capital of the Caribbean'," says the island's first Minister of Tourism, Frankie Meyers. "The event on the Boardwalk is the highlight of this festival which is the initiative of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau," the minister revealed. "As such, it is important for all those involved in the food business to take full advantage of it to promote their establishments."
The organizers offer to purchase up to $200 in food ingredients from Merchants Market for registered participants to use in the preparation of the signature food they will be showcasing at Flaavor Fest.
In addition, they will be provided free of cost with a booth, a table size 8' x 24", electricity and ice. They will even receive free paper plates and napkins for food sampling.
"This is a good opportunity for our food specialists to come together under one roof – so to speak – to offer samplings of their specialties to the public in a relaxed and festive atmosphere," noted Director of Tourism Regina LaBega.
Registration forms for the Sunday Flaavors Fest can be obtained at Merchants Market as well as the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau. Registration is free. Some of the restaurants that have already registered for the event include Taloula Mango, Johnny B Under the Tree, Plantation, Barefoot, Bamboo Bernies, Oyster Bay Beach Resort, Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino, Ocean Terrace at Holland House hotel and others.
Tickets for the event are available at $45 per person at the two locations of Van Dorp bookstores and at the Mailbox in Simpson Bay.
Following is the Schedule of Events for Flaavors of St. Maarten which can be accessed via: http://www.flaavors.com/events.html.
• Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2010 - The Grand Champagne Tasting with Iron Chef Contestant Marc Forgione at Porto Cupecoy, 7 pm. Tickets: $150 per person.
• Thursday, Nov. 11, 2010 - The Oakville Ranch Winemaker Dinner with Chefs Wayne Nish, Doug Psaltis and Dino Jagtiani at Temptations Restaurant, 7:30 pm. Tickets: $150 per person.
• Friday, Nov. 12, 2010 - The St. Maarten Celebration Dinner & Benefit Auction at the Westin St. Maarten Dawn Beach Resort & Spa, 7 pm. Ticket: $150 per person. Auction proceeds will benefit the St. Maarten National Culinary Team.
• Saturday, Nov. 13, 2010 - Celebrity Chef Cooking Demonstrations by Chef Wayne Nish at Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino, 10 am, and chef Ken Frank at the Westin St. Maarten Dawn Beach Resort & Spa, 10 am. Tickets are $40 per person for each event.
• Saturday Nov. 13, 2010 - "Napa Valley Rocks" conducted wine tasting by the Napa Valley Vinters Association, 12 pm. Tickets are $50 per person. Participating wineries: Flying Horse Winery, Grgich Hills Winery, The Hess Collection, Jones Family Vineyards, Luna Vineywards, The Miner Family Vineyards, Oakville Ranch Vineyards and Peju Vineyards. Participating panelists: Dan Bailey, The Jones Family Vienyards; Paula Kornell, Oakville Ranch Vineyards; and Michael Davis, Hart Davis Hart Wine Company.
• Saturday Nov. 13, 2010 - The Luna Vineyards Winemaker dinner with Chef Ken Frank at Aura Restaurant, 7:30 pm. tickets: $150 per person
• Sunday, Nov. 14, 2010 - St. Maarten Flaavors Festival (Phillipsburg Beachfront and Boardwalk), 12 pm - 5 pm. Tickets: $45 per person. Participation by 40 of the top restaurants and wine distributors in St. Maarten as well as the Napa Valley Vintners Association, among others.
Philipsburg:--- Police received several phone calls on Wednesday informing them that a man was being robbed in the Dawn Beach area. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said that a man identified as J.A. told police that he was the victim of an armed robbery which took place in the Dawn Beach area by two unknown men.
The victim said while driving in his rental car with license late R-155 in Dawn Beach after leaving West Inn hotel he was suddenly blocked by a white car with very dark tinted windows. At that same moment two men jumped out of the white car. One of the men was armed with a shotgun while the other had a machete in his hands. The victim said he was attacked, taken out of his car and threatened by the two suspects. He was forced to hand over an envelope containing cash and some cheques. After being robbed by the culprits he was forced in the trunk of his car. The victim further stated that the calls to the police station were done from the trunk of his car. Police patrols were sent to the area to investigate the case and located the car shortly after and then freed the victim from the trunk of the car. The Special Robbery Unit was immediately informed and investigation into this case is ongoing.
La Savane:--- SMN News has been reliably informed that the two public ambulances operating out of the fire station in La Savane are in deplorable condition. Sources close to the Pompier de St Martin told SMN News that the fire men and rescue workers are working under severe stress and a complex situation since both the ambulances are not in proper working condition.
The source said there are times when both the public ambulances are down and rescue workers would have to go to crime scenes and homes with fire trucks to induce emergency care then they would be forced to call a private ambulance to transport the patients to the hospital. "Fire trucks do not have materials and equipments for emergency care and such people in need of assistance either die on the spot or on their way to the hospital for the lack of emergency care. Another hazard for these emergency workers is that they are forced to drive a vehicle that is not in proper working condition. The shocks and cross-member on the ambulance are not good yet the vehicle has to be driven at high speed."
The source said the first ambulance is almost un-repairable while the second ambulance cannot even take 50% of its capacity. It is further understood that the head of the fire service Cleo Gumbs told his workers that two new ambulances were arriving on the island late August to early September but to date they have not seen or heard anything about the new vehicles. "Right now we do not think the Prefet or those at the Collectivity know what is happening regarding the ambulances and the risks that are facing the French side. "Government and the State are obligated to provide emergency care to anyone in need in the territory and people who do not get the necessary care can take these people to court and win." The source further explained that providing emergency care is one of the most basic things for any civilized nation but that seems to be impossible on the French St Martin.
On Thursday SMN News camera lens managed to capture a photograph of one of the ambulances under the shed on a jack. It is clear that the ambulance is not working and repair work is being conducted on the vehicle.
Several efforts made to reach the head of the fire station Cleo Gumbs on Thursday proved futile as we were told that Mr. Gumbs was not in office. This is not the first time SMN News has tried to contact Gumbs to no avail. Many times we are told he is in Guadeloupe.
Great Bay:--- Students of the Sundial School culinary program have been singled out for what organizers of the first Flaavors of St. Maarten Food and Wine Festival believe will be an "enriching experience" when the five-day festival starts on November 10.
"We cannot have an event like this without incorporating our youngsters who are aspiring to become chefs or who dream about owning and running their own first-class restaurants," said Director of Tourism, Regina LaBega who praised the enthusiasm and support shown by Sundial School Culinary Instructor, Bart Peut.
"He came on board with a lot of excitement and ideas about how the students could benefit from Flaavors and has been an integral part of the planning and preparations for the Festival," LaBega said.
Flaavors of St. Maarten Food and Wine Festival is an initiative of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau. It was created to establish an annual event that will help showcase the island's positioning as the "Culinary Capital of the Caribbean."'
"The diversity of our gastronomic offerings is one of the things that distinguishes St. Maarten from other destinations in the region. With over 300 restaurants, an average of about 10 restaurants per square mile, one can eat in a different restaurant each day of the year without repeating," LaBega noted.
"Flaavors is designed to bring together in St. Maarten some of the best chefs in the world along with some of the most critically-acclaimed wineries in the world, who jointly with the chefs, wine and food distributors, hoteliers and other stakeholders of the St. Maarten hospitality industry will help us celebrate the best that St. Maarten has to offer," she continued.
Flaavors will begin with grand champagne tasting with Iron Chef Contestant Marc Forgione at the Porto Cupecoy on the eve of St. Martin Day. There will also be celebrity cooking demonstrations at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort and the Westin Dawn Beach Resort.
According to LaBega, part of the proceeds from the St. Maarten Celebration Dinner and Benefit Auction to be held on November 12, 2010 at the Westin Dawn Beach Resort will go to the Sundial School Culinary program. The school will also participate in the St. Maarten Flaavor Fest, a kind of food and wine bazaar, which will be held on the Boardwalk to bring the curtain down on the festival on Sunday, November 14.
"That is true," confirmed Bart Peut. "Our students will be cooking up a storm, alongside Holland House, who have graciously allowed us to use all their kitchen facilities for the Flaavor Fest. I urge everyone to come and have a taste of what these young St. Maarten students can do."
Maho:--- The members of PANCAP have been preaching since the opening of their 10th Annual meeting that one of the hurdles they need to cross is the discrimination and stigma against people suffering from HIV/AIDS. They said the time has come for countries around the world to stop criminalizing prostitution and homosexuality so that those infected would come to the forefront and receive treatment. Based on those sentiments SMN News interviewed the Prime Minister of St. Kitts Denzil Douglas on the role of the church with PANCAP.
The churches within the Caribbean nation are somewhat insensitive towards people living with HIV/AIDS over the years and the time has come for the churches to move from a state of condemnation to a state of realization says Prime Minister of St. Kitts Denzil Douglas. Speaking to SMN News on Monday the Prime Minister said that there are certain practices that people are engaged in and if they are not encouraged to protect themselves and the rest of society then they can infect others.
The Prime Minister said that PANCAP wants to work with the churches. However, they also want the church to understand that it is a reality that if persons are vulnerable and are not encouraged to moving forward to receive the appropriate treatment and protecting themselves and others then the HIV/AIDS disease would continue to spread.
Prime Minister Douglas said the churches also need to understand that the HIV/ AIDS disease is not a condemnation from God. They also must believe that all people can become engaged in practices that can cause them to become infected with the HIV/AIDS virus, thus they are seeking for the churches to work with them to tackle a major social problem which is no longer a health problem. He said HIV/AIDS can cause social developmental problem that can cause destruction of the human race. The Prime Minister said the church and society must work together if they are to rid themselves of this epidemic.
Asked if PANCAP has ever tried to reach out to the churches, the Prime Minister said he personally spoke to several church leaders who would engage him whenever he returns home from conferences such as the one taking place on St. Maarten. Prime Minister Douglas said he was even asked if he is supporting homosexuality and prostitution. He said he has explained on a number of occasions that this epidemic is not about supporting homosexuality or prostitution but it is speaking out as a leader of a country and organization against the spread of HIV/ AIDS and what needs to be done to combat the epidemic.
Asked if PANCAP is putting too much focus on HIV/AIDS while other deadly diseases and people suffering from those diseases are being neglected. The Prime Minister said it is his belief that people suffering from other diseases are getting the same attention and support as those with HIV/AIDS. He said they also believe that the church is right in preaching that sex should be avoided before marriage. However, the church also needs understand that even married people are being infected with HIV/AIDS. He said as much as they would want all human beings to be Christians and not commit fornication and adultery or have premature sex they have to live with the reality that sex is taking place and they have a duty to ensure that those engaged in sexual activity do what is necessary to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS.
Prime Minister Denzil Douglas said that criminalizing homosexuality and prostitution drives people to further engage in these activities underground. Asked if he believes the attention given to HIV/AIDS has skyrocketed the cost for treatment. Douglas said that is far from the truth. He said PANCAP is the one organization that brought the pharmaceuticals together and forced them to decrease the prices for the antiviral treatment. He said PANCAP even threatened these companies that if there was not a reduced pricing for HIV/AIDS medication then they were going to boycott certain companies in different countries. He said he believed that due to the campaign against HIV/AIDS has caused the prices of medicine to drop which forced the pharmaceuticals companies to lose billions of dollars. He said however, that he believes that these companies would make more monies if they are to continue the research for a vaccine which would prevent HIV/AIDS virus. He said right now it's only those that are infected with the virus are using the antiviral but should there be a vaccine then each and every person would use it as a preventive measure.
Select the audio below in the list to listen:
Philipsburg:--- Police, Customs and the Coast Guard have arrested at least five Guyanese nationals, the captain and crew members of the New Beginning cargo boat that comes from Guyana with Guyanese produce for sale. The New Beginning has been on the island some two weeks now and they were stopped at sea by the coast guard and customs.
SMN News learnt that members of the crew on the New Beginning are suspected of breaking into at least three yachts that are anchored at the Bobby's Marina, while authorities found a host of stolen items on board the cargo boat on Wednesday and Thursday. SMN News learnt that police, custom officers and coast guards were busy searching the boat on Thursday afternoon in search of more stolen items.
According to management of Bobby's Marina the three yachts that were broken into are the "You Can't Believe It", "Winsome" and "Lucy 1." So far the items that belong to Winsome have been recovered on board the New Beginning. Items such as compasses, VHF radios, tools and marine electronic equipment were stolen from the yachts mentioned. Management of Bobby's Marina said they already made contact with the owners of other boats/yachts that they have in storage to see if those boats were also invaded.
SMN News further learnt that a security guard working at Bobby's Marina is involved in the robberies and selling of the items to the crew members of the New Beginning. The source said management of Bobby's Marina called in the Coast Guard to search the New Beginning when they became the most apparent suspects in the break-ins. They said the New Beginning had already departed the island when Coast Guards were called and asked to search the vessel for stolen items.
Prosecutor Rienk Mud confirmed the arrest of the five persons who are currently in the police holding cells as they investigate the case. Mud also confirmed that a lot of stolen items were on board the New Beginning which will be returned to the rightful owners. The public prosecutor's office he said is working on a settlement in which the suspects will pay a substantial fine before they are sent away with a ban from St. Maarten.
Philipsburg:--- SMN News has been reliably informed that a contract was awarded to a Dutch European company Volker Stevin to build the bridge across the Simpson Bay Lagoon. The source said that the cost of the contract stands close to 41 million United States Dollars and construction of the bridge will begin early next year.
The contract was signed by the CEO of the Harbour Holding Mark Mingo and representatives of Volker Stevin. It is understood that even though the harbor holding signed the contract with Volker Stevin the council of ministers still has to approve the contract.
SMN News learnt that three other companies submitted their bid for the contract at the Spetjens notary that includes Ballast Nedam, and MNO.
Reliable information states that Windward Road is the sub-contractor that would be working along with Volker Stevin. Efforts made to reach Deputy Prime Minister Theo Heyliger for confirmation on the information proved futile on Friday evening.
St Johns, Antigua:--- Entries are now open for The Caribbean Business Awards, the premier business recognition awards program for companies & individuals operating within the Caribbean region. Its mission is to recognize and promote business excellence within the Caribbean Diaspora, whilst generating public awareness of the achievements and positive contributions of organizations and business people throughout the region. Supported by the Caribbean Association of Industry and Commerce (CAIC), entry is open to all businesses; it celebrates excellence, achievement and innovation in the Caribbean business world.
The awards highlight innovation and excellence within the business community, providing benchmarks for organizations and individuals seeking to excel in the way they do business.
The benefits of the awards are numerous;
- Provides insight into best practice initiatives within the Caribbean region.
- Allows organizations to demonstrate their progress within their chosen field.
- Highlights an organizations' excellence not just within their home country thereby promoting the organization and increasing business, but also within the wider Caribbean community and globally.
Award categories cover a range of business activities covering Management, Sales, Marketing, Customer Service and Technology and are open to individuals and businesses alike.
With specific categories tailored to both individuals and businesses, the Caribbean Business Awards provide an opportunity to raise a company's profile, enhance individual reputation and attract new business off the back of the great work companies are doing. It's also a fantastic way to profile an organization and individual achievements. All the categories are open to both the private and public sector.
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More information about the program and how to participate can be found at www.caribbeanbusinessawards.com.
Philipsburg:--- Information reaching SMN New states that the Minister of Tourism Franklin Meyers and his general secretary are busy seeking a candidate to fill the position of head of the Tourist Office now that Regina Labega has been sent home pending an investigation. Sources say one of the persons that might be appointed temporarily is Tamara Leonard a board member of the United Peoples Party. SMN News contacted the general secretary to the Minister, Miguel de Weever on the appointment and he said that there is no truth to the information. SMN News also learnt that the appointed head of the New York Tourist Office, Lou Peters was also sent home even though his contract has not fully ended. SMN News has been reliably informed that St. Maarten no longer has an office in New York since St. Maarten lost the location due to the amount of time it takes to renew the rental lease. Despite having no office space in New York, Peters is still in the USA and he was busy looking for an office space to rent the source said.
SMN News contacted Minister Meyers on Sunday for further information on the investigation taking place at the tourist office and Meyers said that he will not make anymore statements until the process is completed.
The Minister said this is not a situation he created but it is one he met when he entered office and one he has to deal with. "Obama did not start the Iraq war but as the sitting President of the United States he has to deal with it. My press release clearly states that this investigation began before the September and it was reported to the finance commissioner" Meyers said the media would simply have to wait until the process is completed before he makes anymore statements.
However, SMN News learnt that the finance department did uncover some discrepancies during the month of September and they promised to further investigate the matter and present a report to the former commissioner of finance and the executive council but that was not done prior to October 10 2010. The source said based on the discrepancies that were uncovered regarding the Tourist Office, the National Alliance executive council did not appoint Labega as General Secretary.
SMN News learnt that some of the discrepancies found are the amount of monies St. Maarten has to pay for its booths during the Caribbean seminars around the world. Reliable information states that other islands pay $20,000.00 for their booths while St. Maarten's government is charged $30,000.00 which is what created the discrepancy. Furthermore an explanation has to be given to the relevant authorities why the New York Tourist Office also has to pay travelling expenses for Regina Labega and Edward Dest while government gives them those allowances each time they travel. Another concern is that the representatives of the Tourist Office normally don't pay for their hotel stays and other expenses because on most occasions the visiting countries would provide accommodations as complimentary.
SMN News also learnt that the investigation which is headed by Bas Roorda still has to go to law enforcement. SMN News further learnt that government has installed a committee to investigate the discrepancies. Further meetings it is understood has to be held and a final decision still has to be taken as to how government will proceed with the investigation.
Prosecutor Rienk Mud said up to late Friday afternoon his office was not informed that government had filed an official report against the individuals are were suspended. Mud said even though the federal detectives (Lands Recherches) are the ones that investigate civil servants and elected officials the prosecutor's office is always notified.
Sources say if Labega and Dest can give proper explanation on the discrepancies then they will soon return to work, but if proper explanation is not given then Regina Labega and Edward Dest would someday have to answer to law enforcement.
In the meantime, Senator Louie Laveist has sent a letter to the chair lady of Parliament Gracita Arrindell informing her that he is requesting a closed door meeting of Parliament where the Minister of Tourism Franklin Meyers and his general secretary Miguel de Weever must attend to give the members of parliament more information on the suspension of two top ranking civil servants. Laveist said the two persons that were suspended are not politicians and as such he wants to make sure that there is no semblance to a witch hunt when it comes to civil servants. Senator Laveist said it is not good enough for government to dismiss or suspend civil servants with such vague explanation to the people while parliament the highest body in country St. Maarten was not informed. He said parliament has to make sure proper procedures are followed in accordance with the law. The senator said he felt this is a step in the wrong direction especially knowing that the two civil servants are high ranking. While the Minister might have solid and good reason to take the steps he took, he also has an obligation to inform the highest legislative body on these investigations Laveist said.
Philipsburg:--- Last week the fire chiefs of the Dutch Caribbean islands came together in Sint Maarten. These meetings are scheduled every six months. In November the fire chiefs of the six islands meet together with their Dutch twinning partners, alternatively on one of the islands or in the Netherlands. In May of each year the Dutch Caribbean fire chiefs meet on one of the islands with a representative from their twinning partners.
Sint Maarten Fire Chief Winston Salomon has been chairman of this group for the last two years, reason why this November the meeting took place on Sint Maarten. All chiefs were present with the exception of the Curaçao fire chief. Due to the flooding situation there his duties kept him home. As usual a representative of the Dutch Ministry of Home Affairs & Kingdom Relations also attending the meeting to update all concerned on the last developments at the ministry. Dordrecht Fire Chief Anton Slofstra attended the meeting as well. Sint Maarten signed the formal cooperation agreement with Dordrecht in November 2009, but the working relationship with the Dordrecht Fire Department and Mr. Slofstra in particular dates back to 1997.
Topics of discussion at this meeting were amongst others: Dutch Caribbean training & exam system for fire fighters, change of status for the islands after 10-10-10 and the consequences for the various fire departments, regional cooperation, protocol for mutual assistance, etc.
These meetings are considered very important for the fire chiefs. It gives them the opportunity to exchange views and ideas on common issues, enhance cooperation and keeping focus on the level of each fire department.
Since the tenure of Mr. Salomon as chairman ended in November 2010, the gathering elected the Aruba Fire Chief, Mr. Edward de Cuba as new chairman. The next meeting will take place in May 2011 on the island of Aruba.
Philipsburg:--- After severe insistence the members of parliament will be meeting in a central committee meeting to discuss the appointment of the general secretary that is proposed by chairlady of parliament Gracita Arrindell. Senator William Marlin informed the chair that it is not normal for parliament to discuss a person's appointment when they are taking part in the meeting.
Marlin said his faction has a number of questions on the appointment of the general secretary as well as the functions of the general secretary. Marlin said rather than having a public debate his faction proposes to have the discussion in a closed door central committee meeting and the decision taken in that meeting can then be ratified at a later date in a public meeting. The proposal from Marlin was seconded by senator George Pantophlet and also supported by senator Roy Marlin.
Marlin said their proposal is not to delay the process because the candidate is already functioning as such. Marlin said he has no qualms with the candidate and most importantly he worked with Franklyn Hanze in the parliament of the Netherlands Antilles for several years. He said if parliament is to follow proper procedures then it would not be right to have a public debate on his appointment while he is sitting in the meetings. Marlin said his faction also has questions on the entire personnel of parliament all of which will be discussed in the central committee. At that point, senator Roy Marlin from the Democratic Party indicated that their faction would concur with the proposal of the National Alliance. However, the chairlady wanted to adjourn the meeting so that central committee could be held. She told parliament that she wanted to make sure she had her 'right hand' on her side to move along with the people's business. Senator Roy Marlin then indicated that he would concur with the proposal of the leader of the National Alliance because should they enter into a central committee meeting then they would not have been able to deal with the election of the vice chair.
General Secretary (Griffier)
Based on the proposal submitted to parliament for the appointment of Franklyn Hanze as general secretary he will be receiving Naf. 11,210 per week. The breakdown for the weekly amount is as follows:--
Verblijf(housing) Naf:- 1474—
Car Rental Naf:- 546—
Food Naf:- 600--
Airport Tax Naf:- 120--
Ticket Naf:- 470—
Fee Naf:- 8000
Total bedrag per week Naf 11.210
SMN News has been reliably informed that the members of the National Alliance are concerned about the high cost of appointing Hanze while they are also concerned about his language barrier. Hanze is fluent in Dutch and Papiamento but has serious difficulty with the English language.
The parliament of St. Maarten will be conducted in the English language for the benefit of the people. SMN News learnt that the members of parliament believe while Hanze might be versed on the law his language handicap could work against him and the parliament of country St Maarten.
SMN News has been reliably informed that the former executive council had trained one of its own Cassandra Janssen who worked for a number of years in the island secretariat to take on the position of griffier (general secretary) but the chairlady it is alleged has refused to accept Janssen thus forcing her to withdraw her application for the position. SMN News learnt that Jensen trained in Holland and Curacao and she has undergone these trainings for more than one year. It is also understood that the chairlady of parliament is at loggerheads with Janssen as they both worked at the island secretariat.
Grand Case:--- Traffic backed up on the Grand Case RN 7 on Tuesday evening when a scooter accident occurred in the vicinity of the pharmacy. SMN News learnt that the rider of the scooter had to be transported to the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital for treatment. The ambulance belonging to the Pompier that responded to the accident broke down on the spot creating a traffic jam. The captain of the gendarmerie confirmed that while the accident was not that serious the traffic back up was caused by the ambulance that broke down on the scene.
GREAT BAY:--- The Collective Preventive Services (CPS) which is part of the Ministry of Public Health, would like to inform the community that the Ministry continues to monitor the situation in Haiti very closely with the assistance of the family physicians and its weekly syndromic surveillance system.
Family physicians are on alert to report any symptoms of cholera especially of persons who have travelled to Haiti within the seven days of onset.
Persons who plan to visit Haiti are advised to delay their travel plans.
There have been more than 900 deaths and over 12,000 persons are ill or have been hospitalized.
Cholera can be found in Artibonite, Centre, Nord-Ouest, Nord and Ouest, and Port-au-Prince. The outbreak is expected to spread to other departments of the country. In response, international health experts have been placed in both Haiti and the Dominican Republic to deal with the situation.
Cholera is a bacterial infection spread through contaminated water. It causes severe diarrhea and vomiting that can lead to dehydration and death within hours.
About 75 per cent of people infected with cholera do not develop any symptoms, although the bacteria are present in their feces for seven to 14 days after infection and are shed back into the environment, potentially infecting other people.
Cholera is transmitted through fecal contamination of water and food. In places where there is infrastructure damage, the lack of safe drinking water and poor sanitation and hygiene can increase the risk of cholera, as well as numerous other diarrhea diseases.
Cholera is easily treatable, and if patients are given oral re-hydration salts promptly to replace lost fluids, and they can nearly always be cured.
In a small percentage of people, cholera can cause very severe dehydration potentially leading to death. To minimize the number of people infected, frequent hand washing, personal hygiene, safe water use and food preparation are a necessity.
By taking a few basic precautions, cholera as well as most other food and water-borne diseases can easily be prevented. The main rule is, always be aware of the quality of what you eat and drink when you are travelling to Haiti, however the CPS recommends delaying travel to Haiti at this point in time.
French Quarter:--- The suspect R.G.B who was arrested last Monday as a suspect in the murder of Clemencia Josi-anne Julot has been released. SMN News learnt that the prosecutor's office released R.G.B after the DNA results cleared him as being a suspect in the Julot murder investigation.
Sources say that the investigating officers even checked to see if they were going to get a positive match in other unsolved murder cases for all of which R.G.B was cleared. Relatives of R.G.B told SMN News that the prosecutor's even checked to see if R.G.B was linked to the Angelique Chauvire case.
They said R.G.B was cleared from all the ongoing investigations.
Prosecutor Rienk Mud said his office intends to send out a press release on the case on Tuesday.
It should be noted that R.G.B is the third person that was arrested and was cleared by DNA as a suspect. Two other persons, one female and relative of R.G.B and a male teacher were also arrested and released when their DNA did not match that which was found on the body of the victim.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto says that Sint Maarten is not looking towards Holland to subsidize its budget, and the country does not have any skeletons in its closet.
Shigemoto said that the meeting with the VVD Faction Leader Stef Blok which also included Vice Prime Minister Theo Heyliger, head of the Sint Maarten delegation, centered on the new status of Sint Maarten and matters related to the 2011 budget.
"Sint Maarten has a plan B which is being finalized and will be presented to the CFT Financial Supervisory Commission as well as the Council of Ministers of Sint Maarten and thereafter the Parliament.
"The message from the VVD faction is quite clear and that is that the country will have to solve its own problems which will require measures on our behalf to cover the deficit before December 15, 2010.
"The Vice Prime Minister and I are both very confident that the country can and will solve this problem which this government has inherited but it will undoubtedly require both cost cutting and income generating measures to counter the perceived deficit of Naf.130 million.
"After reviewing the CFT's advice in depth and concisely, we have determined that the perceived aforementioned deficit is lower due to the CFT double counting of expenditures in the Ministry of Justice as well as not accounting for income on the side of the Social Economic Initiative (SEI) projects.
"The CFT has also not taken into consideration the low projection of income for 2011 (based on the realized income up to and including the month of October 2010 which was not available to the CFT at the time they made and submitted their advice on the draft budget 2011). This will also be further elucidated to the CFT via letter," Minister Hiro Shigemoto explained in-depth.
Minister Shigemoto explained to the VVD Faction about the deficit of the 2011 budget as well as the two-pronged approach whereby Sint Maarten is coming with a plan to eliminate the budget deficit, but due to the current economic situation as well as the feasibility of introducing measures to solve the deficit which was inherited by the new government, the country seeks some flexibility based on the global economic reality which is not only being experienced by Caribbean countries, but also various European nations.
"We are merely exploring the possibilities of Holland allowing Sint Maarten in the interim some flexibility of the existing financial regulations which would allow the country in the short-term period to have a small deficit on the budget along with a multi-annual plan within which the country would have a balanced budget considering all of the surprises which were discovered in the Ministries which were neglected over the years by the former Netherlands Antilles Central Government," the Minister of Finance Shigemoto explained from The Hague on Tuesday.
The Minister of Finance also briefed Blok on the background related to the 2011 budget. "The present draft 2011 budget was submitted by the interim Executive Council which was in office for some five days. They met the draft budget from the previous National Alliance led-government which had not been submitted to the CFT upon the mutually agreed upon deadline of October 1, 2010.
"After a review of the letter of the CFT to the Dutch Kingdom Council of Ministers wherein it was heavily underscored that Sint Maarten's government at the time was not holding itself to important mutually agreed upon deadlines for submission of documents, the five-day interim Executive Council submitted the draft 2011 budget in order to meet the deadline," Minister Hiro Shigemoto explained.
Minister Shigemoto says that Sint Maarten doesn't have any skeletons in its closets. "Challenges were discussed thoroughly throughout the negotiations for Country status. The plans of approach (Justice and Census office) are all accounted for in the budgets 2011 and the multi-annual budget 2012-2015.
Minister Shigemoto concluded that the delegation headed by Vice Prime Minister Heyliger will continue with its program of visits and continue to work on fostering good relations with Sint Maarten's counterparts in this part of the Kingdom.
PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten delegation headed by Vice Prime Minister Theo Heyliger continued their introductory meetings on Tuesday and Wednesday making their rounds and establishing contacts with the Dutch political establishment.
The trip to Holland is to strengthen the relationship between Holland and St. Maarten and to meet the various political personalities in power.
Philipsburg:--- The long awaited Brooks Tower Accord decisions regarding residency and work permits have been made. Minister of Justice Roland Duncan has reviewed the policies that were set in place by the former Justice Minister Magali Jacoba and has decided to extend the BTA for a period of 6 weeks starting on November the 24th 2010 and ending on December the 30th 2010.
All interested persons must submit their documents for extension within the given time period.
The location where the BTA will address the public will be on the A.T. Illidge rd #4 located behind the Immigration building. (Pink Building)
Opening hours are from 8am 'til 12pm and from 13.00pm 'til 17.00pm. A numbering system will be applied (1st come 1st served system) with a maximum of 100 persons per day.
Applicants are urged to walk with all the necessary documents and legitimate identification to help the process run smooth and swiftly.
Persons who have pending problems with (certain) documents and will not be able to submit all the necessary paper work on time are requested to still seek contact with the BTA for perusal.
Philipsburg:--- As of today Chippie customers will notice an adjustment in the exchange rate applied when they purchase their Chippie credit. The exchange rate of $1 to ANG 1.80 which was applied previously will be adjusted to ANG 1.79. This change was made as a result of the BES islands being required by law to maintain the new exchange rate of ANG 1.79. Due to the Chippieland concept maintained by UTS for Chippie mobile service, this new exchange rate will also be applied in St. Maarten and Curacao. 'We had to take a decision that will affect our customers' purchasing power slightly' states UTS Marketing and Communications Officer, Ivy Lambert 'To make up for the adjustment in the amount of credit received we have scheduled more calling specials and promotions to ensure that customers get their money's worth from us. The first in the planned specials is a weekend-rate special on international calls over the holiday season. We believe our customers will appreciate such a promotion as we all call our friends and family abroad more during the holiday season.
The rate reductions will start this coming weekend and will entail a reduction of 50% on calls to most popular international destinations between the hours of 8 pm on Friday until 8pm on Sunday.' Selected destinations will include the USA, the Netherlands, the islands of the former Netherlands Antilles, the Dominican Republic, Haiti and a lot of other regional destinations. Customers can call the UTS Contact Center at 542-0101 to inquire if calls to their favorite destination are also part of the weekend rates special. 'This promotion is a taste of things to come to ensure that our customers continue to get the most bang for their buck when using Chippie mobile service' Lambert continues. 'We appreciate our customers' business and believe that we need to continuously show them that we value them as our customers.'
Philipsburg:--- Senator George Pantophlet is calling on authorities that handles the naturalization process to stop telling children or young adults that were born on St. Maarten to foreign parents that they are not from here. Senator Pantophlet said in a press release that there are a number of young people who have contacted him for assistance since they are stuck between a rock and a hard place based on the current naturalization process. The Member of Parliament said there us an epidemic of massive proportions brewing in St. Maarten and if it is not dealt with then there will be some serious social problems. Pantophlet said he is contacted frequently by mostly young adults who needs help regulating their status. He gave at least three examples such as case one regards an18 year old that was born on St. Maarten, attended pre-school, primary and secondary schools on the island. This person he said has graduated and has a valid residence permit.
Pantophlet said that according to one of the articles in the law to obtain a Dutch passport they can do so through option. But they have one problem they cannot prove where they were residing during one of their 18 years. At that time they were three years old. Because of this they have to go through the Naturalization process. The senator this situation has caused the person in question to become extremely frustrated and angry. As for case two he said it relates to a 19 year old who attended pre-school, primary and secondary schools on St Maarten and that person also has a valid residency permit. But the problem in this case is that neither can they prove where they were living during 1 of their 19 years. A pre-school where they attended was destroyed by fire. The owner has since moved to the Netherlands.
In case three, the person was born on St. Maarten 19 years old (of foreign parents) attended pre-school, primary and secondary school however, this person is having problems renewing their residence permit.
The senator said that there are many persons on the island living in similar situations. He said these youngsters finds themselves between a rock and a hard place.
He said many instances probably blame can be placed on their parents. However, that does not mean the youngsters have to suffer the consequences. He asked where are their rights? Most importantly he also wants to make clear that these young people are not going anywhere and they will plainly tell anyone that while their parents might not be from here they however, was born on St. Maarten. The senator said those persons who received a residence permit for the first time still has to wait for five years providing the laws on naturalization does not change before they can apply for the Dutch nationality.
The senator said he believes those applying the law should take each situation into consideration and not just an across the board decision for everyone. He said according to him the guidelines in the process should be used to help people and not hurt them. The senator also felt that St. Maarten has enough social problems and this situation is surely not helping the island. Furthermore the Dutch nationality remains under the Netherlands and he believes that it is time a closer look is taken at the criteria. St Maarten he said has become a country an integrated country where everyone feels they are part of it. He concluded by saying that the time has come to stop telling the children who were born here they are not from here.
MARIGOT:--- The gendarmes have arrested two suspects in the Marigot area early Wednesday morning suspected of being involved in the murder of First Deco employee Pascal Delaosa (44). Delaosa was brutally murdered close to midnight on Monday. A press release from the Gendarmerie states that despite first aid and emergency care the victim succumbed to his injuries. Furthermore, after an investigation on Monday and Tuesday, some 30 gendarmes were involved in searching two houses where the arrests of the suspects were made.
The suspects are currently being interrogated to determine their involvement in the murder.
Immediately engaged on the spot, the gendarmes of the company of Saint-Martin and of the EGM 12/6 of LODEVE deployed an important disposition of operational search aiming at arresting the perpetrators of this act. Those searches were not successful. Concurrently, the inquiry is carried out by the search squad of Saint-Martin. Up to the wee hours of the morning, the investigating officers, supported by a technician in criminal identification, engaged in operations of technical and scientific police on the crime scene. During the day of Tuesday November 23, the investigations enabled to identify two individuals likely to have taken part in the crime and revealed serious elements against them.
At dawn on Wednesday November 24, some thirty gendarmes belonging to the intervention squad of mobile gendarme squadron, of the surveillance and intervention squad of the company and squad community of Saint-Martin proceeded with the arrest of two individuals in Marigot. House searches started immediately at their homes. Presently into custody, they are questioned by the investigating officers of the search squads to determine the involvement of each in the act and examine the reasons which lead to the murder.
Wounded with lead shots in French Quarter.
On Tuesday November 23 early in the afternoon in French Quarter, a 29 year old man notoriously known to the services of Gendarmerie is wounded in the back with lead shots. He is transported to the hospital of Marigot for treatment. His life is not in danger. On the premises, the investigating officers of the squad communities of Saint-Martin and search squads proceeded with the verifications and undertook the first hearings. At the present state of the investigations, the circumstances of the shots have to be determined. The investigation is carried out by the community of squads of Saint-Martin.
Attempt at burglary in Mount-Vernon: a young man wounded with a bullet.
On Tuesday November 23 early in the afternoon at Mount Vernon, two individuals entered a house through an open window in order to commit burglary. After striking the homeowner's head with a bat, they are taken by surprise by the presence of a young man upstairs. A shot is fired, wounding the latter in his leg. He is transported to the hospital for treatment. At their arrival on the spot, the investigating officers of the search squad and the squad communities of Saint-Martin proceeded with the first steps of the investigation. The two individuals fled rapidly, a zone search control was immediately deployed in the vicinity of the residence by the gendarmes of the company of Saint-Martin and the EGM 12/6 of LODEVE, but the perpetrators were not found. The search squad in possession of the facts is going on with the investigation.
Philipsburg:--- Last week Ambulance Department staff which falls under the Ministry of Public Health was presented with diplomas and score sheets including certificates for the emergency driving course and the same for the emergency driving instructor course, in the presence of Minister of Public Health Maria Buncamper-Molanus.
The emergency driving instructor course covered such areas as traffic laws, theory of education, participation in traffic, vehicle command and control, vehicle technique and test driving.
The general emergency driving course covered areas such as traffic ordinances, transport and administration ordinances, driving codes and driving ability.
Head of the Ambulance Department Cylred Richardson told the Government Information Service (GIS) that he was very pleased to see the growth and professionalism in the development of his staff.
"It is a plus for us to have our own driving instructors who are able to conduct general training including ongoing refresher training courses in an effort to keep staff up to par with the latest developments and to further enhance their driving skills.
"The Ambulance Department (EMS) will continue to improve its services to the community and provide the best quality in emergency medical services," Richardson told GIS.
PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Drs. Gracita Arrindell says that the Central Committee meeting of Parliament of last Friday, November 26 will continue on Monday, November 29 in public session at 3.00pm in the A.C. Wathey Legislative Hall.
The agenda point for the meeting is the selection of Members of Parliament (MPs) who will be representing the island on the Parlatino permanent committees.
A public Parliamentary session is also scheduled for Tuesday, November 30 at 3.00pm in the A.C. Wathey Legislative Hall.
The three agenda points for this meeting are incoming documents, the ratification of the advice drafted for MPs who will be members of the various permanent committees for the Parliament of St. Maarten and a follow-up with respect to the division of MPs to be members of the permanent committees of Parlatino.
Marigot:--- Independent Territorial Councillor Jean David Richardson has been elected president of the Galisbay port board. The election was held on Monday. Richardson confirmed to SMN News that he received five out of the six votes that were cast, while the sixth vote was blank.
He said first vice president Daniel Gibbs and vice president Pierre Allioti are no longer on the Galisbay Port board and that they were replaced by Dr. Louis Jeffry and Sylviane Judith. Second vice president elect is Dr. Jeffry. Richardson said independent councillor Remi Williams was the second vice president on the former board and he was the person that was to be the president but Williams he said has prior engagements which would not permit him to hold both functions.
In the meantime, the president of the Collectivity had said that he will not accept the resignation from Jean David Richardson because Richardson had sent his resignation by email. Responding to the president's remarks Richardson said that he sent his resignation to the official email of the Collectivity. He said the President receives his information from the State via that email which is fully legal based on the organic law. The territorial councillor said the president refused to stamp his resignation letter which was sent by email. Richardson confirmed that a hard copy of the letter was also delivered to the president of the COM.
As the President of MISOPLWHA an OECS based non governmental organization which stands for Media In Support Of People Living With HIVAIDS I am very happy to once again to attempt at garnering support as we celebrate yet another World AIDS Day today.
It is very important to note that since 1988, the day December 1st has been a day of bringing messages of compassion, hope, solidarity and understanding about AIDS to every country in the world. We within the Caribbean has been no different with many of us reflecting on relatives and friends who have died while trying to mobilize support as we desperately seek to reduce stigma and discrimination which continues to be the greatest fight in curbing the rapid spread of the disease.
As such, it is noted that each year there is a particular theme chosen for Word AIDS Day, and for this year, 2010 it is 'Universal Access & Human Rights.'
I, however beg my media colleagues primarily and every person out there to not to forget to wear their red ribbon. We must know that wearing the ribbon is a symbol of ending stigma and discrimination. There is no need for me to remind my media colleagues throughout the OECS about the power and unbelievable influence of the media and therefore ending stigma and discrimination should be a battle that we should seek aggressively to pursue.
I want to state that the ribbon is an international symbol of AIDS awareness that is worn by people all year round, but particularly around World AIDS Day to demonstrate care and concern about HIV/AIDS, and to remind others of the need for their support and commitment.
It is important to note that women now represent about the half of the people living with HIV. However, today the majority of persons who become HIV-positive and who die of AIDS in developing countries are women. It was pointed out that several factors which are rooted in social relations and women's economic realities contribute to the fact that women now are becoming infected at a faster rate than men.
MISOPLWHA strongly believes that sexual relations between young women and older men are frequent, in particular in arranged marriages which are very prevalent in countries like Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago. Often, the older husband helped the girl's family financially. These intergenerational marriages increase the risk for the young women to be infected with HIV, because according to UNAIDS statistics older men are more likely to be HIV-positive and to infect their young partner. Moreover the risk of infection for young women is greater because the lining of the neck of the womb is not fully developed.
MISOPLWHA believes that the media in the respective countries have a vital leadership role to play in changing attitudes through their newspapers, radio, televisions, websites and blogs in the modern days of communication and the wider community at large. Responsible and aggressive journalists when covering health issues more in particular HIV/AIDS should be diligently sought after thus ensuring that issues such as gender inequality in the context of HIV/AIDS can be effectively publicized.
I however would like to urge my fellow colleagues to join with this organization in pursuing the following; Unions should pursue several lines of action, among them:
- Effectively address the low status of women as the main means to combat violence against women and girls
- Support HIV- positive women and children
- Through our influence as media practitioners to strive towards campaigning for financial assistance to be provided to HIV- positive workers in order for them and their families to have access to treatment or to encourage workplace medical facilities to diagnose and treat STIs which increase the risk of transmission of HIV
- Provide information and education for men which includes sexual and reproductive health
I want to stress that women are especially exposed to the consequences of HIV/AIDS. As I indicated earlier that UNAIDS statistics have stated that AIDS exacerbates the unequal division of work and responsibilities. Retracing the traditional domestic role of women indicates that girls and women are more likely to provide care for the sick relatives and they will have the double burden of contributing also to household income.
As such, this situation reduces the educational opportunities for girls and young women and limits their opportunities to achieve financial independence. Many persons are of the view that HIV/AIDS doesn't affect them but I beckon to warn that in developing countries, when their partners die of AIDS, women often find themselves without any financial security, economic opportunities or social protection. HIV-positive women face a similar situation. Many of them are stigmatized and abandoned because of their disease. When they are sick and forced to leave their economic activities they lose their precarious livelihood.
Research continues to show that women are more likely than men to be stigmatized, ostracized and destitute. HIV/AIDS-related discrimination among media practitioners can pose enormous challenges to those living and or affected by the disease thus I end by appealing to all to use our roe as media colleagues and members of society to help in ending stigma and discrimination. This is very important if we are going to succeed at curbing the spread of this very powerful disease.
I thank you and sincerely trust that for those not on board that they will seek at making their contribution in a positive and meaningful way.
PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Drs. Gracita Arrindell, says that there are detractors out there who are attempting to create news and sensationalize news rather than focus on the issues of the country.
"I felt it necessary to address a couple of things that have been published online which do not hold any water. The media has a responsibility to publish correct, factual information. Once you stray away from that premise, you are doing a disservice to the St. Maarten community who expect better.
"First of all, I have the full backing of the United Peoples (UP) party faction in parliament. They realize the situation that our nation is facing and are ready to deal with those issues in order to move our island nation forward and make us stronger and better.
"The relationship with the leader of the UP Party Theo Heyliger is excellent and he realizes that we must stay the course just like the entire UP faction in order to deal with the issues facing the nation. Being overwhelmed and at loggerheads is far from the truth. We were elected by the people to do a job. It has only been a little over seven weeks that we have been on the job, and within that space of time we have been laying the ground work so the work can begin on a local and regional level.
"A coalition government was formed and we are ready to work with the Council of Ministers in the coming weeks and months to address matters of national concern, the first one being the approval of a balanced 2011 budget," President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell said on Thursday.
With respect to parliament having a representative at Saba Day national celebrations on Friday, "It was agreed by Leader of the National Alliance (NA) William Marlin that Senator Louie Laveist would represent the Parliament of St. Maarten. An official advice was prepared and presented to parliament," Arrindell said on Thursday.
Philipsburg:--- More hiccups at the parliament of St. Maarten left the two member delegation from Parliament who was supposed to attend the Saba Day festivities on Friday stuck on St. Maarten. SMN News has been reliably informed that the two member delegation namely Johan Janchi Leonard from the UP faction and Roy Marlin from the Democratic Party faction could not travel to Saba on Friday because they did not get the tickets from government to travel. The source said that the general secretary (griffier) of parliament Franklyn Hanze left the island on Thursday for Curacao before making sure parliamentarians got their tickets and other relevant documents to leave. While it is customary for Hanze to leave the island on Friday and return on Monday SMN News learnt that the griffier has parliamentary business to conduct on Monday which would require him to return to St. Maarten on Sunday, thus he took his extra day on Thursday when he left.
SMN News managed to see Senator Roy Marlin on Friday and when asked why he did not leave for the Saba Day celebration Senator Marlin said other matters came up. SMN News also confronted the faction leader of the United Peoples Party Romaine Laville who said he is investigating the ticket issue to see what went wrong and who was responsible for not having the tickets ready for the Senators to travel.
SMN News also understood that most of the senators are busy querying their salaries and the deductions that were made last month end. At the parliamentary meeting on Tuesday many senators were seen discussing their payslips and the deductions that were made. One senator said there was a 47% wage tax deducted while others got a 50% wage tax deduction. SMN News further learnt that some of the senators met with the head of personnel affairs on Thursday to inquire about the deductions that were made on their first pay check.
Philipsburg:--- The leader of the National Alliance faction in the parliament of St. Maarten has submitted a request for a meeting of the parliament where the Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto must attend. Senator William Marlin told SMN News that during that meeting the finance Minister will be questioned on the increase of TOT from 3% to 5%.
Just last week Friday the Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto said the council of ministers had approved the balanced 2011 budget. Shigemoto said his Ministry was forced to make several cuts and increasing the TOT from 3% to 5% to balance the budget as required by the CFT. Government he said had until December 15th to submit the 2011 budget for approval. The Minister said the budget was sent to the council of advice for their approval.
The increases are to go into effect as of January if passed by the parliament of St. Maarten.
Philipsburg:--- Minister of Labour Affairs Maria Buncamper-Molanus confirmed on Wednesday that the formalization of the appointment of the labour mediator has been completed. Having the responsibilities, as established in the Federal Ordinance regulating Labour disputes and the accompanied resolutions, Mr. Derrick Holiday has been appointed as Labour Mediator for St. Maarten his first contract will be for the duration of one year says the Minister.
The mediator's responsibilities include supporting parties during collective labour agreements negotiations, analyzing and mediating in disputes, providing solutions, organizing referenda and advising on policy matters.
The mediators function within the policy department of labour.
Both mediators will be formally introduced at a meeting with stakeholders which will be announced at a later date.
"I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Mr. Holiday and look forward to working with him. As was announced earlier Mr. Lopes has been requested to continue for a period of six months also as mediator, during that period he would guide the new mediator Mr. Holiday in the carrying out of his function". Together the gentlemen will also tackle whatever backlog exists as far as the responsibilities of the mediator is concerned.
PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Drs. Gracita Arrindell, extends her deepest sympathy to the family and friends who perished after a boating incident near the British Virgin Islands (BVI) about a week ago.
A boat carrying over 30 persons allegedly of Haitian nationality went aground on a reef in Tortola, BVI, leaving eight persons dead including two young children.
It is alleged that the vessel left the island with the persons onboard. An investigation is currently on-going and several persons on Dutch Sint Maarten have been arrested and are helping law enforcement with their enquiries while a number of locations have been searched.
Senator Gracita Arrindell says that a review of the human smuggling law is needed in order to see what changes can be made so persons will think twice before violating the law.
Human smuggling is not a new phenomenon. Criminal networks which smuggle human beings for financial gain increasingly control the flow of migrants across borders. It is acknowledged that the smuggling of people is a growing global phenomenon. It is not only a trans-national crime, but also an enormous violation of human rights.
"Sint Maarten will not tolerate its territory being used for the facilitation, transportation or illegal entry of a person or persons across an international border, in violation of one or more countries laws," President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell said on Sunday.
Philipsburg:--- The bankruptcy that was filed for the Christian Kingdom Cooperative by the Central Bank is scheduled to be heard on Monday in the Court of First Instance. SMN News learnt that CKC plans to file a counter claim against the Central Bank for failing to have the necessary insurance in place to secure its creditors.CKC is asking for the Central Bank to be held liable.
CKC plans to object against the demand of the bankruptcy of CKC as well as a counterclaim, which they intend to explain in the "verweerwschrift".
Objection #1:CKC appealed the "intrekking" of their license at the LAR judge. They also believe that until that matter is settled, it would be imprudent to proceed with the bankruptcy hearing.
Objection # 2:According to the "toelichting" to art. 37 of the Lansverordening toezicht bank-en kredietwezen, (LTBK) two things must happen for bankruptcy to occur. (a) The capital must be negative, and (b) the portfolio must be wound down or transferred, or the bank must be believe that a transfer of the portfolio is not feasible. With the bank's cooperation, they are busy attempting the transfer their portfolio to a sister credit Union out of Nevis. This means that the transfer of the portfolio still remains a possibility, and as such, the conditions for declaring bankruptcy have not been met.
Objection #3:Members have agreed to conversion option, whereby some US$280,000 has been promised by members to be converted to equity, thus reducing negative equity. They anticipate raising enough such conversions to totally erase the negative equity of US, 395,000.
CKC counterclaim:In the event that the court, in spite of the objections, still proceeds to pronounce the bankruptcy of CKC, the following counterclaim is submitted by CKC:
Pursuant to art. 39 of the LTBK the central bank was supposed to have a deposit guarantee system in place. This was supposed to have been done since 1995 when the LTBK was introduced. As the bank has failed to implement the said deposit insurance, CKC holds the bank liable for covering 100% of member deposits . As the court can see in "verweerschrift" the Dutch Central Bank insures accounts up to 100,000 Euros, per account, with no limit to the number of accounts a depositor holds.
As Antillean Law follows closely Dutch law, CKC have every reason to believe that the
Central Bank of Curacao and St. Maarten should have implemented a similar system, which would have allowed depositors to place their deposits in such a manner that they would be 100% covered by the deposit insurance scheme. This could be easily accomplished by each member opening multiple accounts, with each accounting not holding more than the amount guaranteed.
In summary request the court -as far as the bankruptcy request is concerned- to:
- Reject the bankruptcy petition of CKC
- Put in on hold until the LAR case has been settled, or until the issue of the portfolio transfer has been settled.
In the matter of our counter claim which is conditioned upon the bankruptcy being pronounced, CKC request to court:
- Find the Central Bank liable for 100% of member deposits.
- Move the case to the normal docket for further proceedings.
Philipsburg:--- Members of the coalition government the United Peoples Party and the Democratic Party held a meeting at Parliament Building on Monday to discuss the 2011 budget as well the media reports concerning the leased land that was sold by Minister of Health and Labor Maria Buncamper-Molanus. While the meeting held on Monday was for all of the coalition partners the leader of the Democratic Party Sarah Wescot Williams and Maria Buncamper Molanus did not attend.
SMN News has been reliably informed that tempers flared during the meeting on Monday because all members of the coalition government in parliament are angry at Buncamper Molanus. The members it is understood are more concerned about possible money laundering and tax evasion investigations since the person who bought the economic value of the leased land is a pensioner.
Sources say that the members of parliament are totally embarrassed at the situation. However, they have decided to allow their coalition partner to deal with Buncamper Molanus before parliament takes action. SMN News also learnt that leader of Democratic Party Sarah Wescot-Williams met with Buncamper Molanus on Monday evening.
Several phone calls to the president of parliament went unanswered on Monday as SMN News attempted to get a comment from her.
In the meantime, President of the Democratic Party Michael Ferrier confirmed that his party is presently discussing the matter pertaining to Buncamper Molanus internally. Ferrier said the discussions are not yet over and he would not be making any statements until the discussions are completed.
Leader of the National Alliance William Marlin also confirmed that his faction has sent a letter to the chairlady of parliament requesting that she add another agenda point to the meeting they requested last week to discuss the 2011 budget and the increase in Turn over Tax. Marlin said the second agenda point is to discuss the alleged selling of leased land by Minister Buncamper Molanus and her husband Claudius Buncamper.
In the meantime, Prosecutor Bart den Hartigh confirmed that some documents were sent to the prosecutor's office but they have not yet decided if and when criminal an investigation would begin. "Our office still has to study the documents that were sent to us and we would have to determine if a criminal investigation has to be conducted." Hartigh said.
SIMPSON BAY:--- Authors Gerard van Veen and Felecita Williams will sign copies of their newest books at Van Dorp bookstore on the airport road, Simpson Bay, according to Mrs. L. Carty of Van Dorp.
Felecita and Gerard will be in the store on Saturday, December 18, 10 am-2 pm.
Holiday shopping for readers and youngsters in the family will get a sophisticated touch at Van Dorp this Saturday, said Jacqueline Sample, president of House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP).
"Having an author-autographed book to present to a family or friend who cherishes reading or who you would like to see get interested in reading a little more, is a unique style," said Sample.
Senior writer van Veen will sign copies of his Hakuna Matata and Other Travel Stories and any of his previous titles that may be available at the store.
One of the nation's newest authors, Felecita, returns for a second weekend at Van Dorp.
Williams said that she was "so surprised" last Saturday when asked to autograph a copy of her autobiographical Because of Prayer for her former MPC teacher who happened to drop in at Van Dorp and saw the author at the book signing table.
Both books were published by HNP.
"Attractive, quality and affordable 'Made in St. Martin Gifts®' for family, friends, co-workers, and visitors have long been a holiday treat from House of Nehesi. This year, teaming up with book industry partner Van Dorp for book signings is another way to reach out to the island's people and to our visitors with an original touch of the St. Martin experience," said Sample.
"Bring the kids, meet and talk with the authors at Van Dorp, get your gift books autographed, and have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year," said Sample.
GREAT BAY:--- Nutrition is the process of being nourished by eating food which is used for growth and daily activities.
Good nutrition which comprises of an adequate, well balanced diet combined with regular physical activity is the cornerstone of good health.
Poor nutrition can lead to reduced immunity, increased susceptibility to disease, impaired physical and mental development, and reduced productivity.
Every individual should empower themselves this holiday season to attain the best possible health throughout life.
Our bodies use vitamins and minerals that we need to be healthy.
The Collective Preventive Services (CPS) would like to see the nation making the best health choices for themselves. It has been well established that healthy lifestyle practices need to be introduced early in a child's development in order for them to become life-long habits.
This holiday season CPS would like everybody to eat healthy, act healthy and think healthy. Working is important, but a balance must be struck with exercise and eating healthy.
Happy Holidays – eat healthy, act healthy and think healthy.
Philipsburg:--- President of the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) Stuart Johnson (right) and Treasurer of the foundation Erno Labega (left) met with Managing Director of Scotiabank, Elie Bendaly last week. Scotia has been one of the foundation's premier partners for years, annually covering the cost for the official Carnival schedule of events, posters and uniform shirts. Bendaly expressed his appreciation for the foundation being able to meet with him much earlier than previous years. He also said he would be exploring the possibility to having his employees wear Carnival t-shirts every Friday during the Carnival period and would, as he has in the past, encourage businesses and the entire community to decorate for Carnival. The SCDF continues its early preparations for Carnival 2011 by meeting with sponsors, service providers and other stakeholders. The meetings will intensify after the Christmas holidays.
To the People of Sint Maarten,
Christmas is, for many, a period of hope and a time of spiritual renewal. Thus as we celebrate Christmas and close off 2010 let us take time out to reflect on what brought us to this point as a people. Let us be thankful that we live in Sint Maarten with all that it have offered and still has to offer. In doing so I call on you to activate the true Sint Maarten spirit and values as expressed in the creed, "The Friendly Island". As I make this call I urge you, as individuals and as a people to be mindful of the less fortunate, both among us and abroad, and to continue to care and share as manifested towards our Haitian brethren earlier this year.
Let this Christmas be a moment to reinvigorate our core values as a kind, caring, and sharing Sint Maarten people. Let us, mindful of the peaks and valleys of life, apply these values and our proven resilience, to face and overcome challenges. Resilience as have been demonstrated on various occasions and in particular in response to natural disaster.
Both characteristics of the St. Maarten people; friendly and resilient, which guide us in everything we do, combine to remind us that we are a strong people. Combine to remind us that a strong people in the spirit of Christmas, is a people with hope; is a nation with hope for something better.
As our young nation and new country looks back upon the events of a constitutionally historic year, and forward to the next, I call on all to reaffirm our commitment to uphold our core values and the principles of freedom, equality, solidarity and justice, upon which our nation was founded. In reaffirming my commitment I shall work on the promotion of "excellence in governance to serve the people of St. Maarten".
Christmas will remain, for many, a time when family and friends come together to celebrate and share the joy we feel and to hope for something better.
Marie-Louise and I wish you all a joyous, safe and peaceful Christmas.
May God bless you.
The Governor of Sint Maarten
Eugene B. Holiday
GREAT BAY:--- The Collective Preventive Services (CPS) and the Government Information Service (GIS) in a collective public service message is urging motorists not to "Drink and Drive," during the up-coming holiday weekend. The emphasis must be on keeping our roads safe.
We have to all reduce tragedy on the roads. The onus is on the one behind the wheel. You have a responsibility. Pay attention while driving by being discipline and not impatient. Also select a designated driver if you plan to have a couple of drinks.
There will be much partying going on over the holiday weekend at bars, restaurants and nightclubs. In order for every Sint Maarten family and visitors to be able to enjoy themselves, those driving on our roads club hopping need to be their brother's keeper by paying attention to those who may have had a little too much to drink.
Friends don't let friends drive drunk. Let us all have a safe weekend going into the New Year without having any road tragedies due to driving under the influence.
You also have the option of taking a taxi cab home or to your hotel if you are not able to drive. Don't become a danger to yourself and other road users.
The following appeal is part of the CPS in conjunction with the GIS Safe Holidays program.
Philipsburg:--- On Tuesday December 28th at approximately 08:40 pm several Zero Tolerance patrols were sent to the Fort Willem area where again residents complained about gunshots being fired in that area.
All streets of the Fort Willem area were immediately blocked off by the Zero Tolerance teams. On the scene, investigating officers got information that the possible suspect in this shooting had run into his apartment after this incident. A search of the apartment was carried out by police however, the suspect had already fled the scene. During a search of the apartment a revolver Smith and Wesson Cal. 38 Special with one bullet in the barrel, a box containing 50 bullets of the same calibre of the brand Remington and an air pressure rifle were found and confiscated.
No one has been arrested as yet in this case. The investigation in to this case as well as the recent cases that took place over the last two days is still ongoing.
In unrelated news a man was robbed on Back Street on Wednesday December 29th. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson identified the victim as G.P from the United States of America who is also a crew member on board the cruise ship "Ruby Princess" that was in port on Wednesday. The victim approached the police bike patrol on Back Street and told them that he went to the end of Back Street to purchase drugs. The man told police that a young man approached him and offered to sell him the drugs and lured him into a house. While in the house the victim told police that he was attacked by three other men one of which was armed with a handgun. Henson said the victim was threatened and robbed of his personal belongings. The police bike patrol accompanied the victim to the spot where the incident occurred and the suspects had already fled the scene. Henson said the victim was taken to the Philipsburg police station for him to file an official complaint but at some point he walked out of the police station without giving police an explanation.
GREAT BAY,– The Netherlands Antilles Bureau of Foreign Affairs and the Haitian Consulate in Willemstad, Curacao, are working together to assist Haitians in the Netherlands Antilles with getting information about their love ones in Haiti.
Specific telephone numbers have been assigned broken down into two groups where persons can call to register their name and provide information about family and love ones in Haiti.
The first group are Haitians residing in the Netherlands Antilles who have the Dutch nationality, can call the Bureau of Foreign Affairs in Curacao at 09-4613933 and ask for R. May or S. Nicolaas. Family members who also have the Dutch nationality can also call the aforementioned number between 7.30am to 5.00pm from Monday to Friday.
The persons name once they call will be noted along with their request pertaining to family members in Haiti who they are not able to reach.
Haitians who left the Netherlands Antilles and are in Haiti, and are not able to get back, this information should be relayed to the Bureau of Foreign Affairs.
The Dutch Embassy in the Dominican Republic is also involved in the coordination of a possible air or sealift out of Haiti of persons from the Netherlands Antilles who may now be stranded in Haiti due to the disaster.
Haitian residents in the Netherlands Antilles without the Dutch nationality should contact the Haitian Consulate Office in Willemstad, Curacao at the following number 09-4613434 and ask for Interim Consul General Renan Chery or Vice Consul Jean Claude Selime.
The reason this has been broken down into two groups is for efficiency and to have an effective process of registration and getting the information to the correct persons during this dire situation currently unfolding in Haiti.
Haiti suffered a devastating earthquake on Tuesday around 5.00pm having a 7.0 magnitude followed by a number of aftershocks measuring over magnitude 5.0.
The earthquake was centered about 10 miles west from Port-au-Prince and had a depth of approximately five miles.
GREAT BAY-----On Wednesday, January 13, at the Telem Building in the conference room, Commissioner William Marlin handed over 500 $5.00 Telcel cards to representatives of the Haitian Community, namely Dominique Vital, Host of Transparence Kompa and Thevalys Lazarre, President of Sensible Hearts for Haiti's Children Foundation in the presence of Telem's Chief Financial Officer Helma Etnel and the Sales & Marketing Manager, Carmen Lake-Reyes.
Firstly, I want to express my sympathy on behalf of government to the Haitian community. The devastation is tremendous. As time goes by things seems to get worse, Commissioner Marlin said.
These phone cards are meant for persons from the Haitian community to call their family and friends. The commissioner said that though for now the communication may be difficult for persons to reach Haiti, when the time arises, you can a make call to a loved one. He added that we are here to lend our support.
The TelCell phone cards will be distributed via Vital and Lazarre.
Haitians have helped built St. Maarten, now it is out duty to help them, Commissioner Marlin said.
"When I heard of the news, I immediately contacted the Telem management and that of UTS to see what kind of relief could be had for the Haitian community on St. Maarten. Although difficult to communicate now, I thought that nevertheless we have to try."
Nothing is as frustrating as not being able to communicate with family members, especially during times like these. We are as well grateful for any assistance from the community that they may assist in providing donations to the Haitian community, whether by dropping off goods or by donating clothes.
In addition, Commissioner Marlin said that the government is trying to establish a relief office, that will help those in need during trying times, but also to have a psychologist on hand for free consulting.
The public is also urged to donate non-perishables, clothes, and other canned goods.
Telem's CFO Helma Etnel also spoke to provide information about the cyber café located in the lobby of the Telem building.
We are making the cyber café available for a period of time to persons who want to communicate with their family and friends in Haiti via email or any other application. Though there is a time limit, we urge the Haitian community to utilize the Telem facilities.
In addition, Etnel said, our employees have set up collecting stations at all TelEm Group locations to collect non-perishable food items, clothes, and other emergency supplies for the earth quake victims. Please drop your donations into these boxes located at the entrances of each office.
The gesture was much appreciated by the two representatives of the Haitian community.
Dominique Vital said that on behalf of the Haitian Community, I want to thank the government and Telem. I would like to ask the St. Maarten community to pray for Haiti and its people. It is nothing small, he said. I have not been able to speak to my family back in Haiti.
Pastor Lazarre said that St. Maarten loves Haitians, and the Haitians love St. Maarten. I urge you to contribute whatever you can. I want to thank you again.
Marigot: -- The gendarmes arrested an 18-year-old female who was caught in a house in Orient Bay. The suspect who has to appear in court in February is also suspected of six other house robberies. A press release from the gendarmes stated that the suspect was caught inside a home in Orient Bay by the owner; however, she managed to escape but was captured by a vigilant neighbour who held her until the gendarmes arrived on the scene.
Philipsburg: --- The prosecutor's office has sent an official letter to Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police Ademar Doran informing him that the Prosecutor's Office would not prosecute detective Carlton Philips for alleged criminal acts he committed some seven years ago when he was working for the Criminal Intelligence Department (CID).
However, they also informed Doran that it is up to the Police Department to take disciplinary measures against Philips for the statements he made in the media about the police management team, thereby harming the image of the police.
SMN News learnt that the Prosecutor's Office also indicated to Doran that the prosecutor's office would not be working with Philips unless he makes an open apology for the statement he made against a member of the Public Prosecutor's office.
During the month of September Detective Philips sent an open letter to the media explaining that the police management team accused him of destroying evidence while he was head of that department. Philips said ever since he solved a double murder case, which had involved the son of one of his colleagues he suffered discrimination from the police management team. The detective also accused members of the police management team of self-enrichment.
Sources told this reporter that Doran did not inform Philips about the decision taken by the Prosecutor's office. SMN News learnt that Philips was assigned to work on one of the ongoing murder investigations. It is understood that one day after working on the case Philips was told that the prosecutor's office would not be working with him and that he was taken off the case. The source said Philips requested that he be notified of the decision in writing which was eventually given to him.
SMN News also learnt that the Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba has also invited Philips to Curacao and that he is expected to travel there sometime this week. It is still not clear if the KPSSS intends to take disciplinary measures against Philips since an investigation to clear his name was conducted by the Police Internal Affairs. So far the report on that investigation remains secret and Philips neither his lawyer was not made aware of the conclusions of the investigation which took place during the month of October 2009.
In an invited comment, Prosecutor Rienk Mud said the Prosecutor's Office decided not to launch a criminal investigation against Philips now. The facts happened years ago and it was already decided then not to pursue a criminal investigation. Mud further explained that on his own request Philips left the CID seven years ago to go and work for the Detective Department. With that move, the case was considered closed and no disciplinary measures were taken either.
The prosecutor said it is the opinion of the Prosecutor's Office that Philips should make a public apology with regards to the disqualifying remarks he made about a member of the Public Prosecutor's Office, before they can resume any working relations with him.
In an invited comment Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba confirmed that she indeed invited Philips to meeting however, she was not willing to say what the meeting is about since it had not taken place yet.
SMN News also contacted the attorney at law Reynold Groenveldt who said he is currently working towards finding the root cause of the reaction from the Public Prosecutor's Office. Groenveldt said that so far his client neither him has received a copy of the letter that was sent to the Assistant Chief Commissioner Ademar Doran by the Public Prosecutors Office. Groenveldt said that unless he gets that letter he would not be able to comment on the case.
CAY BAY— A disruption in the cooling water system caused a three-and-a-half hour island-wide power outage on Tuesday. Most areas were without electrical service for two hours with the last neighborhood coming online at 1:30 pm.
At 10:15 am the electricity grid shut completely down when emergency protection systems were automatically activated after detecting that cooling water levels were dropping to a dangerous level. In order to protect the power generation equipment the entire system shut down.
Maintenance work was being carried out on one of two cooling water basins. A combination of low tide and the malfunctioning of a major intake pump resulted in water levels dropping to critical levels. Due to the lack of sufficient water coming in and the low tide, the protection systems on sea water cooled engines were automatically activated and the engines were shutdown to protect them from overheating.
The two new air-cooled generators were able to pick up most of the load (approx. 22.6 Megawatts), however the voltage and frequency protection of the two new generators were activated as a result of disruption of the electrical grid as a result of the older engines being taken offline.
GEBE technicians worked diligently to fix the malfunctioned pump in order to get the water cooling system back up to normal operational levels.
This was successfully achieved with electricity being restored at approximately 11:30 am to the Cay Bay Power Plant. The start-up of generators began shortly after with the first residential district coming back online at 11:45 am and power being restored to the entire island by 1:30 pm.
Disruption in electricity production due to a cooling water issue has happened in the past. Continued investments in air-cooled generators are the only solution to resolving this matter from happening again.
GEBE currently uses sea water to cool the majority of its generators, however, Managing Director William Brooks is working on a plan to have these generators phased out in the coming years and replaced with new air-cooled generators similar to the two new generators currently undergoing testing at the Cay Bay Power Plant.
In the meantime, the two new 11.3 megawatt generators are still in a test phase, but running to full capacity and providing electricity to the St. Maarten community. Some additional tweaking and fine tuning is needed and this is being carried out by manufacturer Wartsila engineers.
Tuesday's outage caused by a lack of cooling water has taught GEBE technicians and Wartsila officials some invaluable lessons and data collected from the event will be analyzed and the production systems adjusted in order to further improve the provision of a reliable electricity production supply to the community by further limiting as much as possible unexpected malfunctions wherever humanly possible.
Philipsburg:---NAGICO's Haiti appeal launch on January 14th in quick response to the recent tragedy has netted good results in the first 6 days. The first of the items were loaded up on January 19th for delivery to the Red Cross. The collections which came from the NAGICO family -staff agents and associates- poured into NAGICO'S Philipsburg head office.
Coordinators of the collection drive, staff members Subrina Elgin Khan and Peta-Gaye Harriot were both pleased with the response and noted that this was the first delivery; the next one is scheduled to be done after the next collection date set for February 1st.
The collection drive called for foodstuff, clothing and other essentials and the NAGICO staff delivered; the donations included tarpaulins, sheets, clothing foodstuff and water. Some of the NAGICO family went the extra mile and donated money totaling US $420.55. The money was also donated to the Red Cross to assist in their relief efforts.
The organizers indicated that some staff and agents have already indicated that they will be donating items for the second phase of the relief drive which ends on February 1st.
GREAT BAY– Every election is an important one and the January 22, 2010 parliamentary election is expected to be the last one for the Netherlands Antilles as a constitutional entity. Persons elected to serve will be part of a historic process on the final leg where the country of Sint Maarten will be established, Governor Franklyn Richards who is also Chairman of the Main Voting Bureau, told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Wednesday.
"As Chairman of the Main Voting Bureau, allow me to emphasize the importance of the January 22 elections, when one takes into consideration the present on-going process aimed at assuming the status of country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands by October 10, 2010.
"Voting is embracing our responsibility to continue to provide and ensure free democratic values in our future constitution of country Sint Maarten as we depart from the Netherlands Antilles.
"All eyes are on Sint Maarten. Within the Kingdom and beyond, we are being looked at closely on how we are preparing ourselves to take over the status of country. The higher the turnout of voters to vote on January 22, the louder the message, that we are ready for country status. In 2006, 60 per cent of the electorate came out to vote. Let's do better this time by sending the strongest message ever.
"There should be a high turnout of voters for this last election for the parliament of the Netherlands Antilles, thereby confirming our democratic sense at the eve of transformation towards assuming more responsibilities for our own future.
"This election is just as important as the day of 10-10-10, as it tells about our desire and preparedness to take on the responsibilities and obligations of country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
"On January 22, do your part. Exercise your democratic right to vote. Actively participating is a social duty, an obligation we owe not only to ourselves, but to our fellow citizens.
"Allow me therefore on this particular occasion that in principle reflects our readiness for our new status, to call on all eligible voters to come out and cast their vote, this Friday, January 22," Governor Richards appeal to voters.
In accordance with articles 38 and 39 of the Dutch-Antillean Voters Regulation (Publication Sheet 1989, No. 78, as amended), every employer is obliged to provide his or her employee, who is eligible to vote on Friday, January 22, 2010, at least four (4) consecutive hours off from work, between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m., in order for that employee to cast his or her vote.
This obligation does not exist if the employee has four (4) consecutive hours off from work, within the hours in which he or she can cast his or her vote.
All persons eligible to vote in the upcoming elections, are asked to carefully look at their voting cards, before Election Day, and to acquaint themselves with the polling station in their respective district, at which they will be expected to cast their votes.
Voters should walk along with one of the following, either a valid ID card, a passport or a driver's license and their voting card when going to the polls.
Article 134 of the penal code of the Netherlands Antilles states: "he who intentionally impersonates another person, and participates in a legally prescribed election, is punished with a prison term of a maximum of one (1) year".
The general public is also asked to take note of article 131 of aforementioned penal code, which states:
'He who, during a legally prescribed election, obstructs a person from casting his vote, freely and unhindered, is punished with a prison term of a maximum of one (1) year".
With regards to outdoor rallies organized by political parties contesting Friday's elections, it should be noted that the final day when public political meetings may be held is this Wednesday, January 20.
The taking of photographs inside of polling stations is not allowed; nor camera phones or video cameras. Cellular phones must be turned off prior to entering the polling station.
In the interest of a smooth transition of the elections, an appeal is made to the general public to contribute towards having the day transpire in a quiet, dignified and peaceful manner.
In contrast to previous years, no formal ban on the sale of alcoholic beverages on Election Day 2010 will be in effect. This measure had been established in the past with an eye on contributing towards a quiet and otherwise unhindered going about one's business on Election Day and during the period that votes would be cast.
Notwithstanding, the objective of safeguarding a quiet and peaceful atmosphere on Election Day, remains unchanged.
The reason why there is no formal ban on the sale of alcoholic beverages on January 22 is that experience has shown that the measure was easy to circumvent but that the general public also conducted itself in such a mature and responsible manner, on past election dates, that the measure is not deemed necessary for Election Day 2010.
It must be emphasized that, on Election Day, voting at the various polling stations must be conducted in a neutral environment. Misuse of alcoholic beverage will, in any case, not be tolerated, particularly when this threatens the normal course of events at polling stations.
Philipsburg: --- The National Alliance under the umbrella team St. Maarten has made history early Saturday morning when the final results of the parliamentary elections was delivered. Gathering 6, 939 votes the National Alliance won all three seats in parliament. The Democratic Party came out with 3,560 votes, which was not enough for them to hold on to their only seat. While the Peoples Progressive Party 920 votes. Of the 11,419 votes that were casted, some 194 of them were invalid while there were 153 blank votes. For the first time 61% of the voters showed up at the 16 polling stations to cast their votes in a federal election.
Supporters of the National Alliance knew they were going to be victorious in this election as their party led the each of the 16 polling stations. The National Alliance supporters gathered outside of the Government Administration building as the results came in. As the scores were given the NA, supporters screamed out as they celebrate their party's victory. In 1975 the Democratic Party captured all three seats in parliament says moderator Edgar Lynch while this is the first time the National Alliance won an election outright.
Marlin made sure he thanked councilman Louis Laveist for his endorsement and his show of confidence towards the National Alliance. He said from day one Laveist wanted nothing in return for his support. Also witnessing the landslide and historical victory was Daren James the keynote speaker of the National Alliance congress. James flew back to St. Maarten to make sure he cast his vote on Friday. Also expressing gratitude to the supporters was commissioner vice president of the National Alliance Frans Richardson.
Leader of the National Alliance in his address said every member of the team worked hard to make sure they won, he said even though the campaign period was short it was an intense one. Marlin told his supporters that even though he and his vice president of the National Alliance Frans Richardson won the senate seats they would not be going to parliament since they are already commissioners in the island government.
Marlin made clear that the National Alliance or no one party can take St. Maarten to the finish line constitutionally and he called on the members of all other political parties especially the Democratic Party to return to the team St. Maarten. He said even though the people has given the mandate to the National Alliance they need to work hands in hands to realize what the people voted for some ten years ago. Marlin said the campaign is over and now is not the time to bicker since the clock is ticking and negotiations will have to begin as early as February 11.
Marlin said his party has been contesting elections for the past 32 years under the parties SPM, SPA and then the National Alliance and he thanked GOD for Friday's victory. He also thanked the voters who made sure they made use of their voting rights by making sure they cast their ballots. He said the winning is not for any one party instead it is St. Maarten that won and they must come together in the interest of the entire island.
Airport: --- The Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIAE) was thrown into darkness for more than an hour on Sunday. According to information reaching SMN News the power box that is connected to the generators failed when electricity from GEBE went off.
Sources told this reporter that no one on duty was able to re-program the power box, leaving the airport in darkness as well as all doors closed for more than an hour. Several passengers and other persons who were at the airport at the time were heard using profanity, as they could not get out of the building. SMN News learnt that only one employee working at the Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIAE) knows how to reprogram the power box and management had to go looking for the employee to get power back on. The airport did not release any information on this incident up to press time.
Bellevue/St. Peters: --- Twenty-Two year- old Leonado Carter better known as Nado is the first person to lose his life on the roads on the French St. Martin. Carter died on the spot on Bellevue road after losing control of his motorcycle on Sunday morning. According to his, mother Valerie Carter her son left home around 7 am to go to the racetrack in Bellevue. She said Leonado built the bike he was riding from scratch as he first ordered a manual and then the parts online to build this bike, which he considered very special.
Mrs. Carter said two of her late son's friends came to her home around 5 am and woke up Leonardo so he could go to the racetrack where he was supposed to ride the bike for the first time. "Leonado is always at the track even if he is just a spectator at times," his mother explained.
The distraught mother said shortly after 10.00 am one of her niece went to her and informed her that her son had gotten into an accident and the French gendarmes were not releasing him unless someone could identify him. The mother said she was taken to the scene where she saw her son's body on the ground. "When I saw him there I asked them why he was still there and why no one took him to the hospital. I also wanted to know why they could not identify him since Leonardo always walks with his documents. It was then I learnt from some of the bystanders that a "white French woman" took his belongings and left with it. This person stole my son's telephone, his necklace, ring, and a backpack containing all his documents for the bike as well as himself." Mrs. Carter said the gendarmes told her that when they arrived on the scene they did not find anything on her son's body. "What I don't understand is why no one stopped the person who stripped my dead son of his belongings. I also want to know where are the two friends who came to my home early in the morning to take Leonado to the racetrack. How is it they could not identify him and why they never came back to the house to let me know what took place." She asked.
However, late Sunday evening the two friends visited Mrs. Carter and informed her that what she heard were all rumors. Mrs. Carter told SMN News late Sunday evening that the friends told her they are in possession of all her son belongings including another bike, all of which they promised to hand over on Monday.
Mrs. Carter further explained that her son was fully dressed in his biker suit, shoe, and helmet yet he suffered severe head and bodily injuries. The mother said they are of the opinion that her son broke his neck during the accident but that could not be confirmed.
She said she learnt her son lost control of the bike and hit on a huge rock. "I found his gloves and shoe in a tree on the side of the road.
At her home, she had small pieces from the bike as well as parts of the helmet, which she picked up from the side of the road. So far, there is no official communication from the gendarmes about the deadly accident has been released. Commandant Stephanne Arrousseau said an investigation into the fatal accident has just begun.
SMN News learnt that Leonado was racing along the Bellevue road with another person side by side when he lost control and crashed into a concrete wall. It is understood that the two bikers began racing from the Cole Bay border toward Marigot when the accident occurred. Up to press time no one could say who was the other biker.
Leonado Carter, was born in Rhode Island USA, he was a former student of the St. Maarten Academy and employee of Seaview Hotel. He leaves to mourn his mother, father, sister, and girlfriend.
Marigot: -- The gendarmes have arrested a 22-year old man who is suspected of snatching a handbag from a tourist as well as stealing a laptop from a boat in Sandy Ground. The culprit has been summoned to court on April 15.
In a un related incident a motor cycle rider was transported to the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital with head injuries. The rider collided with a car next to Match Howel Centre. An investigation into the accident has started.
Philipsburg:----The St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association's Visitstmaarten.com Call Center is pleased to introduce its first staff member, Ms. Ayanna Guy, who has been employed as the Call Center agent.
Ms. Guy, born and raised on St. Maarten, left for the Netherlands to pursue her studies in 2000, where she obtained a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Hospitality Management. Her work experience includes traineeships and posts at Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide and the prestigious Ritz Carlton Company.
The SHTA chose Ms. Guy, because of her education, skills, and ability to not only assist in the development of the call center but also to eventually manage it. The SHTA is certain that Ms. Guy will make a great addition to the team.
The initiative of the call center was suggested during the Economic Summit held earlier this year and was subsequently listed in the Economic Stimulus Report as a private sector initiative. Due to the fact that revenue generated from stay over tourism accounts for 80 per cent of the island's overall income, SHTA and UTS decided that the obvious stimulus approach would be to increase the number of visitors to our destination. Therefore, both organizations hope to accomplish this by steadily increasing the number of travelers to SHTA's consumer website: www.VisitStMaarten.com. The goal is to then convert these potential travelers into visitors through calls via the 1-800 number on the website, which would be directed to the local call center. The call center will provide tourist information and the option to book reservations.
All member resorts, hotels, small hotels, activities, and other tourism related services now have a great opportunity to have their products and services sold from our very own call center. For more information on the VisitStmaarten.com call center, please contact the SHTA office on 542-0108.
Philipsburg:---Former Democratic Party Commissioner and island councilmember Louis Laveist is scheduled to appear in joint court of appeal on Thursday morning. Laviest was charged with bribery, forgery and forging of documents relating to work permits. Laveist was convicted on April 28 last year on all counts. Judge Rick Smid convicted Laviest on all charges and banned him from public office for five years.
The court found it proven that Laveist forged the minutes of the Culture Club Foundation to defraud AMFO of Naf. 22, 750. It was also found proven that Laveist and his executive assistant Roberto Richardson accepted a bribe from BEMAL NV in the form of two plane tickets to Canada and $10, 000 as he had intended to use his influence as a commissioner to grant the company the contract to furnish the new government administration building.
Also found proven is Laviest accepted $6,000 from Bargains Unlimited to his foundation Culture Club, the judge found that Laveist again used his influence as the commissioner of labor who was responsible for the granting of working permits used his influence to grant the businessman a working permit while there was a moratorium in place. Laviest was also found guilty as an accomplice for a hiring Samuel Boney (Sammy) the barber to work illegally in a barbershop belonging to his sister.
Laveist was condemned to serve 18 months in prison, nine of which are conditional; less time spent behind bars during his pre-trial detention. Laveist must pay a fine of Naf.5, 000 or spend 55 days behind bars, with three years probation. The judge also banned Laviest from holding any position in the civil core or any public office even if elected or appointed for the next five years.
In the ruling, the judge said the suspect did not give the impression that he cared about conflict of interest. Judge Smid concluded that the suspect did not behave himself as a commissioner in a transparent manner nor with integrity. Judge Smid felt the suspect (Laveist) has misused the power granted to him for personal gain, which made him guilty of corruption.
Laveist is represented by attorney at law Ralph Richardson who is currently on sick leave. SMN News learnt that Attorney at law and former prosecutor Cor Merx will be representing Laveist in the absence of Richardson.
Philipsburg - Justice Committee of the Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles held a press conference at the Parliament building to update the media, and in turn the community, on the outcome of the meetings they held with Community groups and the Crime Task Force St. Maarten regarding the surge in violent crime on the island.
Present at the Press Conference was Marlon Jamaloodin, Chairman of the Justice Committee of the Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles, Senators Nelson Navarro, and D. Isenia, and Rodolphe Samuel from St. Maarten, Elco Rosario of the Crime Task Force St. Maarten.
Senator Rodolphe Samuel said that although some community groups are well organized and active, there are other community organizations that need to improve their organization workings. In addition, these groups would do well to work together in assisting, preventing and solving crime.
When compared to the year 2008, last year 2009, crime has decreased; however, violent crime has been increasing.
Senator Samuel added that the Justice Committee will request more information on the crime situation, and they will look closely at the numbers, and come up with some solutions and preventive measures that could be taken within the short-term, but also look for ways to decrease crime in the long run.
Elco Rosario said that the meetings have been informative and fruitful. He added that efforts have been made to curb crime, but we have not seen the results as yet. There needs to be more organized groups that are well functioning.
This press conference culminates 2 days of the Justice Committee meeting with various community groups on St. Maarten regarding crime in the Windward Islands and in particular St. Maarten.
The Justice Committee will construct a report and have discussions in Parliament to address the issue of crime in the Windward Islands and on St. Maarten.
Cul de Sac --- Students on a school bus fired shots at a passing vehicle in the Cul de Sac area. SMN News learnt that at least one person has been shot. Police boarded the school bus in question and arrested two students who were in possession of firearms.
Prosecutor Rienk Mud confirmed that two students were arrested the two students were in possession of a firearm. Mud said the shooting took place somewhere in the St. Peters area but based on information he received no one was injured.
In the meantime, Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson in a press release said between 01.00 pm and 02.00pm a clash between gangs from Cul de Sac and a gang from Philipsburg broke out. Henson said the clash began somewhere in the vicinity of Cake House L.B Scot Road. He said a group of students attacked a school bus with license plate G-53, he said the bus was on its way from South Reward to Philipsburg.
According to eyewitnesses, the group of young students on the L.B. Scot road attacked another group of students in the school bus by throwing bottles. Witnesses further stated that they heard at least two gunshots going off and at least one of the shots came from the school bus. The driver of the school bus tried to keep the situation under control by continuing to drive towards Philipsburg.
Police responded to the scene immediately Henson said. Hensons explained several police patrols were sent to the area to investigate the circumstances of the gunshots.
Police caught up with the School Bus on Bush Road in the vicinity of Suki Restaurant. Police also spoke to the driver of P-8215 who told police that one of the bullets hit his vehicle during the shooting. A bullet hole was in the upper left corner of the windshield of the car.
The bullet had also entered the headrest of the passengers-seat. No one was sitting on that seat during the incident. Henson said an intense search took place on the school bus to locate the firearm. During the search, a black school bag belonging to a female student with initials G.D. located under the seat and in this bag a revolver brand Smith and Wesson caliber .38 with five bullets and one spent cartridge found. This firearm was confiscated along with two machetes and three knives that were found. In total nine students that were on the bus have been taken to the police station for questioning to try to determine exactly what took place. The investigation is ongoing by the Detective department.
The police on St. Maarten have been calling on parents on several occasions to take charge of their children since they are not able to do it alone. Last year the police department took special time out and conducted several controls on these schools buses. Each time a control was conducted the police confiscated several weapons. The police also left their normal duties and went to schools where they lectured students regarding violence and weapon. However, something seems not to be working because the students who were controlled during these random controls had the guts to take guns and machete to school and to use it in public domain.
It appears that students attending schools on St. Maarten are losing respect for their parents, teachers, their peers, as well as themselves. Somehow, there is a feeling that these youngsters have no respect for life anymore. In several homes, minors are left to care for themselves since their parents are working overtime to make ends meet.
Government on the other hand is yet to provide more sports ground and organized activities to occupy these youngsters who are left alone at home with their television as their guardians.
It is said that it takes a community to raise a child, something that parents and grandparents of the past utilized well. There was less crime on the Caribbean islands among youths when the older folks coordinated their efforts. Moral values and respect was high on the agenda of these parents while today's parents are focusing on material gains and not the lifestyle of their children.
However, the so-called civilized parents do not see the need to work hand in hand with their neighbors and teachers to keep their children in line. Teachers would say that they are not allowed to use corporal punishment in schools since it is against the law, however they are allowed to suspend minors with behavioral problems. Suspending these students is not the answer to the moral issues facing St. Maarten schools. It is time for the justice department to consider prosecuting the parents of these students who are caught breaking the law. Let the parents go behind bars and the youths in a correctional facility, which might be one of the solutions if we are to curb youth violence.
World Wetlands Day has been commemorated annually since 1997. Hundreds of Non-Governmental Organizations and other community-based groups around the world make use of this second day of February to take special action aimed at raising government and public awareness of the importance of protecting wetlands.
Today Tuesday February 2, 2010 "World Wetlands day," marks 39 years since the adoption of the Ramsar Convention/Convention on Wetlands in the Iranian City of Ramsar in 1971. "The Convention's mission is the conservation and wise use of all wetlands through local, regional, and national actions and international cooperation, as a contribution towards achieving sustainable development throughout the world." (Ramsar COP8, 2002). Presently there are over 150 signatories to the convention with more than 1800 wetland sites designated for inclusion in the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Significance.
Sint Maarten is party to the Ramsar Convention as part of the Netherlands Antilles and the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The Netherlands Antilles has so far designated five so-called "Ramsar sites" all on the island of Bonaire (Salina Slagbaai, Goto, Pekelmeer, Lac, and Klein Bonaire). The Convention however encourages parties to add more wetlands to already designated Ramsar sites.
This year's World wetlands day has particular significance for St. Maarten as the neglect and under appreciation of our wetlands, natural and cultural heritage has never been more apparent than it is now with the ongoing filling-in of the Great Salt Pond for the Ring road project.
This systematic filling in and destruction of ponds and the Simpson Bay Lagoon has evidently become the norm rather than an exception despite EPIC and St. Maarten Pride Foundation's numerous calls for the protection of St. Maarten's few remaining wetlands.
In 1950 Dutch Sint Maarten boasted at least 19 ponds (all documented in maps available at the Cadastre's office); by 1995 this had been reduced to 10 ponds and today 15 years later less than 5 remain intact. A list of ponds that have been destroyed in the past decade alone includes the two ponds at Cup coy (completely destroyed in February 2005 for the Porto Cup coy project), the pond at Guano Bay (completely destroyed in March 2005) and Dawn Beach pond (completely destroyed in May 2005 by Columbia Sussex for the Westin hotel).
Dutch Sint Maarten's Ponds as registered at the Cadastre's Office Current Status
1. Atwill Pond (Now Chesterfields restaurant) Destroyed
2. Point Blanche Pond Destroyed
3. Jumble Pond (Now area of Sell Madura) Destroyed
4. Old Bloomindales (elemental) Pond (area of Sundial School) Destroyed
5. Little Bay Pond/ fort Adam or Lay bay Pond (now area of Dive Hotel) Destroyed
6. Fresh Pond Polluted, under threat, still of high environmental/ ecological significance
7. Great Salt Pond Polluted, under threat, still of high environmental/ ecological significance
8. Phoebe Pond (Elide Road) Destroyed
9. Guano Bay Pond Destroyed (March 2005)
10. Red Pond Under threat, still of high environmental/ ecological significance
11. Dawn Beach Pond/Ravine Rouge Destroyed by Columbia Sussex for Westin hotel (May 2005)
12. Oyster Pond Under threat, still of high environmental/ ecological significance
13. Little Bay/ Blair Pond (Welgelegen Pond ) under threat, still of high environmental/ ecological significance
14. St. Johns Pond Destroyed (1994)
15. Cay Bay Pond (behind cay bay cemetery) Destroyed
16. Flamingo Pond Destroyed for airport expansion (1998)
17. Mullet Bay Pond Under threat from redevelopment of Mullet Bay area, still of high environmental/ ecological significance
18. Maho Pond Destroyed
19. Cupecoy Pond 1 Destroyed (February 2005)
20. Cupecoy pond 2 Destroyed (February 2005)
Sint Maarten's ponds have been recommended for protection in reports such as The Ponds of Sint-Maarten, (Ecovision, 1996), the Carrying Capacity Study, the Tourism Master plan and many other reports and studies which concluded that the ponds are of ecological and environmental importance. Some of the island's remaining ponds, especially Little Bay Pond and Mullet Pond, may therefore have a good chance of meeting the criteria of being wetlands of (inter)national significance and could potentially be designated as Ramsar sites.
EPIC and St. Maarten Pride Foundation therefore reiterate their demand that government develops, implements and enforces Zoning Plans and Wetland Protection legislation to protect Sint Maarten's few remaining wetlands. The Foundations also renew repeated calls for the implementation of the already compiled Marine Park Ordinance which has been awaiting Government's approval since the document was completed in 2005.
EPIC, St. Maarten Pride Foundation, Nature Foundation and the Seaside Nature Park will be planting several species of plants found along St. Maarten's coast at the Park's grounds in Cay Bay in recognition of the importance of St. Maarten's wetlands and coastal zones during the course of this week. Date and time will be announced in a subsequent press release.
Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association met with the Executive Council on Thursday January 28, 2010 at the Government Administration Building. The meeting was upon request of the SHTA to discuss amongst others, the lack of structured public private partnership.
In its opening statement, the SHTA informed the Executive Council of the challenges hotels are facing. The combined occupancy and room rate for 2009 shows a 27% drop over 2008 and the average spending per visitor has reduced. This pattern is being transmitted to other sectors as well. Wholesalers, for example, are reporting problems with receivable collections and an increase in requests for lengthening payment terms of outstanding bills.
Furthermore, research going forward shows that hotels are already discounting heavily for the 2010 Summer season as well as going into the high season, which is also a testament to Dr. Tromp's statement at the SHTA's Annual Meeting that 2010 will be the most economically challenging year.
Following the introduction, the following agenda items were handled.
Tourism Authority
The SHTA requested an update on the status of the Tourism Authority. Commissioner Frans Richardson stated that the final draft should be finalized within the first two weeks of February and that the SHTA will then receive a copy for final comments.
Development of a Hotel school (from the 10th European Development Fund)
The SHTA was asked to take part in a 4 day workshop to assist in designing a project that could be used for the 10th EDF. The participants of that meeting decided on a hotel/ hospitality school. The SHTA has since requested updates, but was told that the plan was delivered to the Executive Council.
Commissioner Fran Richardson stated that no document has reached the Executive Council, but will seek clarity on the matter.
Crime
The SHTA relayed its concern that if the economy worsens, so will crime and therefore suggested that St. Maarten should follow the French side and increase police presence on the streets. Lt. Governor Richards agreed and stated that crime is also a social issue and therefore placed a lot of emphasis on public/private partnership and community involvement. He also listed several actions currently being undertaken to address the issue. These include:
o Reorganizing the police force: This plan is expected to be approved in February 2010 and implemented soon after.
o Letters have been sent to the Central Government requesting reinforcements. These will be coming to the island soon.
o The Island is working with several Dutch municipalities and Suriname on a trajectory to get additional reinforcements. This is in process.
o Surveillance system will soon start in key areas.
The Lt. Governor also stated his desire to alter the application requirements for the police force; mainly, the language component.
Public Transportation
The SHTA stated that after reviewing some of the travel websites, it appears that traffic is one of the top complaints from visitors. -This was also reflected in the results of the Exit Survey the SHTA conducted a few years back at the Airport. - The SHTA believes this is largely due to the lack of a structured public transportation system. The SHTA was then given a progress report on the Changing Lanes project, in which public transportation is being addressed. This project is set to begin within the next two months. Some of the plans being explored include:
o Ensuring that public transportation covers all areas ( and to bring an end to gypsies)
o Stopping busses from running through backstreet, but instead establishing a bus terminal near town. Ferries will then be available to take persons into town
o Building a road through the lagoon, from the Airport to the Dutch/ French border in Bellevue
o If things continue to worsen, Government may have to consider restricting the number of cars per household.
Sustainable Development
The SHTA also hoped to discuss Sustainable Development, but because the subject is so broad and covers an array of issues, such as waste management, zoning and reef protection, Lt. Governor Richards requested that the SHTA schedule a follow up meeting.
All in all the meeting was very productive and informative. The goal of the meeting was not to advocate what Government should be doing, but to stress the need for structural public/ private partnership to weather the storm ahead.
...
Airport:---Winair has joined the long list of companies along with organizations and institutions who have been lending tangible assistance to the government and people of Haiti in an effort to help in rebuilding the country.
The help being provided by Winair to the Haitians has been described as appropriate and very timely by Chairman of the Board of Directors, Fernando William who commented on the January 12th disaster following the 7.0 magnitude earthquake.
Chairman William noted that while Winair has its current challenges and difficulties it cannot just put a blind eye to the enormous and continued suffering of the people of Haiti which he noted has been dominating the media houses covering the disaster. He stressed that his company will continue to seek ways and avenues in providing further assistance stressing the need for more companies, organizations and institutions to come on board so as to lend whatever help that they can.
In a message to employees at the company's year end dinner, Managing Director, Edwin Hodge said that the needs in Haiti are proving to be immense, requiring a massive response from the international community. As such, he announced that his company will be making a donation of $7,000.00USD.
He noted that he hopes that the monies being donated by his company will aid in assisting with meeting the needs of the people there. Hodge declared that his company while not in Haiti is ready and willing to help those affected in any way possible.
The Winair MD pointed out that his company saw the need to lend a helping hand noting that disasters requires the significant assistance and support of all so as to rebuild after such a devastating earthquake. He urged his employees to remember the Haitian people on a daily basic stressing the need to continue recognizing that whenever disaster strikes one place it affects all others directly and indirectly.
Meanwhile, according to media reports the critical focus at this stage continues to be to address relief needs, including the provision of emergency medical assistance, clean water and the distribution of basic relief items. However, assessments with a view to long-term recovery planning are already taking place to ensure that livelihoods and infrastructure issues are addressed appropriately and in a timely manner.
Further reports coming out of Haiti indicated that the Haitian Government estimates that 75 percent of the city of Port-au-Prince needs to be rebuilt. Population movements to areas outside the capital are being monitored and assessments are ongoing.
Philipsburg -- The St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) is announcing the following events for registration; Junior & Senior Carnival Queen Show, Junior Road March and Calypso Competition, Youth Extravaganza show, Senior Road March Competition and Junior & Senior Parade.
Stuart Johnson, Vice President of SCDF said, "The planning of Carnival 2010 continues, as we continue to remedy the ongoing situation." Johnson added, "the first meeting with the promoters had been held on Monday and other meetings of the respective stakeholders shall continue." Future meetings of the foundation will be announced in subsequent media reports.
Registration forms can be picked up and dropped off at the security desk at the Government Administration Building as of today February 2nd 2010 between the hours of 8:00am to 5:00pm.
MARIGOT— The gendarmerie is calling on members of the community to send any information they have concerning the whereabouts of an American national who disappeared since January 21 2010. According to a press release from the gendarmerie the missing man has been identified as Robert Brous who was born on Septemnver 10 1968 in New York. Brous was last seen driving a blue BMW rental car with license plate 751 ZBF 971. Anyone having information that could lead to Brous whereabouts is urged to call 00590 590 52 30 00.
Philipsburg: NAGICO has gained the expertise of an insurance professional with over 25 years of industry experience in the person of Karson Bovell, the new Manager of the Group Life & Medical Department. With 21 of these years spent in the group pensions, group life and health insurance areas, we can say he has definitely come of age in insurance terms and NAGICO will be relying on his insurance expertise to lead the expansion and development of the company's Group Life & Medical Insurance products.
Karson Bovell's insurance designations are many. Among his qualifications, he has achieved the following: Fellow of the Life Management Institute (FLMI) Diploma, Fellow of the Financial Services Institute (FFSI) Diploma, Associate of the Annuity Products and Administration (AAPA) Diploma, Fellow of the Life and Health Claims (FLHC) Diploma, Health Insurance Associate (HIA) Diploma designations, in addition to a few others.
Mr. Bovell's experience extends to the handling of the group life, health and pensions insurance portfolios across the Caribbean and his last position was at Sagicor Life as their Manager – Employee Benefits Marketing.
In this regard, Karson, a Barbadian, has spent considerable time designing, marketing, implementing and managing the administration of the group life, health, pension and long-term disability plans for various corporate clients in Barbados, the OECS, The Bahamas, Belize and the Netherland Antilles.
Added to this, his solid background in various other areas of the industry has benefitted him over the years and NAGICO can be sure that his practical knowledge of areas such as Individual Policyholder Servicing, Finance, General Accounting and Internal Audit will shape his approach to his new position.
GREAT BAY: --- Two of St. Maarten's top bodybuilders, Francois Carty and Body Building Champion Leon Bussue, on Thursday, made a presentation to sports commissioner Frans Richardson.
Carty, who is owner of J.C.'s Gym on the French Side said that he was particularly encouraged after St. Maarten's participation at a recent bodybuilder's event held in Anguilla. The initiative has been taken to establish a French side bodybuilding association, which would be affiliated with the world bodybuilding federation.
Carty and Bussue disclosed that among upcoming events at which St. Maarten is to be represented at the ECC competition event in Barbados in May.
The hosting of an inter-island bodybuilders competition is scheduled for June on St. Maarten. Participating islands will be Guadeloupe, St. Barths, St. Maarten (Dutch side / French side) and Anguilla.
GREAT BAY--- Deputy Leader of Government, Commissioner Theo Heyliger, is very pleased with the response of the St. Maarten nation towards Haiti whose capital city Port-au-Prince was devastated on January 12 by an earthquake.
Emergency relief and response operations are continuing in Haiti. The Government of Haiti remains challenged in managing and coordinating the relief efforts.
"It has been an outpouring of support for our brethren in Haiti in prayers, goods, medicines, and funds. The losses are overwhelming and without a doubt, members of the St. Maarten Haitian community will know somebody who has been directly or indirectly impacted by this horrible natural event.
The St. Maarten people have stood in solidarity with the countless earthquake victims in Haiti. Almost a month this week since the earthquake, the current demands of the Haitian people remains housing, shelter, food, water and health care.
In the months ahead, the post-disaster period, the people of Haiti will face the challenge of recovery and reconstruction for the millions affected which includes women, men and children.
I call on individuals and businesses to continue with their efforts to help the people of Haiti after going through a tragedy of immense proportions," Deputy Leader of Government Commissioner They Heyliger told the Government Information Service (GIS).
A central committee of Parliament was held on Tuesday February 9, 2009 at 09.00 with the agenda a discussion with the Curacao Sports Federation (CFS) to get its own recognition to establish its own Olympic Committee for country Curacao. In a General membership meeting the Curacao Sports Federation unanimously decided to set up a Curacao National Olympic Committee to look into the possibilities of The Curacao Sports Federation getting its own Olympic recognition after Curacao becomes a country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. However the Rules of the Handbook of the International Olympic Committee were changed in 1996. The change of article 31.1 refers to the fact that the country has to be independent. CFS wants to contest this matter in courts and is requesting the Central Government to make Ang. 120,000 available to embark on this legal process. What the CFS wants to address is the interpretation of this rule. We expressed that St. Maarten sports Federation will also like to have its own representation in the Olympic Committee. St Maarten also would like to have its own flag flown and its own anthem sang but standing in its way is also the amendment to the hand rules of the Olympic Committee. What is interesting is that the Curacao Sports Federation (CFS) in a letter dated February 9, 2010 accused the NAOC of giving incorrect information to the International Olympic Committee, a statement that they later retracted stating it was a wrong choice of words. The Netherlands Antilles Olympic Committee (NAOC) is a member of the International Olympic Committee. And although the Netherlands Antilles will be dismantling on October 10, 2010 the NAOC probably under another name still wants to represent all five islands of the Netherlands Antilles afterward they become country Curacao, St. Maarten and the BES Islands. This apparently is also supported by the Netherlands Olympic Committee (NOC) in a letter written in 2007. The Central committee of Parliament also held discussions with the NAOC on Wednesday February 10, 2010 at 09.00 on this matter. A meeting was hastily convened for 5.00 p.m. with the committee of Finance and the committee of Education and Culture. This was done to seek support from parliament to approve the Ang. 120,000 the Curacao Sports Federation requested to start legal procedures against the International Olympic Committee. Our faction could not agree to this because nowhere was St. Maarten mentioned.
What was for us an extremely important meeting was the central committee meeting on Tuesday February 9, 2010 at 2.00 p.m. to discuss the Draft Ordinance to amend the Island Regulation of the Netherlands Antilles (ERNA) making it possible for the Island councils of the Island Territories of Curacao and St. Maarten to be dismantled separately in order to hold early elections. Our faction had problems with the difference between the wording in the proposal (Aanbieding) and the wording in the draft (Ontwerp). In the proposal No.1 it says thatin the mean time each island council of the Island Territory of Curacao and St. Maarten could be dismantled separately .In the Draft it says No.2 It states that the Island councils of the Island territories of St. Maarten can be dismantled in the meantime. It did not mention the word separately. We need a guarantee that St. Maarten is not left in the cold.
Curacao already has its infrastructure in place if they choose to leave now St. Maarten will be left in a precarious situation because our infrastructure still has to be put in place.
Furthermore on page 2 of the draft ordinance our faction asked for a more detailed explanation of Article 16a sub 1 to 4. We also wanted to know why preconditions were set for the Island territory of St. Maarten to extend our island council from 11 to 15 members. Because as far as we know the 3 previous times the Island Regulation of the Netherlands Antilles was amended there weren't any preconditions set.
We definitely need to study this very technical document properly because after the approval by the Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles and then the Kingdom government having it amended again might not be easy. It has taken us almost 10 years to get here and the faction of the National Alliance had always said that we were not ready. Don't forget we need to have a good starting position. Now that we are closer than ever to becoming country St. Maarten we should not allow ourselves to be pushed into something that will not benefit the people of St. Maarten. Everyone must cooperate with us to accomplish this feat.
Our final central committee meeting was held with the Directorates of the Roman Catholic School Board, Public Schools and the United Protestant Christian Education. The discussions had to do with the ongoing escalation of aggression of children in school. This meeting that lasted some 4 hours brought out again the importance of parents, government and society as a whole working together. Albeit a universal problem it does not diminish our responsibility to come up with the human and financial resources.
Philipsburg:---The announcement made by Minister Jacoba that grand scale post-brooks towers controls, starting March 1, will be held is reason for the St. Maarten Bar Association to express its serious concerns, the Secretary of the St. Maarten Bar Association, Attorney at Law Mr. Remco M. Stomp stated.
Only recently the Bar has learned that in a period of at least 8 months holding cells for undocumented persons should be realized, at the moment St. Maarten does not have separate holding cells for the group mentioned. People who are found without papers must share their cells with criminal suspects of all categories. The only holding cell capacity on St. Maarten is to be found in Philipsburg at the police station.
Criminal suspects and undocumented persons are cramped in small cells where they sleep either on the concrete floor or on unhygienic thin mattresses. There is no natural light and rodents and cockroaches are frequent guests. In addition some detainees burn toilet paper to create smoke in order to scare away the mosquito's, creating a very unhealthy environment for the people that are held in those cells as well as police personnel that is expected to keep an eye out for their well being, Stomp said. In short the cells are not fit for any human being. The above mentioned is no news and the St. Maarten Bar has expressed its concerns many times. Several judges have ruled in very clear terms about this unlawful situation.
The European Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CPT)(The Secretariat of the CPT forms part of the Council of Europe's Directorate General of Human Rights also became aware of the situation on St. Maarten.
It was only in 2002 that a CPT committee visited the police cells of Philipsburg St. Maarten for the first time and reported:
"Each cell measured some 10 m2 and, in principle, was designed for single occupancy. Despite this, up to four detainees were being accommodated per cell. The cells were equipped with a concrete platform and a semi-partitioned lavatory and shower. However, many sanitary annexes were in an advanced state of dilapidation; toilet-flush and water supply for the showers did not work properly and buckets had to be used. Moreover, none of the cells was equipped with mattresses or bedding or any piece of furniture, and detainees had to sleep on the concrete platform or on the floor, using some clothes to protect them from the cold at night. Further, the cells had no access to natural light and artificial light was weak. Ventilation in the cell complex was also poor; a fetid smell emanating from the toilets permeated the whole detention area. In addition, the cells were filthy and full of rubbish; as a consequence, small rodents were said to be found in the cell complex at night. The cells were not equipped with call bells and staff was not continuously present within the cell complex. This being said, a police officer entered the cell area at least every hour (a fact registered in the log book). No activities whatsoever were offered to the detainees on remand or the illegal aliens. Access to the existing semi-outdoor exercise yard (70 m²) was only granted when the cleaning team was working once a week in the cell area."
In their letter of 11 July 2002, in response to the immediate observation, the Netherlands Antilles authorities informed the Committee that the renovation activities planned for Philipsburg Central Police Station and scheduled to last approximately eight weeks were taking place and that police detainees were in the meantime being held in Pointe Blanche Prison. Furthermore, they indicated that measures would be taken after the renovation of the cell complex to comply with the above recommendations"Five years later, in June 2007, a CPT commission visited the local police cells once again, only to find that things got even worse.
In March of last year Secretary of State Anke Bijleveld reported to the Second Camber of the Netherlands that the situation is very worrying.
Yet Minister Jacoba seems to be ready to conduct great scale operations against undocumented people on St. Maarten. Meanwhile no new cells have been constructed. Particularly at a time that the few hard working police and VKS personnel St. Maarten has are working overtime to put a halt to the ever increasing crime on our island, the planning seems awkward. Flying in temporary assistance from Curacao may result in the arrest of more individuals however the question remains where they are going to be held. For one has to keep them in humane conditions providing them with food and shelter and last but not least guaranteeing their legal right to an attorney. The impression is sometimes given that only criminal suspects have right to an attorney. The Bar wants to make clear to the public that everyone who is being detained by the authorities has the right to consult an attorney, provided (and paid) by the State if needed.
Another reason the Bar is concerned, is with regards to the population of Haitian descent on St. Maarten. At a time that our community is engaged in an unprecedented effort to collect money and goods for the disaster struck people in Haiti chances are that a good part of the people that are going to be held after March 1 will be of Haitian descent. Is the minister going to send them back to a country that lies in ruins? President Obama has just declared a stop to the deportation of Haitians that will last for many months to come.
Controls will be most likely be conducted in the form of traffic controls and nighttime raids on various establishments know for their immigrant clientele, causing additional traffic jams and people literally fleeing up the hills of St. Maarten. More importantly great scale operations on an island of which the population consist for the greater part out of immigrants will create an atmosphere of fear.
The Bar understands the need for immigration management but it has to be done in a human and lawful manner for which one has to prepare properly. Organizing a quick general pardon for which many do not qualify (and if qualified do not have the means to pay for their license), followed by massive raids is certainly not the answer to manage illegal immigration. Proper functioning institutions with well trained (and paid) civil servants and management in combination with basic but reasonable holding facilities are needed to deal with immigration in a civil manner. Harsh measures may yield some popular votes on the short term but will lose all credibility when the efforts end up in chaos and (human) suffering.
The third and last winner of Island Water World's Online Game prize of a dinghy-outboard combo, worth US $ 3200, is airline pilot Hervé "RV" Nizard, residing on Dominica.
Over the last three years, Hervé, a born Frenchman, has been developing an Eco Resort in La Plaine, on the East Coast of Dominica (www.citruscreekplantation.com). His strong commitment to sustainable development is further outlined by his Alternative Energy Company 'Sustainable Earth' which is serving the Caribbean (www.sustainableearth.dm).
Before coming to Dominica, Hervé sailed his catamaran, a Lagoon 380, for two years with his family up and down the Caribbean island chain. Previously Hervé lived for 17 years in Guadeloupe where he still owns Air Tropical.
From November until the end of January every online shopper at Island Water World's new e-commerce website – www.islandwaterworld.com – was eligible to win a Walker Bay Air Floor Hypalon AF240 Dinghy and a Mercury-5HP-outboard Combo. The game ended in January but Island Water World's website features daily great give-aways and super online specials!
Previous winners were Vassil Kurtev from Bulgaria, currently visiting St. Maarten and Russell Morton, alias Sprout, from Antigua.
CAY BAY—The GEBE Power Plant experienced a power shortage on Wednesday morning due to an engine tripping at approximately 8:40 a.m. GEBE technicians struggled to maintain the electricity supply to the community after one of the new generators, Diesel Engine #18, tripped due to low fuel pressure. The disturbance to the grid caused Diesel Engine #16 to fall off line as well which resulted in a loss of some 20 MW causing outages in many districts. GEBE technicians worked diligently to restart the engines as soon as possible to restore electricity to the community.
In addition Diesel Engine #7 developed a fuel leak and had to be shut down immediately in order to prevent a fire from breaking out on the engine. This is the same engine that caught fire in July 2008, and was out of commission for close to one year for repairs and a major overhaul. Electricity was restored at approximately 1:35 p.m.
Later in the day Engines #8 and #10 fell offline, adding to the existing problems, causing another shortage of 7MW which affected the St. Peters, Oysterpond and Belvedere-Dutch Quarter areas. Electricity was restored after approximately 20 minutes.
Several short outages have occurred over the past two weeks as GEBE technicians continue to run the two new 11.3 MW generators at full capacity in order to fully test the performance of the engines during the warranty period. Running the new engines at their full capacity is part of the routine performance testing of new generators.
GEBE would like to apologize for the inconvenience to the community.
Philipsburg/ Marigot:---Management of Caribserve internet provider has sent an email warning their clients about recent scams and or hoax emails. The email which was sent on Thursday to all Caribserve clients reads. "We were recently made aware of several Email SCAMS/HOAXES that are spoofing the sender's identity to appear as though the emails were sent to you by CaribServe.NET.
These HOAX/SCAM emails often ask you to provide your personal information and/or CaribServe.NET account credentials via email or by means of visiting a random website. Some of these hoaxes claim that we (CaribServe.NET) suffered a database issue and need to restore your account information but we do not have that info on file while others ask for the same information for an "upcoming mail/authentication system upgrade", etc.
PLEASE NOTE THAT THE AFOREMENTIONED EMAILS WERE NOT SENT BY CaribServe.NET!
FACT IS, if you were able to download the suspect email from our mail server then you should take note that CaribServe.NET DOES NOT HAVE AN ISSUE WITH YOUR ACCOUNT AND/OR CREDENTIALS as you were able to access your mailbox on our server with the very same credentials you were using all along and the very same credentials the HOAX/SCAM email claims we do not have!
Moreover, although we sometimes do send out important information to you via email, WE WILL NEVER REQUEST YOU TO SEND US IMPORTANT AND PERSONAL INFORMATION, SUCH AS YOUR ACCOUNT INFORMATION, DATE OF BIRTH, ACCOUNT PASSWORDS, ETC. VIA EMAIL, PHONE OR ANY OTHER METHOD. ANY TRANSACTIONS HAVING TO DO WITH PERSONAL OR ACCOUNT-RELATED INFORMATION REQUIRES A PERSONAL VISIT TO ONE OF OUR OFFICE(S) OR AGENT(S) BY THE ACCOUNT HOLDER WITH A VALID PICTURE ID.
PLEASE DO NOT PROVIDE ANY CARIBSERVE.NET ACCOUNT-RELATED INFO TO ANYONE ASKING FOR SUCH INFORMATION BY EMAIL, MAIL, PHONE OR IN PERSON!
Please contact our office at +(599) 542-4233 if you replied to any of the HOAX/SCAM emails with your account info. The most we will be able to do is to change your password for your account so the unwanted parties cannot access your emails, etc. We will not however be able to provide you with the new password over the phone or via email as we have no way of virtually identifying your true identity. In order to collect your new password, you (original account holder) would need to visit one of our office(s) or agent(s) with a valid picture id.
If you are unsure about whether an email you received is indeed from CaribServe.NET, please feel free to call our technical support department via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or at (599) 542-4233 before taking any further actions.
Grand Case---Construction workers of Kapro Construction are continuing with industrial actions which begun on Thursday. Workers on the site on Friday said they are suffering and management of Kapro is not willing to attend to their grievances. The construction workers said they are not paid on time and neither are they paid accurately for their overtime work.
One of the workers said they also have improper tools to work with and in many cases they do not get their materials on time to proceed with the job.
The workers said when they contact management they are falsely accused by management. Another worker said they do get paid but mostly late. He said so far they have not received their pay checks for the month of January even though they are supposed to be paid by the 5th of month.
The employee said normally they are paid by wire transfer but when management realized the workers were going on strike they called some of the workers to the office on Thursday and offered them a check if they were willing to continue working. The man said some of them even checked their accounts on Friday and still their January salary was not paid. He said management does not want to resolve the situation since this has been going on a for a long period of time. Another worker said the company would even go as far as deducting monies from their salaries for materials and that does not belong to their company. Some of the workers said they are even verbally abused by one of the bosses.
These people do not have any respect for the workers and their families or personal lives. Another worker said he was asked to go back on the roofs at 4pm earlier this week, the time he was leaving work and because he refused the next day he was suspended from work. The worker said even though management removed his time card and told him he was suspended he is reporting to work.
The workers said they are receiving warning letters constantly. One worker said he was given a warning letter when he stayed home to attend to family matters regarding the Haiti earthquake tragedy. The worker said 75% of the workers on the site are Haitians and to date management never expressed any form of condolences or sympathy to their Haitian workers. Instead those that stayed home for a day or two to attend to their family matters were given warning letters. The worker said the Haitians that are working for Kapro are humans and they should be treated as humans, most of them have lost close relatives during the January 12 earthquake. Another worker said the workers have to rush to the bushes if they need to ease themselves since management of Kapro did not provide bathroom facilities for their workers. "We go into the bushes and by the pond to ease ourselves. At one time government sent inspectors to check on the insanitary conditions of human filth next to the ponds."
They said most of the workers are asked to bring along their personal tools to work for the company and if any of the company's tools got damaged while working management would deduct monies from their salaries for the damaged tools. He said if the workers want to see management they are compelled to make appointments and they would only get the appointment two months later. Their objective during these industrial action is to get rid of one of the coordinators of the project whom they said are oppressing the workers.
Efforts made to obtain a comment from management were futile on Friday. Management said they were not willing to make a comment.
Union representative Rudy Hyman said the labour department on the French side is aware of the current problems faced by the workers. Hyman said the labour inspectors are aware of the current situation however; they are not able to intervene at this time. Hyman said the strike will continue on Monday. He said the union has 12 points to discuss with management and unless these people get around the table to discuss the concerns of the workers, the strike will not end.
Philipsburg:---What a prophetic statement. What a way to "bring home" 10-10-10. The "we" referred to here must be the party of the Senator, the National Alliance, not we, the people of Sint Maarten. Says Island Council lady Sarah Wescot Williams.
This statement by the Senator "that we are not ready", was made in the context of the draft law to the change the Islands Regulation Netherlands Antilles as proposed by Minister Roland Duncan of the National Alliance. On the basis of this draft law, the leader and the members of the NA have been insistently announcing that elections for a new island council will be held in June 2010.
The draft law was explained by the NA as being necessary to expand the Executive Council with 2 members to assist with the added responsibilities which the island will receive from the Central Government.
These responsibilities can be transferred to the islands on the basis of another law passed by Parliament recently. CAN BE TRANSFERRED!
The NA is right in its assessment that they are not ready. How could they be?
Which tasks have been transferred to the island government thus far?
Without this transfer, what are these additional Commissioners supposed to do, shadow the respective Ministers, while costing the tax payers of Sint Maarten more in salaries, staff, vehicles etc. for Commissioners? Or is this move to spread the existing portfolios and conceal the weaknesses of the present members of the Executive Council?
Now that the National Alliance is getting cold feet as far as the draft law to change the Islands Regulation is concerned, we hear Senator Pantophlet make a case out of the spelling of "meantime" and "in the mean time"?
And that "Sint Maarten should not be shafted in the process"? Explain that one, please. Explain to the people of Sint Maarten how Minister Duncan can draft a law that according to Senator Pantophlet is not in the interest of Sint Maarten.
What truly baffles us is how all of this is accepted at face value and even more so, put under the caption of the Senator's responsibility as a Parliamentarian.
This law was drafted by the Central Government, endorsed by the National Alliance, signed by Minister Roland Duncan? Who is shafting who?
What has caused this turn-around by the National Alliance? Pressure from within?
The National Alliance went on this "We are not ready" campaign with the expectation that the Dutch Government and the Antillean government would pity us and rush to the rescue. The result?
The Dutch and Antillean governments told the National Alliance in no uncertain terms to : "Stop the whining and finger pointing and show what you (Sint Maarten) intend to do". How sad.
Since we have practically given up on hearing anything from the Executive Council when it comes to essential and detrimental issues for Sint Maarten, we pose the following questions publicly:
Who drafted this law that according to Senator Pantophlet could potentially shaft Sint Maarten?
Are these only feeble attempts to make it seem as if the National Alliance has issues with its Minister, Mr. Duncan?
What is the Executive Council's formal response to this draft law? Were they even consulted?
For the record, this draft law as proposed by Minister Duncan allows the following:
- Dissolve the island council of Sint Maarten prematurely and call early elections after the Constitution for Country Sint Maarten is approved by the Island Council by a simple majority.
- New election for a 15-member island council
- Appointment of 2 additional commissioners
- A dualistic system of government (commissioners can no longer be members of the island council or vice versa).
- That the elected 15 members of the island council will become the members of the Parliament for Country Sint Maarten.
Former member of the St. Maarten Academy Interact Club (Youth Club of Rotary ages 14-18) Tania Police is the recipient of a pair of new glasses from the Rotary Club of St. Maarten. Ms. Police who is a temp at A&A Supply broke her glasses at a sports activity. Without glasses her vision is severely affected and so Mrs. J. Brown of A&A Supply contacted a Rotarian from the St. Maarten Rotary Club to inquire about the possibility of this community service club assisting with the replacement of the much needed prescription glasses. Together with St. Maarten Optical the necessary arrangement were made and the new glasses were obtained and presented.
The Rotary Club is pleased to have been of service and continues in both big and small ways to serve the community of St. Maarten and beyond.
Willemstad:---On February 12th 35 people from the U.S. Forward Operating Location (USFOL) in Curacao went out into the community to share the perfect Valentine's Day gift for those in need. Two projects encompassing 230 volunteer hours and 2017 NAF worth of supplies and materials were going on simultaneously on this special day.
The first location was in Fuik where a large group gathered to completely paint the roof of the Funashon Amigunan di Cristo (Fuik Community Center). This long-standing center offers a vital after-school tutoring program for many children in Fuik as well as AWANA club on Sundays. It was the talk of the neighborhood as many neighbors reported, "The Center now has a new roof." The owners Cesar and Emma Eman could not be happier. Emma Eman said, "My heart jumped for joy when I saw the bright blue roof from blocks away."
The second location was at the Jan Doret Ball field where a smaller group gathered to help Coach Charlton Cijntje to clean up the park, work on the pitcher's mound, and paint the bathroom house and snack bar as he prepared for an upcoming tournament. Also, USFOL staff provided a Bobcat backhoe to make light work of building another access bridge to the field. Coach Cijntje coaches a team in which more than 125 teenagers are involved from the surrounding community. Coach Cijntje also leads the national Curacao World Series Little League team every year to Williamsport, PA for the championship series. Coach Cijntje was pleased by the progress that was made and the assistance given by the USFOL to provide his team a suitable place to practice and play baseball.
Philipsburg:--- The executive council of St. Maarten definitely has a lot to chew on as they study yet another report delivered to them from the accounting agency SOAB. The SOAB delivered an extensive report on the island labour and social welfare department to the executive council on January 29, 2010. The executive council already have the report on ROB (Public Works) and to date the executive council neither the commissioner responsible for ROB has not acted on that report. The latter was sent to the Attorney General as well as the prosecutor's office by the Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards.
According to information, reaching SMN News a committee has been established by the executive council to study the report. The source said the committee members are from the department of Labour and Social Welfare and they were scheduled to meet with the commissioner of labour last week.
SMN News learnt that Commissioner Hyacinth Richardson has urged the executive council on Tuesday during their weekly meetings that this report should be considered as ammunition to remove the interim head of Island labour and Social Welfare Rafi Boasman since it is clear that Boasman and his staff did not fully follow the law when processing working permits. However, the executive council it is understood will not take hasty decisions since they have to follow the law protecting the civil core.
The investigators from SOAB indicated that their findings is not a fraudulent report, however they highlighted a number of discrepancies at the department. According to the SOAB basic administrative procedures were not adhered to and the in their view the former executive council over the past years left room for corruption within the department. One of the main contentions of the investigators is that those at Island labour did not follow the law and the legal time frame to process working permits, government medical cards for the unemployed and onderstand (welfare).
According to the labour regulations working permits must be processed within a six-week period however, there are applications that are pending over a year. Another slap by the SOAB is that there is no human resource bank at the island labour department that would eliminate the influx of foreign labour. Businesses and the island government do not have a human resource bank that would outline the available skills and manpower when there are vacancies in the workforce. SOAB also indicated that the interim manager would take up certain files and work on them personally, all of which are in contradiction of the law. They said the wrong calculations were used for the processing of social assistance, according to SOAB the department interpreted the laws incorrectly.
SMN News also learnt that the Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba already sent a letter the Lt. Governor of St. Maarten informing him that St. Maarten needs to follow the labor regulation when processing work permits.
SOAB investigated every department that falls under the Island Labour and Social Welfare. In each case they highlighted areas where documents were either missing or not being supplied when applications were being processed. Most of the applicants were also forced to use other agencies to process their documents to avoid administrative bureaucracy.
Full contents of the report will be published on SMN News later this week. We urge our readers both English and Dutch to keep checking on this website for further details on the report.
Philipsburg:---The Rotary Club of St. Maarten paid a surprise visit to "No Kidding with our kids Foundation" also known as ASA. The Club has started a community service project, which involves the distribution of non-perishable goods to organizations on the island that have good use for these items. On this occasion, director Merlyn Schaminee with just a few minutes notice, a gathered several children of the after school activity to receive 13 cases of chocolate milk and 3 cases of juice which were made available through the generosity of Prime Distributors. Present to make the presentation were the Rotary Club community director Bobby Keough, President Pierre Decelles, Secretary Kenny Idnani and member Maria Buncamper-Molanus.
After the presentation members of the club were given a tour of the facility and were treated to an opportunity to observe the children baking cakes to raise funds for the victims in Haiti. Other activities ongoing at the Sucker Garden afternoon school were homework assistance, reading, handicraft, agriculture, etc.
The Rotary Club of St. Maarten will continue this project for as long as the goods are made available. Well deserving organizations can look forward to a call as the next beneficiary in this Rotary project.
Philipsburg: --- Customs on St. Maarten managed to arrest a man from Wakenaam Guyana with five kilos of cocaine on Monday.
Head of customs Anthony Doran in a press release said his vigilant colleagues conducting controls at the Airport detained a male passenger with the initials J.A.R born in Wakenaam, Guyana. The suspect arrived at Princess Juliana International Airport on the Caribbean Airlines flight with the route Guyana-SXM-SXM-Jamaica. J.A.R had a suitcase in his possession that resulted to have false sides, the sides where filled with a substance that resembled cocaine.
Doran said after testing the white substance that was found hidden in the sides of the suitcase, it was proven to be cocaine. The 5 kilo's of cocaine was confiscated and the passenger was arrested pending further investigation.
Due to ongoing investigation no further information can be released to the media, the suspect is going through a series of interrogations. Customs are currently doing an in depth investigation as to the intended destination of the drugs. Guyana-St. Maarten is an unusual route for smugglers, customs want to know if the drugs were intended for St. Maarten, the European Continent or the United States Doran said.
GREAT BAY:--- Representatives of the Sint Maarten Student Organization S4 in Holland, namely Director Marva Richardson and Student Assistant/Mentor Elton Villereal, paid a courtesy call on Governor Franklyn Richards during the latter part of the week.
...
Philipsburg: ---The report provided to the executive council by SOAB on January 29 regarding the department of labour and social affairs clearly outlined several discrepancies. According to SOAB, they were given the mandate to investigate the internal control and administration of island labour on February 3 2009.
The accounting agency conducted investigations at all four sections of the department namely department that handles and process working permits, medical cards and social aid.
The aim of the investigation SOAB says that eventual problems must be scrutinized and corrected, since the executive council felt that this would be of vital importance to St. Maarten when she achieves her country status.
The executive wanted the department to function and process applications within the legal period stipulated under the law. SOAB says their aim was to compile a correction plan geared towards optimization of the internal command with regards to the issuance of working permits.
SOAB said they conducted several test cases to be able to compile their report. Some 131 working permits files were evaluated, 81 of them from the year 2008, and 50 from 2009. They inspected 50 dossiers that were submitted for financial aid, 25 files from 2008, and the other 25 from the year 2009, while 50 medical assistance files were examined, 35 of them from 2008 and 15 from 2009.
Inventories were conducted on the relevant laws and ordinances as well as internal procedures on work permits, medical assistance, and financial aid. SOAB also interviewed the sector director and the department head during their investigation.
SOAB said they focused on the accuracy of the primary registration, the present functional divisions, and the division of authorizations. They were eager to determine who was authorized to sign off on working permits, the person responsible for acceptance criteria, the judging of the criteria and the applications. Timely handling of the applications, accuracy of the tariffs for the working permits, dispensing of medical aid, as well as financial assistance. They also looked to see if adequate and acceptable guidelines were used in handling the dossiers.
SOAB concluded that the interim head of ARSOZA only follows part of the rules and regulations of the department. They felt that sufficient control was not conducted. Proper processing was also hindered due to the lack of information.
SOAB said they noticed that the interim head of the department acted as application controller, which created a risk factor. SOAB says the department head took over all rights to process certain permits. This they said was not proper since proper logging was not applied. The interim head told SOAB controls are done by the financial controller and not ARSOZA. However, SOAB feels these controls should be conducted by the VSA. Another discrepancy noticed by SOAB is that the interim head can give out working permits outside of the system since these permits are drafted in Microsoft word document, are printed on regular paper, and is signed by the interim head. SOAB believes the way the current system is set up several risks presents itself if the tasks are not clearly outlined. They felt the situation and current system has empowered the interim head. They said same advantages are also available to all of the ARSOZA employees. SOAB made clear that insufficient controls are conducted on the documentations provided by the applicants for working permits.
Below is the full content of the report submitted to the executive council by SOAB to the executive council of St. Maarten. We apologize to our English readers.
Philipsburg:--- Senator George Pantophlet said he has receiving a number of phone calls from persons who are concerned about the upcoming immigration controls that is to take place soon. The senator said he wants to re-emphasize that these immigration controls will not only affect persons who are undocumented but it will affect many of us for example; businesses such as Hotels, Supermarkets, Taxi's, Buses, landlord just to name a few but they (controls) must take place.
The senator said for the sake of clarity persons who have requested residence permit under the Brook Tower Agreement and have not received an answer as yet will not be affected. However you should make sure they walk with their proof of application.
What needs to be explained again is that the Brook Towers Agreement was instituted to allow persons living here who comply with the two categories I and II. Category III persons who came to the island from January 2006 were told that they had to leave. Their employer can request a working/residence permit and if this is approved they will be issued a landing permit to return the island. If they are deported, it will be 3 years before they are allowed to return to the island. Let me remind you also that persons in possession of the BT their Employer should apply for their working permit/residence permit through the regular process. The approved BT permit is to give persons until November 3, 2010 to regulate their status without the fear of being deported. On the matter of controls, the person who will be executing the control should have a good knowledge of the immigration documents. They must have a good knowledge of not only what the BT application and residence looks like but also know and understand that persons who have a proof of application from the labor office are also allowed to be on the island while this process is ongoing. Also understood must be the fact that persons who have appealed a decision of the Executive council/ Lt. Governor are also allowed to be on the island while their appeal is still being handled providing that it is not a first time request. What must also be understood by the controllers is that it is possible to have a working permit while the residence permit is still being processed. The synchronization of these is still being worked on. Finally I personally would have preferred that at least some kind of training or a refresher be given to the ones responsible for controlling undocumented persons. I was already told of some cases where persons with proof of application were held and the office had to be called in order to verify the authenticity of the document. This can be time confusing and embarrassing for the person/persons in question. It is not easy but controls must be done.
...
Airport:---Frank Arrindell, founder and owner of Arrindell Aviation pledged $2,000 today to "Heart For Haiti". This non-profit organization, based in Haiti, will use the money to help build a new facility to replace the orphanage and senior citizen village constructed in 1983 by Johan Smoorenburg.
The Haiti earthquake, which occurred on January 12, 2010, was a catastrophic 7.0 magnitude earthquake, with an epicenter near the town of Léogâne, approximately 16 miles west of Port-au-Prince, Haiti's capital. By January 24, at least 52 aftershocks measuring 4.5 or greater had been recorded. As of February 12, an estimated three million people were affected by the quake. The Haitian Government reported that between 217,000 and 230,000 people had been identified as dead, an estimated 300,000 injured, and an estimated one million homeless. They also estimated that 250,000 residences and 30,000 commercial buildings had collapsed or were severely damaged.
Dutchman, Johan Smoorenburg, a missionary of 36 years, founded "Heart for Haiti" in December of 1981. He started his work on the island Martinique. After 10 years there, he left Martinique and went to Haiti with his wife and two children with a vision to do something for young people.
Smoorenburg was inspired to help underprivileged children after visiting a Haitian orphanage resembling more of a pigsty than a home. There were more than 50 small children— all of them malnourished and sleeping on the floor.
Smoorenburg, with support from the Netherlands, built a children's village. His goal was to allow underprivileged children to receive good care and education. In 1983, the first 40 children came to live there. Over the course of many years, hundreds of children were given a chance at a successful life.
The young people in the children's village and adults are being offered the opportunity of a better future through schooling and proper nourishment. The senior citizens peacefully enjoy their old age. The children's village in Bon-Repos, and Léogâne are and will remain an oasis of hope with continued help from people and organizations like Arrindell Aviation.
Frank Arrindell founded Arrindell Aviation Services with five employees who set out to provide unmatched service, while meeting the meticulous demands of the industry. By never compromising this goal, they grew to 70 employees who personify a unique corporate culture of excellence. Arrindell Aviation has received many honors—such as number one FBO on St. Maarten and number five FBO in the Caribbean by Pro Pilot Magazine. Arrindell continues to give back, to not only the community of St. Maarten, but also other communities in need.
Airport:---A large number of employees, relatives, staff of other companies operating at the Princess Juliana airport and the princess Juliana airport department were out in their numbers to bid farewell to the late Alexander Hodge. A number of senior employees headed by the company's Managing Director hailed the service and performance of the young man better known as Alexander as being extraordinary. Alexander died because of a freak car accident early Sunday morning.
In recognizing his contributions to the airline, the company's Chief Pilot Jeff Oliver and First Officer Ricardo Wilson flew his body around the Island. They also flew the body in a low past over the runway of the Juliana International airport. The airline dubbed the flight as a memorial one saw several persons' being emotional over the somber event.
As the body in the casket was taken to the Winair flight, several persons were seen weeping. The body of the young pilot was placed into his favorite aircraft the PJ-WIR as it lifted off the runway for what was dubbed as his last flight. The company's MD Edwin Hodge said that he was very impressed and moved with Alexander's very high professionalism, simplicity, and easy going attitude to passengers and his colleagues. "He understood his role very well and demonstrated his ability in getting things done and for that he will be sorely missed by all," the Manager Director said.
Chief Pilot at Winair, Jeff Oliver who was evidently very emotional described the loss as one that will be greatly felt by all within the company. He said that the potential and ability that young Hodge posses was very significant noting that "he was really talented and gifted for his age.
"It's evident that we will miss him as while the company posses several pilots we were certain that he was prepared to remain a very long time with this company as he was local. You know the pilots from overseas you know that someday they will return after they would have competed their task with us but Alexander was one who we knew had the ability to rise within the company to very great heights," he said.
The company's Human Resource Director, Marina Larmonie said that she is still shocked and in a state of disbelief with the news. She said that it was only a few days prior to the incident that she dealt with matters regarding Alexander. "I had dealt with some matters only a few days ago and now to hear that he is dead is a big shock to me and I am sure many others. He was a very simple easy going individual who just went about his business doing what was expected of him," she said.
Meanwhile,Winair's Managing Director Edwin Hodge added that losing someone as talented and gifted as Hodge is very painful considering the value that he poses to the company and the island and the investment that was made thus far in him. "We are all asking ourselves why this has happen but in life we are aware that things happen without us understanding why, only God knows why. The pilots are remaining strong as they know that Alexander would have wanted us to continue with our lives."
The Managing Director declared that those who were fortunate to have met Alexander would be able to cherish the fond and unforgettable moments and impact that his life made upon them. "Rest in peace Alexander you will always be with us."
Alexander Hodge will be laid to rest on Saturday in what many expect to be a moving service.
We salute you Alexander.
"THE UNITED NATIONS THEME FOR THIS YEAR, EQUAL RIGHTS, EQUAL OPPORTUNITY, PROGRESS FOR ALL, COULD NOT COME AT A MORE CRITICAL TIME FOR WOMEN IN OUR ISLANDS HISTORY"
Philipsburg. Gracita R. Arrindell, Founder of the Peridot Foundation states, "first of all we extend congratulations to all the brave female sailors who participated in the 30th annual Heineken Regatta over the past weekend.
The theme for this year; Equal Rights, Equal Opportunity, Progress for All, is a great policy objective for our government as well as the private sector to pursue, given the past years financial and economic crisis that hit countries around the world. As we stated last year, during these vulnerable times, usually women, including a large segment of single bread winners with children suffer most. Things have not changed much for these women, and others who are financially more stable, do not see their financial/ economic future improve in the foreseeable future."
"The long drawn out constitutional change process facing our people, has not been particularly helpful in this respect either. We must refocus and direct some of our energy to the things that have immediate effect on the quality of life of our people in general and of our women in particular. Equal Rights, Equal Opportunity, Progress for All? Where we not there before? Why have we gone backwards in our strive for progress of women in public and private sector? In our public address last year, we made the call to have access to hard data or statistics in order to request funds to execute programs which will improve the quality of life of our women in general and those facing hardship of no fault of their own. This information is still not available. More women can succeed in business and in life if we equip them with the right information and the right tools".
"With a new board of the Chamber of Commerce under dynamic and forward thinking new leadership, we are looking forward to having the data and programs that would stimulate women's participation in business in short term. In addition to having access to financial literacy programs (when to refinance your debts, mortgages, internet use) to assist women in business, we also propose the establishment of a yearly Chamber of Commerce award for the best new business by a woman in our community. Such an award should include as prizes having access to an accountant for a year, 6 months business rent, 1 year insurance as well as business/ educational trip abroad to mention a few. This strategic alliance, will have a win- win situation for the woman, for government, the business sector and our community as a whole."
Gracita said: "Peridot Foundation supports initiative which enables women to start and keep their own small business. As a small business owner for over 22 years, I can speak from experience and see the need for women to get the assistance and support we deserve. Equal Rights, Equal Opportunity, Progress for All, is the way forward. Going back is not an option.
Gracita concludes: Our Foundation remains committed to its cause and objectives and hopes to continue for many more years with its programs and active presence in the improvement of the quality of life for Women on Sint Maarten. You can contact us for donations or support through our website; www. Peridotfoundation.com.
Happy International Women's Day 2010, if not now when?
Philipsburg, On March 4th, 2010, at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library, the Philipsburg Toastmasters Club presented Ms. Loekie Morales with an award for her achievement of Competent Communicator (CC). Morales is an author of several children story books that is known throughout the Nederlands Antilles and Aruba to receive this Award thus far this year and has been a member of the Club for at least last 1 year. The Competent Communication is the first level recognition a member can receive in Toastmasters. To receive this honor, members must complete 10 speeches
Toastmasters offer a proven way to improve your listening, thinking, speaking and leadership skills. Whether it is about improving your confidence in order to talk to your boss, presenting to clients, giving that dreaded wedding speech or simply to meet like minded people then Toastmasters is the place for you. For less than the price of a weekly exercise class you can regularly participate in a fun and supportive environment and we guarantee you will become a better and more competent speaker and leader. The increased confidence you gain will help you succeed in whatever path may chose in life. You will be amazed at your own potential to:
- Deliver great presentations
- Lead teams and conduct meetings
- Give and receive constructive feedback
- Be a better listener
Toastmasters International is the undisputed world leader in public speaking, with over 10,500 clubs and more than 200,000 members in approximately 90 countries. It is the best way to improve your confidence and skills in a relaxed and friendly environment.
Philipsburg Toastmasters Club meets every 1st and 3rd Thursdays at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library Meeting Room at 7:45pm. Our next meeting will take place on Thursday 17th November '2009.
The St. Maarten Lions Club recently hosted Dr. Gerard Van Osch MD as its guest speaker and he gave an update on the present state of HIV/Aids on St. Maarten and the Caribbean region. Standing left is 3rd Vice President Jessica Challenger-Vrolijk awarding a certificate of appreciation to Dr. Van Osch.
Philipsburg:--- The community of St. Maarten and the island government must do more if they are to prevent the rising crime rate says Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba in an interview with SMN News on Monday.
Jacoba said while the number of murders on St. Maarten is not huge it is a lot for a small island like St. Maarten. She felt that the justice system, the island government, and the community of St. Maarten have to do something if they are to reduce crime on the island.
Minister Jacoba agreed the Police Force KPSSS needs more men in blue including a new chief and the assistance that is coming from Holland is very much needed to curb crime. However, she made clear that the police do not stop crime, they are the ones who are brought in to solve crimes, and St. Maarten in particular has to begin looking at crime preventative measures especially for their youths.
The Minister of Justice said government has to first identify the problems they are having with the community prior to addressing the crime related issues. She said youths have a great deal of problems and something has to be done very soon. She said while St. Maarten thinks they are the world and it is good for their identity they should also need to deal with their problems. Asked if she addressed her concerns with the leader of government on St. Maarten, Jacoba said on several occasions she brought the matter up and made it clear that St. Maarten has to begin dealing its problems now especially since they are looking towards to 10/10/10. She said that currently discussions are underway for Curacao to assist St. Maarten with the youth related problems as they set up various justice departments to deal with youth related problems. Jacoba said it is her opinion that everyone must work together if they are to target the crime situation. She said the community should not look at young convicts as criminal when they are released from prison instead they should find ways and means to help these youngsters integrate into society.
Marigot:--- Prosecutor Jacques Louvier has started an investigation into the death of a little girl who passed away at the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital on March 1. The child has been identified as Bianca St. Louis and she is of Haitian decent. Louvier said he is busy conducting an involuntary homicide into the death of Biancia St. Louis after her father filed an official complaint with his office.
The French vice prosecutor said he ordered an autopsy, which was conducted on Friday by a French pathologist on the Dutch side of the island. The pathologist he said came in from Martinique on his request. Louvier said based on the findings he can say that the child died due to negligence while at the hospital. "Right now I am putting the files together in the child's death" Louvier said.
According to information, reaching SMN News the child had a medical condition that required a surgery however; the doctors at the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital did not perform that surgery which could have saved the little girl's life. Efforts made by this reporter to contact the relatives of little Bianca proved futile up to press time.
The St. Martin Sunrise Rotary Club had the privilege of receiving as its Guest speaker on Tuesday March 9, 2010, Jacqueline Louis Manager of Innovative Marketing Creations who is the official agent of St. Maarten SUPERHOST and internationally renowned customer service training and certification program.
The members were treated to a presentation of the topic "Bring back the friendly island" movement on all levels, this by improving individual employee's knowledge and skills, team building and enhancing interpersonal relations among staff, customer service satisfaction, customer loyalty, finally creating true ambassadors of St. Maarten.
Ms. Louis in closing said The WOW effect is generated by employees who exhibit "Winning attitudes that Optimize Wonderful experiences! And leave customers and our tourist with a lasting WOW impression.
Sunrise Rotary Club meets every Tuesday at the Restaurant Air Lekkerbek ( near the Prince Bernhard bridge)at 7:00AM to 8:00AM.
Philipsburg:---The Central Committee meeting was requested by the Democratic Party to hear from the Executive Council regarding its position on (incidental) subsidies/investments. The granting of subsidies by government is regulated by the Subsidy Ordinance St. Maarten and the subsidizing of religious institutions regulated by the State Regulation (Staatsregeling).
This meeting was requested by the DP, considering the public spat between government and organizations such as the Carnival Foundation and the Heineken Regatta Organizers. In answering the Democratic Party Faction's questions on the budget, the government had also informed the Island Council that for the information requested on the subsidy to the Foundation for Government Buildings, the Island Council(!) should contact the Foundation's president, Mr. Kurt Ruan. Now imagine that.
In addition, government has still not given its position on the support to religious organizations, a matter that came to the fore with the issue of construction of a Methodist Church in Belvedere.
These and other matters were raised by members of the Island Council.
In addition, the faction of the Democratic Party requested an overview of the list of all subsidies, included in the draft budget 2010.
When this list was finally provided, and questions posed to the Executive Council, the only member of the Executive Council present was Commissioner Hyacinth Richardson.
Commissioner Blackman graced us with his presence for a few minutes, however the Executive Council did invite several senior officials (department heads and sector directors) to be present.
Not on one single topic was either Commissioner Blackman or Richardson able or willing to explain the government's position. Worse yet, the civil servants were not allowed to say a word to explain anything either.
The Central Committee was told that the answers will be provided in writing and upon insistence of the Democratic Party, the meeting was told that answers by the Executive Council will be provided THIS WEEK!
The government is making a mockery of the democratic system, that while not perfect, is what we have today.
Yet, these same members of government are clamoring for a change of the system to a dualistic one. With this mentality, we think not.
We asked about transfers between budget items and the stipulations that must be adhered to. No answer!
Plans for the Carnival Foundation for 2010. No answer.
Subsidy St. Maarten Housing Development Foundation. No answer.
You can agree or disagree with government on their policy, but if they have none, what role is an island council to play?
Government can act within the constrains of the law or outside of these constrains, but if they feel they have no account to give to the island council, whose most important tool is that of the budget and budgetary control, what role is the island council to play?
The Caribbean Confederation of Credit Unions headquarters in St Kitts has appointed Ralph Wharton as its new General Manager. In an interview with Wharton, he is enjoying his new role noting that he had previously served as the Union's General Manager from 1997-2000 when the organization's headquarters was based in Barbados.
Admitting that he has been a credit union man for as long as he can remember he pointed out that there are a number of changes and new initiative that he will be implementing in the coming days. He said that he has already gotten down to business stressing that the urgent need to enhance and promote the image and activities of the Credit Union.
"My role is not to be a postman whereby I just write correspondences and responds to them but rather to go out into the field so that I can get a first hand view and evaluation of what is happening as I intend to ensure that there is growth and development thus I see my role as one that will encompass challenges but I am ready for the new tasks," he declared.
He stressed the importance also for the public to understand the role and importance of the credit union within the lives of the ordinary citizens noting that the Credit Union is a community oriented organization and therefore through the Triple CU he intends to continue laying the platform for the promotion of the Credit Union.
Wharton has gained a wealth of knowledge and valuable experience in almost every aspect of the Credit Union sector according to source within the organization. The source said that he has also functioned in several managerial positions while he was in the Credit Union employ since 1985. Wharton said that prior to this appointment he operated his own consultancy business.
Wharton pointed out that two primary and critically important tasks that he will be addressing immediately relates to the Triple CU board meeting slated for Guyana from March 18-21 and the organization's 53rd annual international convention and 39th Annual General Meeting will be held from June 26th to June 30th at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort and Casino.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—On Thursday, Commissioner Theo Heyliger signed an agreement with USONA for the financing of an Education Management Information System.
Present were Lars Walrave, Dutch Representative on St. Maarten, Reginald Isenia, Director of USONA(St. Maarten), and Bart Pasman also of USONA.
Commissioner Heyliger said that he was pleased to sign the agreement, which was funded by the Dutch Government. "I want to thank them, and I am pleased that this project will assist students of St. Maarten." Heyliger said.
The EMIS program is part of the institutional strengthening program and has a budget of Naf. 650.000 with a time frame of 16 months.
The EMIS system will collect, store, and process data provided by schools and other educational institutions in a central system operated by the Sector Education and its departments.
Isenia of USONA is pleased that he is able to assist the government with this project. The project is important for the school system.
EMIS is a necessary innovation in the execution of the existing tasks of the Island Territory, but it is also a crucial instrument in the process of taking over the remaining federal tasks by St. Maarten, the most important examples being inspection and implementation of Compulsory Education. Upgrading of the student tracking systems in the schools is part of the project as well
The Department of Education will use this system to generate reports that support its operations and its decision making process.
Examples of information generated by EMIS are:
- information about the enrollment in schools, that is used to calculate the correct school subsidies;
- information about the attainment of students, that is used for quality control and inspection;
- information used to monitor and evaluate educational innovations;
- information used for the purpose of decision making about curriculum development, establishment of new types of education or the planning of new schools;
- information for the purpose of long term planning of educational infrastructure and the matching of educational output to the requirements labor market;
The vision of the EMIS project is to improve the government administration and its decision‐making process in the field of educational policy. This in turn will increase the quality of the educational system and will benefit the youth of St. Maarten. In this way, the EMIS will contribute to a more efficient allocation of resources of the Island Territory and future Country of St. Maarten.
The Implementation Organisation of the Foundation for Development of the Netherlands Antilles (Uitvoeringsorganisatie Stichting Ontwikkeling Nederlandse Antillen/USONA) is responsible for fair and effective management of the funds that the Netherlands makes available to the Netherlands Antilles for development projects
These projects must fit within the four regular programmes: Institutional Strengthening and Administrative Strength, Education and Youth, Netherlands Antilles Security Plan 2, and Social Economic Initiative.
Each year the Netherlands makes a certain amount available for such projects.
Only the Country and the five island areas can submit projects to USONA.
USONA operates as follows:
- works on the commission of the Foundation for the Development of the Netherlands Antilles (Stichting Ontwikkeling Nederlandse Antillen - SONA);
- is able to manage the cooperative resources independently of Dutch or Antillean politics;
- has expertise in the area of project assessment, project management, monitoring and evaluation;
- works according to procedural regulations approved by SONA and the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations.
Philipsburg: --- Commissioner Xavier Blackman narrowly escaped a motion of no confidence which was to be presented by Island Councilman Petrus Leroy De Weever had the island council meeting convened on Thursday.
The Democratic Party Faction of the island council called an island council meeting on Thursday to discuss the pending 2010 budget and labor related matters, however the meeting could not be convened because the Democratic Party did not have a quorum even though Commissioner Theo Heyliger signed in for the meeting giving them five of the eleven signatures.
Chairman of the island council Franklyn Richards postponed the meeting for half an hour hoping that the other members of the council that were present would have signed in. In the tribune were Island Councilmen Rudolph Samuel, George Pantophlet, and commissioner Hyacinth Richardson, while the leader of government William Marlin and commissioner Frans Richardson were off island and island councilman Louis Laviest was absent. When the meeting was convened for the second time Richards informed the council that based on section 2-13 or the Island Regulations he must read out the names of those members who did not sign in as absent. He also indicated that the meeting could be called again in 30 days time based on the laws.
Shortly after the meeting was called off members of the Democratic Party in a press conference told members of the media that the people of St. Maarten needed to get answers as well as clarity on the state of affairs on the 2010 budget. Leader of the Democratic Party Sarah Wescot Williams said the only person outside of the DP faction thought it important to discuss the budget was Commissioner Theo Heyliger since he signed in. When Heyliger signed in for the island council meeting he was heard saying to the members of the Democratic Party that he is returning the favor they granted him two weeks ago by giving him a quorum. Wescot Williams said the only reason they called the for the island council meeting was to get clarification on the budget since the National Alliance/Heyliger government was not providing answers to the island council during the central committee meetings.
Wescot Williams said the CFT was very clear to the executive council during their last meeting regarding the budget and they informed the Kingdom Council of Ministers that St. Maarten does not have a budget for the year 2010. Wescot Williams said Blackman adamantly said during the CFT meetings that government would continue with the handling of the budget as presented to the island council. Wescot Williams said at the time the Lt. Governor and Chairman of the island council advised the executive council to look at the draft budget once more prior to presenting it to the island council. Wescot Williams said based on the island ordinance the budget handling must pass through a particular process prior to it being approved. She said after some confusion the 2010 budget was presented to them. She said the when they received the final draft of the budget they posed several questions to the executive council whom she said provided some interesting answers. She further explained that during the CFT meeting it was stated that the executive council would have handled the budget on March 9 along with the advise of the CFT. Wescot Williams said that so far the Democratic Party does not know if any meeting was held on March 9 and what was the outcome of that meeting. As for the Democratic Party they believe that the advise of the CFT still stands. The DP leader said the people of St. Maarten need to know what is government's position on the 2010 budget and how would the executive council get around the proposals made by the CFT. She said the CFT has advised that the matters pertaining to country St. Maarten cannot be included in the budget unless there is a guarantee from the Central Government. Wescot Williams said her faction has questions pertaining to GEBE concession fee, the environmental fees, the condominium fee, the indexation of the civil servants salaries. So far, government has been providing elusive answers and they wanted clarification from government but members of the National Alliance refused to make that happen. She warned that the actions of government would not stop the Democratic Party as they have already requested another central committee meeting. Wescot Williams said that what took place on Thursday only strengthen their position on government's ability on handling the people's affairs and right now they have absolutely no confidence in government. She said already indicated to them that travelling expenses for the second part of 2009 has increased by 50%, yet several members of government has refused to bring clarity to the people of St. Maarten.
Island councilman Petrus Leroy De Weever in his statement said he is thankful for Heyliger's support but even Heyliger who is the deputy leader of government was not able to convince the members of the National Alliance to convene the meeting by providing the quorum. De Weever said on several occasions Heyliger has said that the current executive council has no regard for his opinion and this is indeed a sad day of St. Maarten since their actions will fall on the shoulders of the people. Also expressing concern was Island Council lady Maria Buncamper who said government's inaction would have far-reaching consequences for the island. Buncamper Molanus said one of their concerns with government is that they are spending monies that were allocated for one purpose on other things. Buncamper Molanus said St. Maarten is facing a daily challenge by the Netherlands who are saying that St. Maarten must prove that they are capable to handle the people's business prior to St. Maarten getting its country status.
The island council lady said Thursday's action by the National Alliance is an exposé of incapability and irresponsibility by government. Island Councilman Roy Marlin also indicated that the commissioner of tourism has been travelling almost everyday saying he is trying to bring in additional tourism from South America to St. Maarten. Marlin said he wants to know how the tourism commissioner could do so without a budget. Marlin said he held office for ten years and not once has the DP former executive council denied the opposition information. He said the minute the opposition deny information then they are thwarting on democracy.
Philipsburg: --- The island government and the department of Legal Affairs are currently investigating an inspector of ROB (Public Works) who allegedly tried to extort monies from Blue Marine. According to reliable sources, the ROB inspector and his girl friend are owners of Blue Blood Construction tried to extort $42,000 from Blue Marine, a company that belongs to Saro Spadaro. SMN News learnt that the inspector committed his act since July 2009 and to date no actions has been taken.
The source said the inspector sent his girlfriend (another civil servant) with an invoice in the name of Blue Blood to Blue Marine for $42, 000 even though Blue Blood did not conduct any work for Blue Marine. It is further understood that when Blue Marine questioned the invoice they were told that they should pay the invoice if they wanted to get their inspection approved on the buildings that were constructed at Pointe Pirouette. SMN News further learnt that a well-known member of the Democratic Party contacted the Director of ROB with the invoice that was sent to Blue Marine, which prompted ROB Director Joseph Dollison to immediately remove the inspector from that construction site and initiated an investigation on the incident. SMN News further learnt that a process verbal was made up and sent to personnel affairs on the inspector because of a second incident, which involved him, and another colleague who visited one of Blue Blood's construction sites in Oyster Pond. This media house learnt that the inspector wrote a letter complaining about his colleague whom he said is trying to hinder the work process at Oyster Pond.
SMN News also learnt that the inspector whose name was provided failed to execute his duties when several residents and even landowners asked that he intervene to stop pollution and other threats at a Shanty Town in Cul de Sac area.
The civil servant, land owner and resident of Cul de Sac said she filed several complaints at ROB and the with the police regarding the parking of vehicles and the dumping of garbage on their land but the inspector in question never did anything with the complaints filed.
This resident said she noticed a government vehicle attached to ROB in the area and decided to look to see what was happening. The resident said she also decided to take photos of the government vehicle number E 42 that was parked in the area and of the civil servant as he was leaving a home that is also part of the problems that are being encountered with illegal residents in the area.
The resident said when the civil servant realized he was caught and that photos were being taken of him he became aggressive and took the government vehicle and blocked her in. She said the ROB inspector approached her vehicle aggressively. The resident has since filed a complaint with the police department against the ROB inspector for his aggressive behavior. Late on Thursday evening, the detectives called in the inspector regarding the complaint. The inspector in question had some legal issues with his wife, over a year ago, his case was handled by the prosecutor's office, and he received a conditional dismissal. SMN News also learned that the Acting Sector Director of ROB Claudius Buncamper has instructed the inspector to park the government vehicle since he was not on assignment on Thursday in the Cul de Sac area when the incident occurred.
GREAT BAY,– On Wednesday 46 persons became Dutch citizens during an official naturalization ceremony held in the Claude Wathey Legislative Hall. The eldest person was 66 years of age.
Governor Franklyn Richards who presided over the ceremony congratulated the 26 females and 20 males of which 19 were born on the island and 19 were children under the age of 10.
This was the second naturalization ceremony for 2010. Governor Richards congratulated the new citizens after they cited in the presence of family and friends the declaration of solidarity.
Governor Richards during the ceremony also gave a historical perspective with respect to the naturalization process pointing out that it was back in August 2008 that changes were made to the process of obtaining the Dutch nationality.
In March 2009 the Kingdom law was amended and came into effect.
The 46 persons who became Dutch citizens hailed from the following countries: 14 Suriname, six Dominica, six Dominican Republic, five Haiti, four Americans, three St. Kitts & Nevis, three Jamaica, three Guyana, one St. Lucia and one French national.
At the end of the ceremony, the new Dutch citizens were treated to beverages and snacks.
GREAT BAY (GIS)— Commissioner of Health Hyacinth Richardson and the medical director of St. Maarten medical center announced on Friday the arrival of two new gynecologists who would begin working at the St. Maarten Medical Center as early as Monday.
Commissioner Richardson, said that he has had many deliberations with stakeholders to ensure optimal gynecology and obstetrics care on St. Maarten thus enabling his staff to secure the additional specialists.
Richardson said the first of the two much needed specialists will begin working as of Monday March 15. The commissioner said he is aware that the medical institution would need more specialists and they are continuing to work towards finding a permanent solution for the island people to achieve better medical care.
Dr. George Scot said that since the year 2000, there have been three doctors in this field. Last year one of the doctors left, and with the leaving of another, there was a need to attract doctors in gynecology. There is need for at least three to four permanent gynecologists on St. Maarten
Following a number meetings, and with the cooperation and assistance of a medical institution in the Netherlands, we are working with a pool of 7 gynecologists, two of which will be working on a 3-4 month rotation basis. One will start on March 15th, and this doctor will be replaced by two other doctors on April 1st. Thus there will be two at the Hospital plus Doctors Friday and Petit, and the Midwife Ms. R Janga.
Scot added that out of the pool of 7 gynecologists, it will have to be determined which two are going to work with the Medical center/on St. Maarten on a long term basis.
In addition, there are efforts being made to acquire two midwives from abroad. There are currently two persons from St. Maarten studying to be a mid wife; and another who has completed her studies, but currently working in the Netherlands—all three have indicated that they are willing to return, so we, Dr. Scot said, we are having discussions and staying in communication.
On the short term basis however, they are speaking to two midwives, one from Suriname and the other from the Netherlands, who are willing to work on St. Maarten. Dr. Scot said he does not know exactly when the two midwives would be able to start working on St. Maarten. The Medical Director further explained that in order to secure Women's Health the institution was forced to accept the rotation basis for the year 2010 since the two gynecologists that have indicated that they are willing to work on St. Maarten for a longer period can only do so as of 2011. He said finding fully rounded specialists are very difficult to find since the island is rather small and does not offer all the advantages in the medical field for younger specialists.
The first prognosis about the 2010 hurricane season is that it will be more active than last year and has the potential to be an "extreme season" similar to 2008. We can all recall Hurricane Omar in mid-October 2008 when it passed less than 50 miles from the island as a major category three causing over US$100 million in damage especially to coastal properties due to storm surge.
The early hurricane season forecast has been made by Meteorologist and Hurricane Forecaster Joe Bastardi. In 2008, there were 16 named storms, eight became hurricanes. The forecast for 2010 is 16 to 18 storm systems of which seven will become hurricanes and five of those will become a category three or stronger.
What's behind a forecast active 2010 hurricane season, well a rapid weakening of the current El Nino in the Pacific Ocean; warmer sea surface temperatures; and an expected weakening of the Atlantic trade wind.
Traditionally an El Nino occurring in the Pacific Ocean leads to a typically less active hurricane season, but this year this seems not to be the case.
For this time of the year it has been noticeably very dry and warm. The U.S. has been experiencing some very extreme weather situations such as a number of blizzards and just recently torrential rains that have caused flooding in certain states.
There is much concern by weather experts with respect to neighbouring earthquake ravaged Haiti where a minor tropical storm could cause what has been described as a catastrophe.
In Haiti, 80 per cent of the population is without access to television or radio, and communicating weather forecasts to the public is a great concern. Two weeks ago part of Haiti experienced flooding from a cold front weather system which killed up to 20 persons. Thousands of people continue to live in temporary shelters which are extremely vulnerable to wind and rain.
At the Regional Association IV Hurricane Committee, which brings together hurricane experts from across the Americas, held in Bermuda last week, Haiti was one of the main topics of discussion. A positive outcome at the meeting for Haiti and its people is Jamaica and Cuba will be asked to provide radar images while other countries have offered to provide storm tracking and communications equipment as well as personnel.
Disaster management planners will be paying keen attention in the coming weeks, as other forecasters will be coming out with their seasonal projections for the 2010 hurricane season. The next one is early April by Colorado State University hurricane forecasters Philip Klotzbach and William Gray followed by the Miami NOAA/National Hurricane Center on June 1.
Philipsburg:--- Two days after GEBE held its party to celebrate the inauguration of their two new generators that were installed some three months ago, the island residents were thrown into an island wide blackout, which lasted more than five hours on Sunday evening. While GEBE did not say, what was the cause of the blackout until late Sunday night SMN News learnt that a some sort of short circuit was the main cause. Sources say that for some unknown reason the computer system was tripping out the Zagersgut substation, which caused the power company to lose power for more than five hours. Electricity went off just after 5 pm and power was restored after 9 pm. Up to late Sunday night the exact cause of the computer problems were not identified. "The computer was not allowing the engines to start up for one reason or another" one source said.
SMN News also learnt that the two new generators were tripping or shutting down due to safety procedures when the short circuit occurs. While there has been conflicting information, circulating this media house also learnt that one of the radiators from one of the new generators blew on Saturday night as one of the employees had reported that he heard some sort of loud noise coming from the power plant.
Several residents and long time employees of GEBE said that the managing director of GEBE Mr. William Brooks needs to get his act together and manage the company in the interest of the people. "The building that was at the Bellevue border was damaged since 2008 when someone ran into it during a traffic accident and to date GEBE has not seen the importance of this building to have it repaired." One angry employee said that the main purpose of that building was for the Dutch side to receive a feed from the French side in cases of emergencies and vise versa but since the building was damaged that feed was blocked. "If that building was repaired and the feed was open then Cole Bay would not have been in darkness during those five hours."
SMN News also learnt that GEBE has been working all its generators at full capacity and there is no room for incidents such as Sunday's.
The source said GEBE management is not taking the businesses that are constantly losing monies to GEBE's power failures into account.
A press release from GEBE late Sunday night states that a short in one of two feeder cables leading to the Zagersgut Substation triggered a complete blackout on the Dutch side of the island late Sunday afternoon. The emergency protection systems at the Cay Bay Power Plant were triggered completely shutting down the power plant for a number of hours Sunday evening.
A GEBE team of technicians have been busy Sunday evening working to isolate the short in the feeder cable, however without success up to press time. Unfortunately, this left a number of districts without power such as Dutch Quarter, Belvedere, Oyster Pond, Defiance, Middle Region and Guana Bay, but GEBE engineers were able to bring those areas back online by approximately 10.30pm after re-routing the electrical production supply.
The demand in those aforementioned areas on Sunday night is low and technicians will continue to look for the fault and implement immediate repairs on Monday morning. The re-routing of Sunday evening is only a temporary measure. Once the short has been located load shedding of the aforementioned areas will be necessary in order to repair the problem.
Electricity supply to other residential districts were back online after power plant technicians were able to re-route power to the last Zagersgut Substation cable, however the cable can only carry a certain load. Numerous attempts were made to resupply the various districts, but the fault kept creating a destabilizing situation.
Cay Bay Power Plant engineers were taken aback by the island-wide (Dutch side) outage and said it was rather unusual. All power generating equipment are functional and operational including the two new generators that were inaugurated last Friday.
Shorts in the power generation system are not uncommon and can happen anytime without warning.
GEBE continues to make investments in the electrical supply system in order to provide a reliable system. The current Bush Road civil works is related to GEBE's ring system that will connect to the Pond Island Substation once completed.
The ring system will allow GEBE to still be able to provide electricity to Philipsburg and surrounding environs should a fault develop in the distribution network. GEBE engineers would be able to re-route the electricity more quickly thereby limiting the disruption time in service.
Although Black women account for 12 percent of women in the United States, they make up almost 70 percent of women believed to have AIDS. The AIDS rate among Black women is nearly 22 times higher than that of their White peers. In 2006, AIDS was the third leading cause of death among African American women ages 25 to 44. Tragically, many of the young women who die became infected as teenagers.
But just as Harriet Tubman, one of the most celebrated women in Black history, transcended her circumstances by first escaping slavery and then creating a way for others to save themselves, every Black female can both protect herself from HIV and help create an environment in which other Black people can protect themselves. But how can Black women do this in a world where they shoulder disproportionate family responsibilities, are often poorer and in worse health than other women, and are frequently abused and disrespected? And how can our community help them?
One of the most important decisions that a Black woman can make is to find out her HIV status. Hilda Hutcherson, M.D., a clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Columbia University Medical Center, says it best: "If you love yourself, you will insist upon your partner getting tested, and you will insist that you get tested as well." Even today, one in five Americans living with HIV don't even know that they have it. But there is no longer any excuse for this state of affairs. HIV testing is readily available -- often at no or reduced cost -- at many doctors' offices, public health centers, community outreach events and churches. And if you're scared of blood or needles, you can ask for an oral test, in which a swab is merely run across the inside of your cheek. Generally results are available in less than an hour. But no matter which method you select or where you decide to get it done, every sexually active Black woman needs to get HIV-tested at least once a year -- and more often if you have more than one partner, are concerned about your partner's sexual faithfulness, or are uncertain of his or her status.
Philipsburg:---The St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association and the St. Maarten Timeshare Association met with Mr. William Brooks and Mr. Steve Duzanson of GEBE yesterday afternoon to discuss reliability of service, the tariff structure, and alternative energy.
Reliability of Service
The SHTA expressed its concern regarding the effect that the frequent power outages are having on businesses' ability to provide quality, reliable service to their consumers and the growing need for residents and businesses to invest in a backup system. The SHTA questioned what the operational setbacks are that are preventing GEBE for functioning optimally. Mr. Brooks explained the challenges that GEBE has been encountering and listed the company's plans to improve reliability of service:
- The construction of a new substation on Pond Island, which together with the station on A. Th. Illidge road would be able to better service the Dutch side of the island. This should be complete by the end of 2010
- A ring system is being worked on to ensure that when incidents occur in one area, power can be shut off to that particular district rather than to the entire island.
- Technicians are scheduled to overhaul the machines that have reached maximum running hours.
- Plans are being made for the purchase of a 3rd 11.3 MW engine
Unexpected new developments on the island on the short term can negatively impact the long-term capacity plans of utility companies. As a result of unexpected developments, the planning, purchasing and installment of equipment necessary to maintain a reliable supply of electricity to the community can fall behind the demand. Constant communication between Public Works and GEBE continues to be vital to forecasting demand and updating long-term plans for GEBE's electricity production capacity to stay ahead of the electricity demand.
Tariff structure
Mr. Brooks reported that the tariff structure was established in 1960 when the price of oil was approximately $4 per barrel (vs. $80 presently) and the local circumstances were different. He stated that the base rate no longer covers GEBE's operational expenses, and as a result the fuel clause incorporated much more than just the price of oil; hence the need for the new structure.
With regards to the fuel clause, Mr. Brooks explained that this was set up with a profit margin attached, meaning that when the price of oil increased, so would GEBE's profits. In the new structure, the fuel clause will be a pass through fee that will have no effect on GEBE's profits.
With regards to the proposed structure, he informed that the fuel clause cannot be removed.
More importantly, the tariff structure is not expected to increase or decrease fees but make it more predictable. This, he said, would allow residents and businesses to better predict and manage their electricity costs.
An increase in the base rate is also planned.
The structure is still to be reviewed by the Supervisory Board, after which it will be taken to the Executive Council for approval.
In terms of offering relief to businesses, Mr. Brooks stated that GEBE is not allowed to alter any of its rates without the approval of Government, but hopes that the new structure will assist businesses in their financial planning.
Alternative Energy
The SHTA asked if there are any plans to introduce alternative energy on the short term that would assist in stabilizing the supply and the cost of electricity. Mr. Brooks advised that the costs associated with Geothermal Energy, specifically the installation of the submarine cables, are high. Further current geothermal installations on Nevis and Saba are not yet operational. The costs of solar panels are also very expensive. Wind energy, on the other hand is the most affordable, but also the most unreliable.
GEBE has been directed by Government to purchase 6 Megawatts of electricity from the waste management project, for which the costs are not yet clear..
The meeting concluded with Mr. Brooks expressing compassion for what the businesses and residents have had to endure and stressed that GEBE is working diligently towards stabilizing the electricity supply.
Overall, the SHTA found the meeting to be very informative and plans to stay in close contact with GEBE to improve the quality of service and life on St. Maarten.
Philipsburg: --- Advisor to the Democratic Party Julian Rollocks sent a cashier's check to the treasurer of Talking Drum Foundation Franklin Brison on Wednesday to the sum of $20,475, which represents the rent monies he collected from Border Point. Rollocks wanted Brison to sign a waiver when he received the check but that was request was denied. Sources close to Rollocks and Talking Drum said the SAPP leader sent the check and letter with a bailiff to the foundation treasurer hoping to settle the court case, which was initiated by Rollocks against Talking Drum. It is understood that Rollocks in his letter said he did not realize that he could not gain financial benefits from any foundation since it is a non- profit organization. Rollocks also promised to stay away from Talking Drums in the future.
SMN News also learnt that Rollocks and one of his close friends called the president and founder of Talking Drum Cimmeran Marlin at Parliament Building on Thursday and offered to give him the monies personally. The source said Marlin felt that the duo was trying to bribe him and he refused to handle the matter, which is currently in court. SMN News further learnt that the person who spoke to Marlin indicated to him that they were going to give him the monies at the Christian Kingdom Cooperation (CKC) office on Back Street but Marlin never went along with the plans. It is further understood that Marlin immediately contacted his lawyer and informed him of the incident.
The source said that the monies Rollocks gave back to Talking Drums do not represent the total amount of monies he collected for the foundation. SMN News further learnt that Rollocks still has to turn over documents belonging to Talking Drums before he can consider any type of settlement. "Even if Rollocks pays the monies back it does not mean he is off the hook because the prosecutor's office is already on it." The source said.
SMN News further learnt that Rollocks and two of the foundation's members were meeting but Marlin instructed them to deal with his attorneys at HBN law. Efforts made on Wednesday evening to contact attorney at law Sambeek proved futile up to press time.
In the letter that Rollocks sent to the foundation he apologized to the foundation claiming that he made a mistake when he had his half brother signed a contract, which would give him 60% of the income from Border Point.
SMN News learnt that based on the contract Rollocks would have gotten 80% of all the income generated at Border Point since he also wanted the full income from two of the buildings located at Border Point.
Rollocks and his half brother Cimmeran Marlin appeared in court on Monday but the judge instructed the two men to see if they can settle their dispute outside of courts. The judge also indicated that should there not be a settlement then he would give his ruling on April 9.
In an invited comment Prosecutor Rienk Mud said, he does not have all the information on the case regarding Julian Rollocks and Talking Drums, however, his colleague who is currently on sick leave knows more about the case. SMN News also learnt that an arrest warrant is out for Rollocks and he is doing his best to settle the case is to avoid implicating Island Council lady Sarah Wescot Williams. Mud said his colleague will report to work on Monday and more information on the case would be released then.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—On Tuesday, while students from the 3rd and 4th grade of the HAVO and VWO classes where at the Government Administration Building in the Claude Wathey Legislative Hall, they heard a presentation by the Head of the Education Department Quincy Harrigan who explained about the Sector of Education. He also went on to explain about the departments that falls under the sector, one of which is study-financing.
Harrigan then gave the word over to Ms. Olga Mussington, a counselor at the department, who spoke to the students about study financing and about choosing a concentration/major.
Mussington said that you must choose a career based on what you like to do or have an interest in, and that is a priority area of study. This latter part ensures a better chance of getting the study financing, 60% of which has to be paid back to government.
So it is important to research your area of study or participating in a student intern position in your area of interest before choosing a particular study, concentration, major. Find something that you are passionate about, Mussington said, and pursue that study.
A priority list was compiled by surveying the private and public sectors and inquiring what the urgent/immediate needs are.
In recent times there were certain subjects that students were not interested in on the priority list. Mussignton urged students to explore some of these not so popular areas: archaeology, meteorology, lab technician, nurses, lawyers, teachers, sociology, librarians, and teachers, who in high demand on St. Maarten.
She indicated that students haven't been choosing these majors; they have been selecting instead the same concentrations over the years.
Too often students study what is popular, she said that students have to consider the market and getting a job within a competition and saturated market. So it was of the essence for students to choose their future career wisely.
As well, each sector, it was indicated by the Sector Directors and Department Heads, that there are areas open in the fields of policy, researchers, etc.
For more information on the priority list, please visit the website of study financing http://www.study-sxm.org or visit the department for more information.
CAY BAY— On Thursday GEBE was once again plagued by a number of mechanical challenges, however everything returned back to normal by 6.00pm as the production load on the Dutch side of the island went down as the business day started to come to a close at five and six pm.
Generator #15 tripped around 4.00pm as a result of instability in the power grid and this resulted in power disruption in the Cupecoy/Mullet Bay area, Beacon Hill, Simpson Bay Village, Airport Road, Belvedere, Oyster Pond and the Westin Hotel area.
Diesel Generator #16 also developed a mechanical problem causing a loss of 8 Megawatts (MW) in production capacity around 2.45pm. This resulted in interruption in service for Madame Estate, AT Illidge Road, Middle Region, Madame Estate area, Arch Road, Suckergarden, and Guana Bay.
Generator #16 is expected to remain offline as technicians work to repair the problem. Up to press time these repairs were still on-going and may continue on Friday leaving the possibility open for possible load shedding on Friday.
GEBE customers are asked to check out www.nvgebe.com for the latest information regarding load shedding.
With Generator #17 already offline for general scheduled maintenance, this just added to the shortage in capacity during daylight peak hours. The demand for electricity from the community and the business sector peaked at 55MW.
Other neighbourhoods impacted by disruption in service around 4.00pm were St. Peters, south Reward, Ebenezer, Betty's Estate, Saunders, Mary's Fancy, Cay Bay, Cole Bay (Welfare Road), and the Pelican area.
Earlier in the day there were outages in other areas such as Dutch Quarter, Tamarind Hill, Dawn Beach, Union Farm and the Bishop Hill area.
GEBE regrets the inconvenience caused.
GREAT BAY – A group of six persons will assist the Preventive Health Department as of Monday with yard controls in search of aedes aegypti mosquito breeding sites.
The six persons have been contracted for a two month period until the end of May. The aim of the project is to inspect yards, give information and accumulate data such as the number of breeding places, types of mosquitoes found, and what are the most common mosquito breeding sources.
These persons underwent two days of trainings that would allow them to work with the Preventive Health Department in their campaign to eliminate mosquito breeding sites on the island.
The facilitators are Epidemiologist Gerald Peters and GKMB Mosquito Control Program Controller Johnny Wattley.
The persons have been trained on how to detect mosquito breeding spots and to inform residents on eliminating breeding places. The intended yard-to-yard inspections are restricted to home-owner yards and resident's cooperation is highly appreciated when the controllers pass by to carry out their inspections.
In the meantime residents and businesses are advised to continue taking preventative measures as this is necessary to keep down the mosquito population and prevent the spread of mosquito-borne diseases.
The six persons that took part in the workshop were selected from a list of 16 persons compiled from the Social Welfare unemployment database. From the 16 names provided, 11 were selected to be trained, and eight were selected to work on the project and only six were able to continue with the project.
These six persons will operate under the supervision of Gerald Peters, Johnny Wattley and Kendal Gumbs.
"I am very pleased that government was able to tap into the unemployed market of persons and found persons willing to get involved in their community in this manner. Government is ready and willing to assist unemployed persons and this initiative is one way to do it.
"I appeal to the community to take proper control measures around their homes to reduce mosquito breeding. Greater vigilance on the part of residents would complement vector control exercises designed to eliminate potentially dangerous mosquitoes such as the one that carries dengue fever," Commissioner of Public Health & Labour Affairs Hyacinth Richardson told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Friday.
Once a breeding place is detected within the yard, there is the option to treat the source with abate or spraying with a hand pump.
The yard inspection will take place at the point of Belvedere going into Dutch Quarter and then into Middle Region. Residents and business owners are kindly requested to cooperate with the controllers and the department. Lets work together to keep our island free of Dengue Fever!
The project is part of the 2008 strategy that was developed to manage the mosquito population. Throughout 2008, the yard-to-yard inspections were carried out mainly by civil servants, which proved to be a challenge due to their daily office duties besides contributing to the campaign.
This project will act as a pilot to determine the possibility of systematically reviving yard-to-yard inspections as a pro-active approach in controlling the mosquito population and preventing an outbreak of dengue fever in the future.
Great Bay – The premier local construction materials supply company on St. Maarten, BBW is relocating to Sucker Garden. The company's offices and operations will now be located on the Arch Road.
As a public statement regarding its commitment to St. Maarten, the company has decided to place and always maintain, a large St. Maarten flag on the top it's tallest cement silo, which forms part of BBW's recent installation of its new and modern Ready mix Concrete plant. The two white Cement silos at the company's new location, are visible from Philipsburg, Cul de Sac, Fort Willem and adjacent areas.
The relocation comes after almost 50 years of the company's operation venue being located on the airport road, in close proximity of the Princess Juliana International Airport. The company, which at present employs 20 persons, is in the process of finalizing most of the activities related to the relocation. The process is expected to be completed by the end of this week.
By the time that St. Maarten was beginning to experience its economic boom in the 70s and 80s, BBW had already made a name for itself as the island's premiere construction materials supplier.
BBW has been involved in various large and smaller-sized construction projects in St. Maarten over the course of the past decades.
In an industry that BBW over the years has set the standard for customers whose demand are for high quality Ready Mix Concrete, blocks, sand, gravel and cement, at good prices, on time deliveries, consistent and good customer service, BBW remains committed to its St. Maarten community and are here to stay.
With the bold move to relocate, the company envisions a new chapter in its development, allowing them to provide even better service to the community of St. Maarten.
The company pledges to continue offering quality products at the most competitive prices, with a service level second to none. BBW we are here for you St. Maarten!
GREAT BAY (GIS)—National Tree Day was observed on Monday, March 22 by the students at the St. Dominic High School planted a Flamboyant tree at the rear of the school premises.
This initiative is actually between the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau and the St. Maarten Archeology Center, SIMARC headed by Dr. Jay Haviser.
Tourism Bureau's Edward Dest gave a short speech on behalf of Tourism Department Head, Regina Labega. Dest said that it was important to create awareness of the importance of trees in our environment.
"We jointly planted trees at various locations to stress the point that progress and environmental conservation are not enemies. [These] trees continue to grow today and are a daily reminder that if we work with nature, nature will work with us. This is the main message we can draw from the theme: 'Youth and Nature Working Together.' Youth and nature, indeed, are natural allies."
"On this National Tree Day, our youth will be actively involved in planting the Flamboyant tree in the environment where they function the most: at their schools. Six secondary schools have been chosen for this event, and it is hoped that this would be seen as an example for other schools and youth organizations to follow."
Dest pointed out that there was also the need to work together.
It was just not an initiative to enhance public-private partnership, but also in recognition of the need for a collaborative effort.
Haviser concurred, and extended the thought that trees are important both naturally and culturally.
According to Haviser trees are beautiful, they provide us with fruits, they provide us with clean, fresh air, and they are in some cases landmarks, so it is important that we value and preserve trees. On this day, because trees are such an important part of our community, we need to show appreciation and respect. We ask the entire community to take a moment today and appreciate a tree, perhaps plant a tree in your yard or simply provide some water and fertilizer, but do step back and feel proud of these majestic natural partners in our community.
Two students of St. Dominic High, Rohid Premkumar and Jonathon van Arneman, also part of SIMARC, shared some words with the small gathering. They said that we have to appreciate trees more, and to inform the public about the need for such, and to avoid cutting trees down.
GREAT BAY,– So far approximately 200 persons have made use of the special opening on Saturdays by the Civil Registry Department for persons who need an Identification Card after receiving their Brooks Towers Accord residency papers.
Two Saturdays have already passed and the Civil Registry Department will be open again on Saturday, March 27 and again Saturday, April 3.
Persons who have received their residency permit under the Brooks Towers Accord should make use of the two Saturdays that are left. The office will be open from 8:00am to 1:00pm.
The public is also hereby informed that the office does not accept any laminated documents. Laminated documents do not allow the office the opportunity to verify the authenticity of the aforementioned.
MARIGOT---The gendarmes conducted several road and traffic controls during this month in order to maintain the traffic laws. The idea was for them to identify the vehicle owners that are using public roads recklessly and are a danger to other road users. Some of the vehicles controlled are heavy vehicles. Drivers who were caught with more than six percent of the maximum weight were fined 135 Euros for the offence.
The controlling officers were also looking for drivers who drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Drivers who tested positive for drug use had their drivers' license revoked by the public prosecutor.
PHILIPSBURG—As part of the international World Water Day celebrations that were held on March 22, 2010, GEBE held a blind water taste test with customers to promote the quality of drinking water and determine whether customers can pick GEBE water out of a line up. Customers visiting the main office were asked to sample five different waters including popular bottled water brands, GEBE water, and GEBE water run through a carbon filter. Participants received a free limited edition GEBE reusable water bottle to promote better health through drinking water.
Many customers started off that they would have no problem identifying the source of the different water samples. However, during the test, they indicated their surprise that the waters tasted very much alike. "This is hard, they all taste alike." One customer exclaimed while testing. When they reached the question where they had to indicate which sample was GEBE water, more than 10% did not even venture a guess. Of those customers who did guess, 20% were able to pick GEBE unfiltered water (sample #4) out of a line up, while only 1 in 10 were able to identify GEBE filtered water (sample #3).
As part of the testing program, GEBE's water lab tested 21 bottled water brands, as well as a cistern water sample and GEBE water sample to give a range of the pH balance (ranging from alkaline to acidic), conductivity (measuring salt content) and microbiological tests. In these tests, GEBE's tap water was average in terms of pH balance and conductivity illustrating that tap water is the same quality as most bottled waters.
Although the cistern water fared well in the pH balance and conductivity tests, the microbiological tests showed expected signs of possible microbial presence that can be expected from spouts and cisterns. It is recommended to run cistern water through a filter or to boil it before drinking.
When rating the water, GEBE customers rated GEBE unfiltered water 2nd above leading bottled brands. "We were pleasantly surprised at the results of the taste test with GEBE water scoring so high. After conducting the same test with GEBE employees at the power plant and the main building, we were able to discern slight differences in taste depending on where the GEBE sample was taken from."
GEBE water has advantages since it is delivered straight to your home, it costs up to 300 times less than bottled water, and does not pollute the environment with thousands of plastics bottles ending up being littered or in the landfill. Empty plastic bottles that are in the end not recycled, can stay in the environment up to 450 years. In the test 60% of customers indicated that they already drink GEBE water at home, 17% of which drink GEBE with a filter. In these difficult economic times, families are looking for new ways to save money. Using tap water more effectively could save upwards of Naf. 500 per year.
Making quality drinking water available to everyone in the community remains a priority for NV GEBE. No matter which water you decide to drink, whether cistern water, filtered water, tap water or bottled water, drinking water remains important for your health. So drink up.
A big thank you goes out to shoppers four and five rows deep, who partook in the Rotary Club of Sint Maarten's "Great St Maarten Bazaar" over the weekend. Goods on sale included new and gently-used designer clothing, house wares, books, furniture and plants. As a result of the support given by so many in our community, the day's efforts raised approximately $4,000 that will benefit the pediatric ward of the St Maarten Medical Centre.
Vice President of the Club, Rebecca Low said, "As Rotarians, we are always looking at ways we can help build a stronger St Maarten. One of those ways is to ensure that we have a world-class hospital. Through our efforts here, and our upcoming fundraiser on Oasis of the Seas, we plan on making some special donations that will benefit the babies born here."
Visiting Rotarians from the United States joined together with Club members and high school students from Rotary's Interact Club at Milton Peters College. The Rotary Club wishes to thank Le Grand Marche and Prime Distributors for their continued support of grassroots organizations in St Maarten, as well as the general public without whose support the many fundraising events, such as "The Great St. Maarten Bazaar" would not be possible.
Philipsburg: --- The suspect who allegedly killed Eddy the hairdresser on December 21 2008 arrived on St. Maarten on March 20 after Canadian authorities extradited him
The suspect C.W was arrested when he arrived on St. Maarten and he appeared before the judge of instruction on Tuesday as the investigation into the brutal murder of Eddy continues said Prosecutor Rienk Mud.
Mud said on March 25 the last two suspects in the human smuggling investigation known as 'Tortola', arrived at 'Princess Juliana International Airport', after they were extradited by US authorities, also at the request of the prosecutor's office.
The suspects, 36-year-old R.R. and his 35-year-old wife M.R., were arrested in the US on suspicion of shoplifting. After their arrest it turned out, they were wanted in St Maarten.
In the 'Tortola' case, a group of about 25 people was smuggled by boat from St Maarten with destination St. Thomas. The boat was shipwrecked off the coast of Tortola. Thirteen people, several children included, were never found again. They presumably drowned.
Co suspects were sentenced by the Court of First Instance to imprisonment ranging from 6 to 34 months.
The suspects, who were arrested when they arrived in Sint Maarten, will be led before the investigating judge. They will be further interrogated by the police about their role and their statements will be added to the file that was already completed. For this reason, the suspects will be summoned to appear in court as soon as possible.
The Tzu Chi foundation of St Maarten is currently in Haiti the foundation sent four delegates to the island to reinforce the Tzu Chi International, for personal circumstances one of the members was force to return back to St Maarten/ St Kitts.
The Organization Tzu Chi chapters of North, South America, Asia and the only one of Caribbean (St Maarten Chapter) join force in Haiti to help distribute humanitarian relief like Food, Tents, Blankets, Tapoling, Tzu Chi is also assisting in the Medical field like dental, acupuncture and pediatrician doctors came in to contribute with their profession.
The last 4 days the Tzu Chi distributed over 3500 relief to the people of Haiti there distribution location is the Sylvio Cator Stadium in Port au Prince, Haiti. The people are been selected by church members and Community leaders. The Stadium self is been use as an emergency relief tent village many of these type of Tent village are spread all over the island in Port au Prince. On Monday Tzu Chi plans to distribute over 1500 tents at the Stadium to the people who are in need of a tent many is building shacks of Tapoling or from old cart board they will also distribute blankets and food to the Haitians who are in need. They will also distribute to different families outside Port au Prince.
The St Maarten Tzu Chi delegates are planning to stay till Saturday April 03, 2010.
Rolex Cheung , Gromyko Wilson and Peter De Zela holding the St Maarten Flag at the Sylvio Cator soccer Stadium, what is now a tent village in the middle of Port au Prince. We are here standing with the lil children that now is Homeless and living in tent and shacks build from wood tapoling and cardboard.... We were Proud to have the St Maarten flag up to symbolize that we contributed to help the People of Haiti.
Philipsburg: --- The selection committee that was busy interviewing several candidates to fill the vacant positions of the police management team (KPSSS) has selected Peter de Witte as St. Maarten's new police chief commissioner. De Witte is also president of the Police Social Club and he was part of the police unions. SMN News learnt that members of the St. Maarten Police Force are quite familiar with de Witte since they travelled to several countries together, all of which he spearheaded.
Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba had said that the incoming chief would take up his position on April 1. However, when contacted on Monday evening for a comment on the selected candidates Jacoba said she would make an official announcement when the process is finalized.
SMN News also learnt that Chief Inspector Carl John was selected to be the head of the Algemeen Division while the head of judicial division remains vacant.
The source said the Minister of Justice would now have to select an interim head for the justice division until a suitable candidate is found to take up the position. The committee was chaired by St. Maarten's Chief of Police Franklyn Richards, while other members were Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos, junior Minister of Justice Ernie Simmons, M. de Palm, and Golio who represented the police unions from Curacao.
SMN News has been reliably informed that Aruba's Police Chief Peter de Witte won the selection process and that he out ran Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police Richard Panneflec who was also interviewed for the position. Panneflec was the next candidate to be appointed chief commissioner of police had he stayed in his position a year ago. Former Minister of Justice David Dick had suggested that Panneflec leave the force and further his studies in Holland an option he refused and requested to be placed at the disposition of the island government. Minister Magali Jacoba gave Panneflec another year extension in February where he would remain to the disposition of the island government.
Willemstad, 'Practical, intensive training', 'learned a lot'. These are some of the qualifications the participants gave to the Project implementation master class A piece of cake that USONA (Implementing organization Netherlands Antilles Development Foundation) organized in cooperation with the UNA in Curaçao from 23rd to 25th of March.
The immediate reason for this master class was the large number of approved projects in 2009 and the desire to supply additional skills and tools in order to further professionalize the implementation of the projects.
In three days the 20 participants, all of them involved in development projects in the Antilles, went through eight modules in which mainly the feedback to their own projects, the daily practice, was emphasized. Because of this, the theory received direct practical implementation. The enthusiasm was such that already during the master class plans were made to keep meeting each other after this master class as well (LinkedIN, SharePoint).
The participants in the master class originate from a variety of sectors such as tourism, education, the prison system, youth welfare, and health care and from governmental departments on Sint Maarten, Sint Eustatius, Bonaire and Curaçao. The main subjects, eight topics were: Commission and principalship, Targets, Strategy and target tree, Actors and stakeholders, Risk factors, Leadership and Change management, Process management, Planning and Control, and Cashing in. Each module started with a theoretical approach to the topic, followed by the practice. In each case the participants were given the assignment to provide feedback from the topic discussed to their own project(s). Precisely because of the diversity of projects there were lively and useful discussions. The whole master class was supported by a web environment (SharePoint) to which the participants were able to log in already before the start of the master class and could read relevant discussion papers and documents. Within this platform they could also questions, a function that even after completion of the master class will continue to be available, creating a project implementation studygroup, and so increasing the sustainability of this project.
The teachers were experts from the Netherlands who brought along a broad experience, and also program managers of USONA who could perfectly give feed back from the daily practice. The master class was led by Hans van Leeuwen (Certified Project Director) and Frans Versteeg (Advisor USONA).
Upon the retirement of Frans Versteeg as Director of USONA at the end of September 2009 the master class was a gift to him from the Berenschot Group. Versteeg thereupon passed the gift symbolically to the Governors of the island territories. The first master class therefore has been complimentary.
Young talented persons who are interested in participating in the Youth Extravaganza for Carnival 2010, "Sweet Revelry Again", can still register to do so. The youth extravaganza is the only night on the annual Carnival schedule that St. Maarten's youth can claim at the Festival Village.
The event was officially added to the Carnival calendar in 2000 and has consistently been the second largest local show in terms of attendance, eclipsed only by the Senior Calypso Finals.
Young people who would like to showcase their talent in singing, dancing, rapping, modeling, acting, instrument playing are all invited to register. Interested young bands can also use the opportunity to introduce themselves, via music, to their peers.
"The Youth Extravaganza for years has been a good, positive event for us," President of the SCDF Gina Illidge said. "Young people tend to support each other so attendance has not been an issue. We would like to see a variety of performers this year to continue the trend of a positive, exciting display of young talent," she added.
Interested young persons can register by calling 5220509 or 5221366. Registration has to take place by Thursday, April 8. A meeting will also be held on that day at the Government Administration Building at 5:30pm.
The Annual Chester York Race will take place this Sunday April 4th. The race will start at Flanders Bar at approximately eight in the morning with a "Tour of Honor" for St. Maarten born, 65 year old Chester York - a long time cycling activist and former participant of various local races during his younger days. After the "Tour of Honor" the official race will begin and end at approximately ten o'clock in the morning.
President of St. Maarten Cyclers Club Association, Mr. Jean-Paul Rousseau, accompanied by Vice President Joseph Holaman, presented the official NAGICO sponsor t-shirt to NAGICO Junior Manger and Underwriter for Life Insurances, Mr. Howard Chengajune. He stated: "I am proud to accept the official NAGICO t-shirt on behalf of the Management Team and employees of NAGICO. I encourage everyone to come out and enjoy the race on Sunday and urge drivers on the road to be vigilant when approaching the cyclists."
NAGICO is a strong supporter of sports activities. The company sponsors various cricket, basketball, baseball and futsal tournaments on the island.
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Philipsburg;---In June 2009, Commissioner Theo Heyliger assuaged his critics he that he had to turn his back on the Democratic Party because the DP was "not appreciative of Theo Heyliger". Of course this was the furthest thing from the truth, evident to all by the "free hand" given to Commissioner Heyliger as a DP commissioner to manage his portfolios in a practically unchallenged way, the only constraints being the boundaries of the law. Not to add to an already strained political environment, the DP back then listened and observed as the June 2009 political upheaval was classified by some as the best thing to happen, we however knowing full well that while in the DP there have been differences of opinion on approaches to certain matters, respect was always there.
How the tables have turned today. Today Commissioner Heyliger in a relatively short period of time, has had to contend publicly with "being put in his place" by his coalition partner, the National Alliance.
One could defend this with the argument that it is a 4 to 1 situation in the Executive Council, but to show up Commissioner Heyliger in the way that it is being done and for his own portfolios is nothing else than a slap in Theo's face.
- A public spat evolved with the Cape Plan Development plan between the 2 factions in the Executive Council (an assistant to a NA-commissioner calls Theo to order);
- The NA has put the GEBE headache squarely in the lap of Commissioner Heyliger, denying the collective responsibility they all share in the Executive Council and refusing to give him any support;
- If a decision was taken by the NA/Heyliger government on the Westin/Sonesta comfort letters as the leader of government alleged, how come Commissioner Heyliger had to resort to publicly calling for the letters issued by the DP administration, of which he was part, to be honored?
And then to be so embarrassed to have to walk out during the vote on the motion presented by the DP faction for something he (Theo) publicly had called for, namely to honor the Westin and Sonesta "comfort" letters. You're either for or against.
And now, the re-assignment/suspension/dismissal of the Director and acting-Director of ROB. Clearly Commissioner Heyliger was overruled in his own portfolio and not afforded the decency of coming with his own solution. And mind you, this witch hunt comes from the NA faction in the Executive Council, who when in opposition, called for a PUBLIC ISLAND COUNCIL MEETING, to debate the dismissal of a civil servant of the personnel department. "Because, government was taking bread out of some-one's mouth", the NA had alleged then.
And since this decision by the Executive Council on the ROB management was shared with only a very selected few within the Administration, how come it "leaked out"? Obviously, it needed to be established publicly who is the BOSS in the Executive Council. The position of deputy leader given to Commissioner Heyliger is but a "keep you happy".
Upon signing their governing agreement, NA and Heyliger had agreed to a leadership conference of Marlin and Heyliger. When , if ever did this "leadership conference" of Heyliger and Marlin meet, except in the press?
Philipsburg: ----The titans of calypso on St. Maarten will converge on the Celebration Palace on Saturday, April 10 to start their quest of dethroning reigning Calypso Monarch King Beau Beau. Showtime is 8:00pm, entrance fee is only US $5. Eighteen (18) Calypsonians will take the stage, 10 will move on to the finals to face the king.
The Senior Calypso Eliminations will be the first event of the Carnival season. The St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF), citing the success of the show over the last few years, is urging the general public to come out on April 10 and get the excitement started Carnival 2010, "Sweet Revelry Again."
Competing in the Calypso Eliminations will be: Barrow, Fox, Bongo, Magic, The Emerald, Lady Baker, Baker Jr., Mighty Pepper, King Jacko, Genius, Brat, Mighty Dow, Young Dow, Stunky, Chester York, Fish da Boss, Mighty Carlix and D Moniter. As reigning Monarch, Beau Beau does not have to compete in the elimination.
"It's appropriate that we open the Carnival season with our biggest local event," President of the SCDF Gina Illidge said. "We are very happy with the amount of calypsonians that have registered to take part in the competition this year. We expect some great social commentary from them so this is not something anyone should miss," Illidge said.
The federation's ability to continue promoting itself as a paradise for tourism can and may be seriously affected with the recent murder of a taxi driver. This is the view of former senior defense force officer, Shawn Wigley. Wigley said that while the federation has a very high murder rate owing to gang crime and violence seems to have taken a new twist. He said that while the Government through the Ministry of Tourism can and will justify the increased crime rate being laid at the feet of gangs, the killing of a taxi operator indicates that the economic situation is rapidly worsening.
He however stressed that this latest incident can affect the government's ability to earn while placing undue challenges at the Ministry of Tourism. "It means that the Ministry of tourism will have a bigger challenge as now tourists will want to know how safe they are taking into consideration that a taxi operator has been killed," he said.
Wigley warned that crime has to be addressed by all including political parties as if there is need for serious security concerns, the federation's ability to host major events would be greatly affected. "The last thing that we can afford now is to have St Kitts and Nevis being looked at as a place where there are security worries as organizers of major regional and international events may begin having second thoughts which will certainly affect all including the government and private sector," he said.
Wigley pointed out that Government has fought to ensure that a number of major regional and international sporting events be staged in the federation. As such, he warned that any security situation that warrants attention can and may prompt the postponement of these events. "nobody will come to a country where people seems not to be safe and the killing of a taxi operators makes it very difficult for anyone to comprehend as to the reason/s as visitors and tourist may feel timid and reluctant to come," he noted.
This, Wigley said means that every citizen and visitors has to be more vigilant and cognizant of what he said is the 'bigger' picture in that people has to become each others keepers'. If we are going to save St Kitts and Nevis waiting on the government and police alone will not work as they should not be the only ones helping to change things but each one of us," he declared.
The former SKN Defense force officer noted that security concerns have affected a number of countries in the past which ultimately resulted in increased hardships for its people. "We have seen in countries like India and Pakistan where events have had to be cancelled we have also seen in certain Caribbean countries where people are warned not to go because of security concerns so we need to be very careful before St Kitts and Nevis gets into that as currently we are still seen as a paradise," Wigley said.
Wigley added that while there is pressure building from the public on the federation's security forces its time that everyone begin to understand that protecting and harboring criminals helps in the ultimate destruction of the country and their economic future.
Philipsburg: --- The court of first instance has rejected the claim filed against Talking Drum Foundation by Julian Rollocks. The court also prohibited Rollocks from acting as a representative to the Foundation in its April 9 ruling while giving Julian Rollocks one week to turn over all documents, contracts as well as sub-contracts for the Border Point to his half brother Cimmeran Marlin.
The judge in his ruling said while he would not give a direct decision on how the foundation and Rollocks should settle their dispute regarding Rollocks so called investment in the foundation.
The judge stated that based on the letter to Rollocks by Talking Drum pertaining to the investments Rollocks must substantiate his investment claims if a settlement is to be reached between the foundation and Rollocks.
On March 15 2010, Julian Rollocks took the Talking Drum Foundation to court after they prohibited him from acting and collecting monies on behalf of the foundation.
Two days after the hearing Rollocks sent a cashier's check to the foundation to the amount of $20,475 as well as a letter apologizing to the foundation which was founded by his half brother Cimmeran Marlin. According to information reaching SMN News the monies Rollocks returned to the foundation does not represent the total amount of monies he received on behalf of Talking Drums.
Details on the verdict will be published in a subsequent article on this website.
In the meantime, SMN News has learned that the a letter was sent to the executive council by members of the Talking Drum Foundation asking the council to investigate Julian Rollocks since he is allegedly misusing the foundation for his personal gain.
Philipsburg:--- The Belvedere Home Owners and Tenants Association (BHOTA) in collaboration with the Police Department held a fun day for the children of the Belvedere and Union farm communities on Saturday, April 10th.
The fun day was called "Cops for Kids" and it was organized by BHOTA. The idea of the fun day was to take the children out of their everyday environment and let them have fun some where else. Another aspect was also for them to make a connection with the police and to let them know that the police is to protect, serve and guide them. Close to one hundred children, ranging between the ages of 8 to 15 years took part in this fun day.
The fun day started 10.00 a.m. with a bicycle ride from the Belvedere/ Union Farm/ French Quarter area to Philipsburg. The riders were guided by the Police Bike patrols through the streets. Those children who did not have a bicycle were transported by bus to the police sub-station on the Cyrus Wathey Square. There the children were allowed to interact with each other, the police, and other persons walking on the Board Walk. They were allowed to swim and were given a boat tour on the police boat in the Great Bay harbour.
The children were also treated to lunch and had ice cream for dessert. At 02.00 p.m. the group of riders hopped back on their bikes and those that came on the bus got on the bus and headed back to Belvedere and Union Farm area where they were dropped off. The Police department is looking forward to a continuous working relationship with BHOTA.
MARIGOT--- A well known robber was sentenced to three years imprisonment by a court in Basse-Terre on Friday for the role he played in multiple robberies and vehicular thefts. A press release from the gendarmes states that the 20-year-old robber was arrested by a patrol on Wednesday night just after he had committed an armed robbery on the Dutch side of the island. The investigation conducted by the gendarmerie determined that the culprit was responsible for other thefts including the stealing of a vehicle in Grand Case on March 31, one in Baie Nettle and the other in Marigot.
The gendarmes also reported that two other suspects are now in pre-trial detention in Guadeloupe for robberies they committed on two restaurants. The suspects will appear in court on April 13.
Airport Road:---Windward Islands Airways International N.V (WINAIR) has created a splash on the social media scene by launching the first Facebook contest by an airline in the region's history. The contest dubbed My WINAIR moment is geared at rewarding winners with round trip tickets as the company seeks to aggressively promote the company within the various destinations that it travels to.
According to the company's Managing Director, Edwin Hodge face book Fans can join the contest simply by uploading a photo of theirs on the WINAIR Fanpage wall. He said that adding a caption to their pictures describing why it was their WINAIR moment enables them to win from the many attractive and lucrative prizes available. The photo with the most "Likes" will win a round-trip flight to a WINAIR destination Hodge said.
"WINAIR remains at the cutting edge of technology and is now the first airline in the region to interact with its customers and fans through social media," commented the company's Vice President / Director of Marketing and Sales, Claudio Buncamper.
Buncamper pointed out that the Facebook contest can be seen as the start of a process through which the airline is seeking to become even more customer-focused and there can be a number of key social media initiatives expected in the upcoming months.
To help with setting up a social media strategy of world-class standards, WINAIR has engaged leading airline branding consultancy, SimpliFlying.
"Technology has allowed us to efficiently and effectively interact with customers like never before. The visionary approach being taken by WINAIR to drive customer engagement, is very encouraging" says Shashank Nigam, chief executive of SimpliFlying.
The Facebook contest is open to public and will run until April 23, 2010.
More information about the contest can be found on http://www.facebook.com/flywinair
Newly appointed Manager of Ma Pau Casino, Charlene Edwards believes that if her business is to grow and develop then government and private sector support as well as the availability of skills and expertise is critically important.
This was the consensus of Edwards who recently moved from St Maarten after being there for some 15 years. Edwards who assessed the operations of both Ma Pau Casino and Sweet Lime Restaurant said that said there is a growing realization that additional efforts are needed towards the development of both businesses as a result of what she said is the growing challenging times being faced. She said that she hopes to see fruits being bourn soon taking into consideration that since the businesses were established in 2008 they have not made a profit.
She pointed out that continues training of staff and a more productive aggressive approach in how staff relates to customers are among several areas that need to be improved. Edwards said the latter is of key importance noting that employers are more interested with earning a salary rather than providing a service that will result in repeat customers. She said two of the major issues affecting further enhancement of her businesses are the low level of customers noting that despite several marketing initiatives that have been introduced since opening their doors in 2008 has not been successful also the fact that while there has and continues to be talk about quality people are more interested in the 'quick and go' system.
Edwards however noted that with employees being friendlier and the level of high service delivered to customers that persons would continue to support the business. "While I must admit that due to the high financial burden of running this establishment we have taken a decision to close at the end of April and reopen at the start of October this year. However we intend to keep up our marketing campaigns and efforts a s we seek to increase the crowd that comes here," she said.
Edwards said that since arriving she has take on the hands on marketing approach where she goes out into the community and speak to potential customers directly. She said that this will aid in bringing out a more positive approach to the public's view about Ma Pau as persons would want to come so as to sample the service being offered. She said that with her direct approach here she is more involved on the local scene, "where people can see you" will certainly result in increased support. Against this backdrop, she stated that persons attending the restaurant are guaranteed enhanced service from the traditional type of service being offered at other restaurants.
According to Edwards sustainability by companies needs to be examined and maintained at an acceptable level, in order to foster private sector development. He also stated that businesses should strive towards reaching and maintaining higher standards, and she noted the creation of proper business plans as being critical towards the success of businesses.
Edwards pointed that because of the implementation of the CSME several staff members from St Kitts would be traveling to Trinidad and Tobago where they would be working for some five odd months thus being able to garner increased and enhanced skills and experience. She disclosed that this forms part of the company's policy in making all the Ma Pau's and Sweet Lime Restaurants one despite being in several countries. As such, she stressed that the level of service being delivered should be high and of significant quality regardless of the country, it is being given in.
This, Edwards reiterates what she said as being an urgent and critical need for the implementation of an organization that seeks to address the concerns of the private sector with regards t the level and quality of service being delivered. Edwards said that such an organization will also help in the holistic development of the private sector noting that it would pave the way for more successful businesspersons to establish relationships to further assist in the development of businesses in their "embryonic stage." "I am confident that with such an approach that there would be more successful stories as it relates to businesses in both St Kitts and Nevis," Edwards concluded.
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Philipsburg:--- Road work will begin Thursday evening on Front Street reported the Government Information Service. The road work commenced from 8 PM until 5 AM The work will only be concentrated on the dangerous areas and or where sagging of the brick has been determined.
Front Street will be closed at different locations to allow the work to continue and at the same time allowing cars to be diverted around the work locations.
Dead line for this work will be (as of tonight) until the 24th of April before the Jr. Parade. The contractor will try to work every night, permitting that the weather and forecast remains dry.
Airport: --- WINAIR shall be introducing a Safety Management Systems (SMS) course effect April 19, 2010 to all operational staff.
SMS is a civil aviation requirement, which ensures that all levels of employees and contractors recognize hazards and consequently implement procedures to eradicate the risk or reduce it significantly.
System Safety Services from April 19, 2010 through April 27, 2010 shall conduct this SMS course for all WINAIR employees.
GREAT BAY: --- The sector of ROB would hereby like to inform the public that the AT Illidge Road would be closed for drive through traffic on Tuesday 20 April at 8 pm until 21 April at 6 AM.
The (drive through) traffic will be detoured from the Cottage round-a-bout (Eddy Auto supply) and at the Madam Estate/ Arch Road Intersection.
The work area will be vicinity of Micro Device. Traffic from the round-a-bout and the Arch Road will be allowed until the work area, but no drive through.
Philipsburg: ---- Recipients of the Brooks Towers Permits Category 1 would have to find an employer if they are to register through the regular trajectory to obtain a resident and working permit. Head of immigrations Robert Barby confirmed that persons who received the Brooks Tower Category 1 permit must have an employer in order for them to register through the regular system.
The Brooks Tower Permit was aimed at regulating the undocumented on St. Maarten for a period of one year. However, many on St. Maarten feel that the Central government through the Minister of Justice has exploited the illegal residents with the Brooks Tower Permits. Some said the Minister used the opportunity to make monies on St. Maarten prior to St. Maarten becoming country since the Brooks Tower would not help St. Maarten's after November 3 2010.
The monies collected from the Brooks Tower process went to Curacao since the Central Government footed the bill for the program. Already there are concerns as to how St. Maarten would deal with the illegal residents come 10/10/10. This they said would cost the island millions of guilders if they were to try to legalize those persons that received the Brooks Tower Permits.
One of the suggestions by the some elected on St. Maarten is for the Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba to amend the immigration admission and expulsion regulation then those persons in category 1 would have been able to sign for themselves. With the current LTU regulation, the Governor of St. Maarten or the other islands cannot issue Independent Residency Permits since the Governor's office does not have any competency on labour permits. "In the past St. Maarten was issuing independent residency permits to people who are able to prove their income but this was stopped when several elected officials raised their concerns on the Independent Residency Permit verses the Indefinite Residency Permit." Some said the governor could not issue the independent permits since the holders of these permits would not need a working permit.
Currently the implementation of the FMS system is being installed but so far, the model was not published on the island. SMN News learnt that the protocol on the FMS is not given to the governor neither the island's elected. SMN News learnt that when the FMS system is fully implemented as is in Curacao then the Governor's cabinet would not have access to the program. Furthermore, it creates a situation to breed corruption. Several persons speaking out against the FMS system and the way it is implemented said at least two top cops was sentenced to prison after they misused the NAVAS Systems some years ago, even when the system could have been monitored.
Efforts made to contact the Minister on Monday proved futile as she is currently in the Netherlands.
PHILIPSBURG: --- Recognizing the importance of Carnival to our tourism based economy and the cheer and cultural bonding opportunities that it brings to citizens and tourists alike, NAGICO Insurances Management Team made a sound decision to continue to support organizers and participants of carnival. The team acknowledges that the number of requests has grown over the years, not only because of economic challenges but also due to an increase in the number of non-profit organizations. The company kept its long established tradition of providing assistance, decorating its office and providing employees with Carnival T-shirts, which are often worn during the Jourvert.
NAGICO's most recent carnival contributions were made to The Sky Is the Limit Foundation, The Official Band, District Queen Show participant Ms. Bria Sorton, Ram and Jam 2010 TV program, organizers of the Follow the Rainbow Troupe, and District Band, among others.
Human Resources Officer Esmeralda Maria stated: "Supporting Carnival through sponsorships, donations and providing our employees with colorful t-shirts and beautiful decorated surroundings, brings joyfulness and increases the well being of our community at large. We are pleased to have been of assistance and we take this opportunity to wish everyone a happy carnival 2010."
Ms. Esmeralda Maria, accompanied by NAGICO's Senior Administrative Clerk, Ms. Rose Hodge, presented a cheque to The Sky is The Limit Representative Mr. Claudius Buncamper. The proceeds will be used to cover costs of the Senior Calypso Competition, which will be held at the Festival Village on Tuesday April 27.
Great Bay: --- Commissioner for economic affairs, Frans Richardson, is calling on the general public to fully support the remainder of the 2010 St. Maarten carnival program.
Commissioner Richardson is of the opinion that carnival, being the premier cultural event of the island, deserves the unconditional support of the public as well as that of the business sector.
"The business community has a vital role to play considering that much of carnival cannot exist without its support" says Commissioner Richardson.
He remarked that "for over 40 years, we have celebrated carnival and seen it grown into an event attracting not only residents, but overseas visitors as well. Having come this far, we have no choice but to continue supporting the event and its development".
There is no denying that St. Maarten's yearly carnival festivities have become one of the most anticipated as people from all walks of life and backgrounds take to the streets on Jouvert morning as revelers or onlookers.
It is the one event that brings the excitement of St. Maarten's diverse community and multi-faceted culture into the open, which is something visitors enjoy. More importantly, it is that one event which St. Martiners can claim as their own, since they were there from the beginning.
With this annual display of revelry, smaller hoteliers are among those benefitting from an influx of, among others, Caribbean tourists who come for the parades as well as for the local and visiting entertainers appearing at Festival Village.
As we move forward, on the heels of having celebrated 40 years of carnival celebrations, it is also important that we recognize the sacrifices made by the early organizers of St. Maarten's carnival and together contribute to making it easier for today's and future leaders to take this event to another higher level.
Philipsburg:--- Members of the island council posed several critical questions to commissioner of environmental affairs regarding the waste management project he submitted to the island council for approval on Monday.
The council member's wants to know what would be the impact of the project to the people of St. Maarten and its ultimate costs to St. Maarten. Commissioner Theo Heyliger in his presentation to the island council said members of the council were given two letters informing them on the solid waste project which elucidated the concerns and history of the project, as well as the procedures government followed thus far. Heyliger said members of the council were also informed on the objective of the solid waste project and the most favorable proposal for the Solid Waste Management and Processing Facility. He said they were also informed of the present state of affairs and planning of said project. Also included was the choice of location and the facilities that are to be built as well as the contracts of the legal services provided by HBN law and the financial services by KPMG.
However, members of the council still believe that Heyliger did not provide them with adequate information pertaining to the procedures they followed.
Island council member Leroy Petrus De Weever wants to know why the negotiations with the French side did not continue and why did the two French side companies did not bid on the project. De Weever said he wants to know why the negotiations failed between the two sides and felt that if this channel was used St. Maarten would have saved money and the people on the Dutch side would have had less impact since the garbage would have been burnt on the French side of the island. He asked the executive council to provide the council with evidence which would show that the Dutch side exhausted their efforts to cooperate with the French side. De Weever said if the council cannot provide the evidence then it is clear that the current government would be wasting government monies.
The councilman wants to know based on the calculations made on the lifespan of the dump exactly how many more years St. Maarten has to use this area for garbage disposal.
De Weever also wants clarity on the five member advisory committee and their background as it relates to solid waste disposal and alternative energy generation. He said based on the information provided by the commissioner the advisory committee said that they analyzed four companies while the two French side companies they said informed them in writing that they would not submit any proposal. Based on that statement the island councilman said he wants an explanation as to why would the committee spend time and money to analyze two companies that would not participate in the bidding. De Weever also poked holes in the explanation given to the council concerning the thermal processing unit and wanted to know if there were other solutions to be considered when it comes to the processing of solid waste.
Questions were also posed on the effects this plant would have on GEBE and the amount of electricity the Solid Waste Management Facility would provide to St. Maarten. The council members also wants to know if the people of St. Maarten would get any sort of relief since GEBE would get at least 8 mega watts of electricity from the garbage disposal process. The council also asked the executive council to provide more details on the financing and their choice of law firms. He said based the documents provided to the council it claimed that the contractors chosen were the cheapest. He said he wants to executive council to take note of the Chinese proverb in mind that states "Cheap things no good and good things is not cheap."
One of the key concerns posed to the executive council came from members of the council that are supporting the current coalition government. Island Council member Louie Laveist wants to know who took the decision to place such a facility in Cole Bay or Cape Bay. He asked if the people of the area were consulted and if they were informed on the negative effects such a facility would have on their neighborhoods. Laveist made clear that he was not informed and no one consulted with him when they were making the plans for such a facility in his neighborhood. The councilman declared that over the years Cole Bay has seen a number of land butchers and not developers and he wants to make clear that the people of Cole Bay/ Cape Bay does not want anymore butchers in their area.
While councilman Rudolphe Samuel said while everyone understands the need for such a facility due diligence much be done. He said even members of the second chamber made mention to the fact that St. Maarten does not have a proper waste management facility in place during the debates of the Kingdom Charter. Samuel said he is aware such a project would have negative effect but also noted that the process must move forward in the interest of St. Maarten and its people. While Senator George Pantophlet reminded the council of the Queens statements regarding the dump when she last visited St. Maarten. The island council meeting has since been adjourned to May 7 to give the executive council enough time to respond to the questions posed.
Below are some other information the executive council provided to members of the island council regarding the facility.
1. History of the land filling solid waste.
For years the landfill at Pond Island has been the official repository for practically all the waste streams produced in St. Maarten. The explosive growth of the local population and the tourist industry has brought an increase in most of the waste streams (e.g. construction and demolition-, household -, commercial waste). The disposal of garbage has historically been occurring with limited control and management. Due to hurricane Luis in 1995 and the large waste streams resulting from the clean up and reconstruction activities, the limited space led to a critical situation at the landfill. Plans were designed for remodeling and reorganizing the dumpsite including a containment dike around the waste dump area. These plans were executed in 1998. The highest level of the landfill is approximately 12.00 meters + SMP. The finished parts of the landfill (waste dump) are covered with a layer consisting of a mixture of sand and silt.
After the completion of these works the management of the landfill was outsourced to a private company. The landfill is currently better-controlled and all trucks entering are registered including the type and estimated volume of the waste.
Since the remodelling of the waste dump in 1998 it is known that the capacity of this dumpsite is limited. In 2008, the estimate for available space was calculated with as result that only a few years were left prior to achieving maximum capacity. Further expansion of the dump is not possible in light of maintaining a minimum water surface in the pond for its buffer function during heavy rains and hurricanes.
The need to start with a sustainable solution has become critical and urgent.
This project, focusing on a long-term solution, consists of the building of installations to process the different waste streams that arrive at Pond Island. The main goal of this project is to start the processing of waste in an environmentally safe manner. The Government wants to bring a sustainable and long-term solution for the waste problems of St. Maarten by contracting a party to design, finance, build, own, operate, and transfer a Solid Waste Management Processing Facility (SWMPF) at Pond Island. Government's objective is to achieve a minimum 95% reduction of the disposal of all the waste streams into the landfill.
The Executive Council received various propositions for solution of the solid waste problems of St. Maarten.
After evaluating all information the Executive Council decided in 2008 to include the input from the private sector in solving the solid waste management and environmental problems of St. Maarten.
2. Tender procedure.
In February 2008 the tender procedure for the realization of a new solid waste processing facility was initiated via announcements in the local papers, inviting companies to express their interest in making a proposal to finance, design, build, own, operate and transfer such a facility.
In March 2008 ten companies submitted their Expressions of Interest (EOI's). Out of the ten a total of four companies (one American, two French and one local) were selected and invited in June via a Request for Proposal (RFP) to participate in the tender procedure.
Although efforts have been made to tender and realize a combined facility with the French side of the island, this could not be accomplished. However the RFP documents require the facility to be in conformity with the environmental EU standards, making it possible for the facility to receive and process solid waste from the French side at a later stage if needed.
A five member Advisory Committee was installed by the Executive Council in May to coordinate the tender procedure and advise the Executive Council with regard to the selection of the most favourable proposal.
On June 25th 2008, an information meeting was held with representatives of the four companies.
A memorandum of information including questions and answers was sent to the four companies.
The four companies had to submit their proposals by October 23, 2008.
Two companies, the American and the local company, submitted their proposals. The other two invited (French) companies declared in writing to be unable to submit a proposal.
The local company also submitted two alternative proposals including options for waste collection and waste to energy, as was allowed in the tender documents (Request for Proposals).
The Advisory Committee reported their findings to the Executive Council in an Evaluation Report of the received proposals in December 2008. The Advisory Committee evaluated the (in total 4) received proposals based on the criteria as stipulated in the RFP and unanimously scored the proposal of the local company that included the waste to energy option as the most favourable solution.
Based on the visit of a comparable installation in Scotland and some additional information requested from the selected proponent, the Advisory Committee made its final recommendation in March 2009 with regard to the selected system.
In May 2009 the negotiations started with the Windward Roads NV (WWR) to negotiate a Design Built Finance Maintain and Operate (DBFMO) contract for the SWMPF.
3. Objective of the project.
Waste reduction of at least 95%
In the announcement, as well as in the tender documents (RFP), the requirement included a stipulation that at least 95% of all solid waste must be processed. The remaining maximum 5% of residual waste must be land-filled at the present dumpsite. To make room for this residual waste the tender documents require that the present landfill undergo mining and processing by a minimum quantity of 10,000 ton per year. This will result in a steady yearly reduction of the landfill. The extra space can be used for other purposes including reserved space for debris from disasters (hurricanes etc), if any.
Waste to energy
Waste reduction can take place via separation and recycling of parts of the solid waste, for example paper, plastic, glass, aluminium, steel, copper, tires, concrete, asphalt, wood. Furthermore, organic waste can be transformed into compost. Still the remaining part of the non recyclable solid waste will be bigger than 5% and must be processed, most probably via some kind of thermal processing. This thermal processing can produce energy that can be transformed into electricity.
As could be understood from the EOI's submitted by the companies and the questions asked before and during the information meeting, it could be anticipated that most of the proposals would consist of a combination of different processes including a thermal processing component. Depending on the inclusion of the different options the thermal processing component will be more or less extensive. If less extensive, the produced energy can be used for the processing facility only. If more extensive the surplus electricity becomes available as supply to GEBE's electricity network.
The most favourable proposal includes a thermal processing component resulting in a considerable amount of green electricity to be delivered to GEBE's network.
Cost of solid waste processing
The present processing of solid waste via a "sanitary" landfill is clearly the cheapest solution. It has become also very clear that this kind of processing results in quite some environmental problems such as uncontrolled fires and pollution of the environment.
The processing of solid waste in an environmentally responsible manner via a processing facility will be considerably more expensive. Cost reduction via re-use of residues and alternative energy production is therefore not only most welcome but most probably a must in order to keep the costs to the population and business community within a reasonable range.
Cost savings through alternative energy production
A facility that makes optimal use of thermal processing may produce up to 8 Megawatt of green energy.
This represents a considerable income from the green energy production, reducing the cost of the solid waste processing, while at the same time reducing the amount of heavy fuel for electricity production by +/- 12% and the green house gases by about 70,000 ton CO2 per year.
Thermal processing and environment
At present, thermal processing can take place well within the relevant environmental standards applicable for air, (open and ground) water and bottom pollution. The RFP documents require the facility to be in accordance with EU standards with regard to air, water and soil pollution.
Consequences of energy from waste for GEBE's power production
It is evident that the supply of extra power to GEBE's power network comes with technical and financial consequences. However, examples of solutions are available all over the world. Considering the developments in the energy markets, it is recommended that GEBE implement alternative (green) energy sources.
Government and GEBE will work together to realize this alternative energy source.
4. Description of the most favorable proposal for the SWMPF
Gasification system
Windward Roads B.V. submitted the most economically and environmentally advantageous proposal, consisting of a batch process thermal gasification technology,
The gasification system will use an advanced thermal treatment process using proprietary batch-process thermal gasification technology, called the Batch Oxidation System™ (BOS™). In the process, variable organic wastes will be converted to energy and other usable products without sorting or pre-processing the materials to be converted.
The plant will treat a.o. household and commercial waste, medical- ship- and airline waste, and various rest products of the C&D recycling plant, as well as car wreck recycling and bulky domestic waste recycling.
Initially a total of 5 BOS-trains were proposed to be installed in the solid waste treatment plant.
Each train consist of 4 primary gasification chambers, a secondary combustion chamber and a heat boiler. The heat boilers will produce super heated steam, which will be used to drive a steam turbine and generate electrical power.
The system includes individual emission control systems on each train with continuous emissions monitoring and instantaneous feedback for flue gas treatment.
Construction and Demolition recycling system (C&D system)
Other types of waste such as yard waste, waste originated from construction and demolition, and the contents of the existing landfill will be sorted by the C&D system into sand, bricks, wood, ferrous, non ferrous, paper and cardboard, plastics and residue.
The C&D plant consists of the following elements: star screens, air separation, magnets, and manual sorting as the last stage of the recycling to retrieve the remaining recyclables.
Based on the recent weight and caloric value analyses, resulting in higher quantities of waste and lower caloric waste values, WWR proposes to amend the design of the BOS installation into 3 BOS trains including 2 shredder installations, to optimize waste density and increase BOS-installation capacity and process flexibility. These changes have also changed the investment and operation cost, own electricity consumption, electricity production and consequently the gross and net service fee.
5. State of affairs and planning
In May 2009, the Executive Council selected one of the proposals of Windward Roads NV (WWR) as the environmentally and economically best solution for the processing of the solid waste, as proposed by the tender advisory committee. Subsequently WWR was invited to develop and negotiate the DBFMO contract in cooperation with the Island Government. It is expected that this contract can be finalized in the second quarter of 2010.
To finalize the DBFMO-contract the independent cost quality advice of KEMA is needed. In this respect the Council is referred to letter dated April 13, 2010 to the Island Council with regard to the answers to the questions posed by the Central Committee.
As soon as KEMA has submitted the report, the draft DBFMO contract can be finalized and the entire project can be presented for approval to the Executive and Island Councils.
6. Location of the SWMPF
In the tender documents the new SWMPF is located at Pond Island just to the South of the present dumpsite and to the North of the Public Works yard.
WWR had submitted an alternative proposal for the SWMPF to be located on land reclamation in the eastern section of the Cole bay. However it has become clear that WWR had not included the necessary financing for the realization of this alternative location.
The department of VROM has worked out a proposal with regard to the choice of location for the SWMPF. VROM advises to continue the procedure as planned with the SWMPF on Pond Island and simultaneously investigate the financial feasibility of eventually two facilities on two locations, one on Pond Island for the mining of the landfill and one in Cole Bay for the processing of regular waste.
For more information is referred to the elucidation of VROM as attached to the letter.
When the project is presented for approval to the Island Council the evaluation of the location alternatives will be included in the presentation.
7. Private tender with HBN Law for legal services
For the realization of the SWMPF through a DBFMO contract the following legal services must be performed:
- Drafting of the Island Ordinance for the collection and processing of waste and the production of energy from waste required for the implementation of the Legal Framework, which will de done in consultation with the Island Territory of St. Maarten and other stakeholders, including GEBE; namely:
• To, subject to the approval of GEBE, draft a proposed amendment of GEBE's general terms and conditions as far as required within the Legal Framework;
• To draft a model agreement for the sale of electricity produced from the waste by the Waste Management Concessionaire to GEBE
- To assist the Island Territory of St. Maarten in connection with the evaluation of the proposals to be received in connection with the solid waste management processing facility at Pond Island, in particular the review and possible correction of drafts submitted for the DBFMO contract and assistance with the conclusion thereof;
- To draft other ancillary documentation.
Selection of law firm
Instead of entering into a public tender procedure HBN Law is proposed for the performing of these services for the following reasons:
- HBN Law has a proven record of relevant experience in this field and were a.o. involved in the recent implementation of the fee structure for the harbour of St. Maarten;
- HBN Law office on St. Maarten is the only law firm on St. Maarten being part of a much bigger law firm with more than 25 lawyers in the Antilles and Aruba and a cooperation agreement with the big Dutch law firm Pels Rijcken & Drooglever Fortuijn (Legal counsel to the state of the Netherlands); HBN Law can therefore deliver their services in time with required quality, while time and quality are of the essence;
- Because of HBN Law's relevant expertise and experience in the field, HBN Law can offer the services relatively cheap;
and last but not least
- HBN Law presented an unique solution for the problem of the collectability of the solid waste fees.
HBN Law was requested to submit a proposal for these services in November 2008. HBN Law submitted a proposal for these legal services for a total amount of Naf. 252,000.
8. Private tender with KPMG Corporate Finance
For the realization of the SWMPF through a DBFMO contract the following financial services must be performed:
- Develop a financial model for tariff provision
- Support with the evaluation of the proposal selected by the Advisory Committee
- Assist with the clarification process before starting the negotiation phase
- Assist with the negotiation process for the development of a DFBOOT contract
- Finalize the business case
KPMG Corporate Finance was requested to submit a proposal for these services in November 2008.
KPMG Corporate Finance submitted a for these financial services for a total amount of Naf. 316,339.
Selection of Corporate finance advisory firm
Instead of organising a public tender for these services, KPMG Corporate Finance is proposed for the performing of these services for the following reasons:
- KPMG Corporate Finance has a proven record of relevant experience in the field of advising governments on concession projects internationally, in the Netherlands Antilles and around the Caribbean and were a.o. involved in the recent implementation of the structuring and financing of large infrastructure concessions like the Airport in Curacao and the Cruise Port Facilities in St. Maarten
- For the first half of 2008 KPMG Corporate Finance was the leading PPP financial advisor internationally, having closed 17 transactions with a capital value of € 10.8 billion
- They have ample experience with large and complex waste projects.
- They can rely on a broad range of multi skilled team with proven experience in structuring concessions and waste in both public and private sector as well as ample experience with the development of PPP contracts.
9. The independent cost quality engineering study by KEMA
In the second letter the answers are given to the questions posed by the Island Council members in the meeting of the Central Committee of February 1st 2010.
In addition to the scope of works as described in the TOR and KEMA's proposal, the Executive Council proposes to have KEMA technically and financially compare the proposed BOS installation with alternative gasification systems suitable for Sint Maarten's waste volume and circumstances. Taking into account the extra work included with this scope expansion and considering eventual extra and unforeseen costs it is proposed, as was suggested by councilman L. De Weever, to raise the budget for this ICQE services with Naf 45,000 to in total Naf. 355,000.
In concluding and with reference to the island ordinance "Financieel beheer' the Island Council is hereby requested:
- to ratify the procedure that has been followed thus far with regard to the tender of the SWMPF
- to retroactively approve the private tender with HBN Law
- to retroactively approve the private tender with KPMG Corporate Finance.
- to approve the proposed private tender with KEMA and to forego the public tender procedures in the interest of St. Maarten in accordance with article 17 of the island ordinance on Financial Management and approve the revised budget of Naf. 355,000.
Illidge Road:--- Environmental workers, activists and several persons are busy trying to find out the source of a huge oil spill in the Great Salt Pond in the vicinity of the Illidge Road round about.
Etienne Lake from Nature Foundation and Ruben Thompson from St. Maarten Pride and EPIC were among those concerned up to late Tuesday afternoon trying to source where the oil came from threatening the life of many pelicans, fishes and turtles. Speaking to SMN News Thompson said up to pres time no one could find who is responsible for the spill and he came to the conclusion that someone might have discharged oil in the pond on purpose somewhere between Madame Estate to the AT Illidge Road round about or from the landfill.
Thompson said he was busy all afternoon on Tuesday trying to get government or the fire department to begin cleaning the oil from the pond because a number of birds, turtles and fish will perish over night.
Thompson also indicated that his intension is to continue investigating to see if he could find the culprit behind the oil spill or dumping. He said he contacted the fire department who told them that they are not able to clean the oil due to the lack of expertise. However, Thompson plans to deal with government on Wednesday to make sure the cleaning process begins.
While Lake said those responsible has no consideration for environment. He said he did not feel those responsible considered the different types of bird species, fish species, turtles that call the Great Salt Pond their home.
Lake said what is more disturbing is that government does not have trained personnel to handle disasters such as this spill. He said in the coming days residents would see how much of the birds, ducks and other sea life will perish for the lack of oxygen and food. Lake called on the island government to provide the tools needed to members of the environmental groups who are willing to assist in the clean up. He said while the environmental groups has the know how, they lack materials.
A concerned resident and worker Firgus Paper told SMN News that he fears for the lives of the young turtles that live on the rocks next to his business place. The man said each day there are close to 10 baby turtles on the rocks some of which was seen stranded in the oil. The businessman said maintenance work was being conducted at a nearby business but he is not sure if they are responsible for the oil discharge. He called on government to look closely for those responsible for the spill and to bring them to justice.
Also on scene was commissioner environmental affairs Theo Heyliger and his executive assistant Maurice Lake inspecting the damage done to the pond and sea life. Lake in an invited comment said the commissioner has instructed the department of inspections to begin an investigation to see who is responsible for the spill. He said inspector also has to submit an official report and if the culprit is found they would be held liable for the destruction and clean up of the oil.
Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten community is mourning the passing of Ian Valz who passed away at 11 pm on Wednesday night at the St. Maarten Medical Center. Valz has been terminally ill for the past months.
Valz a well known play writer in Guyana his native country also played the lead role in "Panman Rhythm of the Palms, Peacock Dance, and Jesus Christ Superstar here on St. Maarten.
Ian Valz received one of the highest decorations in the Kingdom of the Netherlands Antilles and was knighted by Queen Beatrix for his contributions to the development of theatre on St. Maarten.
Valz was also recognized by the St. Maarten Guyanese Foundation for his contributions to the island.
Marigot: --- The court of first instance has sentenced Mayor Raoul Albert Fleming to six months suspended sentence with five years probation. Fleming also has to pay Euros 10,000 fine for granting a contract to commune employee Priscilla Bade's company Rainbow Transportation Services (RTS) in December 2004.
The court also sentenced Bade to five months suspended sentence and fined her Euros 5000.00 Also condemned is Bade's brother co-owner of RTS which was not registered at the time the contract was granted to Bade. Bade's brother was equally condemned by the courts to, five months suspended sentence and a fine of Euros 5000.00 in a packed court room on Thursday. Albert Fleming has lost his voting rights for the next five years and he cannot under the French law contest any election until the sentence and probation period is over.
Priscilla Bade, her lawyer Aude Richards and co-owner of RTS Mr. George did not show up in court on Thursday when the decision of the court was pronounced by the court's president. The court was scheduled to give its verdict on April 22 but the decision was postponed to April 29 as the president of the court was stuck on France due to Ireland's volcano eruption which paralyzed Europe's air space for a number of days.
In an invited comment Mayor Fleming said he has to discuss the case with his lawyers to see if he would file an appeal. The former Mayor who has served St. Martin for 30 years of his life said he has ten days to file the appeal. He said one of consequences of the verdict delivered on Thursday is that the conviction would now appear on his police records, something he is very concerned about. The court also advised Fleming that if he paid the fine within one months time he is entitled to 20% discount of the fine, to an amount not more than Euros 1500.
Prosecutor Jacques Louvier told the court during the trial that Fleming as Mayor of St. Martin and the President of the bidding commission did not execute his duties and verify if RTS was eligible for the contract that was awarded to them. Rainbow Transportation Services (RTS) was registered after the bidding process Louvier argued since the necessary paperwork was not provided. The case was brought to the attention of the justice system in 2005 when the preceptor of St. Martin found out that RTS was not fully registered.
PHILIPSBURG - The University of St. Martin (USM), through a series of lectures, will be offering the community of St. Maarten an opportunity to hear from government officials and other experts in their fields who are participating in building country St. Maarten.
The first of the lecture series will be held on May 6th, 2010 at the USM. The duration of the lecture is 3 hours, commencing from 7.00 p.m. until 10.00 p.m
According to USM President Josianne Fleming-Artsen, the main objective is to inform the community and bring about more consciousness on the constitutional status. She added that the first lecture is called The Duncan Lecture, with the theme How prepared are we?" The guest speakers will be Minister Roland Duncan and his team.
Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles recently passed the 'Duncan Law' or the Transition Regulation Early Elections which paves the way for St. Maarten to move closer to Country status. Minister Duncan is expected to address the finer details of 'Duncan Law', and the preparedness of country St. Maarten, as we step out of the Netherlands Antilles.
Minister Duncan was also a delegate to the second Chamber discussions where St. Maarten and Curacao were given the green light to become country by 10.10.10. He was instrumental in the entire dismantling process and will be updating the public on this matter.
Accompanying Minister Duncan is Mr. Terry Peterson who will address and focus on the Caribbean and International alliances Country St. Maarten will be networking with. These are all new areas St. Maarten will be venturing into since this was the authority of the Netherlands Antilles.
"USM is very proud to be able present to the St. Maarten public the opportunity to be informed at these lecture series," President Fleming said.
She added that the lecturers are selected based on their profound knowledge of Kingdom Principles of the Netherlands, Constitutional changes that will affect our country laws and government tax laws based on the new Draft Constitution for Country St. Maarten.
The general public is invited to attend the first of the USM's lecture series on Thursday, May 6, 2010 at the University of St. Martin from 7pm to 10pm. All the lectures are free. The USM lecture hall has a seating capacity for about 200 people and attendants are urged to be on time.
Great Bay :--- St. Maarten's commissioner of sports, Frans Richardson is most encouraged about prospects for a proposed drag race strip for St. Maarten, after attending an international drag fest held over the weekend on Curacao.
Commissioner Richardson had traveled to Curacao to personally lend his support to the St. Maarten team participating in the event, which attracted tens of thousand of drag race enthusiasts.
Represented by the St. Maarten Drag Racing Association, St. Maarten had been invited to attend the event by the 'Fundashon Autosport Curacao'.
"Such events can mean a whole lot for revenues and should be seen within the framework of sports tourism" says Commissioner Richardson.
St. Maarten took part in the event with 4 race cars and 3 bikes. The participation of St. Maarten was made possible through the St. Maarten tourism bureau.
Other participating teams came from Aruba, Curacao, Bonaire, St. Eustatius, Venezuela and the U.S.A.
The event was staged at the Curacao International Raceway which boasts a track located on a plateau which is 50 meters above sea level. The 1/4 mile drag strip has a track width of 62 feet with concrete guardrails.
The track is owned by Fundashon Autosport Curaçao (FAC), a non-profit foundation.
Commissioner Richardson supports the ongoing initiatives of local drag race enthusiasts and says that he looks forward to the day when St. Maarten can start promoting motor sport activities, by organizing races and other events.
French Quarter:---- The Court of Grand Instance in Basse-Terre has ruled in favor of SMN News in the case brought against them by the Collectivity of Saint Martin. The Collectivity in its effort to silence the media and democracy filed two court cases against SMN News namely its reporter Bibi Hodge Shaw. Judge Auguste in her ruling on April 27th 2010 has declared the case brought against Hodge-Shaw to be null and void and has condemned the Collectivity of St Martin to pay 1000.00 Euros in damages.
The first case was filed on October 16, 2009 by the Collectivity's Communications directress Collette Erivan and the Collectivity of Saint Martin. The court ruled on November 3rd 2009 that the case brought against Hodge-Shaw was also null and void and condemned Erivan to pay the sum of 1,500. 00 Euros including the expenses, so far Erivan has not made any attempts to comply with the ruling of the court.
On October 26th 2009 the Collectivity of Saint Martin filed its second case based on an article SMN News published on October 9 2009 about the use of government vehicles and gasoline privileges. The case was filed before the executive or territorial council took a decision to file a case against Hodge-Shaw or SMN News.
The executive council in its meeting on November 5th 2009 took a decision to take Hodge Shaw to court claiming she is using SMN News (blog) to defame elected officials that are seen using their "voiture" de function outside of their public duties. The Collectivity also charged that Hodge Shaw has been abusing the freedom of expression. The council took a decision on the same day to pay all expenses Erivan endured during her court procedures. At the end of this article the attestation to support the statements made by the President of the Collectivity Frantz Gumbs is published.
In this meeting of November 5th one of the vice presidents who were implicated in the article of October 9th was allowed to vote, creating a conflict of interest. SMN News has since requested the Administrative Courts to annul the decision of the executive council. The case in the administrative court is still pending.
Representing SMN News in these legal battles and to preserve a free press as well as democracy is Maitre Jan Marc Ferly. Maitre Ferly in his arguments to the courts said the summons and its motives are invalid based on jurisdictions. Maitre Ferly pointed out that this is in violation of article 53 and also requested that the court wait on the decision of the administrative courts. Attorney at law Ferly asked the court to condemn the COM to pay Hodge Shaw 15,000 Euros for damages of moral prejudice and to also condemn the COM to a civil fine of 4,000 Euros based on article 700 or the civil procedure.
GREAT BAY,– The application process for Mobility Passes for the 2010 Hurricane Season that started April 19 will conclude on May 21. Potential applicants from the business sector and vital organizations have less than three weeks before the deadline to submit their request.
The pass allows the aforementioned groups to assess possible damage to their property after the passing of a hurricane.
For the 2010 season, the application form as well as information sheet can be downloaded from the Fire Department's website www.brandweersxm.net under the link "Hurricane Information."
The hurricane pass application procedure is only intended for businesses and vital organizations with respect to their key personnel receiving an exemption to a curfew.
The Office of the Fire Department & Disaster Management is handling the application process for the passes on behalf of the Governor of the Island Territory of St. Maarten.
The application form has to be completed and submitted to the offices of the Fire Department & Disaster Management, located at Jackal Road 5, Cay Hill before May 21, 2010, with all necessary documents attached.
Philipsburg:----Flabbergasted was the reaction of Island Councilman Roy Marlin on the statement made by the leader of Government Commissioner William Marlin on the matter of the Democratic Party faction in the Island Council asking questions. The Commissioner when in opposition lived by the motto the people have a right to know. Or do the people only have a right to know when the National Alliance is in opposition and when they are in government then the people have no rights. On the matter of the cooperation kingdom law that was discussed in the central committee meeting of Thursday, several administrative areas will require a plan of approach after 10/10/10. One such area mentioned is the land registry foundation (Kadastre). In my opinion this responsibility after being transferred from the Central Government to the Island Territory in 1998, is today functioning optimally and the question asked for which answers should be given is why the land registry foundation? The Democratic Party leader sent several questions in writing prior to the meeting of Thursday and again promises that the information will be provided before the Island Council meeting to discuss this issue. It is hard for me to understand the statement by the Commissioner "Giving information is not an issue, but the piling on of more and more questions after government has
provided answers does not bode well for St. Maarten to be prepared for its new tasks ". The Democratic Party would not be asking questions if information is provided by government. We are still to receive information on many outstanding issues among which the report that the Commissioner of Finance claimed he had to justify the increase income for the budget year 2010.
Another statement by the Commissioner "The draft constitution has been around for more than eight years and all parties in the Island Council are aware of its contents, except for the changes made recently by the Vetting Committee, so there is no need to ask 100 questions." What is the Commissioner implying with this statement? That the DP faction should rubber stamp the constitution for future country St. Maarten. The Commissioner charged with Constitutional Affairs should have been out having public hearings to involve the community at large on the contents of the constitution. In the absence of these public hearings the Democratic Party will definitely make sure that when this is debated in the Island Council that sufficient information is provided by government to bring about awareness on the constitution. The Commissioner of Constitutional Affairs of Curacao Ms Zita Leito is under the same time pressure, but she already started involving the people and the opposition in the discussions on the constitution for country Curacao, we are still to start these discussions. As stated during the meeting on Thursday by the Democratic Party faction, we are prepared to meet on Saturday or Sunday, morning or evening to move the process forward but we will not allow ourselves to be railroaded by the Commissioner of Constitutional Affairs into handling important matters just because of the incompetence of the Executive Council to properly prepare these prior to 10/10/10. The statement of today by the leader of Government Commissioner William Marlin, while toned down somewhat in comparison with one he made on the floor of the Island Council some time back in essence remains the same. Shut up and go home. Don't ask any questions.
Philipsburg:--- There are a number of island council meeting scheduled for this week. The first meeting is scheduled to be held on Monday morning. The meeting scheduled for Monday is to deal with matters on labour related issues, the solid waste disposal facilities and government plan of approach on the consensus as well as the articles of incorporation on Telem.
All of the agenda points were already discussed in previous meetings. However, it appears as if the members of the island council would have to wait a longer than expected on Monday since the Leader of Government William Marlin and Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards is scheduled to be on the French side on Monday morning to attend a press conference to launch a campaign on earthquake awareness.
The earthquake awareness campaign is a joint mission of the two sides. SMN News learnt that Acting Lt. Governor Millicent de Weever will be representing the Governor Richards as he intend to stay on the Dutch side to open the island council meeting,
Another island council meeting is scheduled to be held on Wednesday to deal with the CFT and budget related matters. SMN News learnt that Commissioner of finance Xavier Blackman was planning to leave the island to attend Passat recruitment in the Netherlands but leader of government William Marlin cancelled the commissioner's trip.
Philipsburg:---Commissioner Theo Heyliger in response to the questions posed by members of the Democratic Party on the Waste Disposal facility answered a number of the questions posed to him.
Heliger first addressed the questions posed to him by island councilman Leroy De Weever.
De Weever wanted to know exactly how much time does the island government has on the landfill. In his response Heyliger said the life span of the sanitary landfill has reached it's life span and at present they are making the landfill higher as the available space presently is being reserved for the new solid waste processing plant. At present government would be able to use the landfill for a maximum of about 1- 1.5 years. Further expansion in the Great salt pond is no option considering the minimum storage capacity of the pond as elucidated in the report on the storage capacity by Lievens of February 2nd 2009. Continuation of the present landfill will result in further raising of the level of the top of the landfill to undesirable heights. The situation at the landfill is critical.
De Weever also wanted to know if the island government had exhausted its efforts to cooperate with the French side for a waste disposal facility. Heyliger said government has done all it could do to include the waste processing of the French side. Without the necessary cooperation from the relevant French services this could not materialize. To eventually make it possible to process waste from the French side the environmental requirements for the plant have been increased by making the EU requirements applicable in the tender documents. Heyliger then went on to quote excerpts from a magazine where the vice president of environmental affairs said the two sides of the island have been working on such a system for quite some time but nothing has materialized. Aliotti admitted that French St. Martin is probably not "in the same time frame" regarding implementing a joint system with Dutch St. Maarten.
He argued that while both sides need to tackle the issue head on, French St. Martin has already made significant strides in this area in keeping with mandatory requirements from France.
The full text of Heyliger's response follows;-
Answers and Questions IC members
Answers to questions of S. Wescott Williams:
1. Are commitments to any of three firms are already made. Two of them are part of the negotiating part, are they asked as part of the negotiating teams or is this in addition? A: Commitments have been made to HBN Law and KPMG Corporate Finance in January 2009. Both companies also support the negotiation team. No commitment has been made to KEMA with regard to the Independent Cost Quality Engineering services.
2. What in gvt's opinion are these less than desirable effects of this particular system? A: Each waste thermal processing system will produce air emissions. These air emissions can be reduced to an acceptable level in accordance with emission norms set by EU, USA or Netherlands Antilles. Cleaning of these air emissions is in the final stage, just before leaving the stacks, done in a so-called bag filter house. These bag filters must be exchanged on a regular basis by new bag filters. The exchanged bag filters are contaminated with different chemicals, that otherwise would be released freely into the environment, and must be stored in special closed bags and be landfilled. This is a normal procedure that comes with all of these kind of waste processing systems. An option could be to export these bag filters to for example a special processing plant in Rotterdam or elsewhere in the world. This will be investigated. The air emissions from the BOS (Batch Oxidation System) system are less compared to these of the average incineration systems. Also the ash residuals are of better quality compared to the incineration systems. The Environmental Health Impact Assessment will give extensive insight in these issues. The present landfill produces air emissions which are not in accordance with environmental requirements. Let alone the air emissions which are released during fires at the landfill. Continuation of the present landfill will result in further filling up and raising of the level of the top of the landfill up to undesirable heights. The present landfill is an eyesore and environmentally unacceptable (reference is made to court case against government with regard to the smoke and smell of the landfill). Compared to the air emissions from the present landfilling activities the new processing facility will be a great environmental improvement.
3. Has an environmental impact study been commissioned? if so, by who and can we get a copy? A; Yes, the Environmental Health Impact Assessment has been executed by Royal Haskoning, Ecovision and WtTZ (the latter presented by an experienced environmental health physician). The final report has been submitted on October 29, 2009. A presentation of the study for the Central Committee is scheduled for the second half of May. A copy of the study will be submitted to the IC members before this presentation.
Ref. Letter of the Island Council status of affairs (HBN and KPMG):
4. 'smp' request explanation. A: reference is made to the "St. Maarten Peil". The SMP (main sea level) is used as a benchmark for leveling.
5. What is the minimum water surface in the pond for its buffer function; how much of this has the ringroad project absorbed and how much remained. A: In May 2007 bureau Lievense was commissioned by government to develop a report about the buffer capacity of the Great Salt Pond. The final report was dated on February 2nd 2009. The minimum capacity of the Great Salt Pond is 110 hectare. With projected ring road including the eastern part the remaining surface of the pond will be a little more than 110 hectare. Without the eastern part the remaining surface will be 114 hectare.
6. Who were the 4 companies selected. Can we receive their definition of a local company? A; Veolia, Verde, Interstate Waste Technology and Windward Roads. A local company is a company registered on St. Maarten.
7. Did those 2 proposals by the company include the Cole Bay alternative; was it separately or was the alternative one of the two proposals submitted. A: Windward Roads submitted in fact 3 proposals. Each proposal had an option for an alternative location on a land reclamation at Cole Bay.
8. Which 4 proposals were evaluated as stated by Exco in their letter on page 3? A: The proposal of Interstate Waste Technology and 3 proposals of Windward Roads.
9. Island Ordinance of Financial Mgt: ER is requested to ratify the procedure that has been followed, it is not asked to ratify the projects. Need clarification. A: The ordinance on financial management has been established at a time in which these kind of more complex tender procedures were not customary. To secure that the pursued tender procedure is in accordance with the ordinance the Island Council is requested to ratify the pursued tender procedure. The approval of the project will be requested when the final project dossier is presented to the Island Council.
10. Electricity generated by thermo processing is referred to as green electricity? A: Yes
11. How much if the electricity which possible can be generated do we estimate in the final analysis can go to GEBE? A: +/- 60 million kwh per year
12. Is gvt saying that they will encourage GEBE to look into other alternative Energy sources, in addition to the green Energy available of the plant, or is it specifically referring to the green electricity. A: In the new ordinance and concession for electricity production and distribution GEBE will be encouraged to produce green energy besides the energy from waste.
13. In what fashion, how far specifically and to what amounts these components changed. A: In the tender documents and submitted proposals the total amount of waste was established at 115,000 ton per year. Based on the waste weighing analyses in the one year period from April 2009 until April 2010 the total amount of waste delivered at the gate of the landfill is established at 140,000 ton per year. The financial and technical consequences will be presented in the final project dossier to be presented for approval to the Island Council.
14. Is the final decision by ExCo on the system to be deployed dependent on the KEMA advice or is KEMA authorized to work with the contractor. Did ExCo make a decision on the system or will the advice from KEMA also be a reason to look into another system? A: On December 17th 2008 the EXCO has chosen for the BOS system. The final decision to approve the selected system as proposed by Windward Roads will depend on a positive advice on the chosen system by KEMA.
15. Are they referring to the tariff structure as proposed by or used by KEMA A: The expertise of KEMA is not second guessed with regard to the new tariff structure. However KEMA was commissioned by GEBE and not by government. Government wants to secure the interest of the consumers through a second opinion especially with regard to the input given by GEBE for the development of the new tariff structure. There are two interest at stake, the consumer and the corporate interest of GEBE. Government wants to ensure that both interest are well taken into account. Recently discussions have taken place with Bureau Telecom which recently has executed a similar evaluation of the new tariff structure on Curacao.
16. Negotiations with GEBE: will they have an effect on the agreement of which is still at the Governors office? A: No. These negotiations have already been taken place.
17. Will it not be extremely difficult for other law firms and financial company to bid on this process as relevant experience is used as criteria A: relevant experience is of imperative importance with regards to projects of this magnitude. Certain other law firms are already engaged by parties involved in the project.
18. Negotiations French side: to what gvt attribute those failed negotiations A: Government has done all it could do to include the waste processing of the French side. Without the necessary cooperation from the relevant French services this could not materialize. To eventually make it possible to process waste from the French side the environmental requirements for the plant have been increased by making the EU requirements applicable in the tender documents. The following excerpt from Enviro News Magazine's November 2007 interview with the Vice president of Environmental Affairs and Sustainable Development of French St. Martin Mr. Pierre Aliotti, may serve as further information: "On the issue of cooperation with Dutch St. Martin, Aliotti has already met with new Environment Affairs Commissioner on Dutch St. Maarten Theo Heyliger last September on several issues including continuing exploratory talks to implement a joint waste disposal system. The two sides of the island have been working on such a system for quite some time already but nothing has materialized to date. Aliotti admitted that French St. Martin is probably not "in the same time frame" regarding implementing a joint system with Dutch St. Maarten. He argued that while both sides need to tackle the issue head on, French St. Martin has already made significant strides in this area in keeping with mandatory requirements from France. "A few years ago St. Martin's garbage system had been in a terrible state and the prefecture had summoned us to deal with the situation. We had to deal with it so there have been some major improvements in what used to be a complete shame on St. Martin. " he said referring to the state of garbage disposal in the past. "So right now there is no immediate emergency for us because part of the problem has been taken care of already."
Furthermore the following activities has taken place in cooperation with the French side:
• A presentation to Mr. Roy Marlin, Commissioner in charge of Public Works, and his staff on February 15th, 2006;
• An official visit to West Indies Environnement Développement Recyclage SAS (WIDER) plant ECODEC in Guadeloupe of Mr. Ludwig Ouenniche of the Chamber of Commerce and Mrs. Jadira
Veen, President of Sint Maarten Pride Foundation, on October 4th, 2006;
• A presentation to several representatives from the Public and Private Sectors and the Environmental Organizations from both French and Dutch sides, on November 8th, 2006. In that meeting were present, Mr. Storeteller and Mr. Mooij.
• Visit to plants in France and Spain, September 10-12, 2007
• two meetings with Commissioner Theodore Heyliger and Dr. Max Ogoundélé-Tessi, head of Technical Services of the Collectivité of Saint-Martin with WIDER
19. 3 BOS: Is this a maximum system for the landfill. A: the system can be extended to more than 3 BOS trains. In fact the building can already house a 4th BOS train.
20. Attractiveness of this area for private development and commercial will be affected. When it comes to gvt services it will not be a problem. Why gvt draws this parallel there. Can it be put into the perspective of the Almere Plan. This plan should be up for discussion in the Island Council. A: In the "Almere plan" the proposed designation of the area of the projected waste plant was designated for housing. In the plan was no space projected for a waste plant. The waste plant at that time was supposed to be located at the French side or in Cole Bay (reclamation). The attractiveness for commercial businesses to locate their enterprises in the western part of Pond Island is of course influenced by the designation of the western part (waste plant or housing).
21. Cole bay option: why is government considering the cole bay option? The potential maximization of that area? And if that is the case, what time period are we talking about, what amount of years will the landfill be able to process waste processing plant? A: The Cole Bay area with its present large companies is a more appropriate location for a concentration of large scale industries. In many governmental studies and plans the present industrial area along the coast of the Cole Bay has been indicated as the most favourable location for further extension of larger scale commercial development. Considering the limited space at this location ideas have been worked out in the past to expand the area with a land reclamation in the eastern part of the bay. In 2007 a Preparatory resolution has been taken for the development of St. Maarten West based on the Development Perspective St. Maarten West by Island Design (Lanjouw). Included in this Perspective was the zoning of the eastern part of the Cole bay for larger industrial activities. It is therefore an obvious location choice for a waste plant. However land must be created through a land reclamation and/or purchase and excavation of land. The realization of such will take time and extra money. The time and financial consequences of an eventual combination of both locations (Cole Bay and Pond island) will be worked out and presented to the Executive and Island Council, when the project dossier is finalized. The critical stage of the present landfill with a further rising summit and environmentally unacceptable method of waste processing will hereby be considered.
22. Cole Bay area: Financial impact, environmental impact all according to gvt view:should Cole Bay be even be an option at all. A: The Island Council can take a final decision based on the time and financial consequences. As elucidated in the previous answer the government has taken a Preparatory resolution to designate the eastern part of Cole Bay for large scale industrial activities making the Cole Bay area in principle an obvious option for the location of a waste processing plant.
Questions and answers R.R. Marlin:
1. Provide clarity on what type of fees will be associated with the waste to energy on the processing? What type of tipping fee is the BC considering for the waste to energy solution? Pls. provide elucidation on the fees structure? A: The income sources to pay for the waste processing are: 1) the income from the energy produced from waste to be sold to and paid by GEBE, 2) the variable concession allowance based on electricity consumption GEBE has to pay to government and GEBE can pass on to the consumers. The income sources 1 and 2 are included in the new ordinance and concession for electricity. The precise numbers will be presented in the final project dossier.
2. What is the total budget estimated for building of the facility? A; Total investment costs are budgeted at +/- $ 115 million.
3. Clarity of the role of Agrisoil NV? Will they still be involved? A; The state of affairs of Agrisoil has been reviewed. An eventual alternative for Agrisoil is presently being considered.
4. Status of the process of government regulating the price of electricity on St. Maarten? A: The new electricity ordinance will be presented to the Island Council in the course of this month. We hope to be able to grant the new concession to GEBE soonest possible.
5. Why would the IC be asked to ratify the process started with Windward Roads? Pls. explain is this is really necessary because in my opinion this process was started with a public bidding process. A: A: The ordinance on financial management has been established at a time in which these kind of more complex tender procedures were not customary. To secure that the pursued tender procedure is in accordance with the ordinance the Island Council is requested to ratify the pursued tender procedure. The approval of the project will be requested when the final project dossier is presented to the Island Council.
6. Is the Exco. considering institution some type of independent control authority that can be charged with the monitoring or will we enter into agreement with someone of the Dutch institutes and that they will then do on behalf of government the monitoring? How will this cost be carried by government? What type of sanctions will be placed on the contractor if not live up to the norms set? A: An independent control and monitoring authority is being considered to secure and independent and competent monitoring of the environmental requirements set in the Design Built Finance Maintain Operate-contract. Cost will be carried by the concession holder. Appropriate sanctions and penalties will be included in the DBFMO contract to be presented to the Island Council.
7. Give explanation on the collectability on the solid waste field? A: As elucidated in answer to question #1 the necessary income to pay for the waste processing will be anchored in law (new ordinance for electricity and new ordinance for waste). The concession allowance GEBE has to pay to government will be an operational expense.
8. Elucidation VROM, zie bijlage in de brief aan de ER: document needs to have some type of formal and legal basis of this document. A: The elucidation with regard to the location of the facility must be considered as approved by the Executive Council.
9. Are the proposals HBN law and KPMG ready and when will the ER be able to receive these? A: The proposals are part of the project dossier that will be presented for approval to the Island Council.
10. Provide an update on the concession for GEBE? A: The new ordinance for the production and distribution of electricity has been send for consultation to the Governor in the third week of March. Since 6 weeks have now passed without any reaction from the governor the ordinance (and concession) will be send to the island council soonest possible!
11. Kyoto protocol: Carbon credits: can the experts look into this matter re. selling carbon credits to the developing nations. If the possibility exists will BC consider pursuing this? A: A study has been awarded to KEMA to investigate the possibility of receiving carbon credits for the proposed project. KEMA will submit the study in the course of this month.
12. letter April 14, 2010: the closing chapter of this letter should also indicated to ratify the proposal private tender with KPMG and HBN law. I have not seen a separate letter to ratify the process with HBN law. A: Under HBN Law the same request to the IC has been made to ratify the procedure with HBN Law.
Questions and answers G. Pantophlet:
1. What it will mean for the health of the people of St. Maarten. French side will also be affected. A: the facilities will process the waste within the environmental requirements as set by the EU for air emissions, water, noise. The EU requirements are more stringent than the requirements as established by the federal government of the Netherlands Antilles.
Questions and answers R. Samuel:
1. Idea originated by the former gvt, what was the feelings by the former gvt to solving this problem in this way. It is good to know the feelings of the previous and current gvt A: the landfill is full. Continuation of the landfill will result in further filling up of Pond Island and/or raising the level of the top of the landfill up to undesirable heights. Furthermore the landfilling is an eyesore and environmentally unacceptable (reference is made to court cases against government with regard to the smoke and smell of the landfill). A solution for the processing of waste has become very urgent. In the past various governments has tried to solve the problem together with the French side.
2. Will it be possible to process garbage from the French side. A: Yes, but only after expansion of the facilities.
3. How many cubic pounds of waste is equivalent to amount of fuel. What is the amount of garbage is used to produce the same amount of energy. A: The proposed system can supply a total (including own use of the plant) of +/- 9 Mega Watt. From an annual 100,000 ton of waste approx. 70 million kwh can be produced through the BOS system.
4. Can the system proposed reduce the size of the landfill. If the system can do this, the people will be happy to support this. Are there systems that we can acquire to do this. A: The system can reduce the size of the landfill. The reduction will depend on the capacity of the plant. The plant can easily be expanded.
5. If this proposal is carried when will the study start? A: As soon as possible after the approval of the Island Council the contract will be commissioned.
Questions and answers L. Laveist:
1. who proposed to put a garbage disposal plant in cole bay? A: The Cole Bay area with its present large companies is a more appropriate location for a concentration of large scale industries. In many governmental studies and plans the present industrial area along the coast of the Cole Bay has been indicated as the most favourable location for further extension of larger scale commercial development. Considering the limited space at this location ideas have been worked out in the past to expand the area with a land reclamation in the eastern part of the bay. In 2007 a Preparatory resolution has been taken for the development of St. Maarten West based on the Development Perspective St. Maarten West by Island Design (Lanjouw). Included in this Perspective was the zoning of the eastern part of the Cole bay for larger industrial activities. It is therefore an obvious location choice for a waste plant. However land must be created through a land reclamation and/or purchase and excavation of land. The realization of such will take time and extra money. The time and financial consequences of an eventual combination of both locations (Cole Bay and Pond island) will be worked out and presented to the Executive and Island Council, when the project dossier is finalized. The critical stage of the present landfill with a further rising summit and environmentally unacceptable method of waste processing will hereby be considered.
2. has the people of cole bay been consulted? And through which medium? Have the people of cole bay been briefed? A: Since the Exco has chosen for Pond Island as the most pragmatic location solution, no consultations have been taken place with the people of cole bay.
3. where would that electricity be generated through? A: From the waste facility through the pond island transformer house.
Answers to questions of P.L. de Weever:
1. Page 2, paragraph 1 at lines 5 and 6 state that "In 2008, the estimate for available
space was calculated with a result that only a few years were left prior to
achieving maximum capacity."
Please provide the Island Council with the details of this estimate and calculation
and also clarify exactly how many years is a "few years". Is it 2 or 10 years?
Also, please provide the name and background of the company that was
commissioned to provide the estimate and calculations.
1.
a. The life span of the sanitary landfill has reached it's life span and at present we're making the landfill higher as the available space presently is being reserved for the new solid waste processing plant. At present we will be able to continue for a maximum of about 1- 1.5 years. Further expansion in the Great salt pond is no option considering the minimum storage capacity of the pond as elucidated in the report on the storage capacity by Lievens of February 2nd 2009. Continuation of the present landfill will result in further raising of the level of the top of the landfill to undesirable heights. The situation at the landfill is critical.
b. The original company that made the "stortplan" was Afvalzorg Nederland together with Witteveen+Bos back in 1998 and then it's estimated lifespan was 10 years. We have already passed that lifespan and the latest change we made on the stortplan was done internally and we've been able to add on a couple of years to the present lifespan. That is now do coming to an end.
2. Page 2, paragraph 1 at lines 6 and 7 state that "Further expansion of the dump is
not possible in light of maintaining a minimum water surface in the pond for its
buffer function during heavy rains and hurricanes."
Please provide the exact date when it was determined what the required minimum
water surface should be.
2. The minimum water drainage surface was determined by the engineering firm Lievense in its storage capacity report of February 2nd 2009 and stands at 110.000 square meters surface area.
3. Page 2, Section 1.2 of the letter at paragraph 3 states that "Although efforts have
been made to tender and realize a combined facility with the French side of the
Island this could not be accomplished."
Please provide the Island Council with the evidence of the "efforts" to cooperate
with the French side.
Mr. Chairman, if no evidence can be shown that real efforts were made, in my
opinion this represents a complete disregard for the proper use of government
funds. If the government had the opportunity to work with the French side, the
cost of the project could have been drastically minimized in favor of the people of
St. Maarten.
3. Government has done all it could do to include the waste processing of the French side. Without the necessary cooperation from the relevant French services this could not materialize. To eventually make it possible to process waste from the French side the environmental requirements for the plant have been increased by making the EU requirements applicable in the tender documents. The following excerpt from Enviro News Magazine's November 2007 interview with the Vice president of Environmental Affairs and Sustainable Development of French St. Martin Mr. Pierre Aliotti, may serve as further information: "On the issue of cooperation with Dutch St. Martin, Aliotti has already met with new Environment Affairs Commissioner on Dutch St. Maarten Theo Heyliger last September on several issues including continuing exploratory talks to implement a joint waste disposal system. The two sides of the island have been working on such a system for quite some time already but nothing has materialized to date. Aliotti admitted that French St. Martin is probably not "in the same time frame" regarding implementing a joint system with Dutch St. Maarten. He argued that while both sides need to tackle the issue head on, French St. Martin has already made significant strides in this area in keeping with mandatory requirements from France. "A few years ago St. Martin's garbage system had been in a terrible state and the prefecture had summoned us to deal with the situation. We had to deal with it so there have been some major improvements in what used to be a complete shame on St. martin. " he said referring to the state of garbage disposal in the past. "So right now there is no immediate emergency for us because part of the problem has been taken care of already."
Furthermore the following activities has taken place in cooperation with the French side:
• A presentation to Mr. Roy Marlin, Commissioner in charge of Public Works, and his staff on February 15th, 2006;
• An official visit to West Indies Environnement Développement Recyclage SAS (WIDER) plant ECODEC in Guadeloupe of Mr. Ludwig Ouenniche of the Chamber of Commerce and Mrs. Jadira
Veen, President of Sint Maarten Pride Foundation, on October 4th, 2006;
• A presentation to several representatives from the Public and Private Sectors and the Environmental Organizations from both French and Dutch sides, on November 8th, 2006. In that meeting were present, Mr. Storeteller and Mr. Mooij.
• Visit to plants in France and Spain, September 10-12, 2007
• two meetings with Commissioner Theodore Heyliger and Dr. Max Ogoundélé-Tessi, head of Technical Services of the Collectivité of Saint-Martin with WIDER
.
4. Page 2, Section 1.2 of the letter at paragraph 4 states that "A five member
Advisory Committee was installed by the Executive Council in May."
Please advise the Island Council as to May of which year as it is not stated in the
letter.
Also, please advise the Island Council as to who the five member Advisory
Committee was made up of, as well as their backgrounds as it relates to solid
waste disposal and alternative energy generation.
4. In May of 2008 a committee consisting of 5 members was appointed by the executive council. The members are as follows:
• Mr. Sipke the Haan (advisor to the sector ROB with a broad experience in big projects including the rebuilding of St. Maarten after Hurricane Luis, former Interne Deskundige)
• Mr. Hiro Shigimoto, director of resources
• Ir. Gisbert Boekhoudt, director of the Ministry of Health and Environment of Aruba and environmental engineer
• ing. Joseph Dollison, sector director ROB (sits on the board of GEBE and is aware of the energy production method of GEBE)
• ing. Claudius Buncamper, department head of New Works and Infrastructural management. (Is presently in charge of the garbage processing and is a graduate of the mechanical engineering department of the university of the Netherlands Antilles with alternative energy as his mayor.
5. Page 2, Section 1.2 of the letter at paragraph 6 states that the two French
companies declared in writing to be unable to submit a proposal.
Please provide the Island Council with evidence of these written declarations as
well as the reasons why these two French companies decided not to submit
proposals.
5. The companies Veolia Proprete and Verde Sofunag each sent letters on October 16th and October 2nd 2008 informing us they would no longer participate in the tender.
6. Page 3, Paragraph I of the letter states that "The Advisory Committee reported
their findings to the Executive Council in an Evaluation Report of the received
proposals in December 2008. The Advisory Committee evaluated the (in total 4)
received proposals based on the criteria as stipulated in the RFP and unanimously
scored the proposal of the local company that included the waste to energy option
as the most favorable solution."
Please explain to the Island Council on what basis a unanimous decision was
made to select the local company.
Please explain to the Island Council why the Advisory Committee would still
bother to consider all four proposals in December 2008 if two of them (the French
companies) advised in writing prior to 23rd October, 2008 that they would be
unable to submit proposals.
I cannot fathom why the Advisory Committee would waste the time and resources
of the people of St. Maarten to evaluate two proposals from French companies if
these companies declared in writing that they would be unable to submit a
proposal.
Actually, Paragraph I of page 3 states that the Advisory Committee evaluated the
proposals of the French companies. Then exactly what did the Advisory
Committee evaluate since according to the letter, these two French companies
declared in writing that they were unable to submit proposals? Something is
clearly wrong here.
6. The unanimous decision was reached by the committee based on the scoring manner that was decided upon by the committee. The scoring mechanism with a maximum of 750 scoring points was based on the following criteria as included in annex C.1 of the tender documents (Request For Proposal) and in the advice of the committee:
• Various streams of garbage that can be processed
• Completeness of the offer
• Layout of the plan
• Description of the process
• Flexibility of the whole system
• Assistance with the start up process
• After sales of products
• Total price tag
a. The four (4) proposals that were mentioned in the letter did not include the proposals of the 2 French companies nor did the letter state so, but was build up of 3 proposals of Windward Roads B.V. and one (1) of the other company that remained. (Interstate Waste Technology)
7. Page 3, Section 1.3 paragraph 3 states that". . . it could be anticipated that most of
the proposals would consist of a combination of different processes including a
thermal processing component."
Please advise the Island Council which proposals received would consist of a
thermal processing unit. Did the American company's proposal include a thermal
processing unit?
Also, will any pollution or smoke will be created by these thermal processing
units?
7. a. The American company proposed to use the "thermoselect" method and the waste to energy method."
b. The plants will have emissions but it will not have any negative effect on the environment or it's surroundings. In the tender docs the requirement was included that the plant should live up to the EU standards. The Environmental Health Impact Assessment of October 2009 confirms that the emissions of the proposed plant will stay within the EU-standards. The Scottish Environment protection Agency has qualified the BOS plant in Dargavel Scotland as compliant with Best Available Techniques (BAT), according to the European Directive of Integrated Prevention and Pollution Control (IPPC). BAT is considered for both environmental issues and economical feasibility. KEMA will verify also if the BOS installation will meet the environmental EU-standards. The present landfill produces air emissions which are not in accordance with environmental requirements. Let alone the air emissions which are released during fires at the landfill. The present landfill is an eyesore and environmentally unacceptable (reference is made to court case against government with regard to the smoke and smell of the landfill). Compared to the air emissions from the present landfilling activities the new processing facility will be a great environmental improvement.
8. Page 3, Section 1.3 paragraph 5 states that "The present processing of solid waste via a sanitary landfill is clearly the cheapest solution."
Please advise the Island Council as to what other solutions were considered and
evaluated
8. The departure point of the tender was that all or as much garbage will be either recycled and/or treated. Also the sale of electricity was an option to drop the cost and make the sustainability of the plant possible. In this view we reviewed the proposals received and none of them had the simple method of coverage as an option. All proposals had a thermal aspect to the processing of garbage.
9. Page 3 paragraph 8 continuing onto page 4 paragraph I states that "Cost reduction
via re-use of residues and alternative energy production is therefore not only most
welcome but most probably a must.. ."
Mr. Chairman, it is very difficult to approve a project of this size with such drastic
ramifications on a "most probably" basis. We need absolute certainty.
Therefore, please advise if it is certain that this project is the best option.
9. Because of the importance of this project for the community of St. Maarten it is proposed to commission KEMA with an independent cost quality engineering analysis of the project. Not only government considers it important to look for a second opinion. Also the financing institution has commissioned a similar analysis of the project. This study will be carried out by the American consultancy firm R.W. Beck. Besides the Environmental Impact Assessment two independent analysis of the project will be executed. The Island Council is not requested to approve the project, only to ratify the pursued process until present. When the KEMA study is finalized the project dossier will be presented for approval by the Island Council.
10. Page 4, paragraph 2 states that "The RFP (request for proposal) documents
require the facility to be in accordance with EU standards with regard to air, water
and soil pollution."
Please provide details on these EU Standards.
How is the government planning to monitor these EU standards going forward?
Has a company already been formed to independently evaluate these EU
Standards going forward?
10. * For the EU standards is referred to the attached Directive 2000/76EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 4 december 2000
• The government can monitor the EU standards that will be measurable.
• At present that hasn't been finalized yet but we're looking at an independent monitoring authority or monitoring committee to be installed by government. This monitoring authority or committee will be supported by the necessary expertise with regard to monitoring EU standards.
11. Page 5, paragraph 4 under Section II states that "WWR had submitted an
alternative proposal for the SWMPF to be located on a land reclamation in the
eastern section of the Cole bay. However it has become clear that WWR had not
included the necessary financing for the realization ofthis alternative location."
Please explain to the Island Council how the financing would be different if the
project was built in Cole Bay.
11. Building the project in Cole Bay means an extra investment of at least $ 20 million for the realization of the needed land via land reclamation and/or land purchase and excavation, as explained in the letter and VROM's elucidation.
12.Page paragraph 5 under Section II states that VROM is considering the
feasibility of two facilities on two locations, one on Pond Island for the mining of
the landfill and one in Cole Bay for the processing of regular waste.
Please explain and provide details as to how the financial model of this project is
impacted by having two separate facilities on two separate locations.
12. For now the waste facility is located at Pond island as included in the tender documents. The time and financial consequences of the two separate facilities will be evaluated and presented to the Island Council when the project dossier of the project is presented for approval. It can be expected that the realization of two facilities on two locations shall cause the investment and operational costs and consequently the annual cost (service fee) to increase to an unrealistic level.
13. Page 6, paragraph 2 under the Section "Selection of law firm" states that "HBN
Law has a proven record of relevant experience in this field and were a.o.
involved in the recent implementation of the fee structure for the harbor of St.
Maarten."
Please provide the Island Council with evidence ofHBN Law's relevant
experience and also clarify how their work on the fee structure of the harbor of St.
Maarten is relevant to this waste management project.
13. HBN Law has presented a list of recent legislative work and financing projects that HBN Law has conducted (see attachment). Furthermore, HBN Law has a cooperation agreement with the Dutch "Landsadvocaat" Pels Rijcken & Droogleever Fortuijn in The Netherlands, which acts as legal counsel to the State of The Netherlands and is as such involved in all major governmental projects in The Netherlands. This cooperation allows HBN Law to draw on the knowledge and experience of the attorneys of Pels Rijcken & Droogleever Fortuijn. The legislation that was drafted for the present waste management project was a joint work product between HBN Law and Pels Rijcken & Droogleever Fortuijn (in particular mr A.B. van Rijn).
14. Page 6, paragraph 2 under the Section "Selection oflaw firm" states that
"Because ofHBN Law's relevant expertise and experience in he field, HBN Law
can offer the services relatively cheap."
First of all, in my opinion, terminology such as "relatively cheap" is not
appropriate for a document of this nature.
Also, please explain the rationale behind HBN Law being able to provide services
on a less expensive basis solely because they are experienced in the area, as
specialist typically command a higher fee.
Also, which other law firms have provided a legal fee quote that was compared to
the quote from HBN Law?
14. The fee charged by HBN Law, which includes the fee payable to Pels Rijcken & Droogleever Fortuijn, was calculated on the basis of the expected time to be dedicated to the agreed scope of work multiplied with the applicable hourly fee. Since these law firms are experienced in the work performed, they have been able to deliver within a tight budget and thus a tight fixed fee. Any firm that would have lacked the needed experience would probably not have been able to deliver within the time frames needed, not with the quality of work that was delivered, or would have spend (and charged) a multiple of what was charged for legal services. As such having experienced lawyers work on this project did not result in more expenses. No other legal fee quotes were requested nor received.
15. Page 6, paragraph 2 under the Section "Selection of law firm" states that "HBN
Law presented a unique solution for the problem of the collectability of the solid
waste fees."
Please advise the Island Council as to the details of this "unique solution" and
explain if it will increase the current electrical and water bills for the people of St.
Maarten.
Also, please advise the Island Council if any other law firms were given the
opportunity to submit a proposal on a solution for the collectivity of the solid
waste fees and if so provide evidence of this.
15. The solution comprises of a legal connection between the collectability of the fee to be paid for waste processing and the electricity bill to secure the payment of the waste fees. This means that if the consumer does not pay the fee for waste processing while paying the electricity bill, GEBE has the right to disconnect the electricity to the consumer. Based on this solution HBN Law was invited to submit a proposal for the legal services. No other law firms were invited to submit a proposal. Certain other law firms are already engaged by parties involved in the project.
16. Page 6, paragraph 5 under Section IV states that "KPMG Corporate Finance was
requested to submit a proposal for these services in November, 2008."
Please advise the Island Council if any other auditors or advisory firms were
requested to submit proposals and if so which ones.
16. No other corporate finance firms were requested to give a quote.
17. Page 7, Paragraph 2 states that KPMG Corporate Finance "were a.o. involved in
the recent implementation of the structuring and financing of large infrastructure
concessions like the Airport in Curacao and the Cruise Port Facilities in St.
Maarten."
Please advise the Island Council as to how involvement in these projects provides
experience in the area of solid waste management.
17. This statement is about structuring of large infrastructure concessions. This relates to the knowledge and expertise of managing large and complicated projects with complicated contracts like concession agreements, direct agreements, shareholders agreement. The project for airport of Curacao and the Port of St. Maarten have similar complicated structures and are therefore used as references of KPMG's expertise.
18. Page 7, Paragraph 1 under the Section "Selection of Corporate finance advisory
firm" it states that "For the first half of 2008 KPMG Corporate Finance was the
leading PPP financial advisor internationally, having closed 17 transactions with a
capital value of EURO 10.8 billion."
Please advise if KPMG has been given the mandate to raise capital for this
project?
18. No, KPMG has not been given mandate to raise capital for this project as the project is a Design Built Finance Maintain Operate contract which means that the contractor has to provide the finance (capital). KPMG proposed to support the Island of St. Maarten with the review of the contracts (including the finance component) as KPMG have vast experience with these kind of contracts and therefore are able to recognize the (financial) risks of the contractor's proposal and in discussing with the work/steering group, advise the Government of St. Maarten how to mitigate those risks.
19. Page 7, Paragraph 1 under the Section "Selection of Corporate finance advisory
firm" states that "They (KPMG) have experience with large and complex waste
projects."
Please provide the Island Council with evidence of this experience in large and
complex waste projects.
19. KPMG submitted a list of references with regard to experience in the field of waste projects (see attachment).
20. Please provide the Island Council with complete details of the proposed land
ownership in the area where the solid waste management facility will be located.
20. The land is owned by the island government of St. Maarten.
21. In the "Elucidation" document prepared by VROM mention is made that the
project should not impact the health of the people of St. Maarten as it meets the
requirements of the EU norms.
In that regard, please provide the Island Council with the details of this study
relating specifically to the health risks to the population of St. Maarten.
21. In the tender documents requirements it was stated that the installation should meet the European norms. To have this confirmed an Environmental Health Impact Assessment was carried out by Ecovision, Royal Haskoning and WtTZ. The Environmental Health Impact Assessment of October 2009, which will be presented to the Island Council in the second half of May, confirms that the emissions of the proposed plant will stay within the EU-standards. The Scottish Environment protection Agency has qualified the BOS plant in Dargavel Scotland as compliant with Best Available Techniques (BAT), according to the European Directive of Integrated Prevention and Pollution Control (IPPC). BAT is considered for both environmental issues and economical feasibility. KEMA will verify also if the BOS installation will meet the environmental EU-standards. Also a second independent consultancy firm will review if the installation is in accordance with the EU standards. The present landfill produces air emissions which are not in accordance with environmental requirements. Let alone the air emissions which are released during fires at the landfill. The present landfill is an eyesore and environmentally unacceptable (reference is made to court case against government with regard to the smoke and smell of the landfill). Compared to the air emissions from the present landfilling activities the new processing facility will be a great environmental improvement.
22. Please provide the Island Council with a detailed analysis of the total debt as well
as the latest audited and/or unaudited financial statements of all government
owned companies (Harbor Group of Companies, P JIA Group of Companies,
Telem, Telcel, Smitcoms, Telnet, GEBE etc.) including this proposed solid waste
management facility.
22. The total debt of the solid waste management facility will be established when the final project dossier is presented for approval to the Island Council.
23. Please provide us with the latest figures ofSt. Maarten's Gross Domestic Product
and ratio of debt to gross domestic product.
24. What role if any will the current local garbage collection companies play in the
pro sed waste disposal facility?
24. At present the sector ROB is busy finalizing an advice to the executive council which will handle the garbage collection process on the island. The collection process will also be very instrumental in pre sorting certain streams of garbage. Also all residents, businesses and other entities will be part of the collection program. In the garbage processing itself the present haulers will have no say.
Island Council Meeting April 26th 2010
Answers to Questions in writing IC members
Answers to questions of M. Buncamper Molanus
In paragraph 1.2 of your letter ref 2155/10 dated April 14, 2010 it states that on page 3 3rd paragraph: "In May 2009 the negotiations started with the Windward Roads N.V. (WWR) to negotiate a Design Built Finance Maintain and operate (DBFMO) contract for the SWMPF. In view of the requirements of art. 17 "Eilandsverordening Financieel Beheer", the island council is hereby requested to ratify the procedure that has been followed".
1. Was the present tender procedure used for the public tender of February 2008 not correct and if so please explain what transpired leading to the present course of action whereby the Island Council is requested to ratify the decision of the Executive Council?
A: In the opinion of the steering committee appointed by the executive council to handle the public tender and in the opinion of the department of legal affairs of the island territory the tender procedure was in accordance with the island ordinance financial management. The department of legal affairs concluded that: Quote: "Alhoewel er geen procedure heeft plaatsgevonden zoals gebruikelijk bij het eilandgebied wordt verstaan onder een openbare aanbesteding, kan naar huidige maatstaven en praktijk in Nederland en internationaal, worden geconcludeerd dat er geen ongebruikelijke invulling is gegeven aan het begrip openbare aanbesteding als bedoeld in artikel 17 van de Eilandsverordening financieel beheer.
Of en in hoeverre er additionele stappen wenselijk waren geweest valt buiten de reikwijdte van het verzoek om advies van uw college." Unquote.
2. Who approved the initial public tender procedure that has been followed thus far? Please indicate which legal bases was used? A: The executive council, with the approval of the cabinet of the lt. governor, approved the different steps of the tender procedure on February 2nd 2008, June 3rd 2008, December 17th 2008 and on May 5th 2009. .
3. Did the department of judicial affairs provide a legal opinion on the tender procedure followed back in February 2008, if this is the case please provide the Island Council with this legal opinion. A: Yes the legal department provided the executive council with an opinion on the matter.The following text is an excerpt from the advice of legal affairs with regard to the tender procedure: Quote: "Openbare aanbesteding?
In de huidige praktijk wordt artikel 17 anders toegepast dan door het Kabinet van de Gezaghebber is voorgesteld. Het bestuurscollege bereidt een onderhandse aanbesteding voor en legt vervolgens het resultaat van deze aanbesteding aan de eilandsraad voor goedkeuring voor. Dit betekent dat de gunning wordt voorbereid onder voorbehoud van goedkeuring van de eilandsraad. De memorie van toelichting bij de Eilandsverordening financieel beheer biedt geen toelichting voor artikel 17.
De Comptabiliteitslandsverordening bevat geen vergelijkbare bepaling voor het Land de Nederlandse Antillen. Op basis van artikel 27 kan de minister van financiën besluiten dat het in het belang is van het Land om af te wijken van de regel van de openbare aanbesteding.
Navraag bij de afdeling Juridische Zaken van het eilandgebied Curaçao heeft uitgewezen dat daar wél eerst instemming voor een onderhandse aanbesteding wordt verzocht, alvorens met de selectieprocedure te starten. Of deze werkwijze in de praktijk ook consequent wordt toegepast is niet nader onderzocht in verband met de tijdsdruk.
Door de sector ROB is aangegeven dat de vragen gesteld door het Kabinet van de Gezaghebber niet relevant zijn, aangezien er wél een openbare aanbesteding heeft plaatsgevonden en wel een openbare aanbesteding met voorselectie. Zoals hierboven is aangegeven bevat de Eilandsverordening financieel beheer weinig aanknopingspunten voor de invulling van aanbestedingsprocedures. De huidige regeling voorziet niet in de aanbesteding van complexe projecten. Inmiddels wordt internationaal en ook in Nederland met verschillende vormen van aanbesteding gewerkt, waarbij de verschillende elementen van een project (w.o. ontwerp, bouw, onderhoud, financiering) in verschillende combinaties in pakketten worden uitbesteed. Daarbij is ook de voorselectie van mogelijke aannemers niet ongebruikelijk.
(Uit Worldbank Guidelines Procurement under IBRD Loans and IDA credits, 2004:
"Prequalification of Bidders
Prequalification is usually necessary for large or complex works, or in any other circumstances in which the high costs of preparing detailed bids could discourage competition, such as custom-designed equipment, industrial plant, specialized services, some complex information and technology and contracts to be let under turnkey, design and build, or management contracting. This also ensures that invitations to bid are extended only to those who have adequate capabilities and resources. Prequalification shall be based entirely upon the capability and resources of prospective bidders to perform the particular contract satisfactorily, taking into account their (a) experience and past performance on similar contracts, (b) capabilities with respect to personnel, equipment, and construction or manufacturing facilities, and (c) financial position."
In het Besluit aanbestedingsregels voor overheidsopdrachten dat geldt voor Nederland wordt onderscheid gemaakt tussen diverse vormen van aanbesteding, waarbij de complexiteit van de opdracht doorslaggevend is voor de vorm die kan worden gekozen voor de aanbesteding.
Concluderend: Alhoewel er geen procedure heeft plaatsgevonden zoals gebruikelijk bij het eilandgebied wordt verstaan onder een openbare aanbesteding, kan naar huidige maatstaven en praktijk in Nederland en internationaal, worden geconcludeerd dat er geen ongebruikelijke invulling is gegeven aan het begrip openbare aanbesteding als bedoeld in artikel 17 van de Eilandsverordening financieel beheer.
Of en in hoeverre er additionele stappen wenselijk waren geweest valt buiten de reikwijdte van het verzoek om advies van uw college." Unquote
4. Please inform the Island Council who (and their expertise) sit in the advisory committee that reported their findings to the executive council in the evaluation report of the public tender? A: Sipke de Haan, Hiro Shigemoto, Gisbert Boekhoudt, Joseph Dollison and Claudius Buncamper (see also answer #4 to Mr. Petrus de Weever)
5. Which companies participated in what is referred to by government as the expression of interest that was published in the local papers?
A: The following ten (10) companies participated in the Expression of Interest
1. Windward Roads N.V.
2. Interstate Waste Technology
3. Verde Sofunag Environnement & Suez Environment
4. Ashtrom International Ltd
5. Liccom & Visser & Smit & Hanab & Jupiter Holding
6. FS Investment BV
7. Green Conservation Systems LLC
8. Ecoserve Holding 7 Faber Recycling
9. Global Green International
10. Veolia Proprete
6. Which four (4) qualified companies based on the selection criteria were to be invited by government, to request for a proposal in a tender procedure for the solid waste facility?
A: The following four (4) companies qualified to be invited for the public tender by the government:
1. Windward Roads N.V.
2. Interstate Waste Technology
3. Verde Sofunag Environnement & Suez Environment
4. Veolia Proprete
7. Why didn't a combined venture with the French side materialize to process garbage? A: Government has done all it could do to include the waste processing of the French side. Without the necessary cooperation from the relevant French services this could not materialize. To eventually make it possible to process waste from the French side the environmental requirements for the plant have been increased by making the EU requirements applicable in the tender documents. The following excerpt from Enviro News Magazine's November 2007 interview with the Vice president of Environmental Affairs and Sustainable Development of French St. Martin Mr. Pierre Aliotti, may serve as further information: "On the issue of cooperation with Dutch St. Martin, Aliotti has already met with new Environment Affairs Commissioner on Dutch St. Maarten Theo Heyliger last September on several issues including continuing exploratory talks to implement a joint waste disposal system. The two sides of the island have been working on such a system for quite some time already but nothing has materialized to date. Aliotti admitted that French St. Martin is probably not "in the same time frame" regarding implementing a joint system with Dutch St. Maarten. He argued that while both sides need to tackle the issue head on, French St. Martin has already made significant strides in this area in keeping with mandatory requirements from France. "A few years ago St. Martin's garbage system had been in a terrible state and the prefecture had summoned us to deal with the situation. We had to deal with it so there have been some major improvements in what used to be a complete shame on St. martin. " he said referring to the state of garbage disposal in the past. "So right now there is no immediate emergency for us because part of the problem has been taken care of already."
Furthermore the following activities has taken place in cooperation with the French side:
• A presentation to Mr. Roy Marlin, Commissioner in charge of Public Works, and his staff on February 15th, 2006;
• An official visit to West Indies Environnement Développement Recyclage SAS (WIDER) plant ECODEC in Guadeloupe of Mr. Ludwig Ouenniche of the Chamber of Commerce and Mrs. Jadira
Veen, President of Sint Maarten Pride Foundation, on October 4th, 2006;
• A presentation to several representatives from the Public and Private Sectors and the Environmental Organizations from both French and Dutch sides, on November 8th, 2006. In that meeting were present, Mr. Storeteller and Mr. Mooij.
• Visit to plants in France and Spain, September 10-12, 2007
• two meetings with Commissioner Theodore Heyliger and Dr. Max Ogoundélé-Tessi, head of Technical Services of the Collectivité of Saint-Martin with WIDER
In paragraph 1.3 we read that the project has various objectives:
1. Waste reduction to 95%;
2. Cost reduction;
3. Environmentally good;
4. Consequences of energy from waste for Gebe's power production;
8. Is the waste reduction really going to be 95% of the total garbage produced on this island, because in paragraph 1.4 in the description of the operation of the SWMPF that doesn't seem to be the case, considering that there will be no sorting of any garbage that doesn't go through the C&D (construction and demolition) plant? A: Contractually the waste reduction degree shall be more than 95% (to be reached within 3 years). The Batch Oxidation System (BOS) itself does not require any presorting (of the household and commercial waste). Even more: that is exactly why the technology is suitable for small territories like Sint Maarten. It destroys all burnable material by an average of 96%.
The Solid Waste Management & Processing Facility does not only treat household and commercial waste in the BOS, it also processes a considerable amount of Construction and Demolition waste (C&D waste). Another very important part of the Facility is a C&D Recycling/Sorting Plant. This C&D recycling plant:
1. separates the combustible materials from to C&D: this materials are subsequently gasified in the BOS plant
2. separates the recyclables from the C&D waste: this recyclables such as aluminum and ferro's will be exported to the recycling market
3. separates the aggregates (stones, sand) from the C&D waste in order to re-use them locally as foundation material
4. separates the aggregates, ferro's and non-ferro's from the BOS ashes
9. Is there any recycling taking place and if so where will this take place in this plant? A: Yes, at several locations:
• C&D plant where ferro's, non-ferro's, aggregates, sand is separated and subsequently recycled
• Car dismantling location to recycle car parts (combustible parts go to cBOS, non combustible parts are being exported to the recycling market)
• Bulky Domenstic Waste segregation Area (computers, washing machines, fridges etc..): combustible parts go to BOS, non combustible parts are being exported to the recycling market
10. How many persons will work in the processing facility? Will it provide considerable employment and if so on which levels. A: The project will provide considerable employment. Total number of persons working will be app. 55 full time equivalent (fte):
• Management 4 fte
• Administrative 4 fte
• Supervisor level 8 fte
• Mechanic level 5 fte
• Equipment operator 10 fte
• Unskilled labor level 24 fte
11. The cost reduction will be found in which area for the consumer as presently we aren't paying for garbage collection and I would believe that we must pay in the future for garbage collection and processing? A: Seeing that there will be an income generating measure from the sale of electricity one can conclude that the reduction will come in that area. Also a significant part of the garbage processing cost will be carried by the business community making the overall cost for the consumer quite moderate seeing that besides the garbage collection also district improvements and cleaning will take place. In the areas of the public greenery and beaches also significant cleaning will be done for the same fee.
12. How much will this garbage processing facility cost the public of St. Maarten per year? A: The income sources to pay for the waste processing are: 1) the income from the energy produced from waste to be sold to and paid by GEBE, 2) the variable concession allowance based on electricity consumption GEBE has to pay to government and GEBE can pass on to the consumers. The income sources 1 and 2 are included in the new ordinance and concession for electricity. The precise numbers will be presented in the final project dossier.
13. How much will the facility cost to build and who's financing that? A: At this time the total investment costs will be +/- $ 115 million. KEMA will verify these investment costs. Financing will be by Windward Roads through bank financing.
14. Have any conclusive studies been done by a reputable company that ensures that there are no environmental flaws with this facility or that would at least give us a credible impression of the environmental impact? A: In the tender documents requirements it was stated that the installation should meet the European norms. To have this confirmed an Environmental Health Impact Assessment was carried out by Ecovision, Royal Haskoning and WtTZ. The Environmental Health Impact Assessment of October 2009, which will be presented to the Island Council in the second half of May, confirms that the emissions of the proposed plant will stay within the EU-standards. The Scottish Environment protection Agency has qualified the BOS plant in Dargavel Scotland as compliant with Best Available Techniques (BAT), according to the European Directive of Integrated Prevention and Pollution Control (IPPC). BAT is considered for both environmental issues and economical feasibility. KEMA will verify also if the BOS installation will meet the environmental EU-standards. Also a second independent consultancy firm will review if the installation is in accordance with the EU standards. The present landfill produces air emissions which are not in accordance with environmental requirements. Let alone the air emissions which are released during fires at the landfill. The present landfill is an eyesore and environmentally unacceptable (reference is made to court case against government with regard to the smoke and smell of the landfill). Compared to the air emissions from the present landfilling activities the new processing facility will be a great environmental improvement.
15. Have the local environmentalist like Rueben Thompson and his colleagues been able to give their input in this document from an ecological point of view? A: The various environmental groups have been heard by the independent authors of the report.
16. What does it mean for GEBE's personnel in the power production plant when I read that about 8 megawatts will be produced by the garbage processing facility? Will there be job cuts down there as they need about 12% less electricity to be produced? A: There shouldn't be any job cuts at present when the 7.5 megawatts are produced by the garbage processing company and sold to GEBE. The additional power capacity from the waste facility increases the present capacity of GEBE and is a welcome addition considering the steady growth of the demand for electricity
17. Will the purchase of Green energy by GEBE lead to at least a 12% reduction on the bills of the consumers when it comes to the fuel clause? A: This will be determined when the final project dossier is finalized. For this dossier the KEMA study must be finalized.
18. Will government still have to subsidize the new garbage processing facility in any form or fashion once it's operational? If yes why and for how much? A: Government will use the variable concession allowance from GEBE to pay for the remaining cost of the waste processing.
19. The reduction of the green house gases by 70.000 ton CO2 per year means anything with respect to savings for the consumer or is that an environmental savings? A: this should be seen as an environmental savings as we don't pollute the air. Also an amount of monies can be made by the selling of these carbon credits to other countries like the Netherlands that surpassed their amount of carbon credits they may legally produce.
In paragraph 1.4 the most favorable proposal is given for the SWMPF
20. What financial consequences does changing the amount of BOS (Batch Oxidation System) - trains and adding of shredders have towards the gross and net service fee and in particular for the end consumer? A: Reducing the number of BOS trains and adding shredders will result in improved caloric value and waste density for the batches to be burned in the BOS installation which will lead to a better production of energy. More energy means more income from electricity and a lower net service fee.
In paragraph 1.5 government states that as soon as KEMA has submitted the report, the draft DBFMO contract can be finalized and the entire project can be presented for approval to the executive and island councils.
21. What exactly is the scope of works of KEMA for the island government with reference to the SWMPF (Solid Waste Management and Processing Facility)? A: the scope of works is worked out in chapter #6 of the attached Terms of Reference (TOR).
22. Was there a public tender for the services of KEMA? If yes please provide these documents? A: NO.
23. If there was no public tender for the KEMA services why isn't it part of this request for approval from the island council as is the requested for HBN and KPMG? A: See letter to the Island Council of January 26th 2010 and separate letter with regard to the answers to posed questions by the Central Committee pertaining to KEMA.
24. Who will evaluate the work of KEMA to ensure that they are the appropriate experts for this project? A: KEMA will form a team of appropriate experts as required in the TOR and elucidated in KEMA's proposal. KEMA will submit an independent "second opinion" with regard to the chosen system. KEMA is a worldwide renowned consultancy firm which has all the required know-how with regard to waste gasification, waste processing, waste to energy production, electricity production as well as the relevant legal and environmental issues and local knowledge. KEMA is a global, leading authority in energy consulting and testing & certification, active throughout the entire energy value-chain. In a world of increasing demand for energy, KEMA plays a major role in ensuring the availability, reliability, sustainability and profitability of energy and related products and processes. KEMA, having more than 1,900 employees, operates from 50 offices in 20 countries around the globe and exists for more than 80 years. For more extensive elucidation on the expertise of KEMA is referred to the letter to the island Council dated January 26th 2010.
25. When will KEMA start their work and how long will it take? A: As soon as possible after the Island Council has approved the private tender with KEMA, KEMA will be commissioned to execute the works. KEMA will need 2-3 months to finalize the report. See also separate letter with regard to the answers to posed questions pertaining to KEMA.
26. Why has it taken 5 months for a selection to be made of KEMA as the Terms of reference for services of an independent cost quality controlling engineer for the SWMPF in St. Maarten was done on November 10, 2009? A: The delay is caused by a disagreement between the civil service (the advisory committee, legal affairs) and the cabinet of the lt. governor with regard to the public character of the since February 2008 pursued tender procedure in relation to article 17 of the island ordinance "Financieel beheer".
In chapter II the location of the SWMPF is briefly described.
27. The advice of VROM states to investigate 2 locations to carry out garbage processing. One on Pond Island for the purpose of landfill mining and one in Colebay for the processing of regular waste. Is this advice going to be followed? A: When the projectdossier is presented for approval to the Island Council the evaluation of the location alternatives will be included . For now the project is based on the location on Pond Island as included in the tender documents.
28. What are the cost involved towards the consumer and government to have 2 locations operational at the same time for garbage processing and garbage mining? A: When the projectdossier is presented for approval to the Island Council the evaluation of the location alternatives will be included .
29. Where in Colebay is it the intention to have this garbage processing facility considering that not much land is available to handle such a facility and in the elucidation of VROM it only mentions the Bell's land, filling the sea behind GEBE or the relocation of buildings on GEBE's land? A: the intention was to check out the possibility to have land reclamation done in the Cole bay bay in front of the GEBE and Shell property. The Cole Bay area with its present large companies is a more appropriate location for a concentration of large scale industries. In many governmental studies and plans the present industrial area along the coast of the Cole Bay has been indicated as the most favourable location for further extension of larger scale commercial development. Considering the limited space at this location ideas have been worked out in the past to expand the area with a land reclamation in the eastern part of the bay. In 2007 a Preparatory resolution has been taken for the development of St. Maarten West based on the Development Perspective St. Maarten West by Island Design (Lanjouw). Included in this Perspective was the zoning of the eastern part of the Cole bay for larger industrial activities. It is therefore an obvious location choice for a waste plant. However land must be created through a land reclamation and/or purchase and excavation of land. The realization of such will take time and extra money. The time and financial consequences of an eventual combination of both locations (Cole Bay and Pond island) will be worked out and presented to the Executive and Island Council, when the project dossier is finalized. The critical stage of the present landfill with a further rising summit and environmentally unacceptable method of waste processing will hereby be considered.
In Chapter III the private tender with HBN Law for legal services is described.
30. Has the drafting of the model agreement for the sale of electricity already been signed by GEBE? If not why not? A: The PPA (power purchase agreement) has been prepared by HBN but isn't finalized for signature as yet. The PPA can only be signed after the Island Council has approved the project dossier.
31. In the proposal of HBN Law the fee of Naf 226.500,- is tied to various conditions. One of them is that no services shall be provided in the period after June 30, 2008. What exactly does this mean as the proposal only came in on November 18, 2008 to the government? A: HBN Law has accepted the time extension without consequences. It is customary to limit the contract period in a proposal.
32. Has HBN Law done any work for government already based on this strangely dated proposal and if so what exactly and at what cost? A: Yes HBN has started his work and worked out documents as described in their proposal such as ordinance, concession as well as various agreements like the power purchase agreements with GEBE and assisted in the legal framework and text of the DFMBO contract.
33. Has any payments been made to HBN Law for any of the services provided in connection with the proposal at hand that now approval is being requested for here in the Island Council? If yes is this in keeping with good financial governance as stipulated by the law? A: Invoices have been submitted by HBN Law for the works carried out, based on the contract awarded to HBN Law in January 2009. Payment of part of the contract sum has taken place in November 2009 in accordance with the contract and works executed..
34. What is the total HBN Law contract going to cost the island Government? A: The total contract price is fixed at Naf 252,000,- including all costs.
35. Has GEBE agreed to an amendment to their general terms and conditions as is needed for the legal frame work so that HBN Law can make the proposed amendments? A: Yes. GEBE will amend the general terms and conditions in accordance with the new to be established ordinance for electricity.
In Chapter IV the private tender with KPMG Corporate Finance is described.
37. One of the services rendered to government will be to provide support with the evaluation of the proposal selected by the advisory committee. Was that done and what was the outcome of their evaluation? A: KPMG verified and advised on the proposal received from Windward Roads and assisted in working out the clarification questions.
38. Why did it take the government 17 months to bring the proposal of KPMG to the island council floor for approval knowing that they were the company of choice based on their past experience in the harbor? A: The private tenders with KPMG and HBN Law took place in the 4th quarter of 2008. By the end of 2008 the new rules with regard to good governance were introduced. The private tender procedures with HBN Law and KPMG were based on the working procedures customary in the past. According to the good governance rules, stringent adherence to the valid ordinances such as the ordinance "Financieel beheer" (even when outdated) must take place. The approval of the private tenders with HBN Law and KPMG took place in the transitional period between old and new rules. Legal affairs has advised in his recent advice to the Executive Council of April 2010 with regard to the tender procedure of the solid waste project, to have both private tenders with HBN Law and KPMG presented for ratification by the Island Council to still bring these tenders in accordance with the new rules for good governance as introduced at the end of 2008.
In general I would like to know the following
39. What is the role of the cabinet of the Lt Governor in this whole process? A: the role of the (cabinet of the) Lt. Governor's is to oversee the process and to assess if the rules of good governance are being adhered to.
40. Has the Lt. Governor's cabinet provided an opinion on matters related to the tender and if so what was it? A: Yes. For the content of this opinion please refer to the attached memo oktober 22nd 2009.
41. Does the Cabinet of the Lt. Governor have in house technical and environmental expertise with respect to Waste Management? If yes we might be more cost efficient if we used these expertise. A: The cabinet of the Lt. Governor has no technical expertise with respect to waste management.
42. Are there any other opinions from entities mentioned or not mentioned that might be relevant for this debate? If yes please provide these to the Island Council. A: No.
Philipsburg:--- The mother and girlfriend of the man that was found dead on Monday in Mullet Bay arrived on St. Maarten and positively identified her son and boyfriend as Glenville Emanuel Freeman, born on the British Virgin Islands on June 8th 1976.
Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said they received tremendous assistance and information from the general public which led to the identification of the victim.
Henson said while they are expressing gratitude to the general public for their assistance they also want to encourage the general public to come forward with any information they might have regarding the gruesome killing.
Prosecutor Rienk Mud said police questioned the two persons who came to St. Maarten to identify the victim prior to taking them to the morgue for the official identification. Asked if Freeman was living on the island Mud said based on the information he received the victim was living on his native island Tortola. Mud said the local police will be working closely with BVI police as they investigate the murder of Freeman.
According to reliably information reaching SMN News the victim left Tortola on Sunday en-route to St. Maarten, so far it has not be determined what was the purpose of Freeman's visit to St. Maarten.
SMN News also learnt that Freeman owns a boat and he probably entered the island by boat. On Tuesday Police in the BVI were seen taking photographs of the boats docked at Tellis Bay dock where it is believed that Freeman's boat was docked. Sources say the now dead man bought a speed boat some two months ago which bears the name Renegade, but that information could not be confirmed.
The Platinum News website of BVI states that Freeman is known on that island as Chunks or Jason Freeman. Speaking to SMN News Melissa French of Platinum News said the victim was charged last June, French said Freeman made the news when he reportedly shot his girlfriend. At the time, Freeman told Police that the gun accidently went off, hitting his girlfriend, he was charged with keeping an unlicensed firearm and unlawful possession of explosives.
The man had then pleaded guilty to both charges and was fined $4,000.00 or 16 months in prison for keeping an unlicensed firearm and for unlawful possession of explosives he was fined $500.00 or six months in prison.
SMN News contacted the mother of the victim Sonia Lewis who was on her way to the Princess Juliana International Airport for a comment, the bereaved woman said she could not comment since she was in no mood to speak. Asked if she knew how her son entered St. Maarten the woman said she did not know but she was not willing to say if her son had owned a boat. " I have no comment at this time, I am not in a mood to speak." Lewis said.
Philipsburg:--- Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba expressed her disappointment about an article published on SMN News regarding the Brooks Tower Permits. The Minister felt that the information is meant to discredit her efforts to legalize the undocumented and those that worked on the project.
While State Secretary for Justice Ernie Simmons said that there might be people who would prefer human smuggling rather than regulating the undocumented. He felt that there are persons who would prefer St. Maarten to stay in a negative light but the intentions of the Justice Ministry was to regulate the undocumented. Simmons said there are several older persons and young children who could not get into schools because of their illegal status.
The State Secretary said there are young people who completed their education on St. Maarten and yet they are not able to find a job here due to their status. He felt there are people who are preying on the undocumented but the justice department is bent on regulating the immigration situation.
Jacoba said some 5,000 persons who met the category 1 and 2 managed to receive a BTA permit. The Minister said she is quite satisfied with the process even though there were ups and downs and those that were not satisfied with the process. She said the BTA has opened a door for the undocumented to regulate their status.
However, she admitted that she is currently meeting with stakeholders to develop a policy that would allow the holders of the category 1 permits to sign for themselves. Jacoba said the first round of discussions was held on Wednesday on St. Maarten and she still has to meet with all the Lt. Governors of the Netherlands Antilles to develop the new policy which would be implemented in July 2010. Jacoba said when the BTA was launched they agreed to allow persons who are living on the island before 2001 to get their permits without proof of income simply because with the proof of being on the island that long showed they survived. She said even though St. Maarten and Curacao is becoming countries they all have to take a decision as to how to deal with the persons who fall under category 1. "If you ask me we have to take in consideration that those people survived here all those years and we need to see what to do about them." State Secretary Ernie Simmons said he wants to know if they need to remain in denial about the existing problems regarding the undocumented or should they come up with a policy to solve the problems once and for all so that this situation does not reoccur. He said all stakeholders were asked to give their input so that the discussion can take place to create the new policy.
Persons who received the BTA permits are urged to get their documents together and to go to the immigration and naturalization building to begin the process to receive a regular residency permit.
GREAT BAY,– The Collective Preventive Services (CPS) of Sector Public Health, Social Development & Labour, hereby announces its second week schedule for mosquito fogging.
The first week commences on Sunday, May 16 while the second week campaign starts on May 24.
The schedule shows the date, time and neighbourhood where the mosquito fogging will be carried out.
There will be no spraying in the event of rain as this would defeat the purpose of the campaign. Homeowners during the time of the spraying should open all doors and windows.
Dishes of food, fish tanks and bird cages should be covered. Stay away from open windows and doors during the spraying. The company responsible for carrying out the fogging campaign is Harrigan Exterminating Services.
The schedule for the second week is:
Monday May 24, 2010 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Pointe Blanche, Philipsburg, Guana Bay, The Dump
Tuesday May 25, 2010 4:30 am – 6:30 am
A.Th. Illidge Road, Madame Estate, Arch Road, Sucker Garden
Wednesday May 26, 2010 4:30 am – 6:30 am
Middle Region from A.Th. Illidge Road end
Thursday May 27, 2010 4:30 am – 6:30 am
The Keys, Defiance, St. James Estate, Middle Region
Friday May 28, 2010 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Dawn Beach, Oyster Pond, Belvedere
Saturday May 29, 2010 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Dutch Quarter
Sunday May 30, 2010 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Dutch Quarter from Tamarind Tree in Middle Region
Marigot: --- Politicians and those in government on both sides of the island were blamed on Saturday night for the hypocrisy that lies behind the Treaty of Concordia. SOS radio invited several politicians and activist Leopold James to speak on the treaty which was signed some 350 years ago.
While several of the invited guests did not show up to speak, former leader of Government Sarah Wescot Williams, President Frantz Gumbs, Opposition leader Alain Richardson, Territorial Councilor Guillaume Arnell and activist Suja Reiph were among those who spoke about the treaty and its misuse at the Marigot Waterfront on Saturday evening.
Suja Reiph reminded the gathering that he was part of a delegation that went to the French Parliament in 1990 where he presented the treaty hoping that the treaty would have been recognized. Reiph said there are those who are saying that the treaty was not ratified and thus they refused to accept the treaty which was signed and lived by the island's forefathers. The Treaty of Concordia was signed decades before the European Union treaty and the Treaty of Rome said opposition leader Alain Richardson.
President of the Saint Maarten Nation Building Foundation Leopold James thanked the organizers for giving him the opportunity to address the people he has been defending for years. James said he was humbled at the invitation since he is not an elected official that holds public office however he was given the mandate to represent the people of St. Maarten/ St. Martin whom he met with only days ago to discuss the invitation.
The foundation's president made clear that the mission of his organization is to Strengthen and preserve the identity of St. Martin and its people. James gave credit to native Daniella Jeffry who is known for documenting the island's history and she has been the main source of information to many who cares to know the roots and history of the Friendly Island.
James said while the Treaty if Concordia is an interesting document and it is legally binding it certainly needs to be amended.
He felt that the treaty itself is the fact that it is the St. Martin people, who gave content and real meaning to the Treaty, by living it from the onset of their emancipation and even before. He said the way of life of St. Maarten and its people has gone way beyond the treaty itself.
The treaty talks about working together between two distinctly different nations.
For hundreds of years the St. Martin people lived on the entire island as one body, one people, one blood. The SNBF president said that the people of St. Martin/ St Maarten has lived in harmony without protest and they should now come together and claim St. Maarten from the French and Dutch Colonial system through common law.
"Our challenge and priority therefore should be is to 'transform' this common- or unwritten law into written law and to amend the Treaty to reflect our contemporary reality. In that regard, we must commend the CONSENSUS group for having taken that initiative back in the early '90's by formulating, what was called, I think what was called 'Contract with Saint Martin'.' James said.
James said the SNBF is no longer going to accept political rhetoric or lip service from their politicians and neither should the young people since the island needs hard commitments and they do need them quickly if they are to escape the colonial system that is bearing down on both sides of the island. Thus his association and its members formulated a covenant which was presented to the politicians to sign as a commitment to their promises.
Shortly after delivering his address James and members of the SNBF were seen asking those who attended the night's ceremony to sign a petition in support of the treaty and the covenant presented to the politicians.
Territorial Councilor Guillaume Arnell on the other hand felt it is time to re-write the treaty since the island and its inhabitants are burdened with the colonial system. Arnell did not mingle with words when he highlighted some of the negative effects the French and Dutch laws have on St. Maarten. "Arnell the island inhabitants are forced to put aside their ways of life and to adapt the lives and laws of the Europeans. Arnell said the treaty was signed on March 23 1648 by Robert Longvilliers and Martin Thomas and while mention is made of the witnesses and the place where the signing took place there is nothing mentioned about the people of St. Martin/ St. Maarten.
Arnell said when one examined the treaty was signed one would realize that there were only slaves and slave owners living on the island even after the abolition of slavery. He said the island natives only obtained their freedom through rebellion.
As Arnell examined the treaty he said in articles 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, and 9 are all relevant to the colonial system and there are references to the French and Dutch man. Arnell said article 5 of treaty spoke of the inhabitants which to him needs questioning.
"History also reveals that in spite the partition treaty; relations between the two sides were not always cordial, for between 1648 and 1816, conflicts changed the border no less than sixteen times." Arnell said.
He said in the 20th century, once free from physical and mental dominations, the people of St Martin, because there were no other choice for survival, after the decline of the sugar and salt industries have steadfastly cling to the essence of the treaty mainly by living as one people, sharing the good and shouldering together the bad.
Arnell said based on that he sense recognize the wisdom, cleverness, of some of the former leaders who did instil in the people, the sense of belonging: one island, one people. He credited the late Dr. Claude Wathey, Felix CHOISY, Dr PETIT, Vance JAMES and many others, for their outstanding contribution to such a cause.
He said since the development on the Dutch side began it led the people to maintain their love, harmony and togetherness. However, he said there are consequences that came due to self sufficiency, greed and the excitement of the colonial powers of France and their attempt to instil confusion in the minds of the people of St. Martin.
Arnell the French side could not survive without the French norms or French styles giving example of their cuisine, their RMI, , Parents isolés, Allocations familliales and femmes seules. The territorial councillor said even the building codes were changed from simply laying blocks to "coffrage," and from individual homes to new standards with buildings with several floors.
He made mention of the current controversies between the sides on the drivers license, insurance policies which are hindering the people's way of life and free circulation.
Arnell said the people of St. Maarten who were once proud and strong people have now become individualist who are grasping at every opportunity to climb the ladder of economic wealth forgetting their common land, history, culture, trials and tribulations over the years.
"The picture of yesterday has vanished, the riches of this land are no more the same: No more salt ponds, no more dye wood, no mines nor minerals etc...
On the other hand, two airport, two water and electricity companies, two commercial piers, two different electricity voltage power, two social and medical system and even at a pointing time, two different taxi and bus fares base on the departure place: for example : Juliana to Marigot or Marigot to Juliana." Arnell said.
He asked the gathering what is it they intend to do now since the past is past and the present is now while the future depends on what they decide to do. Arnell said there is still one truth behind what is currently taking place which is they cannot continue to go their separate ways and they need to draw the blue prints of common destiny where the St. Martiner will not be absent from the table of negotiations.
He warned the two sides as they embrace the cause of the new status to be careful not to be building two new countries, with more constrains, more prohibitions, more boundaries instead of bridging the gap between both sides.
Arnell said he believes that the time has come for the people to enter into a new era with more pride, more ambitions, a better sense of direction and they should commit themselves to better governance and make the necessary changes to meet the challenges of the new world order, and as such they should not rewrite the treaty of Concordia instead write a new treaty. This new treaty has to be done by the people and for the people, not a scripting of future policies and programmes, but a document reflecting the combined hopes, aspirations and vision of a wide cross section of citizens of this island.
He said there needs to be honest commitment and realistic proposals to redeem the name and image of St Martin and its people and to transcend traditional side belonging.
He made references of the Memorandum of Understanding that was signed by former leader of government Sarah Wescot Williams and Mayor Albert Fleming but said it was not enough and more over the leaders did not follow up on the document while too many people have been ignoring its existence. He urged the people to seize the moment and join hands in making the proposals and to put country before self as they analyse the issues facing the nation.
Philipsburg:---The impression might have been created that for some obscure reason the members of the DP faction in the island council did not attend the continuation of the island council meeting on Wednesday, May 12, 2010, dealing with the agenda point "Changes to the articles of Incorporation of Telem Holding".
It can be recalled that this meeting had been adjourned on May 11, after 12 am at which time the Chairman of the Island Council announced that the continuation would be on the 12th at 3.00 pm.
It is a fact that on that Wednesday, no DP faction member was present in the hall at 3 pm promptly, albeit that this was not intentional.
In fact, DP island council member, Maria Buncamper Molanus arrived in the Legislative Hall at appr. 3.06 pm only to hear that the Chairman had just brought down the gavel and closed the meeting. A request by the Council lady to allow her to sign in was not/could not be entertained.
About 1 minute later, Council Lady Wescot arrived on the scene, only to be told by Council man Louie Laveist at the bottom of the stairs that the meeting had been closed.
Government members were in all probability quite amused as indeed: "they had caught the DP". But did they?
Clearly, seeing that no member of the opposition DP was present, the people of St. Maarten were "treated" with a less that 2 minutes presentation by the Leader of Government, Mr. William Marlin.
To add insult to injury, a member of the ruling coalition, Mr. Samuel was allegedly muzzled by the leader of government, because had that member been allowed to speak, the meeting would have continued, allowing members of the DP to arrive and make the government give account of their actions.
Nothing in essence against the proposal which came from Telem, but government can not expect in this day and age to do as they please and not give account.
Some feel that the DP should get some satisfaction seeing that the government appears to be on the run from the opposition.
How often had the DP faction in the island council not have to wait for members of government to arrive, for members of government to just simply get their act together for the meeting or for government to decide who should speak.
Still, meeting starts at 3 pm, DP members should have been there.
But with or without the DP members, the government had the opportunity to explain to the general population the request from TELEM for amendments to its articles of incorporation so it could have a bond issue arranged in the amount of 20 million US dollars. Government could have explained to the people how things stand presently with our telephone company; how far the company is with negotiating a strategic partnership and with whom.
There is no possibility for Telem's management or Board to come in a public island council meeting and explain to the Island Council and the people of Sint Maarten how they are faring as a company, what the prospects are for our government-owned telephone company, short and long term.
But the government has that possibility, in fact the government has that RESPONSIBILITY to the people it represents.
Was the DP caught, by arriving a few minutes late? No, the people of Sint Maarten were, because the government got away with not giving any account of a decision they took regarding the Telephone company, a decision that definitely can not be considered a routine matter and thus business as usual.
Great Bay,– The recently held Boardwalk Mas was a "huge success" in terms of participation and crowd appeal, says Director of Tourism, Regina LaBega.
With some 40 individual and group participants in original and colorful costumes, the almost mile-long parade was led by Moko Jumbies and a royal court of beauty queens past and present.
"The crowd lined the boardwalk in large numbers, and most restaurants did brisk business," noted LaBega. "But more importantly, St. Martin people came out to make it a memorable family outing with their children."
Noting that the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau came up with the idea of the Boardwalk Mas as a heritage event originating from the Tourism Master Plan (TourMap), LaBega added that it was very pleasing to see sometimes even three generations of the same family at the event.
"The Boardwalk Mas has exceeded our expectations this year and that is because the whole community has embraced it," she said. "The parade was a joy to see, and the performances on stage were simply excellent."
"I want to seize this opportunity to thank each and every participant and performer, parade manager Urmain Dormoy, coordinators, House of Nehesi Publishers, all our sponsors and especially the people of St. Martin who demonstrated that the Boardwalk Mas was about them and for them," LaBega concluded.
Philipsburg: --- Members of the Toastmasters International Club on St. Maarten said the island's club has made history on the island of St. Lucia since they were able to capture seats in all three levels. Valerie Brazier said St. Maarten now has representatives in the Area, Division and the District.
Brazier said while St. Maarten had representatives at the Area level this is the first time they got representatives at the Division and District. She said last weekend 20 toastmasters from St. Maarten attended the 20th Caribbean biannual conference in St. Lucia. She said St. Maarten was fully represented since they had Karine Rombley competing in the table topic impromptu speech contest, while Brazier conducting a workshop, with Emilia Thomas incoming Area Governor has been recognized in her new position and Richelda Emanuel was elected Division Governor and Rolando Tobias was also elected District Lt Governor for Marketing. Brazier said while no other candidates did not postulate for the post Thomas and Emanuel now holds, Tobias on the other hand had to compete against three other candidates.
Brazier said the St. Maarten Toastmasters that attended the conference were very proactive since they participated in almost every event throughout the conference.
Tobias told members of the media that he is planning to use his skills and energy in the marketing field to package Toastmasters International to attract and mold the members and existing clubs. Tobias said one objectives is to rescue those clubs that are going under or not as productive while he intends to attract new members to create more clubs. He has called on persons with an open mind to join the Toastmasters since it would benefit them for their entire life.
French Quarter: --- Residents of French Quarter arrested a partially handicap young man after he began shooting wildly in the neighborhood. At least four persons are injured and were transported to the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital on Wednesday evening.
The suspect known in French Quarter as Calix Monton is also hospitalized after angry residents allegedly beat him for his actions. "The boys got angry after Calix ran away from one area where he fired the first sets of shots and injured at least three persons and then firing another shot at the nearby restaurant" said one bystander.
However, the gendarmes have stated that the shot gun which was used in the shooting was not recovered. Commandant of the Gendarmerie Stephanne Brunet said the gun disappeared where the citizens arrest was made. The gendarmes also detained the brother of the suspect to see if he was aware of his brother's gun possession. Brunet said they are busy conducting their preliminary investigations to determine exactly what happened and the state of mind of the suspect.
According to several bystanders on Rue Fish-Pot said the suspect who is handicapped is known to be a quiet person but something or someone must have annoyed him and he flipped. It is understood that the suspect began shooting on the road not far away from where he lived and in the vicinity of the scout club. Several residents where the suspect lives said his brother was not at home neither was he in the area when the shooting took place.
It must be noted that even though the incident occurred in the area of the Scout Club, the children attending the club are not injured.
SMN News learnt that Stevie the school bus driver is one the injured persons as well as Gilbert the owner of a local restaurant in the area. The other victims are identified as Francis and Greg.
One bystander said Stevie escaped narrowly as he was in his car at the time of the shooting. The man said when Stevie saw the suspect pointing a gun at him he immediately bend down and accelerated in an effort to escape, but the shooter fired the shot at the back of the car. The bullet it is understood penetrated the back windshield hitting the well known bus driver in his back. Another victim it is said received a shot in his shoulder. Up to press time the exact condition of the victims was unknown.
GREAT BAY:--- A reading program for children, ages 0-4 at the Jubilee Library. Senior librarian Alex Richards back at the Public Library in Marigot. St. Martin Book Fair stepping up promotions for its June 3-5 festival. A new autobiography by first-time author Felecita Williams in bookstores last week and set to launch this week.
And that's just some of the reading and book-related news and media discussions for the month of May alone.
But are the people, and especially the children of the island reading books published in St. Martin? How do we get concrete information, objective figures, about the performance of books published by St. Martin authors?
"Over a year ago we got hard facts from Van Dorp bookstore. This year we turned to the Philipsburg Jubilee library," said Jacqueline Sample, president of House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP).
So what are the facts? In 2009, four St. Martin books topped the chart for being taken out of the Jubilee Library (PJL), according to Ans Koolen, system administrator and assistant director of PJL.
Outrunning the top four was Love Songs Make You Cry, taken home 300 times in 2009, mostly by young readers. "This is an amazing comeback story for us at House of Nehesi because we published that book exactly 20 years ago as St. Martin's first short stories collection," said Sample.
Part of what drove the hits on Love Songs? "This book is on the reading list of secondary schools, which gave a boost to circulation," said Koolen.
Next in line for being taken home, 274 times, was An Introduction to Government – Island territory St. Maarten by Louis Duzanson, followed by Know Your Political History, 2nd edition, by the Lynch brothers, with 241 "visits" home. The third book borrowed from PJL with a high frequency in 2009, was National Symbols of St. Martin, 236 times.
The second set of popularly borrowed HNP books, with 147 and 100 hits respectively at PJL, were St. Martin Massive! and another short stories book Brother of the Spurs by Lasana M. Sekou.
Koolen pointed out that Introduction to Government, Know Your Political History, and the long-time library favorite National Symbols of St. Martin "were also used a lot in the library, so not checked out, and the stats don't reflect this."
Guess which poetry books were taken out from PJL the most in 2009? Golden Voices of S'Maatin by Ruby Bute (62x); Songs and Images of St. Martin by the late Charles Borromeo Hodge (52x); and Drisana Jack's The Rainy Season (50x). Cul-de-Sac People by Mathias Voges was borrowed 50 times.
There were other titles showing activity too but taken home less than 50 times last year, said Sample.
Koolen emphasized that a number of St. Martin books and books from the rest of the Caribbean and around the world—a number in various languages—are read regularly by library visitors but are not recorded as borrowed books since they are used in the reading areas of the library.
The junior scholastic booklets of non-traditional nation builders are examples of book used in the library but not checked out for home use. "These pamphlets were mainly used in-house, especially during Black History Month. Local achievers Chester York (pan man) and Gassy (cyclist) were the most popular" in 2009, said Koolen.
"What else can we say at House of Nehesi but, thank you, St. Martin. We hope to continue publishing books of dynamic quality that we all can take home or wherever else we well please," said Sample.
Philipsburg:---Excitement is building as the Democratic Party prepares for its 2010 annual conference. This conference will be held on June 6th and an organizing committee is busy finalizing the program for the event.
The conference will take the entire day and will be held at the Rock House Restaurant at Port de Plaissance from 8.30 am to 5 pm, starting with registration and breakfast. Lunch will be served as well.
The party membership is being approached individually to ensure their participation as this 2010 conference takes on special meaning under the theme "Going Forward", a theme that corresponds with the motto adapted by the party president, Mr. Michael Ferrier, when he assumed the position in 2009.
In the invitation for the conference, Democratic Party members are reminded that there will be a historic election for the government that will take us into Country St. Maarten later this year and that members will have the opportunity to give their views on matters regarding the election, such as the selection of candidates to run on the Party's slate, etc.
Several features of the"image re-branding" by the Party will be revealed to members during the conference.
Topics of interest to the population in general such as taxes, immigration, crime, health and education will be presented and where necessary, membership resolutions will be adopted.
In explaining the importance of members' involvement, the leader of the Democratic Party, Mrs. Sarah Wescot-Williams stressed to the members: "You have the opportunity to direct the course of the Party through your active participation in this annual membership conference".
Party President, Mr. Michael Ferrier considers preparation of the membership as crucial to the success of the Party. To quote him: "While elections are due before 10-10-10, the exact date is yet to be decided. Regardless to exactly when they will be, we must be prepared and to this end we need to inform our party members. We must get their input on matters relating to the upcoming election, our slate of candidates for this historic election, membership resolutions and many other issues as we go forward.
The 2010 Democratic Party Conference has precisely this as motto: "GOING FORWARD"!
Members can register in advance for the conference by calling 542-1364 or e-mailing to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.
The island of Jamaica, our Caribbean sister-island is currently experiencing unprecedented social unrest. There have been and continues to be reported incidents of attacks on citizens and law enforcers alike. This has forced the government of Jamaica to put the island's capital city under a limited State of Public Emergency.
We realize that this mayhem which has stemmed from rebellion to prevent Christopher 'Dudus' Coke from being arrested for possible extradition to the United States, is not only a trying time for those Jamaicans residing at home but also those living abroad.
Some of the latest headlines coming out of Jamaica:
- Soldier killed, four others injured
- Woman shot and injured on Spanish Town Road
- Some schools closing but exams continuing
- Two soldiers shot in West Kingston
- Air Jamaica cancels flights due to violence
- Emergency appeal for blood donations
- Security forces move on Tivoli Gardens
just to name a few have caused much watchfulness, alertness, uncertainty, fear, sorrow and anxiety for the entire Jamaican community, its Caribbean neighbors and the international community.
The Democratic Party recognizes that the Jamaican Community of St. Maarten has made and continues to make valuable contributions to the development of our island territory. We therefore regard it our duty to make known to the Jamaican community here and back home that our sympathies and prayers are with them and their families, especially those in Jamaica. We sincerely hope that the situation does not worsen further and that normality and calm will return as soon as possible. We pray for wisdom, strength, and courage for the Government officials and advisors, law enforcers and those whose task it is to aid in restoring order and normality.
Marigot: ---- The boss of Chronopost in Marigot is now in custody for alleged drug related charges. It is understood that the suspect is part of a drug ring which is under surveillance by the French authorities in St. Martin and Martinique (OCRTIS). The arrest and transfer of the suspect has been confirmed by OCRTIS office on St. Martin.
SMN News also learnt that the suspect who is well known in the community of St. Martin as Mollo was transferred to prison Grasse in South of France pending the investigation. It is understood that the suspect just recently purchased a restaurant in Marigot as well as brand new vehicle.
SMN News also learnt that a female suspect was also arrested with the main suspect on St. Martin. Efforts made to contact Prosecutor Jacques Louvier for more information on the case proved futile as Louvier is currently off island.
In the meantime, Operations manager of Chronopost Sammy Soulard said the company wants to stress that the suspect was not the manager of Chronopost St Martin, instead he was just a desk clerk.
Furthermore, Chronopost has been collaborating fully with the authorities on this matter, helping the investigators identify their suspect.
The desk clerk's contract has been suspended immediately.
French Quarter/ Marigot: --- Parents, teachers and students of the College Mont des Accord and other high schools on the French side participated in a protest march on Tuesday protesting against violence in schools.
A delegation met with the President of the Collectivity of St. Martin where the concerns of the parents and teachers were presented. The protestors also formulated a petition which was presented to the office of Robert Romney, representative of the Rectorat.
Teachers and students of the French Quarter College were caught by surprise on Tuesday morning when they found the gates of their school heavily chained and padlocked. Directress of the institution Janine Hamlet said no one officially informed her of the protest march. She said while she is understands the need to stop the violence in schools it is rather anti-democratic for those organizing the march to lock down the school. Hamlet said she believed the gates were locked during the early morning hours and the gendarmes had to visit the school and cut off the chain and locks.
The gates of the College Mont des Accords were also chained and padlocked throughout the day on Tuesday.
Close to two hundred persons took the streets as they attempted to send a clear message to those in authority. Organizers of the march said that they spoke out constantly about the constant and increasing violence in schools due to overcrowding, security and other safety concerns and no one paid attention.
Philipsburg -- Students of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Primary School Grade 4 visited the Domino's Pizza facilities on the Bush Road, early Thursday morning. "I applaud Domino's Pizza for allowing us the opportunity of taking our students on an exciting and educational trip, whilst learning how to make their very own pizza," remarked Teacher Stuart Johnson.
Manager of Domino's Pizza Heather Caputo guided the students throughout the hour long tour and lecture, whereby they got to hear countless factual facts regarding Domino's Pizza worldwide. Johnson added, "It goes to show when schools and businesses work together, our children benefit in several ways, by equipping our students with the value of hands on learning."
The students were treated to the pizza's they made, sodas and a special lava desert cake. Upon completion of the educational tour the students received a certification which awarded them the title of "Junior Pizza Maker."
Johnson thanked the management and staff of Domino's Pizza for making this educational trip possible and extremely worthwhile. The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Primary School is a public school located in the district of Dutch Quarter with a student population of over two hundred and twenty students.
PHILIPSBURG – The Department for Development Cooperation (DEVCO) in the Netherlands Antilles in cooperation with the United Nations Development Programme and the University of St. Martin (USM) will be hosting a public lecture on the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) on Tuesday, June 8, 2010.
The lecture will be held at the University of St. Martin Lecture Hall from 6pm to 8:30PM and is free of charge.
"We are very honored to be partnering with DEVCO and the UN Development Programme to provide necessary information to the public of St. Maarten on these very important development goals especially going into Country status," said USM President Josianne Fleming Artsen.
At the United Nations Summit in 2000, a declaration was made. 189 countries including the Kingdom of the Netherlands agreed on 8 goals, 18 targets and over 40 indicators that makes up the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
The eight MDGs goals are: Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger, Achieve universal primary education, Promote gender equality and empower women, Reduce child mortality, Improve maternal health, Combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases, Ensure environmental sustainability and Develop a global partnership for development.
Members of the civil service, government, and the private sector are invited to this very informative session.
The key note speaker will be Mr. Stefano Pettinato, MDG Policy Advisor, Regional Bureau for Latin America and Caribbean with key presentations from Mr. Edo Stork, Deputy Resident Representative, United Nations Development Programme Trinidad and Tobago, Suriname, Aruba and the Netherlands Antilles.
Persons or entities interested in attending this lecture are also urged to confirm their attendance with Ms. Margie Maurica by the close of business on June 3, 2010. They can do so by emailing her at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. The USM lecture hall has a seating capacity for about 200 people and attendants are urged to be on time.
Simpsonbay :--- Red Cross St. Maarten on May 30th, 2010 introduced its new board to some 30 Red Cross Volunteers. The new 5 member board consists of Mr. Paul Martens as President, Secretary/Vice-President Roy Richardson, Treasurer Ursel Biabiany-Gumbs, Member/Public Relations Cedric Peterson and Member/Legal Advisor Rik Bergman. It is the goal of the newly formed board to appoint 2 additional members in the near future. Paul Martens will be replacing 34 year Red Cross Member Sir Robert "Bobby" Velasquez who has served for 18 years as the organization's President, making him the longest running President of Red Cross St. Maarten and who will remain an active board member.
Mr. Martens says "it was an honor to be asked to join the Red Cross and serve as a board member. For me personally serving the community is something very important. I was raised with the concept that persons do not live for themselves alone and that one should assist others where possible."
When asked to share why it's important to a citizen of Sint Maarten having a Red Cross serving within its society Mr. Martens said "the citizens of St. Maarten should be proud to have a Red Cross organization on the island. They can count on the Red Cross to assist them if the need arises." He also encouraged citizens who are able to contribute to the organization to do so for this will benefit the population in times of need.
Red Cross Sint Maarten Treasurer Ursel Biabiany-Gumbs says that values instilled in her as a child by her mother is one of many motivating factors in her joining the board. "I was honored and excited to be considered to be part of such a relevant organization, whenever people are in need they think of Red Cross. Our diverse backgrounds, expertise and involvements in various local foundations will allow us to enhance the work and time that the previous members put in to the local Red Cross in the past years and take it to another level."
To help the newly revamped Sint Maarten Chapter of Red Cross achieve reaching that next level and returning to its former glory Board member Rik Bergman who serves as the boards legal advisor says that past health issues in his personal life has caused him to not take good health and good medical care for granted. "I am very grateful that I was able to get medical attention that led to a strong recovery. From that moment on I knew I wanted to dedicate time and knowledge to an organization in the medical field; that's why I am glad to be able to join the Board of the Red Cross."
Vice President of the Sint Maarten Red Cross Chapter, Roy Richardson, when asked why he chose to join the board says "I've always held the Red Cross organization to the highest esteem for their charitable works around the world and particularly in St. Maarten in times of need. I am honored to be able to serve our local chapter as a member of the board and look forward to working with my colleagues and our members in building on the foundation that exists today in taking the organization to the next level."
It is vital for any organization to have its line of communication clear and open to each of its members and above all to the community it serves says Public Relations Officer Cedric Peterson; "I'm proud and at the same time humbled to be able to use my skills in the area of communications in serving the Red Cross. I've always believed that one's personal gift(s) and talents go beyond the ability of being self-serving but include being able help and empower others to do the same. A community empowered through skill and knowledge building, qualities the Red Cross is built on, makes that community better fortified to endure any hardship it might face."
Red Cross Sint Maarten is where people mobilize to help their neighbors—across the street, across the regions and across the world—in emergencies. And we invite you to join us in this mission. The Red Cross is not a government agency; it relies on donations of time and money to do its work.
Red Cross Sint Maarten is headquartered on Airport Road, Simpsonbay. Send email to find out how you can become a volunteer/member This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Philipsburg: --- Federal Detectives are currently on St. Maarten investigating a case of alleged police brutality against a prisoner who had to be released due to the injuries he sustained while at the Philipsburg Police holding cell. SMN News has been reliably informed that two detectives who were interrogating a suspect believed to be involved in the murder of businessman Haresh Dayalani allegedly kicked him in his groin.
The source said the prisoner identified as S.B had to be taken to the St. Maarten Medical Center twice for x-rays and other medical treatment after he began urinating blood. It is further understood that the two detectives who were questioning the suspect wanted him to make a statement but when he refused to cooperate he was kicked multiple times in his groin causing severe swelling, pain and the urinating of blood.
In an interview with SMN News attorney at law Remko Stomp said the judge released his client who remains a suspect in the murder investigation based on the fact that the prosecutor could not provide a proper explanation as to why S.B was kicked in his groin while in pre-trial detention. Stomp said he asked the judge to release his client simply because he was brutalized to the extent that he was urinating blood.
The attorney further explained that even the prosecutor who was prosecuting the case could not give the judge an explanation as to why the young man was brutalized to that extent. Stomp further explained that the ill-treatment took place some two weeks ago and the only reason he did not make the matter public was because he is looking out for his client's interest. He said this is not the first time he is dealing with cases where the police (detectives) are using excessive force against suspects.
SMN News also learnt that murder investigation is under press prosecutor Rienk Mud.
One of the concerns of several other police officers is that the detectives who allegedly used excessive force against suspects are throwing away justice because on numerous occasions suspects of serious crimes walk free because they were brutalized by police.
In the meantime, Prosecutor Rienk Mud confirmed the alleged incident and said that there is an investigation currently taking place by the federal detectives on the case. Mud said he is not in charge of that investigation but he is the one that requested that an investigation be conducted since the suspect filed a complaint against the detectives for police brutality.
Philipsburg:--- Former Commissioner of Public Health Maria Buncamper-Molanus has expressed her concern about the results that the non acceptance of the BZV card could have on the health of the people depending on the coverage that this card is supposed to give.
The refusal to accept insurance cards SVB, BZV and FZOG is not a new development; this is an affair that has been ongoing for years. The entities involved however usually come to a solution albeit temporarily, but it requires understanding of the situation, dialogue and the will to find a solution.
This time around it would appear that there has been no dialogue and so the will to come to a solution from all indications provided seems to be lacking from the part of government.
This entire matter emphasizes the need for the National Health Insurance, says Council member Maria Buncamper-Molanus, who picked up the initial reports prepared by her predecessor Franklyn Meyers in 2007 and prepared a proposal for a National Health Insurance which was based on dialogue with healthcare providers, insurance companies and other concerned parties. This project should continue to be developed in order to come to a final proposal, Buncamper-Molanus says.
Before leaving office now almost a year ago, the DP Councilmember stated that the preliminary calculations had been made by Keessens Actuary which calculated the feasibility of this project, but the project went dormant after Government changed and the portfolio was taken over by a National Alliance Commissioner.
Councilmember Maria Buncamper is calling on the Commissioner of Public Health to intervene in the BZV issue as it relates to pharmacists not being paid; perhaps direct communication with the pharmacists should be had at this time, while the administration of BZV is sorted out..
It is the people who depend on the coverage provided by the island government through this BZV card that are suffering the consequences when it comes to their health and it is the pharmacists that may go bankrupt, in these already trying economic times if government does not step it and help solve the financial problems immediately.
Councilmember Maria Buncamper-Molanus says that she hopes government will realize that they must act now and that the commitment given to the DP faction that the report "Point Of Departure of the National Health Insurance" is brought to the floor of the Island Council as promised this month.
Philipsburg: ---BZV card holders can now breathe a sigh of relief as the island government of St. Maarten and the Pharmacy Association St. Maarten reached an agreement. In a press release the Association said the Island Government cards as well as BZV cards are now accepted at the pharmacies on St. Maarten.
The associations states that the island government has guaranteed timely payments to the pharmacies.
Given our financial situation we could not afford to extend more credit and we made the difficult decision to stop accepting the Island Government/BZV insurance cards as form of payment.
In the meantime, finance commissioner Xavier Blackman also in a press release said that
During its meeting of June 1st, 2010, the Executive Council made a number of decisions aimed at structurally solving the issue of medical care for all BZV cardholders. Based on the ongoing discussions with the health care providers during the past months, the conclusion is that the core of the problems lies in the backlog in the financial administration of BZV and the financial reporting to both the health care providers and government. The last financial account of BZV in the possession of government is the one of 2007, and because of this backlog neither government nor the healthcare providers can conclude the financial reconciliation and payments.
First of all, the Executive Council took the standpoint that it is unacceptable for healthcare providers to stop accepting BZV cards because of administrative disputes and/or unclarity between them and government and/or BZV. In the opinion of the Executive Council, such disputes should not be settled over the backs of the patients who have BZV cards, but between the three parties in question.
Therefore, the Executive Council took the decision to come to an arrangement to make payments pertaining to all BZV card holders directly to the local health care providers, instead of having the BZV make these payments on behalf of government.
This solution will ensure that the payment arrears to the health care providers will be cleared up in the short term, while the verification between BZV, the health care providers, and government is concluded.
Government will meet with the local healthcare providers during the coming days to discuss this solution with them and make the necessary agreements to execute it as soon as possible.
On Tuesday afternoon, the Commissioner of Finance and representatives of the Commissioner of Healthcare met with representatives of the local pharmacies, PAS. Both parties discussed their points of view in a constructive manner, and agreed on an arrangement that will ensure the continued acceptance of BZV cards as of May 3rd, 2010.
Government will be meeting with the other health care providers during the coming days to make similar arrangements, and wishes to apologize for the discomfort the situation surrounding the BZV cards has caused to the cardholders.
GREAT BAY, Lasana Sekou's new poetry book Nativity/Nativité/Natividad will be launched at the closing ceremony of the St. Martin Book Fair on Saturday, June 5, said Jacqueline Sample, president of House of Nehesi Publishers.
"We are inviting our book party and book fair friends and new guests from all walks of life to the book launch for Lasana's Nativity" at the Marigot Public Library, at 8 pm, said Sample.
The guest speaker at the cultural affair will be Dr. Christian Campbell, a Rhodes Scholar from The Bahamas who is also a professor at the University of Toronto.
The cover of the 220-page book is illustrated with the "Adam" and "Eve" sculptures of the great Colombian artist Fernando Botero. Nativity/Nativité/Natividad is Sekou's first title in English with the French and Spanish translations in one book.
"In nine haunting segments," Nativity is "a bold narrative, long overdue (that) centralizes the region's indigenous, African, Asian connections. A triumph of Caribbean aesthetics," said Dr. Conrad M. James of the University of Birmingham, UK.
In the book's introduction Canadian historian Afua Cooper wrote that, "Lasana M. Sekou's Nativity is a stunning rich, complex, and multilayered narrative poem that is simultaneously dirge, rant, condemnation, protest, prophesy, love chant, and celebration."
According to literary critic Fabian Badejo, Nativity is written in the canto general style of the Americas.
The book ends with a glossary of references to the people, places and symbols that the St. Martin author employs to craft his "epic quality" poetry, said Sample.
References range from Middle Region to Concordia; from Morant Bay uprising to Congo Square dancing in New Orleans; from ancient Mexico to ancient Ethiopia; from Hakka Chinese to Hosay in Trinidad; from maroons in Colombia and Venezuela to white indentured; from jumbie characters to children's traditional games; from the Haitian quake to insisting on the discipline of science and technology as essential to liberation.
The glossary is also in three languages and works as a quick history lesson, said linguist and literature instructor Rhoda Arrindell.
"The poetry and the glossary work together to make the poetry our own, to feel and come to know it, and to understand deeper the myriad of intellectual, cultural, popular, and political movements linking all of these people, places, and aesthetics that inhabit Nativity/Nativité/Natividad," said Arrindell.
Sekou will recite newer poetry and selections from this new edition Nativity at the book party, which is the highlight of the closing ceremony of the 8th annual St. Martin Book Fair on Saturday. The author will sign autographs after the reading.
Nativity is available at Van Dorp and Arnia's bookstores and at Amazon.com.
GREAT BAY– Commissioner of Personnel Affairs Xavier Blackman, has been to Holland and to Tallahassee, Florida, in order to convince local students and professionals living and studying abroad to return home and now the recruitment drive continues at the home front.
Blackman along with staff from the Personnel Department is in the process of organizing an Information Session for Wednesday, June 9 in the A.C. Wathey Legislative Hall at the Government Administration Building from 6.00pm to 8.00pm.
At the moment there are about 100 critical job openings that still need to be filled. The Island Government currently employs 1,100 persons, and this number is expected to increase by at least 200 by October 10, 2010.
Commissioner Xavier Blackman told the Government Information Service (GIS) that government is looking for persons who are enthusiastic, motivated and dedicated, and ready to help build Country Sint Maarten.
"So far, the feedback to government's new, more direct, personal, and hands-on recruitment strategy has received very positive feedback and the results have been clearly visible during the past months.
"The recruitment drive started off in the past months, and now I 'am continuing it at home. Government wants to give as many locals as possible the chance to join the civil service corps, "Team Sint Maarten" by 10-10-10. Sint Maarten needs its locals now more than ever, and the opportunities are now more abundant then ever.
"At the information session, staff from the Personnel Department will be available to provide information on available job, the type of job requirements, the benefits and what is expected of the person. During the session, interested persons are able to make an appointment with personnel staff for later follow-up.
"I am inviting all interested persons to come out to the information session where they can learn the many new exciting job opportunities in Country Sint Maarten," Commissioner Blackman told the GIS.
GREAT BAY (GIS) - The Youth Development Program held its very first Career Day for forty eight students to mark the completion of the preparatory program and transition into career courses. The preparatory program is a three month phase in the program where the students focus on developing their social skills, computer skills and if needed English reading and writing skills. Students need to complete this phase in the program before being able to move on to their career courses. The main goal of the preparatory program is to provide the youngsters with not only the knowledge but the social skills to succeed in the workforce.
The Career Day marked the students' successful completion of the preparatory program and welcomed them to continue with their career courses. It was a joint effort between the Youth Development Program and the Caribbean Institute for Social Education Foundation (CIFSEF) which was enlisted to be the provider of the preparatory program. The students attended the session in business attire and some students even went as far as borrowing clothes from family and friends to attend. Project team members of the Youth Development Program were very impressed by the turnout of students in their business wear and applauded those who made the extra effort. The day was filled with motivational speakers and course instructors who gave detailed information of each course. Four lucky students won a prize for best dressed however all students were applauded for their effort. The program used this as a tool to motivate the students to come dressed professionally.
The Youth Development Program is pleased with how well the students have done in the past three months. Forty nine students began the preparatory program in February of this year and of these students; only one student dropped out before completion. These students will now begin the hospitality course of their choice of which they can choose from; Front Desk Agent, Room Care Attendant (maintenance), Cook or Bartender/Waiter/Waitress. Besides these courses, the Youth Development Program also has a PC Repair course and a SPW (Social Pedagogical Worker) level one course running of which are progressing well.
The Youth Development Program is a second chance educational program, funded by USONA, for youngsters between 16 and 24 years who were unable to complete secondary education. The Youth Development Program is executed by the Department of Educational Research, Policy and Innovations (DERPI) of Island Government. For more information on the program, contact Janelle Presentacion at 543-0497.
PHILIPSBURG – "Very challenging" is how 2010 University of St. Martin (USM) graduate Deborah Richards describes working full time, raising a daughter, and going to school.
She is one of seven students who will be receiving their Associates of Arts in Business at the USM Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, June 12, 2010 at the Westin Hotel. A total of 32 persons will be graduating with various degrees on that night.
According to Richards, a degree in Business Management was not her first choice. She added that when USM ceased its Computer Information Systems program, she transferred into the Business Management program and now she has experience in both fields.
Richards, affectionately known as Debbie, has been working at the Windward Islands Bank (WIB) for the past 11 years and is currently a FIAT (Administrative) Officer at WIB. She notes that her employer has been very supportive throughout her studies. She even lauded WIB for being perhaps the only employer on the island that gives employees, who are studying, several hours off before an exam.
She says that she contemplated studying abroad but saw what some of her friends, who did so and returned to the island, were going through, not being able to find employment on St. Maarten, and she decided to remain on St. Maarten.
"I already had a job and didn't want to leave the island to come back looking for a job and then be with too much qualification and not get a job," says Richards.
The Associate in Business Management graduate notes that her loved ones and close friends were also very supportive in her endeavors. She laughs as she recalls an incident where she was in St. Thomas exploring possibilities of studying there and witnessed a drive by shooting and jumped on the phone and called her mother to tell her she was coming home. Being very family oriented, she smiles while noting that her sister Darleen is also proud of her. Darleen graduated from USM with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education last year.
"My favorite experience at USM is the time that I spent in the Business Communication class with Mrs. Laws," Richards notes, while adding "that experience of coffee making, writing letters and eating pastries was great."
The USM graduate stresses that time management is very important and also having one's priorities in place while studying, working, and raising a child. She adds that her knowledge expanded while attending USM and she really liked the teaching styles of Mr. Maurice Lake and Ms. Jean Laws, in particular.
"In St. Maarten, especially the young people should support and help build their own institutions/ schools on the island," says Richards, while urging all high school graduates to go directly to college after high school. They have their whole future in front of them. Once they get caught up in the challenges of work-life and having a family, it becomes much more difficult.
Richards is still pursuing her dream of going into Computer Information Systems. She says that she is looking into options for a Bachelor degree in the field, while adding that most likely it will be done online since that affords her the possibility of remaining on St. Maarten. USM wishes Ms. Richards much success in her future endeavors and all the other graduates.
PHILIPSBURG – Imagine being out of school for about 13 years and then deciding to go back. Thoughts of how you will fit in and how well you will do now dominate your mind. And, despite all the emotions and mental anguish, you follow through on your goal...obtaining a college degree.
Exhilaration!
Well, this is exactly what Michel Hyman did. Hyman is one of seven students scheduled to graduate with their Associate of Arts Degree in Business from the University of St. Martin (USM) this Saturday. A total of 32 students are scheduled to graduate with various degrees at the event to be held at the Westin Hotel beginning at 7pm.
According to Hyman, there were three primary reasons that he went back to school namely: the desire to obtain a college degree, the aim to stand out as a role model for his three children and the goal of challenging and improving himself intellectually.
"It was challenging---working, going to school, and dealing with family life," says an enthused but modest Hyman. He further explains that he used to go to bed after 1 a.m. and still get up for 5 a.m. to go to work at the Princess Juliana Airport, where he has been employed for the past 17 years. He adds that after realizing that fitting in with his fellow classmates was just a matter of synchronization, all the rest fell into place.
"It takes a lot of self discipline and commitment to reach this far," says the Business Management graduate.
The environment at the University of St. Martin allows for the students to "learn how to learn with each other," says Hyman, while adding that working in group projects calls for collaboration, respect and an understanding for each other. He adds that his classmates were also very supportive and they always helped each out with tutoring and support, in general.
"Overall the learning experience at USM is great," says Hyman, while adding that knowledge obtained especially in the business classes is being used in his work. He is currently the Acting Manager for Airport Operations and is involved in almost every aspect of the day to day operations. Although his favorite class at USM was a history class taught by Mr. Alex Richards, he lauds the professionalism of all the instructors.
"Education is the key. Knowledge is power," the father of three stresses, as he encourages anyone who wants to increase their knowledge and grow, to go back to school. He adds that it can be USM or even online. Hyman notes that with knowledge people will be in a better position in life and also their careers. He adds that having a degree in your field of interest brings out more in you as an individual and it adds to the quality of work-life since the job will be seen more than just a source of a pay cheque.
"I would like to see the University of St. Martin grow. The school should be looked into and supported more by government," he says, while adding that a majority of students should be mandated to complete their associate degree here before being sent abroad.
"A community without knowledge is a community lost," he says, while further noting that, "We have USM here and should make proper use of it."
The USM graduate is already considering his next move. Hyman is already enrolled in the Bachelor's program that USM offers in conjunction with the University of the Virgin Islands. USM wishes Mr. Hyman much success in his future endeavors.
Simpson Bay:--- A female victim identified as Seonagh Boyd said she was robbed violently on Sunday evening in Simpson Bay. Boyd said she was dragged along the Simpson Bay road as her attackers tried to escape with her car. The woman said the incident took place around 9 pm Sunday night in the vicinity of La Palapa Marina.
The distraught Boyd who lives on the French side said she stopped at the Marina to drop off her boyfriend and to take back a DVD when the bandits jumped in her car through the passenger side of the vehicle and they began punching her in the head and face while screaming at her to get out of the car. She said she was trying to get out of the vehicle but she had on her seatbelt and the bandits did not give her time to remove it. The woman said she was driving a Toyota Corolla with license plate 663 ZBF 971 when the incident occurred.
The woman said one of her attackers dragged her out of the car with her seatbelt still on and he got into the drivers seat and drove off along the main road. She said she began screaming and begging the driver to stop and to let her go but it was not after a long time he finally stopped the car about 150 meters down the road and released her. "I held on to the vehicle to avoid getting under the wheels as he drives, this felt like a lifetime." The victim said when the bandit stopped the car he took off the seat belt and handed her handbag which was inside the vehicle at the time, then he drove off leaving her lying on the road.
Boyd said she suffered a severe concussion, whiplash, burns and cuts on her body as she was dragged on the asphalt road. She considered herself lucky because she was wearing a long jeans pant which helped to minimize the injuries. She said no one tried to rescue her from her attackers and felt people saw since the area was well lit. The woman said even though police and the ambulance department responded to the scene and assisted her she is doubtful that police would ever catch her attackers. Boyd said she is sure some of the people who were standing in the vicinity of Soggy Dollar Bar recognized her attackers but they would not assist police in catching these bandits who could have killed her.
The victim said she was informed that the car was recovered on the French side on Monday afternoon. Asked about the incident Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said he did not get the police reports for Sunday as yet. Henson promised to look into the matter and to see if the French side arrested anyone when they recovered the car.
Lima, Peru:--- Murder suspect Joran van der Sloot confessed to the slaying of a 21-year old Stephaney Flores in a Lima hotel room. Van der Sloot said he did not want to do it but the young woman invaded his privacy when she began reading about him on his laptop.
The well known murder suspect who was arrested twice for the murder of Nathalie Halloway said he grabbed Flores and broke her neck when she tried to escape. Van der Sloot confessed late Monday evening said a high ranking Peruvian official on NBC news.
La Republica newspaper said van der Sloot broke Flores neck when she grabbed his laptop without his permission and found out he was involved in the disappearance of Natalee Halloway. He was quoted as saying he did not want to do it. But Stephanie intruded his privacy when she took his laptop and read about him. He said he hit her and she was scared and tried to run away but he grabbed her by the neck and hit her.
Joran Van der Sloot is the prime suspect in the disappearance of Natalee Halloway who disappeared in Aruba his homeland on May 30 2005. Five years later on the same date May 30 2010 he killed Stephanie Flores a business student whom he met at a poker game in a casino.
Peru newspaper, La Republica, reports details of what it says is Joran van der Sloot's confession
Here is a direct translation of what Peru's La Republica newspaper posted on its web site about Joran van der Sloot's reported confession. The newspaper does not say how it got the information.
Dutchman: 'Yes, I killed Stephany'
Confessed at 5:30 p.m. van der Sloot attacked her because the young woman discovered his secret past. He blew up in anger and broke her neck after the victim grabbed his laptop and found out he was implicated in the killing of a U.S. citizen.
All the evidence pointed to him as the possible killer of Stephany Flores Ramirez, daughter of businessman and race-car driver Ricardo Flores. Yesterday, 48 hours after being extradited from Chile, the Dutchman Joran van der Sloot finally confessed his brutal crime.
Police sources revealed that the dangerous foreigner admitted, while crying, his fault before an attorney and (a justice department official).
"He had no exit. His alibi of being innocent had no basis," said, noticeably happy, one of the agents who managed to extract the long-awaited confession out of him.
It was known that van der Sloot broke down emotionally when they made him watch the revealing security-camera footage recorded by the Hotel TAC of Miraflores, which put him with the victim at the place and time of the crime.
Other quotes in the article that are attributed to van der Sloot:
"I didn't want to do it. The girl got into my private life."
"She grabbed my laptop without my permission and she found out through photos and videos that I was accused of being in a murder in Aruba."
"She had no right. I got close. She was scared. I approached her. We argued and she wanted to escape. I grabbed her by the neck and I hit her."
"We arrived at the hotel. We were going to have sex, but beforehand I went to go buy some breakfast. When I came back she just wanted to leave. She had gone through all my stuff."
(The Birmingham News)
Philipsburg:--- A man identified by police as R.G is now nursing bullet wounds at the St. Maarten Medical Center after he received two gunshots on Tuesday evening in the vicinity of Jump Up Casino reported Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson.
Henson said detectives and police patrols reported to Emma Plein in the vicinity of Jump Up Casino for a shooting incident.
On the scene the patrols located the victim identified as R.G. from Sint Maarten. The victim stated that he was shot by a man he identified with initials C. who fired three shots at him. As a result of this shooting he (the victim) suffered two gunshot wounds, one to his upper right thigh (close to his buttocks) and the other to his left upper thigh. The victim stated that the suspect and himself for some time do not get along because of problems they have had with each other in the past.
The victim further stated that while walking in the direction of Diamond Casino he was suddenly attacked by C. and another unknown man. C. pulled a gun from under his shirt and aimed it at him. He started to run away but was shot in his bid to escape. After committing this act both men ran away. The victim was treated on the spot by paramedics and then transported to the Sint Maarten Medical Center for further treatment and where he was later admitted for observation. The Detectives and Forensic Department have begun their investigation into the case.
Philipsburg: --- Some thirty eight brigadiers on St. Maarten would finally receive their promotion confirmed Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba at a press conference on Thursday. The 38 brigadiers will now become Majors within the KPSSS.
Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba said the only aspect that has to be worked out is how these officers would receive their salaries since the promotion is effective as of June 1 2010. She said they are currently awaiting the financial reports which would allow them to determine how these officers would be paid. Jacoba said they already have one report from the finance department but they have requested another report which is still outstanding.
Jacoba said federal government would have to pay out a lot of monies to these officers whose promotion was held up for years. She said the federal government might have to make some kind of agreement to pay these majors their retroactive pay in installments. She said a decision was made to promote the officers from brigadier to majors as of June 1 2010.
Brigadiers on St. Maarten staged a walk out last year when Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba was making her inaugural visit to the island. They demanded that the Minister do whatever in her power to make sure they receive their promotion. The NABP union who have been in discussion with the Minister over the past months demanded that the brigadiers be paid retroactively, since the officers were supposed to be promoted years ago.
GREAT BAY, While all interested eyes here were on the St. Martin Book Fair, visiting authors, and new books launched on St. Martin between the end of May and the first two weeks of June, there were other news brewing afar about the island's writings, said Jacqueline Sample, president of House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP).
Firstly, the Cuban scholar Emilio Jorge Rodríguez has just published a new anthology of poems and literary criticism of the poetry of the St. Martin author Lasana M. Sekou.
Rodríguez wants to introduce Sekou to the Hispanic world with the Spanish and English book, Corazón de pelícano – Antología poética de Lasana M. Sekou / Pelican Heart – An Anthology of Poems by Lasana M. Sekou Edited by Emilio Jorge Rodríguez.
The 428-page book includes selected poems from the 11 poetry collections by Sekou. Each poem is in both English and Spanish.
The anthology has a critical introduction and research notes by Rodríguez, who also selected the poems representing developments in Sekou's writings over the last 32 years, said Sample.
Published by HNP, the book was launched at the Caribbean Studies Association Conference in Barbados on May 27, 2010, said Sample.
Then news reached St. Martin that the Italian Caribbeanist scholar Sara Florian completed her Ph.D. study on Lasana Sekou's work. Dr. Florian is now the newest expert on the literature of the St. Martin author.
Florian's doctoral thesis is called "Contemporary West Indian Poetry: a 'Creole' Aesthetics?" Her postgraduate degree was obtained at Cà Foscari University of Venice. The dissertation was defended in April 2010 at the Faculty of Foreign Language and Literatures – one of the oldest in Italy.
In the comparative study Dr. Florian positions Sekou's work in relation to his contemporaries such as Merle Collins (Grenada), David Rudder (Trinidad), AJA (Barbados), Kendel Hippolyte (St. Lucia), and younger writers like Joan Andrea Hutchinson (Jamaica), along with senior poetry giants such as Shake Keane (St. Vincent) and Martin Carter (Guyana).
Dr. Florian, like Rodríguez, seems particularly fascinated by Sekou's use of salt as a poetic metaphor and historic motif with links to the Great Salt Pond, said Sample.
Chapter 9 of the thesis is entitled "Lasana Mwanza Sekou (1959 - ) The Aesthetics of Salt and Sugar." Dr. Florian's thesis is in English. The extensive appendixes include Florian's interviews with the likes of Mutabaruka, Gordon Rohlehr, Kenneth Ramchand, Rhoda Arrindell, and professors Edward Baugh, Maureen Warner-Lewis, and Carolyn Cooper.
As for the Rodríguez anthology of Sekou's poetry books from 1978 to 2010, Pelican Heart / Corazón de pelícano, that is available at Van Dorp and Arnia's bookstores, and at Amazon.com, spdbooks.org, and houseofnehesipublish.com.
The book cover design by Sundiata Lake incorporates the painting "Lovers Garden" by Ras Mosera.
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Philipsburg:--- The police have arrested two persons one from French Guiana and other from the French side of the island when they were caught after breaking into a home in Paradise Island Road in Madame Estate.
When the police patrol arrived on the scene they were told by the owner identified as E.A.J that they saw two suspicious men walking in front of his home. E.A.J told police that he also noticed that his house was broken into and a number of items were stolen. The man said items such as a flat screen television, his laptop computer, monies and other personal items were stolen. After investigating the police noticed that the bandits gained access to the house through a kitchen window.
Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said when the police left the first time they were called back because the two unknown men were at the scene. The police spokesman said when police returned they managed to arrest the culprits who were in possession of some of the stolen items. Henson said several items such as the victim's cellular phone and monies were found and confiscated. The two suspects are identified as J.R from French Guiana and J.C from the French side are in custody as the investigations continue.
In an unrelated incident two young boys identified as R.P and D.P.C were arrested by the police bike patrol suspected of stealing items from a tourist.
These suspects were arrested in the vicinity of the Police Substation on the Boardwalk. Henson said after an investigation done by the bike patrol several items such as cameras and other belongings to the victims were found hidden in the public toilet next to the sub station. The victim recognized these items as her belongings. All suspects were taken to the Police station for further investigation.
MARIGOT—The gendarmes apprehended a robbery suspect after a dramatic car chase on Tuesday afternoon. A press release from the gendarmerie states that the suspect was in a vehicle with three other persons at the time of the chase.
The release states that several vehicles tried to intercept the suspected vehicle and despite a sealed off road in Cripple Gate the vehicle in which the suspect was in drove through the blockade damaging one of the vehicles belonging to the gendarmerie.
Shots were fired in an attempt to stop the vehicle. It was finally brought to a stop in Agrément where the three individuals escaped on foot. The main robbery suspect was caught however and taken into custody.
GREAT BAY:--- The Department of Disaster Management is calling on residents to monitor weather conditions on Friday and into the weekend for possible flooding in low lying areas which is expected due to the passing of a strong Tropical Wave.
The Tropical Wave is expected to produce heavy showers and thunderstorms along with gusty winds.
The Netherlands Antilles & Aruba Meteorological Service is calling on Small Craft operators to exercise caution over the Northern and Eastern local offshore waters due to occasional strong wind and higher waves.
Marigot:--- The director of Office du Tourisme Corrine Picaut reacted very angrily and emotionally to an article published on SMN News about her quitting her job some weeks ago. Picaut admitted she walked off of her job and is still receiving her salary which will come to an end on August 31. Picaut said she had given her employers an official notification prior to leaving her job. "I am entitled to my salary because I have the rights to the "pre-avis" based on the French laws. "I will not be collecting ACEDIC because I am the one that walked off the job. I broke my job contract so that removed my rights to unemployment benefits" Picaut said.
Asked why she left her job and broke her three year contract she insisted that she left for personal reasons. Asked if she did not consider her personal situation prior to signing a three year contract? Picaut said the situation at the Office du Tourisme had to be re-analyzed and a decision had to be taken. "I re-analyzed the situation and I took a decision." Asked if she believed she was competent to promote St. Martin and if she felt she had the required qualifications Picaut said she felt she was doing a very good job and that she was in fact more than competent.
"In my opinion people look at the position of Director of the Tourist Office as a political appointment. My wish is for them to see that it is not a political job instead it's a technical job that needs people who has the expertise in carrying out the job. "I worked from 7 am to 8pm each day to make sure St. Martin is properly represented, I was very dynamic and positive about the job I held for one and half year. My team was also very co-operative and we did the best we could." Furthermore, "I took each assignment personally so when it is said I did things for my personal interest it is not true. I had to be interested and motivated to do what I was doing for the tourist office I am a passionate person." Picaut added.
Asked if she was prepared to handle the stressful situation at Office du Tourisme knowing that several of elected council members and Senator Louis Constant Fleming was against her appointment in the very beginning she said she was optimistic and felt everything was a challenge.
Corrine Picaut is scheduled to leave St. Martin this Saturday for France. Asked what she would be doing next in her career and if she intended to take up her old job she said she would look at the opportunities that is presented to her prior to taking a decision.
Philipsburg:--- On Sunday June 13th four K-9 police officers from the Netherlands(Zuid-Holland-Zuid) arrived on Sint Maarten to give advanced courses to the four qualified police dog handlers in St. Maarten and for the re-certification of the two police dogs. The names of the officers from the Netherlands are W. van Bochove ( Inspector), G. ter Horst, A. Laisina and T. Andeweg. The local qualified police dog handlers are sergeants Felix. Richards, Wallace. Leonard, S. Cathalina and H. Roumou. Also present during these courses was sergeant/instructor E. KOOK from the Curacao Police Force.
The local police dog handlers have been preparing for these courses and re-certification of the police dogs for about two weeks prior to the arrival of the team from the Netherlands. The courses and the re-certification of the dogs started on Monday June 14th and ended on Thursday June 17th.
On Friday June 18th the two police dogs were re-certified and could continue functioning without any difficulties. These certificates were handed out to Sergeant Felix Richards and Wallace Leonard by the new Chief of Police commissioner Peter de Witte who congratulated the officers for a job well-done and wished them much success as they continue with their careers. Also present were commissioner of police Carl John and Lourdes BROOKS-LAKE of the police management team. This is the first time that these courses were given and the police dogs re-certified outside of the Netherlands. Mr. W. van Bochove was quite impressed with the reception of the team and the accommodations that was provided for them and looks forward to a close working relationship with the police force of Sint Maarten.
NAGICO Insurances through its latest service NAGICARE demonstrated that it indeed cares when it came on board to be the official sponsor of the East Basseterre Football League. The competition which is having its inaugural staging this year is being sponsored by the insurance company received a sponsorship cheque valued three thousand dollars ($3,000.00)
According to organizer of the competition, Don Farrel some seven community teams from Easter Basseterre will be taking part in the competition with the winner assured of trophies among other gifts.
Farrell said that the competition was made a reality thanks to the generosity of NAGICO insurances and he would like to express his appreciation to the sponsors. At a simple presentation ceremony held in the St Kitts main office, CEO of NAGICO Insurances, Imran Mc Sood Amjad presented Farrell with the sponsorship cheque.
According to Mc Sood he stated that he was happy to be supporting community projects urging other communities within St Kitts and Nevis to follow suit stressing that engaging young people in positive activities will rebounds to positive benefits.
He recollected that he has known Farrell for a number of years and has always been impressed with the numerous positive initiatives that Farrell has executed declaring that youths can learn from those within society. "I have and continues to be very impress with the initiatives of Mr. Farrell as he has and continues to demonstrate a positive attitude therefore it is people like him that causes us to want to continue giving back because we see the benefits of such contributions," he said.
"Farrell has done well whenever he goes out there to do anything within the community and it is because of this that causes us to know that he continues to represent St Kitts and Nevis very well. I must add that represent us all and I know that he will continue in the same vein," the CEO reiterated.
Commenting on the new league, Farrell said that competition was expected to start on Saturday but had to be pushed back to Wednesday of this week because of the inclement whether. He however noted that he is confident that the league would be able to kick off on Wednesday. "We are anxiously awaiting the start of the league on Wednesday so it's just a few days in delay that we are having," he said. The round robin competition will see the top four teams meeting for a knock out sector to determine the finalists and winners.
"The top four teams will play each other with the team topping the standings playing the number four team while the second and third place teams in the points standing will play each other with the winners of each match coming against each other in the finals," Farrell stressed. The teams kicking off the competition on Wednesday are Sea Side Ballers against Fluffy Dog in the first match starting immediately after the opening ceremony while Rocket FC going against Ball Warriors will play the second match on the opening night.
The organizer said that those expected to attend are the Minister of Sports, the Hon Glen Phillip, Parliamentary representative for East Basseterre, Hon Earl Asim Martin, President of the S Kitts Nevis Football Association, a representative of the sponsor's among others. He added that while the matches are all free to the public at the Newton Football field there is an entrance fee of $200.00 for teams taking part.
GREAT BAY-– The Cannegieter Street in Philipsburg will be closed to vehicular traffic on Tuesday and Wednesday to allow for the painting of road surface markings.
Road surface markings are used on paved roads to provide guidance and information to drivers and pedestrians.
On Tuesday, June 22 from 6.00am to 6.00pm, the street from the Windward Islands Bank main branch to Zout Steeg (alley) will be closed to vehicular traffic.
On Wednesday, June 23 from 6.00am to 6.00pm, the road from Zout Steeg (alley) to Voges Street near the Philipsburg Library, will be closed to vehicular traffic.
Sector ROB Section New Works apologizes to the general public for any inconvenience that the road closure may cause.
The road mark painting will be carried out weather permitting.
Belair:---The Board of the Belair Community Council is organizing a pre-hurricane cleanup this Saturday in the Belair district.
The Belair district entails Belair, Little Bay Harmony homes, Spanish Fort Hill and homes located in the Belair area on Welgelegen road.
As the month of June is the start of the hurricane season, weather experts are predicting a very active year for storm formation coupled with the unusual weather patterns associated with the hot summer days we are currently experiencing, Belair residents have decided to prepare their neighborhood for the coming months of hurricane season.
The neighborhood cleanup will take place on Saturday June 26th. from 7am-10am.
The Belair Community Council is asking all residents to trim their over hanging tree branches that can fall and hinder traffic on the narrow roads, put out all old household debris and construction debris that is no longer wanted.
Construction materials that are still being used should be secured in the event of a approaching storm.
The Board is also asking residents to cut grass or over grown bush on the shoulders of the road in front of their property to help beautify the area.
Belair Community Council is grateful to Clean Sint Maarten N.V. that will place a second bin to collect all the debris collected.
Residents can gather at 7am at the garbage collection spot and collect trash bags and gloves courtesy of Sint Maarten PRIDE foundation and Meadowlands NV.
Residents who need special help may call any of the following cleanup coordinators;
Clarence Richardson 54-24141, Benson Pompier 5220384, Mariette Schrijvers 5819517, Jadira Veen 5231188, Ineke Konings 5228973 and Cookie Bijlani on 5266543.
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Philipsburg:--- The first information session hosted by the Ministry of Constitutional and Home Affairs was held on Tuesday at the Cultural Center in Philipsburg. Civil servants from the Ministry of Justice were updated about the dismantling of the Netherlands Antilles.
Commissioner Blackman welcomed the participants and echoed his government's commitment to a smooth transition. Minister Duncan gave chronological update on what has been achieved as well as what would be happening in the period leading up to 10-10-10. He also responded to the concerns of the civil servants present.
Mr. Luud Hakken of Personnel and Organization St. Maarten, gave a presentation on the migration process of Civil servants and organizational transformation from island territory to Country (NBO). He discussed issues relating to job classification and remuneration policy, performance improvement and the social charter.
The sessions continue on Wednesday when the Ministry of Finance, Labor, Education and Social Affairs, Traffic and Communication will be invited to participate in the discussions.
Philipsburg:--For the first time in more than a year, the draft constitution for country St. Martin has reached the members of the Island Council of St. Martin. This draft was forwarded on Friday afternoon, June 25th, simultaneously with a convocation for an urgent Central Committee meeting on Monday, June 28th at 1.00 pm.
The draft constitution for St. Martin received on Friday by members of the Island Council is dated June 24th and all indications are that this is a draft approved by the NA/Heyliger Executive Council on the following day.
We estimate that in the last month or so at least 4-5 drafts of the constitution of country St. Martin have been circulated, have been vetted, commented on, amended etc.
The last time the Island Council members of St. Martin got a chance to debate the constitution for country St. Martin was in early 2009.
There is clearly no more opportunity for debate on the constitution of St. Martin as the Executive Council 's preoccupation at this time is to present the constitution to the Kingdom partners on July 1 during the Kingdom Political Steering Group meeting on Curacao.
Some will argue that the final approval still needs to be given by the Island Council of Sint Martin, which is a fact, but we foresee the same fate there.
While cognizant of the time constraints faced by St. Martin and the importance of a constitution approved preferably unanimously by the island council, the DP has a serious issue with the approach to this matter by the government of St. Martin.
If we question the constitution, we will be accused of stalling the process. If we blindly approve the constitution, we would have abdicated our responsibility as an opposition and the voice of the people of St. Martin in the affairs of their government.
We have shown our willingness to facilitate government in getting consensus Kingdom laws and organic laws passed without much ado, but the Constitution.........?
Would it be fair to say, we support government in its quest to present a draft constitution to its partners, but reserve the right to question matters in the final approval trajectory of the Island Council, realizing that the approved constitution needs to be agreed upon by the Kingdom government as well?
It is no secret that the DP has been clamoring not only for the draft constitution to be sent to the Island Council, but also to work with the Island Council on a time table for the handling of the necessary laws, in particular the constitution. To no avail, worse yet, this matter was trivialized by government.
It seems that the opinion of the Kingdom government matters, the opinion of the vetting committee matters, that of the Joint Court of Justice matters, but when it comes to the 11 representatives of the people of Sint Maarten, we have to accept it as is, so as not to give a semblance of a divided St. Martin on the issue of constitutional change.
Generally, the DP has towed this line, but in the case of the Constitution of Country Sint Maarten, we have serious reservations.
Philipsburg: ---The owner of SHAMS Electronics on Cannigitter Street identified as S.R.C filed a complaint with the detective department stating that unknown persons broke into the store on between June 23rd and June 24th and stole a number of electronic items. The owner told police that items such as cameras, laptop computers, flat screen televisions and a small amount of cash were stolen. These suspects gained access to the building by making a hole through the wall of the building. The detectives and forensic department are investigating this case.
In an unrelated case Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said an employee of Tan Tan Supermarket on A.T Illidge Road filed an official report with police on June 25th. .
The employee told police that at approximately 08.05 p.m. a man dressed completely in black, and wearing a black mask and white gloves stormed into the supermarket.
The employee told police that the man in question demanded money from her while threatening her with a handgun. Police said the victim told them that when she looked at the suspect she recognized him and she told him she knew who he was. At that point the suspect took off the mask and told her that he was just making a joke and it was not necessary to call the police. The suspect then left the supermarket without taking anything. This case is under investigation by the Special Robbery Unit.
Cay Hill: --- A 23 year old pregnant mother died on Thursday at the St. Maarten Medical Center from severe complications. Her sudden death has sent a shock wave throughout the community of St. Maarten. While the parents and husband of the young woman are mourning their lost the family also has several questions regarding the death of their loved ones, the mother and baby.
According to reliable information reaching SMN News a cesarean operation was performed on the patient and the baby who was also in distress was sent to Barbados for treatment since the St. Elizabeth Hospital in Curacao was unable to accept the patient due to the lack of space.
While the young mother's death is considered to be mysterious, doctors at the St. Maarten Medical Center it is alleged neglected to take the right decisions when it was needed. SMN News also understands that the medical facility is now looking to play the blame game instead of taking responsibility for the death of the young woman and her new born baby. Doctors believe Shaka Wilson and her baby died because she had severe HELLP syndrome.
In an interview with SMN News Dr. Michel Petit who is currently in France said he saw Wilson on a few occasions he said the was a patient was about six and half months pregnant when he first saw her. Dr. Petit said Wilson used to see Dr. Tjon Kon Fat and she was transferred to him when that gynecologist left the island. He said based on the file he received from the first doctor the young woman was healthy, her blood work was normal and there was no need for fear. Dr. Petit said one month later he saw the patient for the second time and she notified him that she was admitted to the hospital. Dr. Petit said the doctors that were brought in from Holland took care of the patient and even though he is her specialist they did not inform him that she was hospitalized and what their findings were. Dr. Petit said the patient told him that the doctors who admitted her told her she was in premature labor. He said the doctor did take some blood tests and probably treated her but none of this was reported to him. "Normally when a pregnant patient is admitted the doctor who treated her would send a note to her doctor so he could be aware of her conditions but none of this transpired in Wilson's case." Dr. Petit said. Dr. Petit said early Wednesday morning he went to the St. Maarten Medical Center to visit the patient who at that time was in intensive care unit. It was then I looked through her chart and saw the blood tests that were done a month prior when she was admitted the first time. "The least the doctor could have done was to make sure a second blood test was done to make sure the lab did not make a mistake or at least follow up on her case because her blood count then was enough to raise a red flag."
Dr. Petit said when he saw the patient for the second time he examined her and there was no sign of premature labor, her blood pressure was normal. Dr. Petit said he then advised the patient to return to his clinic in three weeks for further monitoring. He said that date has not yet reached but on Tuesday last week the patient went to his office to see him. He said when he saw the patient he immediately saw she was in distress and in pain. "She told me she was having pains in her belly (Epigastric area) Dr. Petit said he checked the patient and again confirmed that she was not in premature labor. Dr. Petit said the patient also informed him that she was admitted to the hospital over the weekend(second admission) but up to then the hospital and its doctors on duty did not notify him of the patient's hospitalization. "I immediately decided to re-admit the patient and I called the doctor on duty and informed him about her. I asked him to evaluate her condition since he is the one on call, and I told him there was something unusual going on. The doctor in question asked me if she had high blood pressure and I assured him her blood pressure was normal." Dr. Petit said even though the main symptom of HELLP syndrome is high blood pressure, but Wilson's pressure was normal.
Dr. Petit said later that evening he was having dinner with another experienced gynecologist when he received a call from Dr. Randal Friday who told him that he was at the hospital and he heard of the patient's condition. "It was after the doctor on duty received the blood results he informed Dr. Friday".
Dr. Petit said to date the doctor on duty who was responsible for the patient never called him to inform him of her conditions and what they she was diagnosed with. "Based on the conversations with Dr. Friday I gave him my advice which was to operate immediately. " But he was informed that the doctor in charge did not want to operate because the patient had severe HELLP syndrome and her platelets were very low. According to what I was told by Dr. Friday the patient had no coagulation and the risk of operating was rather high.
He said the hospital did not have the amount of blood needed and the doctor felt it was better for him to wait for blood which was to be sent from Curacao the following day. "The patient was very sick but the doctor had to take an immediate decision to assist the baby and mother. The longer the doctor waits to take a decision on when to operate is worse for both baby and mother Dr. Petit said. "I told Doctor Friday who was informed about the case that it is critical and the patient had to be operated upon immediately because time is not on their side. I informed them that it is a risky situation because the patient had no coagulation then but by the next day her situation would worsen. I cannot say if I was there the outcome would have been different. But one thing for sure I would have informed the relatives of risks involved and I would have done otherwise."
In that case the baby would have had at least 12 hours more on his side. On St. Maarten it's the decision that counts, there is no blood bank and other necessities here and doctors have to use their best judgment to save lives. "What bothers me is that the doctor on call never made contact with me and the next morning he transferred the case to another gynecologist because he did not want to take responsibility if she died." Asked why he did not go to the hospital and to take over. Dr. Petit said he was not the doctor on call and neither was Dr. Friday and it is not ethical for either of them to intervene unless the doctor on duty calls them. "This patient was the sickest person I have seen in my entire career and this doctor never called me for us to decide together and to see how best we could pool our efforts to help the mother and baby. Instead he was there shaking and all nervous and afraid to make decisions." Dr. Petit said he is the one who admitted the patient and not even out of courtesy he was called and informed. He said on Wednesday morning when the doctor transferred the patient to another doctor that doctor went to see him at his office and they both looked at her file together. "It was then I went to ICU to see her chart and to see if I could determine what was going on."
He said if he was in such a position he would have called every gynecologist on St. Maarten or those abroad for advice because the patient was very sick. "I cannot reproach anyone for the decision they took. It is clear the doctor chose to wait for the blood because he wanted to save the mother. One has to remember that when she was admitted on Tuesday her blood was very low and there was not enough blood at the hospital."
Dr. Petit said the month before when the patient was admitted her platelets was lower than normal and the doctor who admitted her did not pay attention. He said when the first blood test was done the patient had a platelet count that was over 170,000 and when the second blood test was done a month ago it was 70,000. This shows that her platelet count dropped by 60% and the doctor did not take heed. Even though all of this happened the doctor who treated her when she was in the hospital did not see it fit to notify him.
SMN News learnt that the St. Maarten Medical Center already had an autopsy conducted on the patient to determine the exact cause of death.
Asked to comment on the case the Medical Director of the St. Maarten Medical Center Dr. George Scot said without the consent of the direct family it is not the policy of the SMMC to react, nor discuss the medical treatment of a patient. We regret the unfortunate death of the patient and her infant and we wish the family all the strength they need to cope with this loss.
The SMMC reported this case to the Inspector of Public Health the same day and started an investigation into the cause of death because of the strange and rapid developments that lead to this. Therefore an autopsy was performed on Friday with the permission of the family. "We will await the results of this investigation and organise a meeting with all specialists who were involved with her treatment. After receiving all information we are willing to make a comment with the consent of the family."
Without knowing the content of the interview with Dr Petit, Dr. Scot said he wants to make clear that they have an understanding that Dr Petit on his request does not do any on-call service to patients under the condition that he does not treat pregnant patients in his regular practice, but refers them to his colleagues who do on call service. The reason for this is that treatment of pregnant patients requires on-call availability.
For more on HELLP Syndrome can be found here.
http://www.americanpregnancy.org/pregnancycomplications/hellpsyndrome.html.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—On June 30, Commissioner William Marlin conducted the ROOFWETTING ceremony at Sister Magda school.
William Marlin went on top of the roof on the new two level building of Sister Magda School, and conducted the roof wetting together with the contractor and Angela Dekker, Project manager Innovations.
Also present were Mr. Mathias Voges for the school board, representatives from ROB, Consulting firm ICE, the school manager, teachers and most importantly the students.
When school starts in August, the school will have 1 extra classroom, a resource center, 2 offices for student care, a large covered playground with canteen and kitchen.
The costs involved for this project are NAf 1.000.000
This is part of the construction program in Foundation Based Education that started in 2004 financed through USONA by the Dutch Government. The total of the infrastructural expenses for the FBE schools is NAf 20.000.000.
In the coming year 2 new schools for FBE will be constructed, and there will be extensions for 2 other schools.
Philipsburg --- Five students attending the University of St. Martin received scholarships from the institution. Outgoing president of USM board Josianne Fleming Artsen said the students were selected by the scholarship committee. The committee she said looked at the student's grade, (GPA) their contributions to society and their extra-curriculum activities.
Also given out on Wednesday was the President's award. Fleming-Artsen said six students applied for the USM scholarship which is granted annually. The five students that were selected are Cassandra Richardson recipient of the President's award. Ramzan Juman, the only male majoring in Education and webmaster of SMN News, Hadassah Arrindell, Lisel Toss and Paul Wilson. Five of the six students were awarded with the scholarship. Of the five recipients that were awarded with their scholarships, three of them are majoring in Education, while the other two are majoring in Business.
Fleming said the recipients have to maintain a 3.0 GPA to keep their scholarship for the duration of their studies. She said the cost for each scholarship ranges from $15,000 for those students going for their bachelor's degree and $7.500 for those in associates.
In unrelated news SMN News has been reliably informed that Arjen Albert a former teacher of the St. Maarten Academy and St. Dominic High School and now employee of DERPI is the selected candidate to replace Josianne Artsen Fleming. Albert was once the adviser to Claudette Labaga of the Education Department and he is currently working as a policy worker with DERPI.
Fleming-Artsen has resigned from her post at the USM to follow her aspirations in politics. It is understood that Fleming-Artsen is one of the top candidates that would be running on the UP list headed by Commissioner Theo Heyliger. Fleming-Artsen once said that the only way education would receive top priority on the island and USM getting its accreditation is if she is placed at the helm in government. SMN News understands that Fleming-Artsen is hoping to become the first Minister of Education when St. Maarten achieves its new status.
Philipsburg:---Commissioner Frans Richardson, during an interview last week, regarding the signing of the USONA-funded project "Changing Lanes", stated that the Executive Council has lifted the moratorium on bus and taxi permits.
The Changing Lanes project is a project initiated by the Democratic Party administration, so the original project is known to us.
To hear government now state that they have lifted the moratorium on bus and taxi permits, "to do a study on the public transportation system", defies all logic.
In our opinion, ahead of this announced study, government should exercise restraint and hold off on lifting the moratorium, until they are better able to assess the entire public transportation system.
But since government has (matter-of-factly) announced the lifting of the moratorium, I submit the following questions to the Executive Council:
How many applications are currently pending for bus and taxi licenses?
How many permit holders make use of assistant (help) chauffeurs?
How many bus licenses are in name of a company?
How many of these permit holders(companies) employ independent bus owners as chauffeurs?
What will government's policy be in granting taxi and bus licenses, now that they have lifted or will be lifting the moratorium on bus and taxi licenses? How many licenses has government issued since the lifting of the moratorium?
Is the Commission for Public Transportation operational? Who is on the Commission?
I look forward to a speedy answer to these questions,
Respectfully,
Sarah Wescot-Williams, Island Council member, Democratic Party Faction
PHILIPSBURG:--- On the heels of their first powerful evening of dinner and poetry Lysanne Charles and her team of poets are returning to the Crazy Thyme Restaurant on Tuesday, July 6 for another evening of both.
According to Charles these evenings are a part of a weekly spoken word session called Summer Speaks. She explained that Summer Speaks was an initiative started by her last July in order to give local, young poets a medium to showcase their work and allow audiences to see the best of what St. Maarten had to offer as it concerned poetry.
"Last year Summer Speaks was really successful. We started out small, in terms of attendance, and continued to grow throughout the month of July. Both the poets and those that came out to hear them all enjoyed the event and because of that I had to bring it back again this year," Charles said.
Last week's lineup included young poets Daniella Arrindell, Peter Lake, Shanica Richardson, Lucinda Audain, Rene Violenus and Charles herself. This week artists are Lorenzo "Sigma" Gomez, Deborah Drisana Jack, Gino Ollivacce, Rochelle Ward and Dion Gumbs. Charles herself would also again take the mic. The majority of the evenings would be emceed by Clara Reyes, whose Imbali Center for Creative Movement remains a tremendous support to this endeavor.
Charles explained that the format of the evening was as follows; attendees arrive at the restaurant at 8pm sharp and are served dinner, after which they receive dessert and the poets take to the mic for roughly an hour of spoken word at 9pm.
This year all 5 nights of Summer Speaks will be held at the Crazy Thyme restaurant on airport road (across from the Winair ticket office), where dinner is prepared by chef Andreas Sczcypiorski. Charles said that she wanted to extend appreciation to Sczcypiorski and Bevil Byam for their willingness to host this year's evenings. This Tuesday will be the second night of poetry, with the remaining days being July 13, 30 and 27.
"Crazy Thyme is a beautiful location and the mood once the poets begin to recite is amazing. I believe that this event is not one to be missed, especially for those who really enjoy delicious meals and of course poetry. So I'm encouraging everyone to come out and support us this Tuesday again," Charles said.
She explained that seating at Crazy Thyme is limited so all interested in attending should purchase their tickets in advance. Tickets cost $25, which includes dinner, dessert and a drink and then the spoken word. They can be obtained at the restaurant or by calling Charles at 522-2513 or 586-1266.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—All public schools held a year-end meeting & social gathering to celebrate the end of the school year and at the Sonesta Great Bay Hotel & Casino in Philipsburg.
At the event, public school teachers, administrators, and principals were present, along with some students who performed moving pieces of ballet/dance; there were some singing, and a band that played popular Caribbean and international songs for entertainment.
Glendorline Holiday-Davis Head of Public Education gave a speech at the end of the period to culminate the event.
"On behalf of public education management, I want to comment each staff member for their commitment, hard work, dedication and perseverance. I know that the job is tough, and we have to deal with all range/degrees of students, but we have to make the adjustments to do what we love, which is to teach.
Though there are a lot of talks out there, only those who are in the kitchen know the heat, and there is a lot of heat.
I am proud to say that any teacher, once they have decided that this [teaching] is the profession for them, must decide to put all stumbling blocks, hang-ups and personal issues aside in order to teach.
Yes, there are things that we don't have, or the salary might not be what we want, but we are paid well. We just have to live within our means, and we have to concentrate on the things that matter most in life. Once we have a roof over our heads, the bed is not wet, family we love, and life is good. Like what I tell my children, Mommy and Daddy could buy what you need, not what you want. So we all have to live accordingly," Davis-Holiday said.
"We have to plan our futures well, especially those teachers who will retire in 15 and 20 years. We are not getting younger, but older. We have to change some things, and we have to start now. Don't waste money, don't spend on things that we can't afford.
In addition, we have to start recruiting more male teachers. Female teachers have to be both male and female, father and mother, whether in school or at home. It is rough on us as women in Education. We have to be an example to your students. Let's move public education forward. We have invested in much, materials, books, and training, don't let that go to waste. One of the most rewarding things in the teaching profession is when we see our students at the workplace. The interaction is priceless. We are glad to see these former students, under whatever circumstance and we are glad when they have achieved something in life. In the end, it is all about the students.
PHILIPSBURG, The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise presented their new board for the year 2010-2011 at a ceremony held at the Westin Dawn Beach Hotel and Spa on Friday July 2, 2010 in the presence of dignitaries such as President of the Collectivite Mr. Frantz Gumbs, Acting Lieutenant Governor Reynold Groeneveldt and friends and families.
Outgoing president Peter Dialani thanked his fellow board members and the entire membership for their support and dedication during the year, he summarized the executed projects including donation of a Warm Bed for the Pediatric Ward of the Medical Center, donation of eyeglasses to students of the St. Maarten Academy, Launching of the Reading Program "Leaders are Readers", support to Haiti in the form of Shelter Boxes, Big Kid Project, Reading to the youngster at the library and to the elderly at the Senior Citizens Home, St. Maarten Cultural Poster Project to all schools on the island, Donation to the University of St. Maarten towards it expansion plans, Youth mentoring with Victorious Living Foundation, etc.
Outgoing president Peter concluded in wishing the incoming president, Bernadette Davis, and her team of board members a successful Rotary Year 2010/2011. The new Rotary board consists of: President Bernadette Davis, Vice-President/ International Service Director Martha Pouchie Secretary/President Elect Hendrik-Jan van Iperen, Club Service Director/ Immediate Past President Peter Dialani, Community Service Director Lucy Gachette, Vocational Service Director Marcellia Henry, Treasurer/ Sergeant-at-Arms Angela Gordon, Fundraising Director Cookie Bijlani, Rotary Foundation Chair Kenny Parwani, Rotaract Chair Claret Connor and Youth Chair Bernadette Davis.
In her speech incoming president Bernadette Davis mentioned how appropriate this year theme is: Building Communities / Bridging Continents. We do not have to look far to put that theme in action and it is more apparent here in St Martin/Maarten than anywhere else. With more than 100 nationalities sharing this little piece of land, we have a representation of
every continent in the world right here; therefore, building our communities and bridging the continents are a vital component for a better St Martin/Maarten and a better world.
Our focus this year will be on the building blocks for the next generation, which is our Youth. I would like to acknowledge the importance the Rotary Club has placed on this sector with projects such as Early Act, Interact, Rotaract clubs, Rotary Youth Leadership Institute and the National Youth Science Forum. This year they have gone further by encouraging every club to create a Youth Chair. In addition, we will continue with the Readers are Leaders Program, Provide Fresh Water to all schools on the island, Big Kid Project in Haiti, Assist the Simpson bay Community Center and the Belvedere Community Center.
The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise thanked its sponsors and Rotarians who made this event possible with their contribution.
Sunrise Rotary Club meets every Tuesday at the Restaurant Air Lekkerbek (near the Prince Bernhard Bridge) at 7:00AM to 8:00AM.
GREAT BAY, St. Martin Author Felecita Williams (R, bottom photo) has presented her new book Because of Prayer to ir. Javier Hernandez, chairman of the Board of Directors and current general director of the St. Elisabeth Hospital in Curacao (6/22). Williams also presented a copy of her autobiography to Anita Kerdijk-Rotsburg (L, top photo) of the Dialysis Department at the St. Maarten Medical Center (6/16). In both cases, said Williams, "I briefly explained that I wrote an autobiography that included my near-death experiences and treatment for my kidney failure. Seeing that part of my medical history was experienced at the hospitals in St. Maarten and Curacao, I wanted to present a book to both institutions for their library or reading lounge as motivational reading for patients and visitors. I was happily received at the SMMC.
After the presentation at St. Elisabeth I got a tour of the hospital. The hospital officials were happy to show me especially the children's ward. Much had changed since I was there as a bed-ridden child patient. And now, thank God, I was walking around, visiting." The Curacao Nobo newspaper was impressed enough with Williams's story to report the presentation in its July 3 edition. Because of Prayer is available at Van Dorp and Arnia's, and through family members in Willemstad. (Photo courtesy FW)
GREAT BAY (GIS)—Last week, at the Sonesta Great Bay Beach Hotel & Casino, 4 known, trained and experienced chefs provided insights into their profession in front of about 10 potential students who might apply for the SBO Chef level 2 course.
The chefs' present were: Nathalie Baptiste and Lesley Martina of Big Fish Restaurant and Dino Jagtiani of Rare and Temptation Restaurants, and Iwan Hokahia from Sonesta Great Bay Beach Hotel & Casino.
Chef Jagtiani of Rare and Temptation explained about the experiences of a chef, what life was like being a chef, its ups and downs, realities of being in the kitchen, and the attitudes that one should have.
Jagtiani said that life is not easy being a chef, it is hot in the kitchen, and sometimes there is no tremendous amount of money to be made in the chef/restaurant business, there is a lot of standing on the feet, so one needs discipline for the profession. It is also advisable he said that to begin being creative, start to experiment with different taste, among different pointers.
The registration date for the Chef level 2 program is August 20th, from 12.30 till 14.00 at Sundial School media room. The course Chef level 2 will start in September 2010.
Because a lot of students want to attend this course, we held excursions, interviews and pre intakes in June. The students who attended these days have preference over the students who didn't show up or called at a later date.
We only have place for 20 students and at the moment there are 34 students who want to enroll into the program. Still everyone can call the SBO Service Center (5430497 / 5430498) to put their name on the list, but the selection is strict.
There will also be an interview with different chefs and (new) students in August to make sure we select the right students for this program.
During the year there will be a second course for the business to follow the course to become a Job Coach in the kitchen. This will be in September / October, because we really need chefs to train the students on the floor.
The chefs who spoke at Sonesto Great Bay Beach Hotel all attended the Job Coach course for 6 mornings. They also came up with the idea for this lecture to make sure the students will know where they have to sign up.
During the year different chefs will give workshops to the students, also chefs from abroad. This is to train the students in different fields and prepare them to become all-round chefs. The program will be for 2 years, and we will start this program again in 2012.
At the chef's lecture, another chef, the Executive Chef by Sonesta Great bay Beach Hotel & Casino, Ewan Hokahia, spoke as well about the realities of being a chef and being different levels in the kitchen. He said that it was though, you will be spoken to in a harsh manner, and you just have to take the instruction and do it.
There is little room for niceties. In addition, persons who work in the kitchen have to work as a team for the greater good of providing a really good meal to the customer. There is no need to like each other per se, he said, but there is a great need to please the customer. It is all about the food and the service, he added. And there is no time for special holidays, like Christmas, New Year's Day, Valentine's Day, etc. Those days are the best business days in the restaurant business, Hokahia said.
So the students got an ear full from the experienced chefs about the realities in the kitchen.
Friday, August 20, 2010 is the only day for registration. It will take place at the Sundial School from 12:30pm to 2:00pm.
Students who want to enroll in this course have to bring their:
1. Census registration
2. Copy of diploma or last report card
3. Copy of passport or ID card
4. One ID photo
All cost for the school year 2010-2011 will be:
1. School fee, including knives: $425
2. Chef uniform: $70
3. Book lease: $120
Philipsburg:---On Sunday July 11th 2010 a group of 20+ members of the Voluntary Corps of Curaçao (VKC) arrived on Sint Maarten for a week's stay on the island. A joint training exercise with the members of the Voluntary Corps of Sint Maarten (VKS) will start on Monday morning July 12th. Preparations for this joint training have been ongoing for the last few months. Focus of this training will be on scenarios that might develop during a possible hurricane situation. If any such event might occur members of the VKC will join their counterparts on Sint Maarten for assistance. Since hurricane situations very rarely happen on the island of Curaçao it was deemed necessary to develop this joint training to familiarize the VKC members with the island and reinforce cooperation with their VKS colleagues.
Scenarios that have been developed are securing vital objects, riot situations, scaling down high altitudes, shelter management, search & rescue, roadblocks, shooting practice, etc. The group will stay partly at the Sundial School, but also at the Emilio Wilson Estate. The training will be done at various locations on the Dutch side of the island. Residents are therefore warned they might see or hear Voluntary Corps members executing this exercise. Besides the above mentioned the opportunity is also given for socializing, joint sports activities and sightseeing. These social events will also strengthen the bond between the members of both organizations.
Philipsburg, After decades of almost singlehandedly promoting the St. Martin nation building process against all possible odds, the tide is rapidly changing for Leopold JAMES, president of the grass roots St. Martin nation building movement.
His movement received a tremendous boost, when acting Lt.-Governor Mr. Groeneveldt, in an interview with one of the newspapers on July 12, 2010 admitted that St. Maarten must embark on a nation-building process in order to make country St. Maarten work after 10-10-10.
It is a forgone conclusion, that the nation building movement founded and headed by Leopold James is the undisputed champion of the St. Martin nation building process.
Consequently, this organization has published more publications, and has more than any other organization, built up an impressive track-record and credibility on the matter.
Leopold James shared with the SMN News, that this statement by the Governor has created an even greater pressure on him to now take his nation building experience and advantage into the political arena.
It is evident, that the climate for such a party is more receptive than ever before, since the yearning for a fundamental change in the direction of the island is very present in all sectors within our society.
Already, a number of high ranking politicians on the slate of the NA and the DP have personally contacted Leopold James at his home, in order to form a new political party to participate in the upcoming Island-council elections slated for around September this year.
Also, it appears that unlike all other years, money will not be the determining factor, able to buy people's votes.
This might make corporate sponsors very cautious not to waste their moneys in trying to maintain established politicians, who will not get elected anyway.
It appears that more than ever winning the election will be about having a very convincing and appealing message and not about people any longer selling their votes to have everything remain as bleak as ever for them and their families.
Although Mr. James, emphasized that as president of the non-partisan nation building movement, he is not allowed to be politically active, he is hoping that there are persons who are willing to capitalize on the work and efforts made by his organization.
After been pressed, he admitted to have been contacted by a few very interested persons, soliciting at least possible endorsement by him should they start such a new political party.
While Leopold James flatly refused to comment, from very reliable sources its has been learned that if approached by real, serious and committed candidates, he might be willing to consider giving advice as to how best to capitalize on the boost as created in particular by the call to promote nation building by acting Governor Groeneveldt.
It seems politically now almost inevitable that any new party based on nation building has the potential of winning at least of number of seats in the expanded Island-council and to become Parliament of Country St. Maarten after 10-10-10.
A number of experienced politicians have also admitted that any group that gets the endorsement of Leopold JAMES stands a great chance to capitalize on the goodwill he has now accumulated among most St. Martiners and other naturalized citizens who also really want for their children to have future on the island.
Philipsburg:---After meeting with the Executive Council to discuss mainly major labor issues, the SHTA suggested the idea of a labor workshop to address the concerns of its members. The SHTA is again stressing its support towards the employment of local labor, but feels that in the event that local labor is unavailable the legalization process for foreign labor should be logical and efficient. The SHTA remains of the opinion that a cumbersome process only adds to the hardships and expense of businesses, which is passed on to consumers as higher prices.
Therefore, in preparation for the proposed labor workshop, the SHTA is calling on its members that have sent in applications under the current labor law to please provide sample cases of their experience with the functionality of the existing labor law. The submissions, which should be specific exceptional cases, should be sent to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. These will then be compiled, reviewed and addressed in the upcoming workshop.
All aspects of the Dutch American Friendship Treaty, including legal views, will also be addressed in the upcoming workshop. The Executive Council's response to the private sector's questions on the role of the treaty in the permit application process for U.S. nationals was misleading and was wrongly reported in the press earlier this week as coming from the SHTA.
The SHTA also wishes to inform its members that all labor issues will be openly discussed at the upcoming labor workshop. Details of the workshop will be released once preparations are complete.
Belvedere:--- The detective department is busy investigating a stabbing incident which claimed the life of a 22 year old man identified as Otmar Fernando Alfred Leonard born on July 21, 1988 and resident of French Quarter.
Assistant Police Spokesman Humphrey Giterson said on Wednesday July 14 2010, approximately 10.30 pm a police unit was dispatched to Prospect Estate in Belvedere where someone had been stabbed.
Upon arrival the police officers found a young man who was lying on the ground in a pool of blood. The victim was bleeding from a wound under his left arm. Giterson said even though the victim was critical and had problems breathing he managed to tell police that he was stabbed with a knife. The police spokesman said despite efforts from the personnel of the ambulance department and doctors at the St. Maarten Medical Center where the victim was transported for medical treatment he passed away shortly after admission.
So far police have not confiscated the weapon that was used in the fatal stabbing.
In the meantime, the suspect identified as H.K.I 17 years old from St. Maarten surrendered to police sometime during the day on Thursday said police spokesman Humphrey Giterson. Giterson said the suspect is now in police custody as the investigation continues. The body of the late Otmar Fernando Alfred Leonard has been confiscated pending an autopsy.
SMN News found several photographs of the suspect on Facebook where he openly criticized the police. The suspect also posted photographs of himself where he was arrested during the 2010 carnival.
Philipsburg:--- The department of VSA (Public Health, Social Welfare and Labour) has informed businesses that they are now officially in charge of making sure the island ordinance on illegal employment is maintained. Letters were sent to the businesses informing them that the civil servants at VSA will be conducting the various controls to make sure the ordinance is respected. The letter was also sent to the public prosecutors office. Below is the full text of the letter:--
Re : Inspectorate VSA's policy on the employment of illegal/undocumented foreigners: Informative
Dear stakeholders,
By means of this letter the Inspectorate, an independent and autonomous body, that is part of VSA(Public Health, Social Welfare, and Labor) would like to inform the general public, employees, and employers in particular of the following:
In accordance with the 'Landsverordening Arbeid Vreemdelingen' hereafter called the L.A.V. art.13, first paragraph, the Inspectorate VSA is the legal supervising authority.
(Met het toezicht op de naleving van het bij of krachtens deze landsverordening bepaalde zijn belast de door het bestuurscollege aangewezen ambtenaren).
(The Executive Council designated civil servants are in charge of the supervision on compliance with this country ordinance)
A violation is considered non compliant according to Article 2, first paragraph of the L.A.V.
(Het is een werkgever verboden een vreemdeling arbeid te laten verrichten zonder tewerkstellingsvergunning).
(It is prohibited for an employer to employ a foreigner without an employment permit).
In respect to the infringement referred to in the previous sentence, the employer may receive a penalty of up to one hundred thousand guilder (NAF 100,000), L.A.V. art. 19, first paragraph.
(De werkgever, die het in artikel 2, eerste lid, neergelegde verbod overtreedt, wordt gestraft met een hechtenis van ten hoogste drie maanden of een geldboete van ten hoogste honderdduizend gulden).
(The employer who breaches the prohibition which is stated in article 2, paragraph 1, will be punished with imprisonment of up to three months or a fine of up to one hundred thousand guilders)
If employers violate the L.A.V. they will be addressed according to the supervision and enforcement pyramid (Handbook for the supervision and enforcement plan Inspectorate V.S.A.) which is as follows:
Step 1: Convince, instruct, advise (verbal warning)
Step 2: Social monitoring, social control, shaming
Step 3: Warning (written warning)
Step 4: Fine / penalty payment
Step 5: Revoke license, shut-down enterprise
After verbal and written warnings to employers , the Inspectorate V.S.A. will take repressive measures in consultation with the Public Prosecutor's Office.
The enforcement is as follows (these fines are set by the Public Prosecutor's Office):
• If on the day of the finding of the violation, less than 3 months have elapsed after the period of validity of the employment permit, the employer will be warned and they must start the process for the renewal within two weeks.
• If on the day of the finding of the violation, 3 months have elapsed since the period of validity of the employment permit, the employer will receive a transaction proposal (settlement) in order to prevent the occurrence of criminal prosecution by the Public Prosecutor's Office at the sum of NAF 500,- and he/she will be given two weeks to the start the process of renewal.
• If the employer employs a foreigner for whom an employment permit is deemed necessary, and the employee has never had a employment permit before, the employer will receive a transaction proposal in order to prevent the occurrence of criminal prosecution by the Public Prosecutor's Office at the sum of NAF 5000,-.
• If the employer employs a foreigner whose application for renewal has been rejected by the Executive Council, it shall be deemed that the employee does not have a valid employment permit, then the employer will receive a transaction proposal in order to prevent the occurrence of criminal prosecution by the Public Prosecutor's Office at the sum of
NAF 5000,-.
• If on the day of the finding of the violation, less than 24 months have passed and the employer does not comply with the same legal obligation, the transaction proposal increases by 50%.
• The above mentioned transaction proposals are offered "per infringement '. If a proposal for the transaction is not accepted, the employer will be served with a summons. At the hearing, the Public Prosecutor's Office will request higher fines than the transaction amount of the Court.
• For large-scale violations (a large number of violations per employer) as well as in the case of several recurrences of infringements, the Public Prosecutor's Office maintains the right to directly go on to subpoena the employer to appear in court.
In the context of planning the illegal employment, we trust the stakeholders are sufficiently informed.
For more information, please visit the office, located on Frontstreet #1, above Diamond Casino.
Philipsburg:--- The 17 year old suspect who surrendered to police for slaying of Otmar Fernando Leonard ( 22) last Wednesday is refusing to cooperate with the investigators. Police Spokesman Humphrey Giterson said the suspect has chosen to use his right to remain silent. Giterson said the suspect told them that whatever he has to say will be said in front of the judge on Monday.
Prosecutor Rienk Mud in an invited comment said that the suspect appeared in front of the judge early Monday morning but he maintained his silence. Mud said while the suspect is using his rights to zip his lips that would not prevent his office from prosecuting the suspect.
The 17 year old identified as H.K.I surrendered to police on Thursday with a lawyer. It is believed that the suspect who is known to police is acting based on the advice he received from his legal representative.
Members of the voluntary Korps were seen doing their very best to cover the face of the suspect as he was taken to court. It is understood that the officers were ordered to do so since the suspect is a minor.
In an invited comment Attorney at law Brenda Brooks said that she advised her client to remain silent until the file is available to her. Brooks said her client is a minor and he is probably traumatized at the turn of events. The case she said will be tried behind close doors as she intends to make sure the law is respected.
"Minors cannot be questioned without their attorneys present based on the law." Brooks said she would also be fighting to get her client out from the Philipsburg holding cell because right now the young man needs help and he cannot get that help among hardened criminals.
The stabbing incident occurred in Belvedere somewhere close to midnight during a fight. "I don't know what the circumstances are right now, this could well be a self defence case." Brooks said.
Philipsburg:--- The members of the Democratic Party has sent a letter requesting that the chairman of the island council consult with the executive council and to add the discussion of the GEBE concession to the agenda of next island council meeting which is scheduled for Wednesday.
Island councilmember Roy Marlin told members of the media on Tuesday that he believes that the GEBE concession is of great importance to the government owned company and the people of St. Maarten to ignore.
Marlin said GEBE wants the island council to decide on the new tariff structure for GEBE. Marlin said the company has a 5million guilder concession fee which is paid to the island government for having the concession right GEBE also has a variable cost proposed by the island government which is dependent on the total cost of the waste and energy plant. Marlin said the waste and energy plant will consist of several components such as cost, (probably 80 million) yearly operational cost, the return on investments, and other costs.
Marlin said if the island council is given the opportunity to establish what would be the variable fee then they are giving their authority to the executive council. He said if the variable fee is not yet determined they are not able to pass on the authority to executive council simply because the variable cost will be passed on to the consumer.
Marlin said even though St. Maarten needs a waste and energy plant and even though they are aware that government will have to take care of garbage the island council also would have to decide at what cost to the consumer they are going to have this plant. He said another question that has to be answered is if it would be feasible to have this plant if the cost for electricity is doubled.
Marlin said the Democratic Party faction already indicated to the executive council that if the proposal is sent to the island council without the variable cost then they would not support the concession. He said giving the executive unsupervised power would have gross effects on the island when country status takes effect. Marlin said then matters such as these would not be put in the hands of the council of ministers but it will be in the hands of an individual minister who could choose to do as he or she likes for political mileage.
Marlin said they this concession as is would have financial consequences on businesses, and those that are not considered as the less fortunate by government. He said these costs would reflect in goods and services.
Marlin said on Friday the Managing Director asked when the draft concession will be handled since they already have over 300,000 guilders in penalty fees by the financier. Marlin said if the concession is not in place within short then the financier Pacific Life can then go over to call option on the loans which is between 45 to 50 million dollars to Pacific Life. Marlin said despite this the executive council is not keen on dealing with the issue. He said the island leader William Marlin had promised to deal with the concession on Wednesday have on St. Maarten the DP faction has decided to ask the chairman to have the matter be dealt with at the next island council meeting to avoid the island further embarrassment. He said even though the energy commissioner has resigned from the executive council he is still responsible until his successor is appointed. Marlin said they also intend to ask the council to deal with the Olzina case since there is verdict by the court which would expire in the next eight days. Olzina wants its variance permit and if they do not get it within the next eight days then penalty fees would also kick in.
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Philipsburg:--- The police department is bombarded with a number of armed robberies in recent days said police spokesman Geronimo Juliet. Juliet said police was directed to the St. Maarten Medical Center where they met a man with gunshot wound in his upper right shoulder. The victim identified as F.B told police that he was in his house sleeping when he heard some strange sounds. The victim said when he went to inquire where the sounds were coming from he saw an unknown man in his living room with a shotgun in his hand while another unknown man was on his porch. The victim said he began screaming and he ran back to his bedroom. The intruders and thieves then fired a shot at him prior to grabbing his television and jumped in a white car, probably a Sonata and took off. The detective department is busy investigating the case.
Also on Thursday the Atracko Team responded to GOVAR on AT Illidge Road where a man was shot in another armed robbery case. Juliet said an unknown man entered the establishment and demanded money. While inside he pushed the victim to the ground and shot him. The robber took off with the man's gold necklace.
In connection with all the current spate of armed robberies that is currently taking place on the island, police will begin severe road and house controls starting this week and will intensify the controls during the coming weeks.
The police department is urging members of the public at large to co-operate with the officers when stopped during this action.
Residents and visitors are asked to make sure they have their documents with them. Documents such as (identification card, resident/ work papers) Drivers of motor vehicles are asked to make sure they have their driver's license with them including all documents pertaining to their vehicles. While the police are urging the business community to close their place of business according to the closing hours of the Netherlands Antilles. Persons who are willing to assist police with information regarding the recent robberies are asked to call the police tip line 9300.
GREAT BAY:--- The Collective Preventive Services (CPS) of Sector Public Health, Social Development & Labour, has alerted local family physicians to the regional dengue fever situation and has asked them to look out for possible local cases.
The recent rain showers can lead to the creation of breeding grounds for mosquitoes and hence CPS/Hygiene & Veterinary Departments have urged residents to be proactive and take preventative measures against mosquito breeding in order to avoid mosquito-borne diseases developing such as dengue fever.
Dengue fever has reached what has been described as crisis proportions in several countries across the Caribbean region.
CPS is closely monitoring the local situation, however, it is all up to residents/business owners to keep vigilant and to take immediate action in and around their homes/businesses.
The Dominican Republic has reported at least 27 dengue fever deaths and more than 7,000 cases. According to media reports, Trinidad is running out of hospital beds due to an increase in dengue fever cases while officials from Puerto Rico have reported that the island could be facing the worst dengue outbreak in more than a decade with at least five deaths and more than 6,300 suspected cases reported since mid-July.
Other countries that have reported dengue fever outbreaks are Honduras and Belize.
Dengue fever is caused by a virus and is transmitted to humans from the bite of infective mosquitoes. Dengue fever is not transmitted from person-to-person.
The symptoms of dengue fever are high fever, severe headache, back ache, joint pains, nausea, vomiting, eye pain and rash.
The incubation period from the time the infection until symptoms develop, can be three to 14 days, but more commonly four to seven days.
Persons returning from islands and countries where dengue fever is endemic and who develop the aforementioned symptoms, should consult with their family physician.
Persons who intend to travel to dengue endemic countries should take preventative measures such as using a mosquito repellent, wearing long sleeve clothing and staying indoors during early dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
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PHILIPSBURG,— The Caribbean Electric Utility Service Corporation (CARILEC), an association of electric utilities, suppliers, manufacturers and other stakeholders operating in the electricity industry in the Caribbean, will be having their 2010 Engineering Conference & Supply Chain Seminar at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort from July 25 to 28.
The theme of the conference is "Sharing Knowledge and Experience for Practical, Proven Solutions."
"I am very pleased that our island will be hosting the CARILEC 2010 Engineering Conference & Supply Chain Seminar, bringing together more than 300 persons to discuss opportunities as we approach a new era of electricity with renewable energy, regulatory reform, and new technologies.
"Without a doubt we will all be enlightened over the next four days from the speeches and deliberations that will be taking place. In addition to presentations, the conference has a significant exhibition component where over 60 vendors to utilities will feature their latest technologies. It is indeed a privilege to welcome the chief executive officers, engineers and delegates to our beautiful island and may our deliberations lead to fruitful results," GEBE Managing Director William Brooks said on Thursday as preparations continue for the conference that kicks off on Sunday.
Nigel Hosein the Executive Director of CARILEC who arrives ahead of Sunday start of the conference expressed his thanks to GEBE for agreeing to assist with the on island coordination of this regional conference.
GEBE Managing Director William Brooks, a member of the board of directors of CARILEC was very instrumental in having the conference take place on the island especially during the month of July which is considered part of the traditional low season. There will be a number of economic benefits for the local economy, Brooks pointed out.
The conference concludes with a visit and tour on Wednesday afternoon of the newly commissioned GEBE Cay Bay Power Plant Expansion.
The main sponsors of the conference are ABB, Wartsila, Siemens, SOL, Aggreko, OSI, and Morgan Schaffer.
CARILEC was established in 1989. Membership currently stands at 91 which include 34 full members that are electric utilities and 57 associate members that are companies involved in some aspect of servicing the electric utility business and three affiliate members.
CARILEC and its members serve to facilitate the development of world class electric energy services for all peoples of the Caribbean.
...
MARIGOT—Two minors identified as Roy Fabia (14) and Kevin Gumbs (16) have confessed to committing several armed robberies on the French side of the island. The two was arrested by the Dutch police late last week and was transferred to the French side on Saturday. A press release from the Gendarmerie stated that the 16 year old confessed to robbing and killing the 32 year old cashier of Popular supermarket in Concordia on June 30th. He is currently being held in a provisional detention center while the 14 year old is at an educational facility pending their hearing in front of a judge.
The two culprits also confessed to committing at least seven armed robberies St James, Concordia, and Sandy Ground from June 30th to July 21 2010.
The 16 year old also confessed to being the driver of a getaway car that deliberately knocked down a gendarme during a routine traffic control in Cripple Gate.
Philipsburg: --- The community of St. Maarten is again placed in shock when they learnt of the sudden death of 18 year old Khimouy Andromeda Antoine who died early Monday morning in fatal car accident. Police also arrested a suspect identified as R.J.I. G from St. Maarten after their investigations showed the young man and three other persons were in another vehicle chasing her. The suspected vehicle which has been impounded by police is a Hyundai Atos with license plate R. 829.
SMN News learnt that the suspect in custody is related to the victim. It is also learnt that some persons were chasing the victim last week when she and someone else were on their way home.
Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson in a press release said police and the ambulance department were dispatched to Coralita Road around 2 am in the morning when they were notified of the accident.
Henson said on the scene the patrol encountered a blue Suzuki Swift with license plate 408 ZBE 971 with substantial damage. The vehicle he said was lying on its side and the driver identified as Khimouy Andromeda Antoine was pinned under the wreckage. Henson said despite the efforts of the ambulance personnel to revive the victim she was pronounced dead on the scene. Investigations showed the victim was driving at high speed and that she lost control of her vehicle and hit a lamp post.
The police spokesman said the investigation is its early stages and a decision has to be taken on who would continue the investigation.
Henson said the police have been busy all week investigating several accidents and armed robberies.
Among the accidents that are being investigated are three hit and run, four of the eight accidents are with personal injuries including the fatal accident on Monday.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—Tomorrow is the last day for the inspection of school busses by the Department of Inspection, Control, and Security(CIB).
Although there will be follow-up sessions scheduled for a later date, those are reserved for secondary sessions for busses that have already had the initial inspection.
At this present time, Head of CIB, Martha Thewet, said that only 8 of out 64 buses have been inspected at noon on Tuesday, July 27. So there are a lot more bus owners/operators who have to contact the department and schedule an appointment for inspection. Thus, bus owners and drivers are asked to bring in their busses for inspection, and to make sure that all the paperwork is in order.
Currently, it is not sufficient to bring in partial documents, but a total inspection requires that all the technical and documentary aspects are in order.
If buses do not show up, it is considered not having passed the inspection. So considering the circumstances, it is a two-way street, each one needs the other. If owners/operators don't come in to have their busses inspected, then they cannot drive the school children to school and therefore won't get paid. On the other hand, if there are insufficient school busses then many children will not be able to go to school, Thewet said. So both of us have to go through the process.
We will not and cannot compromise the safety of our children. Every bus has to go through the rigors of inspection and come out with a clean bill of health if they are to transport school children.
Key documents to have are: the insurance up to date, the correct type of driver's license, and the general good condition of the bus—three factors that are crucial to the inspection process.
Tomorrow is the third and last day for bus inspection. For now, so it is urged that bus drivers and owners bring in their busses to be inspected.
For more information, contact Ms. Thewet at telephone number: 542-4511 or via fax: 542-3800.
Philipsburg:--- St. Maarten Pride Foundation has been closely following the developments regarding the Olzina/ Vorst Estate Planning Permit and the subsequent variance request, for the past two years and paid keen attention to Monday's Island Council meeting on the matter.
The Foundation unreservedly supports the factions in the island council that voted to withhold the granting of "Planning Permit PP#0090002 "Vorst Estate Variance-03019".
Contrary to insinuations made by Island Councilman and former Commissioner Roy Marlin, the Foundation's objections to the Variance request were not solely based on the fact that the building is a major eyesore. The undeniable fact that the building is an eyesore is mentioned as an addendum to a number of objections the Foundation submitted against the variance request.
It does not surprise the Foundation that Councilman Roy Marlin dismissed St. Maarten Pride's objections and the Cay Hill Residents' petition, which was signed by over a hundred people, as unimportant as the councilman's opinion that "permits are frivolous details" has been well documented in local media over the past few years. Former Commissioner Roy Marlin's disregard for the public's right to submit objections to projects requiring permits and his apparent inclination to allow developers to build whatever, however and whenever they please is evident in the rather disastrous legacy of his tenure as Commissioner of Environmental Affairs, Spatial planning and Public works.
Spatial planning and in some cases architectural failures such as Babaron, Aquarius at Red Pond, the Indigo Bay project, Westin-Resort, Rainbow in Cupecoy, and Porto Cupecoy all date from the councilman's term as Commissioner and are a result of Marlin's unwillingness to take note of objections and set regulations for developments by drafting Zoning Plans and updating the Building Ordinance which dates from 1935.
"Caretaker" Commissioner Heyliger's proposal to grant the planning permit variance request "with an added condition that the company submit and carry-out a beautification/ Greenery plan" is one which would set a bad precedent and may encourage developers to violate permit requirements, considering that the consequences of such a violation would be relatively negligible.
The Foundation is rather taken aback by the fact that Council members neglected to mention the serious intimidation Foundation members and Cay Hill residents suffered at the hands of the developer, whether directly or indirectly, after the respective objections were filed.
St. Maarten Pride Foundation stands by the objections filed and recommends that the Island and Executive Councils withholds the granting of Planning Permit PP#009002 "Vorst Estate Variance -03019". The foundation furthermore urges Authorities to launch a thorough inquiry of how the developer managed to obtain a building permit which was in clear contradiction of the planning permit he was issued and calls for an investigation of all other irregularities associated with this Planning Permit Variance request.
Philipsburg:--- The prosecutor's office and the traffic department has ruled out crime and car chase from the accident which caused the death of Khimouy Andromeda Antoine (18)
Public Prosecutor Jan Bart Daveling said the prosecutor's office managed to review some camera footage which led them to conclude that no one was chasing the victim and that the accident was not intentional.
Daveling said police questioned all the persons who were in the vehicle behind the victim's car and they were released. Police on Monday said they arrested one person and confiscated a white Hyundai Atos. Daveling said that person was questioned by police and released the same day. The other occupants in the vehicle were questioned on Tuesday. Daveling further explained that the road was wet and slippery and that must have been the main cause of the accident including high speed.
It is also understood that the victim not long ago received her driver's license.
The accident took place on Monday at Coralita Road on Monday July 26 at about 2am. Police said the victim was trapped in the wreckage and she died on the spot.
MARIGOT:--- The Gendarmes have detained two persons aged 20 years, for their involvement in an altercation in Grand Case on Wednesday that led to two persons being hospitalised with shotgun wounds. The victims are said to be in stable condition a press release from the gendarmerie stated.
The shooting occurred on Rue des Écoles just after midday as three persons were engaged in a heated argument over the repair work conducted on a scooter. During the argument one of the suspects took a hammer and inflicted a blow on the head of his adversary.
The victim left the scene of the argument and returned shortly afterwards armed with a shotgun, and accompanied by a friend who was brandishing another weapon.
The suspect with the shotgun fired shots towards the two persons he was having the argument with before the pair fled the scene. The gendarmes managed to arrest both suspects after launching an investigation. Both persons remain in custody as the investigation continues.
Gendarmes also arrested a 19 year old suspect on Wednesday for attempted homicide in French Quarter .
A press release from the gendarmerie states that two persons were arguing which ended up in a fight. One of the two suspects then left scene and returned with a gun and fired shots at a 25- year old man with whom he was arguing. The victim was at the time entering his vehicle to go home when the shooting took place. The victim was transported to the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital for treatment. He was shot in his shoulder.
Philipsburg:--- The prosecutor's office is calling on members of the community to contact the police department if they have any type of information that would help them solve the murder of Clemencia Josi-anne Julot whose body was recovered on July 22 2010. Persons who may have seen the victim on the morning of July 20th while jogging towards Oyster Pond Road are asked to call
599 5813674 with whatever information they may have.
Public Prosecutor Rienk Mud in a press release said because Julot's body was recovered on the French side of the island on Oyster Pond road the French and Dutch authorities are investigating the murder together on both sides of the border.
Mud said the Dutch side has decided to get all hands on deck to make sure they are able to solve this gruesome murder which left the community in shock.
The Dutch investigation is taking place within the framework of a so called "Team Grootschalige Opsporing" (TGO), which is a large scale investigation. Teams like this can be formed in case of very serious crimes, with the consent of the attorney general.
Even though cooperation between several police forces has happened before, it is for the first time in St Maarten that a TGO has been formed. Working within the TGO-framework means that other police forces within the Caribbean part of the Kingdom are obliged to contribute to such a team, so that more investigative capacity is available.
The team investigating the death of Clemencia Julot consists of detectives from the local police force (KPSSS), the Recherche Samenwerkingsteam (RST), the Royal Marechaussee (both from Sint Maarten and Curaçao), the police force of Curaçao (KPC) and the police force of Aruba (KPA). This team works in close cooperation with the French Gendarmerie.
The public prosecutor said an autopsy was conducted on Saturday and it is clear that the victim met a violent death. The results of the autopsy are being awaited.
So far the investigators have determined thus far that the victim began jogging from her house in Middle Region towards Oyster Pond, on Tuesday July 20 2010, somewhere between 5:00 and 6:00 AM.
Julot's body was recovered during the early morning hours of July 22, by a search team comprising of her relatives and co-workers at Blue Point.
Philipsburg:--- Councilwoman Maria Buncamper-Molanus, on behalf of the Sky Is The Limit Foundation, has come to the assistance once again of a young, local musician. This time, Jawara "Ku-J" Joe received financial help for the release of his music video "Mr. Customs Officer".
"Here again we have a prime example of a young, talented person from St. Maarten who has worked hard at his art form to be where is he today. I am sure he will continue working to elevate himself even more in the future. We've always believed in assisting young artists in achieving the goals and Jawara, through hard work and dedication, is well underway to meeting those goals," Buncamper-Molanus said.
Jawara has performed at a number a local competitions and musical events over the years. He has also represented St. Maarten in Hollywood and other places in the United States. The release party for the video was held on Thursday evening. It will be aired on Tempo, St. Maarten Cable TV and other media broadcasting outlets in the Caribbean.
GREAT BAY: --- Executive Director of the Tallahassee-St Maarten Foundation (TLH-SXMF) Arthur (Arturo) Lugisse will be arriving on the island Tuesday, August 3 for 10-days with respect to the Victorious Living Entrepreneur Wealth Creation Symposium, a joint collaborative effort as a result of the Tallahassee-St Maarten partnership, and includes a lecture by infamous U.S. consultant Ramon Alexander.
During Lugisse working visit, he will also be available to meet with Non Governmental Organizations (NGOs), individuals, students, businesses, associations and other entities who are interested in knowing more about the Tallahassee-St Maarten partnership which has been in existence for more than 10-years.
Lugisse will be meeting with the Island Government in order to boost on-going relations. For the past 16-years all governing bodies of St Maarten have supported the partnership that exist between the island and the Florida capital city of Tallahassee, Lugisse pointed out, adding that education has always been a priority for the island no matter which government was in power and he expects things to get even better as we move towards country status.
The partnership includes joint relationships in the following areas, infrastructure, environment, human resources', health, police matters, EMS Ambulance services, meteorology, agriculture, fire department, technology, arts and culture, youth issues (juvenile delinquency, gang development), sports, financial options, and assorted joint ventures.
Now that TLH-SXMF has an office in Tallahassee, the aforementioned acts as a vehicle to bring many competencies, expertise, and programs to the island that could benefit both the Public and Private Sectors of the nation based on the close relationship with both the City and now Leon County.
"With our island heading towards country status, developing partnerships is key to our nations continued success in overall national development in the private and public sectors.
"The St Maarten Government with the partnership with Tallahassee has set a platform for ongoing relations not only for St Maarten but with the rest of the Caribbean. We seek to stimulate socio-economic opportunities by way of TLH-SXMF offering business opportunities in the USA to interested organizations.
"Do take the opportunity to learn more what the Tallahassee-St Maarten partnership has to offer the island. I also encourage students and their parents to get in contact with me especially those that did not get study financing from the Island Government.
"There are possibilities of still entering the Florida A&M University in Tallahassee at in-state tuition which is almost one third of the costs. Students from the French side of the island as well as Caribbean students can apply," Executive Director of the TLH-SXMF Arthur Lugisse told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Monday.
Businesses and educational institutions seeking to explore and develop programs/projects/policies/products/services in conjunction with entities out of Tallahassee for St Maarten can contact Arthur Lugisse at the Victorious Living Office, Backstreet #158B or local contact number 524-8731, 542-2663 or send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via the foundations website www.tlh-sxmf.org
GREAT BAY The Nurses at the OB/GYN and Pediatric wards of the St. Maarten Medical Center is commemorating World Breastfeeding Week (WBW), as supported by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF.
According to the WHO website, "WBW is celebrated every year from 1 to 7 August in more than 120 countries to encourage breastfeeding and improve the health of babies around the world. It commemorates the Innocenti Declaration made by WHO and UNICEF policy-makers in August 1990 to protect, promote and support breastfeeding."
"Breastfeeding is the best way to provide newborns with the nutrients they need. WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding until a baby is six months old, and continued breastfeeding with the addition of nutritious complementary foods for up to two years or beyond."
Sheryl Carty-Fleming, Supervisor of the OB/GYN (maternity section), said that the nurses are committed and dedicated in their work and I commend them for a job well done, especially over the last 3 to 4 years.
As nurses at the SMMC, Nurse Carty-Fleming said that we play a vital role in the establishment of breast feeding. We render care to women during their pregnancy, labor, and delivery. We come in contact with mothers and newborns on a daily basis.
Three years ago, we interviewed fathers and men on how they see breast feeding and their thoughts/challenges on this. We concluded that women keep them away because we think they are not interested, so we have to get more men involved in the process. So we have decided that we needed to rejuvenation of our efforts.
Last year we set out to make aware our SMMC colleagues of the importance of breastfeeding from management to our interior care takers.
I would like to thank all that contributed to these efforts, Nurse Carty-Fleming said. Cancy MCRae, Stacy-Ann Violenus, Roslyn Brookson, Naica Arrindell, Mary Liburd, Yvonne Cameron, Fely Mendiola, Holis Parks, Kristine Efenio, and Ariene Tearr.
A committee has been put together and they have come up with several activities that will not only cover the week and month, but also throughout the year. Such activities as: a questionnaire, information sessions, revising breast feeding policy, article and picture contest, and promotional items.
In this regard, she added that an information booth will be in the patio area of the SMMC for the public to visit for more information on breast feeding, from 12 noon to 2pm on August 3rd. There are pamphlets, bookmarks, and other information, including persons on hand to provide the interested persons with information.
The organizing committee pointed out to follow the: Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding, namely, every facility providing maternity services and care for newborn infants should:
- Have a written breastfeeding policy that is routinely communicated to all health care staff.
- Train all health care staff in skills necessary to implement this policy.
- Inform all pregnant women about the benefits and management of breastfeeding.
- Help mothers initiate breastfeeding within half an hour of birth.
- Show mothers how to breastfeed, and how to maintain lactation even if they should be separated from their infants.
- Give newborn infants no food or drink other than breast milk, unless medically indicated.
- 7. Practice rooming-in - that is, allows mothers and infants to remain together - 24 hours a day.
- Encourage breastfeeding on demand.
- Give no artificial teats or pacifiers (also called dummies or soothers) to breastfeeding infants.
- Foster the establishment of breastfeeding support groups and refer mothers to them on discharge from the hospital or clinic.
Cole Bay:--- Police have arrested a Haitian woman at the Salvation Army Building early Tuesday morning when they discovered the woman was in possession of a false passport. According to information reaching SMN News the woman went to apply for the extension of her Brooks Tower Permit and when the officers on duty scanned her passport they discovered it was not an authentic passport. Details on the false document are not forthcoming at this point in time.
The woman was escorted by police in handcuffs from Cole Bay to the Philipsburg Police Station where she is currently held.
Tiara Hasselhoef, project coordinator of the BTA process warned applicants that their passport will be checked prior to submitting their applications. Applicants are also told that they need to walk with their last passport which has to be valid.
These are available for the Annual Programs Fund (outright contributions that provide immediate funding for the Foundation's cultural, humanitarian, and educational programs) and the Permanent Fund (outright donations or endowed funds).
Past President Pierre Decelles expressed his and the St. Maarten Rotary Club's appreciation to Louis Wever for the excellent track record and never ending commitment to humanitarian service by bestowing on him the highest recognition within the Rotary organization.
"Louis, as you may well know is a very successful business man and owns and operated an electrical installation company.
He is originally from Curacao but has elected to live and work in St Maarten for many years now.
As with all our PHF (Paul Harris Foundation) recipient he is a dedicated Rotarian fully involved in everything Rotary. He belongs to the Mid-Isle Rotary Club of which he is a Past President and by the way once again President for the year 2010-2011.
For the last 3 years his position in Rotary has been as AG in District 7020. His duties in this function are to represent the District Governor on the islands of St. Maarten/St. Martin, Anguilla and St. Barths. Having had to work with Louis as AG, I can assure you that his commitment to Rotary is more than anyone could demand. Louis is always present, always helpful and permanently available to all Rotarians. His efforts to make our Rotary world a better place to live is second to none.
We congratulate and thank AG Louis for a job well done and present him this PHF award".
Louise Wever's son Ronny, a member of the St. Maarten Rotaract Club accepted the award on his father's behalf.
Philipsburg:--- The police internal affairs are currently investigating a female officer identified as Dextra Philips who was working in Saba. The officer in question was assigned to Saba some two years ago after her boyfriend who was also a police officer fired shots at her house. Officer Alexander Cassiana lost his job due to the early morning incident that occurred in the Betty's Estate area.
The officer it is understood fought with her boyfriend in Saba and she pulled out her service weapon and threatened him. SMN News learnt that the young man filed a complaint with the police internal affairs. SMN News also learnt that the officer even fought on Facebook with her lover. Officer Philips was ordered to return back to St. Maarten and her weapon was also seized as the investigation continues. In an invited comment Chief Commissioner of Police Peter De Witte confirmed that the officer in question was brought back to St. Maarten because she is engaged in unethical behavior. De Witte said according to the information provided to him the officer did not use her service weapon, but admitted that the officer and her lover was engaged in a war of words that even took place on Facebook. De Witte said the investigation is in its early stages and when it is completed he would be able to say more on the case.
ST. MARTIN:--- The children of José H. Lake, Sr. held a family reunion here last weekend. The descendants of the late St. Martin newspaper publisher, labor activist, politician, and patriot, participated in a private prayer at their patriarch's gravesite; picnicked at Le Galeon Beach; and attended a dedication service at the Catholic Church in South Reward. Attending the services and activities were Lake's children grandchildren, one great grandchild, and additional family members. This is the second family reunion of the Lake, Sr. descendants. The siblings and their offspring that were unable to visit the St. Martin homeland for the weekend celebration were communicated with via the Internet.
Philipsburg:---Commissioner Blackmans latest response on the last CFT letter, he again tries to shift blame from his failing to historical perspectives, far from the truth said former finance commissioner Roy Marlin.
The 2009 budget was approved by the Island Council mid December 2009 and sent to the CFT. The CFT on March 12, 2009 sent its reaction. On April 15, 2009 the Executive council responded clarifying certain matters brought forward by the CFT. On April 27, 2009 the Executive Council and the CFT met in a clarification session. On May 5, 2009 the CFT gave its approval to the 2009 budget of St. Maarten. At no time did the 2009 budget approved by the Island Council need to be amended because of fictitious income projections as was the case in the 2010 budget prepared and supported by the members of the Island Council consisting of NA Island Council Members and Commissioners, Councilman and Commissioner Theo Heyliger and Councilman Laveist.
Commissioner Blackman is the one responsible for the management of the finances of the Island Territory since June 8, 2009. Several agreements were made during the course of 2009, with the CFT by Commissioner Blackman and the current Executive Council which agreements were not lived up to. The CFT in its letter admonishes the Executive Council for continuously setting deadlines and not living up to them. While the insinuations of historical perspectives are leveled towards the DP, it is not the DP that the CFT is referring to as not living up to agreements made. The authority to borrow which was granted in the General Measure Enacting Financial Supervision has to date not paid off. The 2009 budget when approved by the CFT allowed SXM to borrow for capital expenditures. We are still awaiting this matter of borrowing to be finalized for the year 2009 and 2010 with the Central Bank. Every time this matter comes up for discussion the Commissioner comes with the same flimsy excuse, we are working on it. A financial improvement plan which was prepared in 2009, to date still needs to be put into full fledge action. Annual accounts for 2008 which needed to be presented in mid 2009 still not presented for approval by the Island Council. August 2010 and still no final CFT approval to budget 2010. Not one budget amendments presented thus far for 2009 with several cost overruns not properly covered by Island Council approval. Quarterly reports for 2009 not presented on time. As agreed upon between the CFT and St. Maarten, monthly quarterly reports for 2010 not being presented on time. The restructuring of all debt for pre financed projects still awaiting finalization. The administrative handling of the debt payoff of Nafl 180 million, agreed upon between St. Maarten and the Dutch government still to be finalized. Draft budget 2011 to be presented to the CFT by august 15, 2010 and rumors has it that the proposed budget 2011 is running a deficit of close to Nafl 100 million. These matters are indeed history but part of the Commissioners history. The Commissioner uses every opportunity he gets to fly to the Netherlands on all sorts of useless trips with the only intention of racking up as much KLM miles as possible. Let me refresh the Commissioners memory that at no time did the DP party profess that the financial administration of St. Maarten was perfect. That is exactly the reason for the agreements made on improving finances between St. Maarten and the other Kingdom partners. The faster you acknowledge your short comings the faster you can pick up the pieces and move on. Trying to tie in matters such as historical perspectives as reasons for the damaging letter by the CFT are irrelevant at this point and time and serve no purpose. The Commissioner is the responsible person. His lack of taking charge, people's management skills, limited financial knowledge, continuous hostile behavior, his confrontational attitude and the lack of dialogue are all reasons, for the cause of the quagmire that we now find ourselves in. Is this behavior not meant to deliberately delay the constitutional change process for St. Maarten? Allegiance to a cause does not come easily. One would have had to be involved in this cause with heart and soul to have this allegiance. Commissioner Blackman allegiance has always been towards the Saba becoming an integral part of the Netherlands, which he championed tooth and nail together with his mentor for the past 10 years. His actions so far as Commissioner of Finance for St. Maarten makes me wonder if he forgot to make the switch of mind set from BES to Country Status, or if these actions are done with a predetermined agenda to undermine St. Maarten's success of achieving country status. Surprisingly is also that the leader of the NA while very seldom having an opinion on matters such as the BZV, SVB, Central Bank and these other institutions which are a direct responsibility of St. Maarten, we would at the least expect him to have an opinion on the matter of the finances and the CFT which is now being held above our heads as the sword of Damaclus by the 2nd chamber and the Kingdom Council of Ministers, threatening to undermine or delay the achievement of Country Status for St. Maarten. Members of government are expected to be responsible when making public statements and the reaction by Commissioner Blackman as if the attainment of country status cannot be stopped or delayed because of the fact that all laws have been adopted by the first and second chamber, undermines the credibility of St. Maarten as a responsible partner within the Kingdom. The motion of no confidence against Commissioner Blackman will be soon brought to the floor of the Island Council. We hope that this time around the NA/Heyliger government supported by independent member Laveist will realize that this Commissioner is placing St. Maarten in a very embarrassing situation and can no longer be held in this function to the detriment of our constitutional process.
Oyster Pond:--- Police are currently investigating a case of hit and run which took place early Sunday morning on Oyster Pond Road. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said about 01.00 am Sunday morning police responded to the scene of the accident scene where they were informed that a small white car intentionally run over the motor cycle. The police spokesman said the rider of the motor cycle identified as D. M told the investigating officers that while riding on his motorcycle in the direction of Oyster Bay in the vicinity of Lucian bar, he was overtaken by a small white car in which three men were driving. The victim said suddenly he noticed that he was intentionally forced from the road by this small white car.
Not trusting the situation and suspecting that the occupants of that car to have bad intentions, he decided not to stop. The driver of the car he said intentionally drove the car into the motorcycle causing him to lose control, and falling in the concrete trench on the side of the road. The driver of the car noticed that there was other traffic approaching the scene so he took off at very high speed leaving the victim behind. The victim suffered numerous bruises about his body and complained of severe pain in his back, hips, arms and legs. The paramedics attended to the victim on the scene and then transported him to the St Maarten Medical Center for further medical attention.
Middle Region: --- Relatives of Clemencia Josi-anne- Julot who was brutally murdered sometime before July 2 is running out of patience as they wait for two visas to lay to rest their beloved daughter.
In an interview with SMN News on Sunday, Julot's mother Viergenie Julot and her Father Clemente Zepher said that they requested two visas for relatives to attend the funeral but to date they have no answer from their request.
The elderly Julot who is currently ailing from a heart and lung disease said she wanted her son who lives in Haiti to come and see his sister before they bury her. The woman said they also requested a visa for a cousin to come for the funeral because her son if he gets to come to St. Maarten would have to leave shortly after the funeral. Julot said the reason she need her niece to come to St. Maarten is because she would need someone to travel back to Haiti where she is currently taking treatment.
Since the brutal slaying the family said detectives have been visiting their home constantly trying to clues as to who would murder the young woman. Clemente Zepher said the detectives even ask him for a DNA which he provided. Zepher said if it means giving his life so police can find his daughter killers he would do just that.
According to well placed sources Clemencia Josie-anne Julot was found with some 87 stab wounds about her body and her hands were tied behind her back. Zepher said he does not even know if the police and gendarmes finished with the body and if he could go ahead with the funeral arrangements. He said the Collectivity of St. Martin issued a death certificate but they did not tell him if he can make funeral arrangements.
Asked about this on Sunday Prosecutor Rienk Mud said he did not have any news on the case. Mud said he was off this Sunday but hopefully he would be able to provide some information on Monday.
PHILIPSBURG :--- The WIFOL on Friday blasted the University of St. Martin (USM) Board's decision to reduce staff by non-renewal of contracts and called the manner in which the board is operating hypocritical and discriminatory.
One Antillean, with a specialized function, has already received notice while other non-Antilleans, whose contracts have expired, continue to work and their contracts have been renewed. Those include Chief Financial Officer Ken Nolan and Librarian Mark Paul. Nolan, 68, who is well over retirement age, has a salary of over NAF. 10,000 a month, while Paul's is over NAF. 8,000. They also receive benefits, such as car allowance, health insurance for Nolan and his spouse, housing allowance, and other perks. There are also employees who do not have proper working papers. Nolan's contract ended on July 31, 2010, yet he continues to show up to work every day and fire local persons who do not require working papers, signing off as acting president of USM, at the same time, while Joyce Watson, who is said to be on vacation, is sending directives as acting president.
"No wonder the institution is in a mess," said Thompson.
Furthermore, the Board is misinforming the public because the USM Board did not meet with Commissioner Blackman as reported on Friday, August 6, 2010. Actually, the Board reportedly met with some civil servants in an effort to obtain more financing for the tertiary institution.
According to the USM Board, USM will be forced to close its doors as of August 15, 2010, should monies not be received. In the meantime, the USM Business Office is open and collecting funds from students for the upcoming semester which is scheduled to begin on August 16, 2010.
The USM Board is trying to gain favor with faculty, the majority of whom are part time. Faculty at USM only gets paid for classes that are taught, and classes can be cancelled if class enrollment is not sufficient. The salary for instructors has remained at $30.00 per hour since 1994. While the USM Board is cutting back on administrative staff, instructions have been issued for more faculty to be hired.
"The USM Board is providing misinformation and trying to gain political favor with this matter," said Theophilus Thompson.
The USM staff is incurring undue stress due to lack of transparency and communication regarding the future of USM.
The WIFOL is reiterating the call for the USM Board to do the honorable thing and resign while making way for capable and qualified locals to run USM, the island's sole tertiary institution.
GREAT BAY:--- Executive Director of the Tallahassee-Sint Maarten Foundation (TLH-SXMF) Arthur (Arturo) Lugisse who is currently on a working visit to the island says there are investments and joint ventures within the hospitality sector for businesses interested in the Tallahassee/Sint Maarten partnership.
Prior to arriving on the island July 27, Lugisse who received an invitation from President of National Association of Black Hotel Owners, Operators & Developers (NABHOOD, www.nabhood.com) Andy Ingraham for Sint Maarten hospitality students to attend this event, was able to have the authorities send two students to represent the island with other Caribbean students at the National Association of Black Hotel Owners, Operators & Developers 14th Annual International African American Hotel Ownership & Investment Summit & Trade Show from July 21-24 in Miami, Florida.
Lugisse who has been assisting Andrew Ingraham and attending the summit for the last years, was able to meet with African American Hotel owners, national leaders, and top industry professionals, where he learned about hotel ownership, investments and supplier diversity. The NABHOOD Summit has been the vehicle for hotel developers to meet important persons in the industry.
"African Americans have a lot of spending power. I see possible joint ventures in multiple areas such as entertainment, cultural heritage and attractions, just to name a few. There is potential, the island has a lot to offer and I'am encouraging the business community to tap into this resource that the Tallahassee-Sint Maarten partnership has to offer," Executive Director of the TLH-SXM Foundation Arthur Lugisse told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Monday.
Lugisse who is available to meet with Non Governmental Organizations (NGOs), individuals, students, businesses, associations and other entities until and including Thursday, August 12, says he has a wealth of information on the possibilities and opportunities related to the Tallahassee-Sint Maarten partnership.
The partnership includes joint relationships in the following areas, infrastructure, environment, human resources', health, police matters, EMS Ambulance services, meteorology, agriculture, fire department, technology, arts and culture, youth issues (juvenile delinquency, gang development), sports, financial options, and assorted joint ventures including education possibilities for those who didn't get study financing (Dutch, French or a Caribbean national) to still enter the Florida A&M University in Tallahassee at in-state tuition which is almost one third of the costs of out of state.
Businesses and educational institutions seeking to explore and develop programs/projects/policies/products/services in conjunction with entities out of Tallahassee for Sint Maarten can contact Arthur Lugisse up until and including Thursday, July 12 at the Victorious Living Office, Backstreet #158B or call 520-1802, 542-2663 or send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via the foundations website www.tlh-sxmf.org
GREAT BAY (GIS)—Commissioner Hyacinth Richardson met with Okama Brook, Liaison Officer, United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the associating liaison organization in the Netherlands Antilles (UNV NA) to discuss current issues regarding the implementation of the Millenium Development Goals (MDG's) during the week of July 26-30th.
Commissioner Hyacinth Richardson, Loekie Morales (representative of MDG for Sint Maarten), and Khalilah Peters of the Directorate of Programmes and Projects met with Mrs. Brook on July 29th to discuss the issues outlined in the MDG work plan and reconfirm the commitment to achieving the MDGs for Sint Maarten.
Brook also met with the MDG workgroup to discuss the work plan. The visit was deemed successful and provided a good basis for the planning of future activities.
Brook supports the implementation of activities under the capacity of Development for Nation Building of the Netherlands Antilles project. This project is a partnership agreement between the Government of the Netherlands Antilles and the UNDP (with offices in Trinidad, Tobago, supporting Suriname, Aruba and the Netherlands Antilles.
The work plan for the project encompasses the following:
- Building future relationship with the UNDP/UNV, which entails for example the Development of strategic note and sample project proposal with similarities to VOICE project, to corporate social responsibility initiative, University Internships, Fully funded UNV Volunteers.
- Developing MDG Communication Strategy. There should be an advocacy/campaign plan development regarding the St. Maarten Website with the GIS department. Components will include but are not limited to factsheets on current project progress/lessons learned, MDG Campaigning tools—brochures, information kit, info share series and speaker series, e-newsletter, human interest news items, sourcing more knowledge management and networking approaches/methodologies MDG series, brochures, factsheets, human interest stories, posters/banners, MDG good will ambassadors, speaker series, UN days.
- Promoting Volunteerism—advocacy, entails the integration, mobilization, and to organize meetings with key Volunteer Involving Organizations, Government, and the Private sector, and make presentations on volunteerism, symbolism of volunteerism and their economic contribution, identify potential volunteers or programs in St. Maarten, to discuss how to organize International Volunteer Day celebrations on December 5th with possible themes tied to MDGs.
- Building Capacity for Negotiating with One UN System. The Legal requirements and processes for partnering with the UN and specifically UNDP after 10-10-10. Examine the treaties, joint programming, common country assessment (CCA), UN Development assistance Frameworks (UNDAF), Country Programme Documents ( CPD), plans for workshop in August on Sint Maarten for relevant stakeholders. The purpose of this workshop is to create awareness about the reformed UN system, the various agencies of the UN, on who does what, where, when, in order for the new nation of St. Maarten to acquire the knowledge and processes for partnering with the UN in the future. There will be need for an overall consultation with future department of Foreign Affairs and other relevant ministries/line departments to agree on an approach for working with UN agencies and programs. This is important to avoid confusion, overlapping and duplication.
- Support capacity development for public policy strategic planning. St. Maarten Department for Programmes and Projects is tasked with the development of a National Development Plan (NDP). DPP's capacity to be enhanced to enable taking a leadership role and future ownership of the MDGs process including the integration of the MDGs into this NDP. National development planning process, requirement for capacity needs assessment (for statistical monitoring, MDG localization), explore possibility of detailed assignment of a sectoral expert from UNDP Regional centre in Panama.
- Localization of the MDGs and establishment of DevInfo (a database on development items); to refine the role of the MDG working group (who does what, where, how and when) will take place. Data collection streamlining preliminary information to DEVCO (Department for development cooperation on Federal level), as input for summary note under preparation for report writing consultancy will be part of the plan as well.
Philipsburg:--- The young people within our community are showing great interest to the benefit of the community that they affectionately call home.
A few remarkable events or examples are the discussion panel on crime, the surge in the number of aspiring young entrepreneurs who continue to be a source of inspiration for other young people in the community, the excellent work being carried out by youngsters in protecting the environment and the organization of events that showcase the many talented and competitive youth here on the island.
All these various initiatives exhibit the importance of celebrating International Day of the Youth each year and in particular this year 2010.
We are reminded that as a community we need to bring about more awareness on the social ills and create activities intended to eradicate the unfortunate situations within our society.
For this reason the young people within our community should take their activities and contributions to the next level by being more involved. There is another side to doing well for yourself and the community by organizing more activities that eventually will highlight your talents. Share your positive experiences and ideas with your peers as you move forward with your own personal goals.
All of our young people are valued because their input is needed. The youth needs to accept the challenges that our community and our country are facing by offering their valuable contribution towards improving the standard of living in our community. Government will continue to do its part by ensuring that consistent employment opportunities are made available for the young people on the island as well as training to ensure that the necessary skills are obtained in order to be successful. The Integrated Neighborhood Development Program was approved this year which aims to address key issues affecting our youth and our communities. Necessary information gathering will commence shortly within the various communities.
The Commissioner charged with Youth Affairs Mr. Hyacinth Richardson on behalf of the Executive Council wishes everyone a celebrated International Day of the Youth.
There will be an event on Thursday August 12th, 2010 at the Culture Center organized by Mr. Marlon Davis (5237011) to once again showcase our very talented youth.
Belair:--- "Awe-inspiring! Timely; awesome; indeed necessary for this time; and a definite call to action," are just a few descriptive comments made by attendees at Victorious Living Wealth Creation Symposium held Saturday August 7th.
The island is a buzz with excitement and inspiration as persons were motivated by an impressive group of international and local business men and women including former VP of Dell and Motorola, Fenorris Pearson, and Neal Lemlein the marketing mind behind Star Wars who generated billings of more than $100 million in less than twelve months for Paramount Pictures and NBC TV.
From start to finish, the audience was engaged by moderator Kim Reed, inclusion strategist for some of the largest companies in the world including Deloitte, PWC, Merrill Lynch, and Campbell Soup. Attendees included students, doctors, and business persons from various walks of life. Acting Lieutenant Governor Dr. Nilda Arduin endorsed the event and encouraged businesses to make use of the opportunity.
Sessions included the viewing of the powerful and dynamic YES movie featuring 30 multimillionaires before the age of 30, produced by the versatile and empowering Louis Lautman. KFC, one of Victorious Living's Partners in the series also had a power breakfast on August 6th led by Lautman who helped to motivate KFC's employees to be champion sellers and persons with great work ethic who take initiative to move the company's sales.
Ramon Alexander of Clutch Strategies also inspired the NGOs present with various sustainable methods that NGOs could utilize to ensure that they successfully implement their programs.
A panel discussion of all the dynamic facilitators concluded the proceedings which included local business woman of 35 years Marie Antoinette of Hairlusions, the official hairstylist of the Queen of the Netherlands and the renowned Arthur Lugisse of the Tallahassee-St. Maarten Foundation.
Erna Mae Francis, MA, DD, the visionary behind the foundation and series was humbled by the level of support and appreciation of the event by the international speakers as well as the attendees who hailed from St. Martin, Statia and Curacao. The purpose of the event and the Wealth Creation Series is to empower youth and adults and encourage them in entrepreneurship; stimulate our local businesses to become more innovative in business and facilitate their cash flow.
Francis is also grateful to all of its partners including AMFO; SHTA in the person of Robert Dubourcq; Laser 101 and Gee Money who helped to facilitate their radiothon to inform the public about their various solutions to crime and violence and how persons may benefit from its programs and all others who supported the initiative.
Ascendant Strategy, based in Philadelphia, Victorious Living's major partner in this series enabled the foundation to have such high caliber speakers, and is totally committed to the goals of the foundation. Executive Director of The St. Maarten Tallahassee Foundation, Arthur Lugisse, also a partner of the Foundation was impressed by the caliber of the event and is even more motivated to have the event staged in Tallahassee in the future.
The series continues through March 2011 and promises to increase its momentum in providing wealth building tools for persons in our community ready to grab hold of the opportunity. One attendee stated to Francis, "Keep doing what you do because your vision is for the improvement of our community. With your vision and all our efforts, we would definitely live victoriously."
Persons interested in registering for the remainder of the series, volunteering with the organization, purchasing the cds or dvds of the event, or partnering with them, may do so by calling Victorious Living Foundation at 542-2663/524-8731/1-305-407-9260 or visiting them at 158 B. Back Street Philipsburg or www.victoriouslivingsxm.org.
"Calypso in St.Kitts-Nevis is in good hands with Sacrotes and the future of kaiso is bright in the hands of Konris" say People's Action Movement Leader Lindsay Grant.
Basseterre, Calypso in St.Kitts-Nevis is easily the standard for the region, particularly the leeward islands , as has been proven with the recent success of our Calypsonians at the recently held Leeward Islands Calypso Monarch competition," said People's Action Movement Leader Lindsay Grant. Grant continued , "Both Konris and Sacrotes continue to do our country proud in the calypso arena. I must also mention King Astro who also performed credibly representing Nevis. Calypso in St.Kitts-Nevis is in good hands with Sacrotes and the future of kaiso is bright in the hands of Konris".
The event took placed in Anguilla and according commentators and calypso pundits alike at the event the show turned out to be an almost straight fight between Reigning St.Kitts Calypso Monarch King Sacrotes and defending Leeward Islands monarch King Konris.
Konris and Sacrotes tied for first place in the first round with 398 points Socrates gave a splendidly energetic performance of his classic piece, the 'The Real Health Scare'. While Konris performed 'Mommy and Daddy. In the second round Konris pulled ahead as he gave a very good performance of one of his past hits ' Sleeping Tiger!' With an explosive performance, the King interjected lines on almost all the calypsonians who took part in the show, even Anguilla's just dethroned Repeater, who Konris said, could not live up to his name. The performance undoubtedly moved the crowd and he topped it off with a last verse with touched on an incident that took place that very night less than an hour before.
The show climaxed with Konris taking the crown for an unprecedented 2nd straight year while Anguilla's Vinnie took 1st runner up. Scoring 783 points Vinnie gave two dynamic performances with 'A Caribbean Unity' and 'Freedom'.
St. Kitts' Calypso Monarch King Socrates with 739 points captured the second-runner up spot. The charismatic Socrates, decked out in bright yellow pants and a blazing red jacket, sang a new composition 'No reason at all', a scathing indictment of domestic abusers.
This was Konris' 2nd straight Leewards title adding to an already impressive list of titles including the St.Kitts Carnival National Monarch title 4 straight times, 2 St.Kitts Soca Monarch titles and 2 Junior National Calypso Monarch titles.
King Sacrotes legendary career has included 2 Leeward Islands Monarch titles, 5 National Monarch Titles, 1 King of Kings Title, 3 times Federation Monarch , 3 National Witty Monarch Title, 2 Buy-Local Titles, 1 Newtown Fest Monarch Title . He also finished 2nd runner-up in the Caribbean 50 and over Calypso Competition beating the likes of Gabby from Barbados and Swallow from Antigua.
The participants were Kandie from Montserrat , Kanfu from the USVI, Astro our of Nevis, Plentae from French St. Martin , Dutch St. Maarten's Baker Junior and Luther B from the BVI.
Philipsburg:--- Persons who applied for the Brooks Tower Accord (BTA) permit extension and falls under category 1A would begin receiving their permits as early as Wednesday announced State Secretary for Justice Ernie Simmons. Simmons said at least 350 of the permits are already prepared and they are now awaiting signatures of the Minister of Justice or Lt. Governor.
The State secretary further explained that the BTA team received some 721 applications for renewal a mere 16% of the total amount of permits that was issued during the introduction of the BTA permits.
Of the 721 applications, 561 are from persons who are employed. Simmons said the BTA project team is now encountering problems with the processing of persons who fall under category 1B simply because they are not able to confirm if the Executive Council of St. Maarten took a decision last week to amend the island regulation to allow the applicants to register as sole proprietorship at the Chamber of Commerce. Simmons said unless the island regulation is amended by the executive council the chamber of commerce cannot move over to the Salvation Army building to begin the registration. Simmons said based on the law sole proprietorship are for Dutch nationals or persons who have been residing on St. Maarten legally for more than 10 years. However, the persons who would fall under category 1B BTA are persons who have been residing on St. Maarten for more than 10 years illegally. Simmons said he has been trying to make contact with the acting Lt. Governor to see if the executive council took the decision last week, however, he was not able to reach the acting Lt. Governor. Simmons said the largest group which is about 2000 persons falls under this category and time is running out on them. He said the BTA recipients have until November 2 to extend their permits but the Minister of Justice and the BTA project team is aiming at finalizing the BTA process prior to October 10/10/10.
Registration for the extension of the BTA permits began on August 2 and it will end on September 18th said project coordinator Tiara Hasselhoef. Hasselhoef said so far they were able to accept applications from six persons who fall under the category 1B because those people had already registered at the Chamber of Commerce. Asked if the BTA team has been bending over backwards to accommodate these people Simmons said the reason they decided to have the persons who falls under BTA category 1B is for them to pay their dues to St. Maarten. "These people declared they are making enough monies doing odd jobs to survive on St. Maarten and if that is the case they too have to contribute by paying their taxes and having proper health insurance. This way immigration would have better control of the recipients of the BTA permits." Simmons further explained that anyone who is caught without the necessary requirements will be deported and their permit will be cancelled. He said these persons are supposed to have a valid insurance at all times and if they are found without an insurance that is ground to cancel the permits.
Persons whose extension applications have been denied would have to leave St. Maarten within the six week time stipulations since there would be no more grace periods offered. However, the percentage of denials is very slim Simmons said. "As long as the documents provided in the application is verified and can be substantiated the permits will be issued he said.
The BTA project team is now accepting application extensions from persons who do not have their crib number as yet. Hasselhoef said persons who have all their documents can proceed to the Salvation Army and submit their application and the BTA team will proceed to uplift their crib number since they are given preferential treatment at the tax department. She said since they started the project two weeks ago there are long lines at the tax office as people are requesting their crib numbers to finalize the list of requirements and this is slowing down the process. Hasselhoef said during the first week the procedure was moving slowly since the applicants did not have sufficient information however, they are now processing close to 100 persons per day.
Valid and Authentic Passports—Four caught with False Documents.
Hasselhoef urged the applicants to make sure they have a valid and authentic passport when going to submit their applications for the BTA extension. Persons whose passport has been expired will not be processed, while those persons caught with fraudulent passports will be arrested and deported immediately.
Already four persons have been detained and are pending deportation for being in possession of a false travel document Hasselhoef said. She further explained that there are Marechaussees and immigration personnel assisting with the processing of these passports.
GREAT BAY:--- Schools on the Dutch side of the island will open their doors to thousands of school children as the summer holiday recess came to an end on Sunday.
Commissioner of Education William Marlin would like to wish students, parents and the teaching staff a successful 2010/2011 school-year.
"Students are once again embarking upon a very important process in their overall development. An education is essential if you want to be successful in life. Everybody has a responsibility to make sure our young people succeed in life, from parents at home, to teachers in the classroom.
"Every student also has a responsibility in their education. Because even though with the good efforts of parents and teachers, if students don't show up for class, or don't pay attention, the responsibility of not succeeding lays with the student.
"I call on our students to be responsible and while in school, the number one thing is focus on your studies. At the end of the school day, when you leave the school ground, then it's your free-time to do whatever you like to do, but of course don't forget to do your homework. Remember, you are doing it for yourself in order to be a better person and to make a contribution to your community and island.
"Remember, no matter what you want to do in life, you'll need to have an education in order to do it. An educated person will be hired while one without will be without a job.
"At the beginning of every new year, as individuals or families, we come up with new year's resolutions. I encourage all parents and students to do the same starting this new school year. Set goals and work towards them together by supporting each other. Parents need to support their kids and invest the time in order for them to learn and be successful young persons.
"Remember, you cannot drop out of school and just drop into a good paying job. It doesn't work that way. Every educated person plays a key role in our island nation. Your investment in education is also an investment in Sint Maarten's future as an island nation. We need every single person who attends school to study hard and become a success. Don't let your-self down, make us all proud," Commissioner of Education William Marlin told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Sunday.
Commissioner Marlin also added that as the new school year begins, the island is also on a journey to country status come 10-10-10. "During the first semester, before the end of the year, Sint Maarten will take its final exam to become a country. Now more than ever, we need educated and a well prepared workforce to take on the responsibilities that country Sint Maarten brings.
"Over the past months much emphasis and effort has been placed on compulsory education. We have worked diligently making sure that every child documented or not, has an opportunity that our island nation offers. A brain is a terrible thing to waste," Commissioner William Marlin concluded.
Philipsburg: --- Leader of the National Alliance William Marlin on Sunday introduced another new candidate who will be contesting the September 17 country elections. Marlin said when he first approached Dr. Lloyd Richardson some years ago he asked him if he was crazy, but this time around he neither the other members of the National Alliance did not have much talking to do because Dr. Richardson is ready to serve the people of St. Maarten in another capacity. Dr. Richardson is the doctor for the Social Insurance Bank since March 1981. Dr. Richardson in his address discussed some of the difficulties the Turning Point Foundation, an institution founded by him to provide proper care to drug addicts are having with financial and other assistance and the amount of letters he wrote to those that were in government. While the foundation he said was able to restore many young person's there are much more he said that still have to be saved from the destruction of drugs. Dr. Richardson spoke of the inconvenience drug addicts had in the past when they were sent off island for treatment. He said while he worked with others effortlessly to build the center which was opened in 1997 the institution is still not where they had intended to take it. Dr. Richardson said he is willing to continue the fight for equality for these patients but this time he wants to do it with authority. Richardson said he would like to be the one to sign the releases and to take care of the direction of the monies so that it can be directed to people that are suffering in society. He said the young people of St. Maarten are angry and one has to be very careful of how they speak to the younger generation today because they feel marginalized and not part of society, reasons why these persons have to be brought back into the fold.
Dr. Richardson said St. Maarten is at the crossroad of change and while many have said St. Maarten is not ready. He said St. Maarten is not incompetent but some of the experiences will be new and the island has people who are capable and as a candidate on the National Alliance slate he is calling on the entire community to behave as adults and start to assume their share of responsibility of the country and take it to higher heights. He said St. Maarten is a blessed compared to some of the Caribbean nations and if nothing is done with the blessings the island has then the hard days would surely come.
Dr. Richardson spoke of the amount of times he times he was ridiculed and many thought he was showing interest for political intentions, however, he said he did so for 20 years prior to entering into politics. The doctor said all the political parties on St. Maarten approached him to join their ranks but he chose to join a political party that has GOD in its rightful place, and one that supports integrity and honesty. He said he also chose the National Alliance because he realized that the NA leader and members chose the people before their pockets and have dedicated themselves to serve the people of St. Maarten.
Dr. Richardson also highlighted some of the major issues the Social Insurance Bank and the St. Maarten Medical Center are having with transferring patients overseas for medical attention. He said right now when Curacao is called they are constantly refusing to take the patients, forcing St. Maarten to turn elsewhere. He said while not criticizing the BZV or FZOG, their services were not what it should have been for the Windward Islands.
The new candidate also spoke of the amount of monies St. Maarten is sending to Curacao annually so that they could support their budget.
Dr. Richardson said the island has enough people who are qualified to take care of their own business and to demand proper medical services when they would be paying for it and most importantly when the island has more options. He said the island has no intention of abandoning the relationship with the rest of the Antilles with whom they have worked for centuries, but this time St. Maarten would be able to approach them as equals, asking them for services at a particular price while demanding that the island is served well because St. Maarten now has alternatives.
Apart from being a doctor he was on several assignments related to health, sports and student care. He was also chairman of the taskforce for the Adventist School, and instrumental in building the HWEY (Health, Welfare, Education and Youth) building.
Sucker Garden:--- Relatives of murder victim Clemencia Josi-anne Julot created some confusion at the Royal Funeral Home on Monday when the body was prepared for the funeral. Family members accused the Royal Funeral Home of not putting the body on ice causing it to fully decompose. The family also alleged that authorities on the French side told them the young woman met her demise about three hours before the body was found. Reasons why they said they cannot understand how the body decayed.
Julot's mother Viergenie Julot said management of Royal promised her that they were going to dress the young woman in proper clothing but that was not done. Members of the media were called to the scene when the undertakers of Royal prevented a crowd of people that was gathered at the funeral home to view the body, all of which was done for their own health and hygiene safety.
Shortly after, several police officers and the detectives working on solving the gruesome murder showed up at Royal where they held a meeting with the immediate family, members of the Haitian Association and management of Royal Funeral Home to decide if they were going to go ahead and lay the body rest.
Franklin Meyers director and CEO of Royal Funeral Home said Royal Funeral Home will not take any blame for the state of the body. Meyers said when the search team and family members found the slain victim the body was already in a state of decomposition. "The body was smelling and there were maggots all over the body. That alone is evidence that the body was decaying already and there is nothing Royal Funeral Home or any other Funeral Home could have done to reverse the decomposition." Meyers further explained that the police held the body for two weeks as they waited for the pathologist to come from Curacao to conduct the autopsy. The CEO further stated that on top of that the family held the body for another month because they wanted relatives from Haiti to come attend the funeral. Meyers said his staff assisted the family to the fullest extent and he as well as his attorney explained them that the body was not in proper condition to stay that long. As for viewing and dressing the body Meyers said he explained the family that a decomposed body cannot be dressed he said he told the family to bring whatever clothing and it will be placed on top of the body, which is what they did. He said even though the law states that decomposed bodies are to be buried immediately he allowed the immediate relatives to view the body on several occasions. " We agreed with the family that only two people were going to see the body on Monday which was her brother and cousin who came from Haiti for the funeral. But every one of them claimed they are her relatives and they all wanted to see the body and because they were refused they caused this confusion."Meyers said.
According to the law of the Netherlands Antilles the body should have been taken immediately after it was discovered to the cemetery for burial but since St. Maarten do not have a pathologist they were forced to wait on one to come and do the autopsy. "When a body is confiscated we cannot embalm the body, actually we are not allowed to touch or open that body bag. So there was nowhere we could have embalmed the body." Meyers said when a body is decomposed the veins collapse so embalming cannot be done. Furthermore he said funeral homes nowadays do not use ice. They either embalm a dead body soon after the person dies or they do it after the autopsy. Meyers said his staff placed the Julot's body in two body bags and then in a steel box called the ziggler to keep it that long.
"They saw the body and they all know how she looked, they know that the body was decaying and for them to try and blame Royal is not fair", said an officer who saw the body when it was discovered in Oyster Pond on July 2. Clemencia Josi-Anne Julot went missing on June 29th and her body was recovered on July 2. Supporting the statements of Franklin Meyers is a close friend and relative of the deceased Marilene Lawrence who said she was surprised at the commotion and the delay the family caused on Monday. Lawrence said she knew the body was decaying when it was found because the detectives told it to her on the day the body was found. Lawrence said because of that the detectives and Royal did not allow her to see the corps on July 2. She further explained that she went to the scene where the body was found and she saw on the spot a lot of maggots even after the body was removed. Lawrence said she is the one who finally identified the body the following Monday and the detectives could not show her the entire body. "All I was able to see was the face and the only thing that I could have recognized Clemencia by was her nose. Her entire face was damaged like bruised or burnt. So for the family to blame Royal today is wrong. I know they have lost a loved one and they are grieving but doing this is not going to change anything."
After a lengthy discussion the body was taken to a church in Cole Bay for funeral services prior to the internment at the Cul de Sac cemetery.
Belair:--- Leader of the National Alliance William Marlin at a general meeting held at the Belair community center unleashed the 23 candidates that will be contesting the September 17th election under the banner of the National Alliance.
The meeting which was supposed begin at 7:30pm had to be delayed until after 9pm because the National Alliance had too many persons that were interested to be a candidate. Marlin said political parties have to submit a list of 23 candidates and his party had 28 persons that wanted to contest the election. He said while the first 15 seats were secured he had to finalize the selection of the last eight persons which took the extra time. "Normally a list is finalized when it is submitted to the chairman of the main voting bureau so we still have some time to make the final selection.
Marlin said his party is looking to capture ten of the 15 seats because they believe that this is the year for the National Alliance. He urges his supporters and candidates to work hard and to make sure they win the election as a landslide like they did in January.
Those contesting the election on the National Alliance slate are as follows:-
- William Marlin
- Frans George Richardson
- George Pantophlet
- Rodulphe Samuel
- Hyacinth Richardson
- Henrietta Doran York
- Patrick Ilidge
- Silveria Jacobs
- Louie Laveist
- Terry Peterson
- Leona Romeo Marlin
- Dr. Lloyd Richardson
- Kendall Dupersoy
- Christopher Emanuel
- Rudy Engel
- Martha Simmon Thewet
- Jason Peterson
- Narda De Windt
- Herbert Martina
- Claudette Charles Hassel
- Jacinto Mock
- Jean Boasman
- Roland Duncan
The National Alliance will be presenting its list of candidates at 2:30 pm on Wednesday August 18th. The candidates and its supporters are expected to gather at the Parliament Building in Philipsburg prior to marching across to the Government Administration Building.
Marigot:--- Six persons were arrested and placed into custody for various types of offences ranging from being in possession of stolen cars, drugs and driving under the influence of alcohol. The arrests took place between August 17 and 18th when the gendarmes conducted some road controls in an effort to reduce the staggering crime rate.
Other persons were also arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol and driving without a driver's license. The gendarmes plan to continue with the controls. Already they have seen results from their efforts because since the controls started there were no armed robberies committed.
Le Galion:--- A well known Sucker Garden resident who hails from the Dominican Republic lost his life while fishing in Le Galion beach. The man whose identity has been revealed as Hose Eusebio Jesus (55) better known as Tooti who lives at King of the Seas in Sucker Garden. He was born on October 27 19 57 in the Dominican Republic.
SMN News learnt that Tooti a proprietor of several apartments in Sucker Garden is also a a fisherman. The source said Tooti went to fish and it appears that he either got a heart attack or encountered problems with his fishing gun while in the water. SMN News learnt that the body must have been floating in the water for more than three hours before it was found.
Commandant of the Gendarmerie Stephane Brunet said the victim died while swimming at the Le Galion beach. It is believed that the man died of drowning due to a heart attack. Brunet said the victim is from the Dutch side of the island.
Maho:--- A fatal car accident on Rhine Road Mullet Bay has left two persons dead, they are identified as Geraldine Bliss (17) of French Quarter and Jean Michel Mc Donna (27) of AT Illidge Road.
A press release from the police department states that the accident occurred around 04:40 am on Thursday morning. Police and ambulance personnel were dispatched to the scene where the two victims were found pinned under the vehicle in which they were driving. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said the investigating officers encountered a green Mitsubishi Pajero with license plate M-3685 lying on its left side. The vehicle at the time of the accident was traveling at a very high speed Henson said.
The driver of the vehicle while making a left turn lost control of the vehicle causing it to hit a light pole. Upon impact the vehicle turned over several times and then coming to rest on its left side.
At the time the vehicle was turning over the occupants were thrown out of the vehicle and when the vehicle finally came to a stop it landed on the two victims pinning them to the ground.
Both victims died on the scene as a result of the injuries they sustained during the accident. Doctor Douglas who came to the scene pronounced the victims dead. The investigating officers also discovered that at the time of the accident seven persons were in the vehicle, one of which ran from the scene. The other victims suffered minor bruises and scratches to their body. They were all treated on the scene by paramedics and then transported to the St Maarten Medical Center for further treatment. The driver of the vehicle has been arrested for further investigation. The Traffic Department along with the Forensic Department is still investigating this case to determine exactly what happened.
GREAT BAY:--- The Main Voting Bureau will meet on Monday, August 23 at 10.00am behind closed doors to review the lists of candidates that have been presented by four political parties vying for the September 17 elections.
The meeting is being held based on Article 22 of the Election Regulation of the Island Territory of Sint Maarten.
The meeting will take place at the A.C. Wathey Legislative Hall at the Government Administration Building and is not open to the general public.
The Nature Foundation has once again recorded a successful Leatherback Sea-turtle hatching on Simpsonbay Beach close to Karakter Beach Bar. The nest was laid on the 8th of July and Nature Foundation Chief Ranger Etienne Lake counted 67 hatched eggs, 8 developed eggs with yolk and 17 undeveloped eggs. St. Maarten is one of the few places in the world where the endangered Leatherback Sea Turtle lays its nest. There are six additional Leatherback nests which the Nature Foundation is monitoring on Simpsonbay Beach. If you observe turtles or hatchlings call the Nature Foundation Sea Turtle Hotline at 9229.
Philipsburg:---The program which is half an hour in length, will give the general public important information pertaining to the issues which the National Alliance led government is dealing with, leading up to St. Maarten becoming country on 10-10-10.
In addition viewers will also be able to see highlights from the campaign trail, public meetings and various interviews with party candidates.
The general public is urged to tune in for Forward Together, which airs every Monday at 10 p.m. starting tonight (Monday August 23rd) on TV 15 with repeats on French Cable Station Tele 2 on St. Martin Cable TV.
GREAT BAY, St. Martin (August 22, 2010):--- The island's 2010-2011 school year began last week in the south and within short school doors will open in the north as well.
But not a full week into the school year and Albert Chance of Van Dorp bookstore had to re-order copies of An Introduction to Government and National Symbols of St. Martin, said Jacqueline Sample, president of House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP).
Individual customers and schools may cause bookstores to pack in these books. "But I think there is a successful response to these books at this time because people who identify with the island, and people who want to identify with the nation's history and culture, are openly hungry for more and more concrete information," said Sample.
Sample may be correct, because not a day after Van Dorp received its order that Shipwreck shops had its National Symbols order fulfilled, said the publisher.
One educator who sees the response of students in the classroom to well-written books about St. Martin is Rhoda Arrindell. "I think the positive response is growing because as a people we are finding ourselves in the text; and students are making the connection with people, places, and events in the narrative," said Arrindell.
"These books are making it comfortable now for students to go back to school with St. Martin books. It's easier for the young, adults and older heads to take our books home, to the work place, on the beach or on vacation," said Arrindell. As HNP's senior editor, Arrindell has worked for years on a number of the titles that are only now becoming popular reading and study material.
An Introduction to Government – Island territory of St. Maarten by Louis Duzanson was first published in 2000. It remains the "island territory's" only reader in English about how the island and executive councils and the lt. governor's office work.
The easy-read book explains about the government budget and the responsibilities of island councilors, commissioners, and the lt. governor. "In the very near future, it will probably be used barely for comparison study because of planned adjustments to the territory's government structure but right now that is not stopping Van Dorp customers," said Sample.
National Symbols, also a primer, looks at the island as one "nation" and remains popular with teachers, students, the general population, and tourists for well-researched information about the culture, historical personalities, and natural environment of St. Martin, said Sample.
HNP's reading motivation booklets for boys and girls about early nation builders in sports, music, religion, engineering, and house design from St. Martin, Saba and Statia are also available in bookstores.
Arrindell noticed during her stint with the St. Maarten Academy this year, and contrary to a popular belief, that when it comes to assigning books like National Symbols, The Salt Reaper poems, and Love Songs Make You Cry, teenagers, including boys read strongly, "and probably again it is because they see themselves in the narrative," said the award-winning teacher.
Philipsburg:--- The Police Force of St Maarten, Saba and St Eustatius is continuing the upgrading of its police officers in training and the necessary equipments to fight crime.
With the ongoing enhancement the police force just added more technology to crime fighting by installing a camera and voice recording set to the helmets worn by the bike patrol. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said the use of the cameras is a pilot project and the new equipment is in its test phases.
Henson said the camera will record everything that the officer hears or sees and it is stored in color with clear vocal recordings. The expectation of the police force on the use of the new equipment is to register all images which would aid the police in fighting crime. This however, he said will increase security where ever the bike patrol is active.
Henson said the use of the recordings will be numerous as they intend to use the images to solve crimes during their investigations which would lead to people being prosecuted.
Henson said the new technology would greatly aid the bike patrols as they would no longer be required to take notes of suspicious situations, since the recordings could be used for the investigations. The police spokesman said the project has been realized by one of the advisers to the Sint Maarten Police Force Mr. Ron de Milde in close cooperation with Zenitel who has made an important contribution by making the camera and technical equipment available to start the testing.
The project will be evaluated after two months and if the results are positive and most importantly helpful to the police force then the other members of the bike patrol will be equipped with the new equipment.
Philipsburg:--- The understaffed forensic department of the St. Maarten Police Force has received an additional personnel from the Netherlands announced police spokesman Ricardo Henson. The new employee of the KPSSS is Mr. Jos Van Deventer who will be working in the forensic department for the next two years. While working here the forensic specialist will be training three local persons who are now assigned to the department.
The department also received a new vehicle and new equipments that will be used to process crime scenes in criminal investigations.
Philipsburg:--- In the month of August youths who were interested in furthering their studies could sign up for one of the six SBO/ASVE (advanced secondary vocational education) courses that will start this school year: Maritime Assistant Level 1, Cook Level 2, ICT Computer Service Level 2, Carpentry Level 2 for students with a PSVE PBL diploma, Bookkeeping Level 3 and Secretary Level 3 for PSVE PKL or TKL graduates.
Apart from the ICT service course the classes will be held in daytime and the courses will require fulltime involvement of the students. In all courses practical training will be a major part of the study. Companies that will take on these trainees will be asked to give the students some compensation for the work that they are doing.
There are still some spaces available for the following three year courses such as: Bookkeeping 3 (financial administration) and Secretary 3, slated to start in September. Furthermore students can still sign up for the two year course ICT computer service Level 2, slated to start in January 2011.
Philipsburg:--- The leader of the Concordia Political Alliance Jeffry Richardson is expected to appear before the court of instance on Friday where his lawyers from HBN law would be presenting a file against the civil registry in order to add Leo Richardson as a candidate of the CPA list. Richardson met with the Acting Lt. Governor Reynold Groeneveldt on Thursday afternoon where they agreed that a decision to add the candidate must be taken by a judge. It is believed that if the case is submitted during an emergency hearing on Friday, a verdict can be delivered as early as Sunday so that the main voting bureau can proceed with the procedures to finalize the four lists that are contesting the election.
SMN News has been reliably informed that the civil registry made some crucial mistakes when dealing with the registration of Leo Richardson on July 16th. Sources say Leo Richardson's file had disappeared and then reappeared and that even though Richardson submitted his documents to register on St. Maarten nothing was entered in the system on August 18. SMN News further learnt that the civil registry is over burdened with work since the ongoing Brooks Tower process thus creating a backlog.
Philipsburg:--- Reacting quickly to reports that was broadcasting through the police radio commissioner of Police Carl John and Chief Inspector Ricardo Henson along with an off duty police officer managed to intercept a bandit who had just broken into a home on Back Street on Thursday morning. A press release from the police department states that the Chief Inspector Henson and commissioner of Police Carl John were driving on Long Wall road when they heard of the house break in on Back Street. According to the press release at least three suspects were involved in the break in but one of the suspects was seen running away at the entrance of Back Street.
The other two suspects managed to escape somewhere in the vicinity of Radio Shack. The officers chased the suspect on foot through the nearby alleys, but while running he was continuously pushing his hand under his shirt. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson who also participated in the chase said they ordered the suspect to stop on several occasions but he refused to adhere to police orders, as such police had to take action by shooting the suspect in his right leg. When police searched the suspect whose identity was not released they found a bag on him with 33 wrist watches of different brands and several pieces of jewelry belonging to the victim of the house. The suspect was treated on the scene and was subsequently transferred to the St. Maarten Medical Center where he remains a patient. Henson said the investigation has just begun and they are supposed to be making more arrests as the investigation continues.
The community of St. Maarten as well as law enforcement officers are left to wonder how the parents of at least four local youths could harbor their children with stolen items at their homes. A situation that calls for outrage since these very parents accused police of brutalizing their children during the carnival season. Adding insult to injury these youths it is said are constantly telling police that they are innocent and have not been committing any crimes. Police acted on a tip off on Thursday and they searched two homes in Down Street area while they arrested four persons all of whom are minors.
Participating in the searches were the chief public prosecutor Hans Mos and the acting judge of the court of first instance.
Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said in connection with several ongoing investigations by the detective department based on important information provided by some concerned citizens' two houses were searched. During the search police confiscated a sawed off shotgun, a revolver, two cars, several scooters, motorcycles, flat screen television, and other electrical appliances and monies.
Those arrested are all locals and minors and have been identified as C.R., R.St. J., A.T., and G.C. The police spokesman said the investigations are in its early stages and that the suspects were turned over to the detective department. The police also commended the concerned citizens who provided them with valuable information into solving the cases that are currently being investigated.
The police department has issued a warning to all residents residing on St. Maarten to take the necessary precaution as they have stepped up their controls to reduce the current crime rate. Henson said the police will be blocking off certain areas every night and if necessary they would be searching all homes of suspected bandits or criminals. The police spokesman also reminds residents that law enforcement officers on the both sides of the island are currently working together to weed out criminals. Parents who harbor their children that are committing crimes and whose homes are found to have stolen items will also be prosecuted.
In the meantime on Thursday night the police, fire department and the health department blocked off the AT Illidge Road from Madame Estate to the Round About as they control all businesses located on that street. Henson said several persons were detained as the control took place. Another section of St. Maarten will be closed off later Thursday night as the controls continue.
GREAT BAY:--- The Office of Disaster Management is advising political parties participating in the September 17 elections to have a plan in place for the removal of all political campaign material such as political billboards, and flags attached to guard rails in the event of a storm threat to the island.
Billboards could pose a threat to life and property, and the removal includes the complete wooden frame which could become a projectile in the event of a passing hurricane.
Once the all clear sign has been given by the EOC, political parties can proceed with putting the billboards, flags and other campaign paraphernalia back up at the locations where they were previously located.
Political billboards once removed should be properly stored away eliminating the possibility of becoming a danger to persons and property in the event of a hurricane strike.
The removal of billboards and other campaign promotion materials will have to take place when a Tropical Storm Warning has been issued by the relevant authorities.
A Tropical Storm or Hurricane Warning indicates that the system's approach is imminent and that deteriorating weather conditions are expected within 36 hours.
So far five systems have already formed for the hurricane season, namely Hurricane Alex, Tropical Storms Bonnie, Colin, Hurricane Danielle and Tropical Storm Earl.
The remaining names for storm systems are Fiona, Gaston, Hermine, Igor, Karl, Lisa, Matthew, Nicole, Otto, Paula, Richard, Shary, Tomas, Virginie and Walter.
The hurricane season runs until November 30.
"I am in support of the actions being taken and pursued by SPIRIT as they have seen the need to highlight the people's discontent and displeasure with the governmet's decision to rename the High School in honor of the former Labour Party and parliamentary Opposition Leader Mr. Mills without proper consultation," says People's Action Movement Deputy Leader and Senior MP the Hon. Shawn .K Richards.Basseterre, St.Kitts (August 25th 2010):-Thousands of residents from the communities of Sandy Point, Fig Tree and surrounding areas have expressed their significant opposition to a decision taken by the Labour Party government to rename the Sandy Point High School (SPHS) without consulting with and involvement of members of the community .
Cabinet announced its decision to rename the Sandy Point High School in honor of educator and former Labour Party Leader Charles E. Mills. The decision raised much concern by a significant majority of residents in Sandy Point and its surrounding communities. The announcement triggered some debate and sparked significant indignation and displeasure among residents of the community.
A group of civic minded Sandy Pointers led by the recently formed SPIRIT (Sandy Pointers Inspiring Real Improvement Throughout) community group sent copies of a petition to Cabinet, affixed with no less than 2 500 signatures of persons who are in strong objection to the renaming of the school in the absence of the proper consultation with the community.
A Press Release from the SPIRIT group highlighted the position of the almost 100 member strong community group. "Over 2 000 individuals from several communities have taken a bold stand to join the community group SPIRIT in support of seeking consultation from Cabinet before a proposed name change of the Sandy Point High School is officially made," the Press Release stated
The SPIRIT Press Release referred specifically to the issue of consultation. The release indicated that the Labour government's decision was made with consultation with 3 or less persons from the community.. SPIRIT, however, along with the 2 000 plus signatories of the petition, requested a comprehensive consultation before any decision is made.
The SPIRIT release stated "SPIRIT launched a petition on August 5, exactly one month following an announcement by the Ministry of Education to rename the secondary school in honour of Charles E. Mills, a past educator and parliamentarian. Since then, hundreds of past and present students and staff as well as local businessmen and social activists have affixed their signatures to the petition, supporting the position that widespread and thorough consultation with the communities the high school serves must precede any decision regarding a name change."
SPIRIT acknowledged Cabinet's authority relative to making such decisions but asserts that "any decision to rename a landmark of the town of Sandy Point and a hallmark of excellence for these communities must come from leadership of the communities and be followed by thorough consultation.
This petition fits squarely into one of the largest campaigns of SPIRIT called Pride, Virtues and Civics (PVC) Campaign. It is a campaign launched in early May 2010 to promote participatory democracy and to increase awareness and appreciation of the rights and responsibilities of citizens.
The 105-page petition was addressed and delivered to the office of the Minister of Education and Information, Senator Nigel Carty and copied to Prime Minister Dr. the Hon. Denzil L. Douglas, Minister for Constituency Empowerment Dr. the Hon. Timothy Harris and Cabinet Secretary Joseph Edmeade.
Parliamentary Representative for the constituency in which the school sits, the Hon. Shawn Richards and Parliamentary Representative for Constituency Number Four and who holds responsibility for Youth Empowerment the Hon. Glenn Phillip were both subsequently notified.
Parlimentary Representative for the area the People's Action Movement Deputy Political Leader and Opposition Senior MP the Hon. Shawn .K Richards expressed his support for the call that was being made by SPIRIT. Richards addressed the issue when the announcement was first made and expressed his displeasure with the government's failure to conduct a proper consultative process with the community to come up with a name that was not only appropriate but also satisfactory to the thousands of community residents.
Richards said "I said it when the announcement was initially made and I am re-iterating my earflier sentiment and that is the community of Sandy Point and the surrounding areas should have been properly engaged and consulted regarding the renaming of the school. I am in support of the actions being taken and pursued by SPIRIT as they have seen the need to highlight the people's discontent and displeasure with the governmet's decision to rename the High School in honor of the former Labour Party and parliamentary Opposition Leader Mr. Mills."
Prime Minister Denzil Douglas on his weekly "Ask the PM" programme addressed the issue and in dictatorial fashion bluntly re-buffed the call for proper consultaion in the renaming of the school by the SPIRIT Community Group along with Parlimentary Representative the Hon. Shawn Richards.
"When Dr. Simmonds named the South East Peninsula Highway after himself, who did he consult? Who did he consult? When the Beach-Allen Primary School was named, who was consulted? When the Dr. William Connor Primary School was named in honour of Pastor Connor, who was consulted? asked Prime Minister Douglas.
In response to Dr. Douglas' statement the Parlimentary representative for the area Senior MP Hon. Shawn K. Richards said "Anyone who leads by looking backwards is not fit to lead. If you lead a country by looking backwards you are bound to lead that country into a dead end or over a cliff. That statement shows the maturity of the labour party government and it highlights yet another reason why Dr. Douglas and the labour party are un-fit to lead this country."
No indication has been given by SPIRIT or the government if the proposed consultative meeting has or will take place in light of the Prime Ministers statement regarding the situation.
Philipsburg:--- It now appears certain that matters to be regulated by ordinance (law), because they are classified as "organic law" will be passed by a majority in the island council of St. Martin, mostly without any debate or deliberation.
Surely there are several such ordinances that the DP feels without too much ado can be passed by the island council because of a number of reasons:
- The time constraint due to the Round Table Conference on September 9th 2010
- The possibility to amend these ordinances in the near future
- The similarity if not outright duplication of existing regulations
However, there are matters that no amount of time pressure should relegate to "routine" matters.
In other words, it cannot be expected that the faction of the Democratic Party, as eager as we are to cooperate with reaching the finish line of 10-10-10, will rubberstamp matters such as the joint Central Bank and joint currency with Curacao.
The urgency that the government of St. Martin attempts to convey, in our opinion is nothing more than a smoke screen to cover up other actions by government that continue unabated.
Government ignores the concerns regarding the state of the Great Salt Pond and the failed Ring Road and sand fiasco.
Government ignores the garbage collection and the awarding of the garbage contract(s), most probably until after election to award the contract as a political trade-off.
Government perpetuates the public transportation mismanagement.
Who is governing by the way?
What does Heyliger say to these matters? He aptly maneuvers under the radar, promises another new dawn after barely a year of a NA/Heyliger government, and puts the blame for the ills of government at the foot of his coalition partner, the National Alliance.
To secure the coveted 10-10-10, the government of St. Martin accepts verbal abuse from some politicians on Curacao; accepts supervision by the placing of a CFT official on St. Martin and accepts Dutch assistance to clean up the tax office and bring in the "millions on the road".
Philipsburg:--- A host of firemen and fire trucks responded to the government administration building on Wednesday morning when one of the breaker boxes that is located outside of the building caught fire.
Spokesman for the fire department told SMN News who was on the spot that they basically had to secure the area and the building until GEBE was able to send someone to fix the problems with the breaker box. The fire department spokesman said that the main cause of the fire is that water got to the box either during the passing of hurricane Earl or from the rain from tropical storm Fiona.
Philipsburg:--- In order to travel to the US, it is mandatory to get an ESTA before departure for those travelers who hold an US Visa Waiver in their passport.
ESTA is an Electronic System for Travel Authorization that all passport holders from Visa Waiver Program countries must complete prior to boarding a carrier to travel by air or sea to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program.
This travel authorization has been mandatory since Jan. 12, 2009.
From September 8th the US will charge $14 per ESTA to be paid online by credit card. The ESTA doesn't require travel plans to register and is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires.
InselAir advises everybody with a passport capable of having a US Visa Waiver to fill in the ESTA form online before September 8th to avoid the new charge of $14.
The website for registration is https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/.
Passengers that require an ESTA and have not completed the process or have not been approved may be denied boarding to the United States without a valid US visa.
The ESTA requirement applies to all Dutch nationals, including residents of Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao and St. Martin. Passengers with passports that require a US visa, or otherwise have a US visa, are exempt from the ESTA requirement, as are US passport holders.
Please visit www.state.gov for more information on entry and visa requirements for the United States. For more information: US Customs and Borders Protection website www.cbp.gov or visit www.fly-inselair.com.
Philipsburg:--- During the political debate held on Saturday September 4th, a candidate of a particular party (at that time one of the members of the audience) posed a question on the necessity of the much discussed ring-road project to his running-mate who was functioning as one of the evening's debaters/ panelists.
In a somewhat confusing response, which ended with a claim that the establishment of a waste treatment facility would increase the size and water-carrying capacity of the pond, the panelist questioned chose to defend the Ring-Road project by mentioning that an Environmental Impact Assessment was carried out. Nothing was said about the Cultural and Natural value of the Pond.
St. Maarten Pride Foundation would like to point out the following; The drafting of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study does not in any way validate or insure the necessity and environmental sustainability of, in this case, the ring road project. This particular EIA is furthermore rather questionable as Government appointed Lievense Consulting Engineers to carry-out the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of the Ring road. Lievense is however involved in many of Government's infrastructural projects and was actually involved in compiling the plans for the ring road itself.
The Foundation reviewed the abovementioned EIA and is of the opinion that the research and analysis conducted for the document is of poor quality, incomplete at best and does not meet commonly used Dutch or international standards/ formats for Environmental Impact Assessments. This EIA was drafted after the relevant Commissioner and Engineers completed plans to construct the Ring- road project resulting in a report which does little more than attempt to rationalize the Ring- Road project and reads as if it is intended to pacify environmentalists.
St. Maarten Pride therefore questions the objectivity of this Environmental Impact Assessment and has repeatedly insisted on the production of a new EIA to be carried out by qualified and entirely independent consultants.
The brief exchange about the ring-road project during Saturday's debate which was obviously staged/ scripted, considering that the candidate questioned opted to read her response from paper, was in St. Maarten Pride Foundation's opinion a poor attempt at justifying the controversial Ring-road project by misinforming the public. The spectacle was a far cry from the leadership, change and progress St. Maarten's politicians have repeatedly promised the public, and leaves the Foundation to wonder whether candidates are allowed to form their own opinions or are just meant to fill their party's lists and ascribe to the scripts, wishes and opinions of their party's leadership.
GREAT BAY:--- With frequent rain showers from time to time, the Collective Preventive Services (CPS) is advising, residents to be proactive and take preventative measures against mosquito breeding in order to avoid mosquito-borne diseases developing such as dengue fever.
Contractors on job sites are advised to empty buckets and cover water storage drums and have the site cleaned up at the end of the work day of anything that can hold water even plastic bags.
Measures that residents must take to prevent mosquito breeding are:
Debris, old tires and stagnant water in yards are the source or can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes bringing about an increased risk of mosquito-borne diseases.
Residents are therefore strongly advised to take action making sure that there is no stagnant water in their yards and roof spouts; and disposing responsibly old tires, empty drums, buckets, jars, birdbaths, boats, plant containers, paint cans and other items that can collect water around their homes and businesses.
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 mosquitos from breeding in the water.
Persons or businesses making use of the landfill in Philipsburg for the dumping of barrels, buckets or anything that can hold water should cut holes into the items to avoid the accumulation of water.
Mosquito fogging can't take place due to the intermittent rain showers.
GREAT BAY:--- The Island Government has taken a decision to integrate the Baby Clinic services provided by the White & Yellow Cross Foundation (WYCF) as of September 1, 2010 under the management of Department of Public Health, Social Development & Labour (VSA)-Collective Preventive Services (CPS), namely Youth Health Care.
The WYCF has been providing quality baby clinic services for over 41-years.
Parents of new born babies don't have to worry about any changes to the services being rendered. The same nurses who have been involved over the years will continue to administer the medical care services to babies and toddlers.
However this service will no longer be available at St. John's Ranch.
Services were first rendered back on March 19, 1969 when the first Baby Clinic was opened in the Back Street Clinic. A room was made available with a refrigerator for vaccines, and a desk. On the first day only a few mothers came but after a few weeks, the Clinic was so busy that a second afternoon had to be added.
Until 2001, the nurses worked in the District Nursing as well as in the Baby Clinics, but the latter were becoming so busy that two nurses were permanently allocated to the Baby Clinics and they started all day services instead of only in the mornings or afternoons.
In 2007, then Sector Health Care Affairs and the WYCF embarked on a joined mission to improve the quality of the Baby Clinic services on the South side of the island.
The Island Government financially subsidized the foundation to execute the services on their behalf.
Protocols were developed and implemented to standardize the care that each baby and toddler was to receive. The WYCF employed its first full-time Baby Clinic Physician in August of 2009 and this completed the first two-years of intense reorganization.
The Department of Public Health, Social Development & Labour informed and discussed with WYCF of its plans to integrate the Baby Clinic Services on the South side of the island within their department. The WYCF assisted in making the transfer a reality.
The WYCF is proud to have served the babies, toddlers, parents and guardians of Sint Maarten for over 41 years and looks forward to see a continued positive development of this very important care product.
The Collective Preventive Services would like to take this opportunity to publicly thank WYCF for their dedication during the past 41 years in providing baby wellness services to the Sint Maarten community.
The Madame Estate Clinic is open on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday as of 8.00am and is closed for lunch from 12.30pm to 1.30pm.
The Cole Bay Clinic is open on Tuesdays from 8.00am and is closed during the lunch hour.
As of September 21, children born in the years 2006, 2007 and 2008, are requested to call Youth Health Care for an appointment at 542-3003, 542-2078, or 542-3553 from 2.00pm to 4.00pm.
Philipsburg:--- The Prosecutor General Dick Piar has ordered Public Prosecutor Jan Bart Develing to go on leave pending the outcome of the hit and run accident he had two weeks ago in Middle Region. Develing was also accused of driving under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident and he was officially arrested and remained in police custody for about six hours.
Press Prosecutor Rienk Mud confirmed that Develing was sent on leave as of Monday this week, Mud said Develing was not suspended but was sent on leave as police prepares their report.
On Wednesday September 1, Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos sent a letter to the attorney general informing him of the incident Develing had with the police and the ongoing accident investigation.
In an earlier interview with SMN News Mud said that his office is still awaiting the police report from the police department regarding the accident which took place in the Middle Region.
The press prosecutor said his colleague Jan Bart Develing admitted to being involved in the traffic accident and he also gave his office the reason he drove away from the scene of the accident. Mud also admitted to his colleagues in the prosecutor's office and police that he had been drinking beers shortly before the accident but somehow he passed the sobriety test given to drivers suspected of being under the influence of alcohol.
According to Develing he was not sure if he was the main contributor to the accident or if it was someone who wanted to rob him. Mud said his colleague also said he took a split second decision to drive away from the scene simply because he was fearful and his intention was to call police the moment he got home which is not far away from the scene of the accident.
Mud further explained that based on article 9 of the traffic ordinance of the Netherlands Antilles gives a person 24 hours after an accident to report it to the police. However, Develing was stopped moments after he left the scene and was arrested by police. Mud also explained that Jan Bart Develing was not the traffic prosecutor at the time of the accident.
Apart from the letter that was sent to the attorney general by the prosecutor's office the police department has to continue their investigation into the accident. Mud said when the report is submitted to them they would have other colleagues outside of St. Maarten study the report and then they would decide if Prosecutor Develing will face prosecution for the offense.
GREAT BAY:--- Leader of Government Commissioner William Marlin will be addressing the nation via radio and television on Friday, September 10 at 5.00pm from the Dr. A. C. Wathey Legislative Hall.
The simulcast broadcast will be carried by local radio stations and can be seen on Sint Maarten Cable TV Channel 20.
Commissioner of Constitutional Affairs William Marlin will address the final discussions that took place this week in The Hague making it official that Sint Maarten becomes a country on October 10, 2010.
CONSTITUTION
OF
COUNTRY
SINT MAARTEN
Chapter 1 Territory and entity
1. Territory and entity
Chapter 2 Fundamental rights
§ 1. Freedoms
2. Right to life
3. Prohibition of torture
4. Prohibition of slavery and forced labour
5. Respect for private life
6. Inviolability of the person
7. Right to a home
8. Confidentiality of post and telephone
9. Freedom of religion and personal convictions
10. Freedom of expression of opinions
11. Freedom of education
12. Freedom of association
13. Freedom of meeting and demonstration
14. Freedom of movement
15. Protection of property
§ 2. Equality
16. Equal treatment
17. Equal eligibility for public service
§ 3. Solidarity
18. Protection of children and the elderly
19. Certainty of existence
20. Promotion of employment
21. Promotion of public health
22. Protection of the environment and animal welfare
§ 4. Citizenship
23. The right to vote
24. The right to petition
25. Expulsion of aliens
§ 5. Administration of justice
26. Fair procedure
27. Right to freedom and safety
28. Nulla poena
29. Legal aid
30. Appropriate treatment of detainees
§ 6. Limitations of fundamental rights
31. Limitations of fundamental rights
Chapter 3 The government and the Minister Plenipotentiary
§ 1. The government
32. Form of government
33. Appointment and dismissal of ministers
34. Requirements for appointment
35. Incompatibility of ministers
36. Suspension and dismissal of ministers
37. Blood relationships
38. Establishment of ministries
39. Council of Ministers
40. Signature of national ordinances etc.
41. Oath or affirmation by ministers
42. Remuneration and pensions
§ 2. The Minister Plenipotentiary
43. Incompatibilities and the Minister Plenipotentiary
Chapter 4 The Parliament
§ 1. Establishment and composition
44. Representation of the people
45. Composition of the Parliament
46. Duration of sessions of the Parliament
47. Election of members of the Parliament
48. Exclusion from the right to vote
49. Requirements for membership of the Parliament
50. Suspension and dismissal of members of the Parliament
51. Incompatibilities of members of the Parliament
52. Blood relationships
53. Voting abstentions by members of the Parliament
54. Investigation of credentials
55. Elections
56. Oath or affirmation by members of the Parliament
57. President, Deputy President, Clerk
58. Remuneration and pensions for members of the Parliament
59. Dissolution of the Parliament
§ 2. Procedure
60. Meetings of the Parliament
61. Quorum
62. Right to ask questions
63. Provision of information by ministers to the Parliament
64. Right of investigation
65. Immunity of members of the Parliament
66. Rules of order
67. Advocacy of the interests of Sint Maarten
68. Investigation of petitions
Chapter 5 Council of Advice, General Audit Chamber, Ombudsman and standing
advisory committees
§ 1. Council of Advice
69. Hearings of the Council of Advice
70. Composition of the Council of Advice and incompatibilities
71. Establishment and powers of the Council of Advice
72. Oath or affirmation by members of the Council of Advice
73. Rules of order
§ 2. General Audit Chamber
74. General Audit Chamber
75. Composition of the General Audit Chamber
76. Establishment and powers of the General Audit Chamber
77. Oath or affirmation by members of the General Audit Chamber
§ 3. Ombudsman
78. Ombudsman
§ 4. Other provisions
79. Other standing advisory and support committees
80. Publication of opinions
Chapter 6 Legislation and government
§ 1. General provisions on statutory regulations
81. Statutory regulations
§ 2. National ordinances, unified national ordinances, national decrees
incorporating general measures and ministerial regulations
82. Adoption of national ordinances
83. Ratification of draft national ordinances
84. Submission of draft national ordinances by the government
85. Right of initiative
86. Right of amendment
87. Withdrawal of draft national ordinances
88. Procedures
89. Effective date of national ordinances
90. Unified national ordinances
91. Adoption of national decrees incorporating general measures
§ 3. Consultative referendum
92. Consultative referendum
93. Topics of referendum
94. Topics excluded from referendum
95. Consequences of a referendum
96. Regulation by national ordinance
§ 4. Other provisions
97. Establishment of public bodies
98. Independent administrative bodies
99. Adoption of taxes and charges
100. Budget
101. Safeguarding the integrity of government and financial management
102. Monetary loans
103. Central bank
104. Codification of civil and criminal law
105. Codification of general administrative law orders
106. Legal position of government civil servants
107. Openness of government
108. Public utility enterprises
109. Management of domanial territory
110. Duty of service
112. Extraordinary duty of service
112. Enforcement of external and internal security
Chapter 7 Administration of justice, public prosecution service, and police
§ 1. Judiciary
113. Establishment and independence
114. The judiciary
115. Duties
116. Appointment and dismissal
117. Openness of sessions
118. Clemency
119. Legislative tests
§ 2. Public Prosecution Service
120. Establishment
121. Office of the Procurator General and public prosecutor at first instance
122. Duties
123. Prosecution of ministers and members of the Parliament
§ 3. Police
124. Establishment
125. Duties
126. Use of force
Chapter 8 Constitutional Court
127. Duties of the Court
128. Establishment and composition
Chapter 9 Concluding provisions
129. Amendment of the Constitution
130. Citation title
Additional articles
I. Transitional provisions for current regulations
II. Transitional provisions for draft regulations
III. Transfer of the representation of the people
IV. Transfer of draft national ordinances
V. First appointment of members of the Constitutional Court
VI. Introduction of the new Penal Code
CONSTITUTION OF THE COUNTRY OF SINT MAARTEONSTITUTION OF THE COUNTRY OF SINT MAARTEN
PREAMBLE
WE, THE PEOPLE OF SINT MAARTEN
CONFIRMING that we recognise the guiding principles of Almighty God as the core of our values;
INSPIRED by the exercise of our universal right to self-determination as manifested in the referendum dated 23 June 2000, when we freely opted for the status of Country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands;
BEING DETERMINED to work with each other, with our partners in the Kingdom of the Netherlands, with our neighbours in French Saint Martin and with all peoples of the world on the basis of freedom, equality, peaceful coexistence, and international solidarity;
DECLARE that we are a people that believes in the principle of democracy, the rule of law, the principle of separation of powers, the dignity and value of the individual, and the entitlement of all individuals to the fundamental rights and freedoms;
BEING DETERMINED to care for the perpetual maintenance of nature and the environment;
DECLARE that we wish to create a constitutional order based on an open and approachable government;
AND THEREFORE, in order to record these objectives and convictions, the following provisions shall enjoy the force of law as the Constitution of Sint Maarten.
CHAPTER 1
TERRITORY AND ENTITY
Article 1
1.The territory of Sint Maarten comprises that part of the island of Sint Maarten which is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, with the marine areas pertaining thereto.
2.The official languages are Dutch and English.
3.The flag, the coat of arms, and the national anthem of Sint Maarten shall be established by national ordinance.
CHAPTER 2
FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS
§ 1. Freedoms
Article 2
1. Every person has a right to life. This right is protected by national ordinance. No one shall be deprived of life arbitrarily.
2. A sentence of death may not be imposed.
Article 3
No one may be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or humiliating treatment or punishment.
Article 4
1. No one may be held in slavery or servitude.
2. No one may undertake hard labour or forced labour, otherwise than in the form of community service.
3. Trafficking of people is prohibited.
Article 5
1. Everyone shall have the right to respect for his personal privacy, subject to such restrictions as may be imposed under or by virtue of national ordinances.
2. Rules shall be imposed under or by virtue of national ordinances to protect personal privacy in connection with the recording and dissemination of personal information. Such information must be processed fairly, for specified purposes and with the permission of the person to whom it relates, or else on some other justified basis provided for by
national ordinance.
3. Rules shall be imposed under or by virtue of national ordinances in connection with claims by individuals for disclosure of the information recorded in relation to them and the use made thereof, as well as for the correction of such information.
Article 6
Everyone shall have the right to inviolability of his person, subject to such restrictions as may be imposed under or by virtue of national ordinances.
Article 7
1. Entry into a home without the permission of the occupant shall only be authorised in such cases as are specified by national ordinance and by those designated for that purpose by national ordinance.
2. Prior identification and notice of the purpose of entry is required in order to enter a home in terms of paragraph 1, subject to the exceptions prescribed by national ordinance.
3. A written report of the entry shall be issued to the occupant within 48 hours after the entry. If the entry was effected in the interests of national security or criminal proceedings, the issue of the report may be deferred in terms of rules to be set out by national ordinance. A report need not be issued in cases, specified in terms of national ordinance, if the interests of national security would never be served by issuing the report.
Article 8
1. The confidentiality of correspondence shall not be violated except in the cases specified under national ordinance, by or with the authority of the courts.
2. The confidentiality of the telephone shall not be violated except in the cases specified under national ordinance, by or with the authority of those appointed by national ordinance for that purpose.
Article 9
1. Everyone is entitled to profess freely his religion or belief, either individually or in community with others, subject to his responsibility under national ordinance.
2. Restrictions may be imposed by national ordinance on the exercise of this right outside of buildings and enclosed spaces in order to protect health, in the interests of traffic and to combat or prevent disorder.
Article 10
1. Everyone shall have the right to publish thoughts or opinions or provide information via the printed press, without prior permission, subject to their responsibility in terms of national ordinance.
2. National ordinances may render radio and television broadcast subject to licences in the interest of responsible use of the air waves and in the interest of multiform broadcasting.
There shall be no prior supervision of the content of a radio or television broadcast.
3. No one requires prior permission, in relation to content, for the publication of thoughts or opinions or for the provision of information by means other than those specified in the preceding paragraphs, subject to their responsibility in terms of national ordinance. Regulations under or by virtue of national ordinance may be imposed in relation to the holding of performances accessible to persons younger than sixteen years of age, in order to protect good morals.
4. The preceding paragraphs do not apply to commercial advertising.
5. No one requires prior permission to collect and receive information, subject to his responsibility in terms of national ordinance. National ordinance may restrict the right to collect information.
Article 11
1. The provision of education is free, subject to the supervision of the government in terms of national ordinance. Rules may be imposed under or by virtue of national ordinance to protect health and, in relation to types of education to be designated by national ordinance, in relation to the competence and moral integrity of those providing the education.
2. Every child is entitled to obtain a general and formative primary education.
3. Public education shall be regulated with due respect for everyone's religion or belief. National ordinance shall ensure that adequate opportunities are provided for receiving public primary education and that sufficient facilities for the other types of public education are provided for by national ordinance.
4. Insofar as these comply with conditions imposed under or by virtue of national ordinance, special primary education and other types of special education designated by national ordinance shall be funded from public resources in accordance with the same standards as the corresponding public education.
5. The conditions mentioned in the preceding paragraph respect the freedom of direction, including in particular the selection of teaching resources and the appointment of those providing the education. They shall be regulated, subject to observance of the freedom of direction, in such a way as to safeguard the reliable quality of both the special education and the public education.
Article 12
The right of association is recognised. This right may be restricted under national ordinance in the interest of public order.
Article 13
1. The right to assemble and demonstrate is acknowledged, subject to everyone's responsibility in terms of national ordinance.
2. This right may be restricted by national ordinance in order to protect health, in the interest of traffic and to combat or prevent disorder.
Article 14
1. Everyone lawfully in Sint Maarten is entitled to move freely there, to reside there and to choose his residence, subject to such restrictions as may be imposed under or by virtue of national ordinance.
2. Everyone is entitled to leave the country, except in such circumstances as are determined under national ordinance.
Article 15
1. Everyone is entitled to undisturbed enjoyment of his property, subject to such restrictions as may be imposed under or by virtue of national ordinance in the public interest.
2. No one may have his property expropriated unless and until it has been confirmed under national ordinance that the expropriation serves the public interest, and in exchange for previously enjoyed or previously assured compensation, all this being in terms of conditions to be imposed under or by virtue of national ordinance.
3. The requirement imposed in the preceding paragraph, for prior confirmation under national ordinance that the expropriation is required in the public interest, shall not arise if the expropriation is required immediately in emergency circumstances, nor shall the compensation be required to be enjoyed or assured in advance.
4. In circumstances determined under national ordinance, there shall be a right to compensation or a contribution for the loss if the competent authority, in the public interest, nullifies ownership or renders it unusable or imposes restrictions on the exercise of the rights of ownership.
§ 2. Equality
Article 16
Everyone in Sint Maarten shall be treated equally in equivalent circumstances. Discrimination on grounds of religion, belief, political persuasion, race, colour of skin, sex, language, national or social origins, membership of a national minority, wealth, birth or and any other ground whatsoever is prohibited.
Article 17
All Dutch nationals may be appointed to public service on an equal footing.
§ 3. Solidarity
Article 18
1. It shall be the constant concern of the government to focus on the protection of children and young people and to promote their right to education, welfare, cultural development, and leisure activities.
2. It shall be the constant concern of the government to focus on the protection of older people and people whose capacities are limited, and to promote their health and welfare.
Article 19
1. The security of the population's continuing existence and the distribution of welfare shall be the constant concern of the government.
2. Rules shall be imposed under or by virtue of national ordinance regarding claims for social security.
3. Dutch nationals residing in Sint Maarten who are unable to provide for their own subsistence are entitled to government aid on such conditions and restrictions as may be imposed under national ordinance.
Article 20
1. The provision of adequate employment shall be a matter of constant concern for the government.
2. Rules shall be imposed under or by virtue of national ordinance relating to the legal position of employees and their protection as such, as well as relating to employee organisations.
3. The right of every Dutch national to a free choice of employment is recognised, subject to restrictions imposed under or by virtue of national ordinance.
Article 21
1. The government shall take steps to promote public health.
2. The provision of adequate residential accommodation shall be a matter of constant concern for the government.
3. The government shall set out conditions for social and cultural development and recreational activities, as well as for the preservation of the cultural heritage.
Article 22
It shall be the constant concern of the government to keep the country habitable and to protect and improve the natural environment and the welfare of animals.
§ 4. Citizenship
Article 23
Every Dutch national residing in Sint Maarten has an equal right to elect the members of the general representative bodies and to be elected as a member of such bodies, subject to such exceptions as may be imposed under national ordinance.
Article 24
1. Everyone is entitled to submit written petitions to the competent authorities.
2. Persons who are unable to write may submit petitions with the assistance of others who are declared under national ordinance to be authorised to provide such assistance.
3. The competent authorities are obliged to respond to petitions within such time limits as may be set under national ordinance. Petitions to the Parliament shall be answered by the Parliament within such time limit as may be imposed in terms of the Parliament's rules of order.
Article 25
The admission and extradition of aliens shall be regulated under or by virtue of national ordinance.
§ 5. Administration of justice
Article 26
Everyone shall be entitled to a fair and public disposal of his case in establishing his civil rights and obligations and during prosecutions for criminal offences, within a reasonable time limit and by an independent and impartial judicial body. The public nature of the disposal may be restricted under national ordinance.
Article 27
1. Every person has a right to personal freedom. No one may be deprived of his liberty except in terms of statutory regulations as defined in Articles 81.f and 81.g, in cases of:
a. lawful detention following conviction by a competent court;
b. lawful arrest or detention as a result of refusal to observe an order issued by a court in accordance with a statutory provision, or an order to ensure compliance with an explicit obligation prescribed by statutory regulations;
c. lawful arrest or detention in order to be brought before the competent judicial body if there are reasonable grounds for suspicion that he has committed a criminal offence or if it is reasonably necessary to prevent him from committing a criminal offence or from absconding after having committed a criminal offence;
d. lawful detention of a minor, with the intention of intervening in his upbringing or in the event of his lawful detention in order to bring him before a competent authority;
e. lawful custody of persons, who have been deprived of their liberty by law, who might spread an infectious disease, of the mentally incapacitated, and of those addicted to alcohol or drugs;
f. lawful detention of persons in order to prevent them from entering the country illegally or extending their residence illegally;
g. lawful arrest or detention of persons if deportation or extradition proceedings are pending against them.
2. Any person who is arrested or detained in accordance with the provisions of paragraph
1.c of this article must be brought before a court immediately and is entitled to be judged within a reasonable period or be liberated pending completion of the procedure.
3. Any person who is deprived of his liberty is entitled:
a. to apply for a decision from the court so that the latter should decide within a brief period on the lawfulness of the deprivation of his liberty and order his liberation if the deprivation of liberty was unlawful;
b. to be informed immediately, in a language he understands, of the nature and reasons for the deprivation of his liberty, of his right to refrain from answering questions and of his entitlement to be assisted by a lawyer.
4. Any person who has been the victim of deprivation of liberty contrary to the provisions in this article is entitled to compensation.
5. Any person who has been deprived of his liberty may have the exercise of his fundamental rights restricted in so far as exercising those rights is incompatible with the deprivation of liberty.
Article 28
1. No offence shall be punishable unless it was an offence under criminal legislation at the time of its commission.
2. Any person prosecuted for a criminal offence is innocent until his guilt is proven in accordance with national ordinance.
3. No one may be prosecuted or punished a second time for a criminal offence for which he has already received an irrevocable verdict from the courts.
4. Any person prosecuted for a criminal offence has the following specific rights:
a. to be informed immediately, in detail and in a language he understands, of the nature and reasons for the charges brought against him, of his right to refrain from answering questions and of his entitlement to be assisted by a lawyer;
b. to be assisted, free of charge, by an interpreter if he does not understand or does not speak the language used at the court hearing;
c. to have adequate time and facilities to prepare his defence;
d. to conduct his own defence;
e. to interview prosecution witnesses or arrange for this to be done and to arrange for the citation and interview of defence witnesses on the same conditions as apply to prosecution witnesses.
Article 29
1. Any person may arrange representation for himself at law or on administrative appeal.
2. Rules shall be promulgated under national ordinance regarding the provision of legal aid to those of reduced means.
Article 30
1 All persons who are deprived of their liberty shall be treated humanely and with respect for the dignity inherent to human beings.
2. Suspects shall be held separately from convicted individuals, unless in exceptional circumstances, and are entitled to claim distinctive treatment in accordance with their status as unconvicted individuals.
3. Suspected youths shall be held separately from adults and brought before the courts as rapidly as possible.
4. The prison system shall provide for treatment of inmates focusing primarily on reeducation and rehabilitation. Imprisoned youths shall be held separately from adults and shall be treated in accordance with their age and legal status.
§ 6. Limitations of fundamental rights
Article 31
1. Any restriction of the fundamental rights as specified in Articles 5.1, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10.1,
10.2, 10.3, 10.5, 12, 13, 14, 15.1, 20.3, 23, and 26 shall be necessary and proportional and described as specifically as possible.
2. The Parliament may not approve a draft of a national ordinance containing restrictions of fundamental rights as specified in paragraph 1 of this article, and may not decide upon a reading of such a draft, otherwise than by an absolute majority of the votes of the sitting members.
CHAPTER 3
THE GOVERNMENT AND THE MINISTER PLENIPOTENTIARY
§ 1. The government
Article 32
1. The government is formed by the King and the ministers.
2. The King is represented by the Governor.
3. The ministers are answerable to the Parliament.
Article 33
1. The Prime Minister and other ministers shall be appointed and dismissed by national ordinance.
2. If a minister no longer enjoys the confidence of the Parliament, he shall surrender his office.
3. More detailed rules concerning paragraph 2 of this article may be imposed under national ordinance.
4. The Parliament may not approve such a draft national ordinance and may not decide upon a reading of such a draft except with the approval of two thirds of the votes of the sitting members.
Article 34
1. Dutch nationality is a prerequisite of eligibility for appointment as a minister, and candidates may not be excluded from the right to vote.
2. A minister cannot at the same time be:
a. Governor;
b. Deputy Governor;
c. a member of Parliament;
d. a member of the Council of Advice;
e. a member of the General Audit Chamber;
f. Ombudsman;
g. Minister Plenipotentiary;
h. a civil servant in active service;
i. a member of the judiciary;
j. Procurator General or Advocate General at the Common Court of Justice of Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten and Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba.
3. Provisions may be imposed under national ordinance in relation to other public
appointments, specifying that they may not be exercised at the same time as the office of minister. The Parliament may not approve such a draft national ordinance and may not decide upon a reading of such a draft except with the approval of two thirds of the votes of the sitting members.
4. Notwithstanding the provisions in paragraph 2.c, a minister who has been elected as a member of the Parliament may combine the office of minister and membership of the Parliament for a maximum of three months after his admission as a member.
5. For the purposes of this article, those employed by the government in terms of an employment contract under civil law are equivalent to "civil servants" as specified in paragraph 2.h.
Article 35
1. The ministers shall refrain from debating and voting on issues or appointments, including suspensions and dismissals, that personally affect them, their spouses, and their relations by blood or marriage up to and including the second degree, or in which they are involved as proxies.
2. The ministers may not fulfil any position if it is associated with any remuneration or benefit charged to the national budget.
3. The ministers may not, either directly or indirectly, possess holdings in or be a director or supervisory director of any enterprise established or operating in Sint Maarten. Holding shares in a public limited company is not regarded as possessing a holding in an enterprise unless the party concerned holds 25% of the shares in conjunction with his
relations by blood or marriage up to and including the second degree.
4. The ministers may not participate in any concession in the Country either directly or indirectly.
Article 36
1. A minister who has been sentenced in terms of an irrevocable judicial verdict to:
a. a term of imprisonment of not less than one year for the commission of an offence for which a national ordinance specifies that the court may also withdraw the right to vote as an ancillary punishment;
b. a term of imprisonment for the commission of an offence as described in Articles 183, 184, 372(2), 372(5), 373, 374(2), 374(3), 374(4), 375 to 379 inclusive, or 381 to 393 inclusive of the Penal Code; or
c. a term of imprisonment for the commission of an offence in connection with Article 46 of the Penal Code, shall be dismissed by operation of law from the office of minister and may not be reappointed as a minister or be re-elected for the duration of the session of the Parliament.
2. A minister is suspended by operation of law:
a. if he is held in pre-trial detention in connection with an offence as described in paragraphs 1.a, 1.b or 1.c of this article;
b. if he has been sentenced by judicial verdict to a term of imprisonment for the commission of an offence as specified in paragraphs 1.a, 1.b or 1.c of this article.
3. A minister who has been relieved of his position in accordance with paragraph 1 of this article shall be replaced. A minister who has been suspended in terms of paragraph 2 of this article shall have his place taken by a deputy. The minister shall continue to receive his remuneration during the suspension. Those persons taking the place of suspended
ministers or replacing discharged ministers shall resign from office at the same time as the other ministers.
Article 37
Ministers may not be related by blood in a degree closer than the second degree. Spouses may not be ministers at the same time.
Article 38
Ministries shall be established by national ordinance. They shall be headed by a minister.
Article 39
1. The ministers jointly form the Council of Ministers.
2. The Council of Ministers consists of seven ministers unless a different number is specified under a national ordinance.
3. The Prime Minister chairs the Council of Ministers.
4. The Council of Ministers shall debate and determine general government policy in order to promote the cohesion of that policy.
5. If the Governor attends a meeting of the Council of Ministers, he shall do so in an advisory capacity.
6. Rules of order shall be established in terms of a national decree. The rules of order shall be published by being placed in the Official Publication.
Article 40
1. National ordinances and national decrees shall be signed by the Governor and by one or more ministers.
2. The national decree in terms of which the departing Prime Minister is dismissed and his successor is appointed shall be countersigned by the successor as Prime Minister. The national decrees in terms of which other ministers are appointed or dismissed shall be countersigned by the Prime Minister.
Article 41
The ministers shall make the following oath (declaration and promise) to the Governor before accepting their appointments:
"I swear (declare) that I have neither given nor promised anything, nor shall I give or promise anything, howsoever described and under any pretext, to anyone whomsoever, either directly or indirectly, in connection with securing my appointment as minister.
I swear (promise) that I shall not accept any promise or gift, from anyone at all, either directly or indirectly, in order to do or refrain from doing anything in the course of this appointment.
I swear (promise) allegiance to the King and the Constitution of the Kingdom, that I shall always help to uphold the Constitution of Sint Maarten and that I shall champion the interests of Sint Maarten to the best of my ability.
So help me Almighty God
(And I hereby make this declaration and promise)!"
Article 42
The remuneration, pension and other relevant provisions for the ministers shall be regulated by national ordinance.
§ 2. The Minister Plenipotentiary
Article 43
1. Dutch nationality is a prerequisite of eligibility for appointment as the Minister
Plenipotentiary, and candidates may not be excluded from the right to vote.
2. The Minister Plenipotentiary may not at the same time be:
a. Governor;
b. Deputy Governor;
c. a member of Parliament;
d. a member of the Council of Advice;
e. a member of the General Audit Chamber;
f. Ombudsman;
g. a minister;
h. a member of the judiciary;
i. Procurator General or Advocate General at the Common Court of Justice of Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten and Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba.
3. Provisions may be imposed under national ordinance in relation to other public appointments, specifying that they may not be exercised at the same time as the office of Minister Plenipotentiary. The Parliament may not approve such a draft national ordinance and may not decide upon a reading of such a draft except with the approval of two thirds of the votes of the sitting members.
4. Notwithstanding the provisions in paragraph 1.c, a Minister Plenipotentiary who has been elected as a member of the Parliament may combine the office of Minister Plenipotentiary and membership of the Parliament for a maximum of three months after his admission as a member.
5. The foregoing paragraphs also apply to any deputy for the Minister Plenipotentiary.
6. If present in Sint Maarten, the Minister Plenipotentiary shall be afforded the opportunity to attend debates of the Council of Ministers in relation to topics that fall within his purview. He shall then have an advisory function.
7. Articles 36, 37, 41 and 42 apply, mutatis mutandis, to the Minister Plenipotentiary.
CHAPTER 4
THE PARLIAMENT
§ 1. Composition
Article 44
The Parliament represents the entire population of Sint Maarten.
Article 45
1. The Parliament shall consist of 15 members if the population of Sint Maarten amounts to 60,000 or fewer, 17 members if the population is between 60,000 and a maximum of 70,000, 19 members if the population is between 70,000 and a maximum of 80,000, and 21 members if the population exceeds 80,000.
2. Any increase or reduction in the number of members of the Parliament arising from changes in the number of residents in the country shall only take effect at the next periodical election of the Parliament.
Article 46
1. The duration of the session of the Parliament is four years.
2. The session year commences on the second Tuesday of September, or on such earlier date as may be specified by national ordinance, with an explanation by or on behalf of the Governor of the policy to be pursued by the government at a meeting of the Parliament convened for that purpose.
3. The President shall open and close the session year of the Parliament. The ordinary session year commences on the second Tuesday of September.
4. An explanation of the policy to be pursued by the government shall be provided by or on behalf of the Governor at the opening of the ordinary session year of the Parliament.
Article 47
1. The members of the Parliament shall be elected on the basis of proportional representation, within the limits to be specified by means of national ordinance.
2. The election shall be free and held by secret ballot.
Article 48
1. The members of the Parliament shall be elected directly by the inhabitants of Sint Maarten who are Dutch nationals and who have attained the age of 18 years.
2. Without prejudice to the provisions in Articles 36.1 and 50.1, those who have been sentenced by an irrevocable judicial verdict to a period of imprisonment of at least one year for the commission of one of the offences designated in terms of national ordinance shall be disqualified from voting.
Article 49
1. To be eligible for membership of the Parliament, a person must be a resident of Sint Maarten and a Dutch national, must have attained the age of 18 years and must not have been disqualified from voting.
2. A member of the Parliament is entitled to resign at any time by means of written notification addressed to the President of the Parliament.
3. Membership of the Parliament shall lapse as a result of uninterrupted residence outside the country for a period exceeding eight months.
Article 50
1. A member of the Parliament who has been sentenced in terms of an irrevocable judicial verdict to:
a. a term of imprisonment of not less than one year for the commission of an offence for which a national ordinance specifies that the court may also withdraw the right to vote as an ancillary punishment;
b. a term of imprisonment for the commission of an offence as described in Articles 183, 184, 372(2), 372(5), 373, 374(2), 374(3), 374(4), 375 to 379 inclusive, or 381 to 393 inclusive of the Penal Code; or
c. a term of imprisonment for the commission of an offence in connection with Article 46 of the Penal Code, shall lose membership of the Parliament by operation of law and may not be re-elected or reappointed as a minister for the duration of the session of the Parliament.
2. A member of the Parliament shall be suspended by operation of law:
a. if he is in pre-trial detention in connection with an offence as described in paragraphs 1.a, 1.b or 1.c of this article;
b. if he has been sentenced by judicial verdict to a term of imprisonment for the commission of an offence as specified in paragraphs 1.a, 1.b or 1.c of this article.
3. Those persons who have lost their membership of the Parliament as specified in paragraph 1 of this article shall be replaced. A member of the Parliament who has been suspended in terms of paragraph 2 of this article shall have his place taken by a deputy.The member of the Parliament shall continue to receive remuneration during his suspension. Those deputising for or replacing a suspended member of the Parliament shall resign from office at the same time as the other members of the Parliament.
Article 51
1. The members of the Parliament cannot at the same time be:
a. Governor;
b. Deputy Governor;
c. a member of the Council of Advice;
d. a member of the General Audit Chamber;
e. Ombudsman;
f. a minister;
g. Minister Plenipotentiary;
h. a civil servant in active service;
i. a member of the judiciary;
j. Procurator General or Advocate General at the Common Court of Justice of Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten and Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba.
2. Provisions may be imposed under national ordinance in relation to other public appointments, specifying that they may not be exercised at the same time as being a member of the Parliament.
3. The Parliament may not approve such a draft national ordinance and may not decide upon a reading of such a draft except with the approval of two thirds of the votes of the sitting members.
Article 52
1. Members of the Parliament may not be related by blood in a degree closer than the second degree. Spouses may not be members of the Parliament at the same time.
2. If persons who are covered by the provisions specified in paragraph 1 of this article are elected at the same time, only the one obtaining the largest number of votes shall be admitted, and if the number of votes is the same, the oldest of the persons shall be admitted. If the ages are also the same in the last-mentioned case, the issue shall be decided by lot.
3. A person who, following his election, finds himself in the situation described in the second sentence of paragraph 1 of this article may not be obliged to resign before the expiry of his period of appointment.
Article 53
1. The members of the Parliament shall abstain from voting on issues or appointments, including suspensions and dismissals, that personally affect them, their spouses, and their relations by blood or marriage up to and including the second degree, or in which they are involved as proxies.
2. Paragraph 1 of this article does not apply to decisions on the admission of members elected after the periodical demission from office.
3. The members of the Parliament may not:
a. work as a lawyer or counsel in legal actions in which the Country is involved;
b. cast a vote within the Parliament on the adoption or approval of the accounts and reports of a body of which they are board members;
c. accept a contract for work for the Country, nor stand as surety for such work or participate therein either directly or indirectly;
d. participate directly or indirectly in a private lease of property or rights belonging to the Country.
4. If deemed appropriate in the interests of the Country, the Parliament may grant a waiver of the prohibitions specified in paragraph 3 of this article in specific cases.
Article 54
The Parliament shall investigate the credentials of newly appointed members and determine any disputes arising from the credentials or from the elections themselves, subject to rules to be specified in terms of national ordinance.
Article 55
1. More detailed rules shall be specified under national ordinance in relation to the right to vote and the elections.
2. Rules shall be specified under national ordinance to promote a balanced and responsible election process.
Article 56
The members of the Parliament shall make the following oath (declaration and promise) to the Governor before accepting their appointments:
"I swear (declare) that I have neither given nor promised anything, nor shall I give or promise anything, howsoever described and under any pretext, to anyone whomsoever, either directly or indirectly, in connection with my election as a member of the Parliament.
I swear (promise) that I shall not accept any promise or gift, from anyone at all, either directly or indirectly, in order to do or refrain from doing anything in the course of this appointment.
I swear (promise) allegiance to the King and the Constitution of the Kingdom, that I shall always help to uphold the Constitution of Sint Maarten and that I shall champion the interests of Sint Maarten to the best of my ability.
So help me Almighty God
(And I hereby make this declaration and promise)!"
Article 57
1. The Parliament shall elect a President and a Deputy President from its own numbers.
2. Until such an appointment has been made, the President or Deputy President from the previous period shall act as President if he remains a member of the new Parliament or, in the absence of such an individual, the oldest member in terms of age of the new Parliament among those members who have sat for the longest period. If there is no such person, the oldest member in terms of age shall act as President.
3. The Parliament shall appoint, suspend, and dismiss its Clerk. The Clerk may not also be a member of the Parliament.
4. The establishment and organisation of the office of Clerk to the Parliament shall be determined under national ordinance. The Clerk's civil servants may not also be members of the Parliament.
5. The position and remuneration of the Clerk shall be determined by national ordinance, as shall his entitlement to leave and holiday pay, retainer, and pension.
6. National ordinance shall determine the appointment, suspension, and dismissal, as well as the legal position, of the other civil servants within the Clerk's office.
Article 58
The remuneration, pension, and other relevant provisions for the members of the Parliament shall be regulated by national ordinance. The Parliament may only approve a draft national ordinance on this matter by a majority of at least two thirds of the sitting members.
Article 59
1. The Parliament may be dissolved by national ordinance.
2. A resolution for dissolution shall also include an order for new elections for the dissolved Parliament and for the re-convention of the newly elected Parliament within three months.
3. The dissolution shall take effect on the day on which the newly elected Parliament convenes.
§ 2. Procedure
Article 60
1. The Parliament shall meet in public.
2. Meetings shall be held in camera if the President considers it necessary or if this is demanded by four members. The meeting is entitled to resolve, by two thirds of the votes cast, that it shall deliberate and make decisions in camera.
Article 61
1. The Parliament may only deliberate and make decisions if more than half of the number of sitting members are present at the meeting.
2. Decisions are taken by an absolute majority of the votes cast, unless otherwise specified in the Parliament's standing orders.
3. The members shall not be bound by a mandate or instructions when casting their votes.
4. Voting on issues shall be verbal and by roll call if requested by one member.
Article 62
Every member of the Parliament is entitled to ask questions of the ministers. The ministers shall respond to these questions within a reasonable period, insofar as answering the questions cannot be regarded as being contrary to the interests of the Country or of the
Kingdom.
Article 63
1. The ministers are entitled to attend the meetings and take part in deliberations.
2. They may be invited by the Parliament to attend meetings in order to provide the requisite explanations, provided that this cannot be regarded as contrary to the interests of the Country or of the Kingdom.
3. They may arrange to be represented at the meetings by individuals they appoint for that purpose.
Article 64
The Parliament has the right of inquiry, to be regulated by national ordinance.
Article 65
The members of the Parliament, the ministers, and other individuals partaking in the deliberations may not be prosecuted or otherwise held liable in law for anything they say during the meetings of the Parliament of its committees, or for anything they submit to them in writing.
Article 66
The Parliament shall adopt rules of order for its meetings. These shall be published in the method prescribed for the national ordinances.
Article 67
The Parliament is authorised to champion the interests of Sint Maarten with the government of the Kingdom and with the States General of the Netherlands.
Article 68
The Parliament shall investigate any petitions submitted to it.
CHAPTER 5
COUNCIL OF ADVICE, GENERAL AUDIT CHAMBER, OMBUDSMAN, AND STANDING ADVISORY COMMITTEES
§ 1. Council of Advice
Article 69
1. There shall be a Council of Advice, hereinafter referred to as the Council.
2. The government shall hear the Council on:
a. all the subject matter of national ordinances and national decrees, including administrative orders;
b. proposals for approval, as defined in Article 24.2 of the Charter for the Kingdom of the Netherlands, of treaties affecting Sint Maarten;
c. proposals for Kingdom laws laws and drafts of Kingdom administrative orders.
3. The Parliament shall hear the Council on draft national ordinances brought before the
Parliament by one or more members.
4. The Council is authorised to provide advice to the government if the Council considers this necessary.
5. The Council shall be heard in such cases as are prescribed by national ordinance, in all extraordinary cases of a serious nature and in all other cases where the government considers this necessary.
Article 70
1. The Council shall consist of five members including a vice-president. A maximum of five extraordinary members may be appointed.
2. The Governor may act as president of the Council as often as he considers this necessary. He shall have an advisory function.
3. The vice-president, the remaining members and extraordinary members shall be appointed by national decree for a period of seven years. They shall immediately be eligible for reappointment.
4. They may be suspended or dismissed in circumstances defined by national ordinance. The legal position of the members and extraordinary members of the Council shall also be regulated under or by virtue of national ordinance.
5. A member or extraordinary member of the Council may not at the same time be:
a. a member of the Parliament;
b. a member of the General Audit Chamber;
c. Ombudsman;
d. a minister:
e. Minister Plenipotentiary;
f. a civil servant in active service;
g. a member of the judiciary;
h. Procurator General or Advocate General at the Common Court of Justice of Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten and Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba.
6. For the purposes of this article, those employed by the national administration in terms of an employment contract under civil law are regarded as "civil servants", as specified in paragraph 5.f of this article.
7. Provisions may be imposed under national ordinance in relation to other public appointments, specifying that they may not be exercised at the same time as being a member of the Council.
8. The Parliament may not approve such a draft national ordinance and may not decide upon a reading of such a draft except with the approval of two thirds of the votes of the sitting members.
Article 71
1. The establishment and powers of the Council of Advice shall be regulated by national ordinance.
2. Duties other than those mentioned in this Chapter may also be assigned to the Council of Advice in terms of national ordinance.
Article 72
The members or extraordinary members of the Council of Advice shall make the following oath (declaration and promise) to the Governor before accepting their appointments:
"I swear (declare) that I shall not accept any promise or gift, from anyone at all, either directly or indirectly, in order to do or refrain from doing anything in the course of this appointment.
I swear (promise) allegiance to the King and the Constitution of the Kingdom, that I shall always help to uphold the Constitution of Sint Maarten and that I shall champion the interests of Sint Maarten to the best of my ability.
So help me Almighty God
(And I hereby make this declaration and promise)!"
Article 73
The Council of Advice shall adopt rules of order, which shall be published in the Official Publication.
§ 2. General Audit Chamber
Article 74
1. There shall be a General Audit Chamber.
2. The General Audit Chamber is charged with investigating the effectiveness and lawfulness of the Country's income and expenditure.
Article 75
1. The General Audit Chamber shall consist of three members including the president.
2. The president and the other members shall be appointed by national decree for a period of seven years from a short list of at least two individuals, prepared by the Parliament. The short list may only be adopted by at least two thirds of the votes of the sitting members. They shall immediately be eligible for reappointment.
3. They shall be dismissed either at their own request or when they attain such age as may be determined by national ordinance.
4. They may be suspended or dismissed by the Common Court of Justice of Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten and Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba, in circumstances specified by national ordinance.
5. National ordinance shall also regulate the legal position of the members of the General Audit Chamber.
6. The provisions in paragraphs 5, 6, 7, and 8 of Article 70 shall also apply, mutatis mutandis, to the members of the General Audit Chamber.
Article 76
1. The establishment and powers of the General Audit Chamber shall be regulated by national ordinance.
2. Duties other than those specified in Article 74 may also be assigned to the General Audit Chamber in terms of national ordinance.
Article 77
The members of the General Audit Chamber shall make the following oath (declaration and promise) to the Governor before accepting their appointments:
"I swear (declare) that I shall not accept any promise or gift, from anyone at all, either directly or indirectly, in order to do or refrain from doing anything in the course of this appointment.
I swear (promise) allegiance to the King and the Constitution of the Kingdom, that I shall always help to uphold the Constitution of Sint Maarten and that I shall champion the interests of Sint Maarten to the best of my ability.
So help me Almighty God
(And I hereby make this declaration and promise)!"
§ 3. Ombudsman
Article 78
1. There shall be an Ombudsman.
2. The Ombudsman shall undertake investigations, if requested to do so or on his own initiative, into the conduct of administrative bodies of the Country and of other administrative bodies designated by national ordinance.
3. The Ombudsman shall be appointed by the Parliament for a period of seven years and shall be eligible for reappointment on one occasion. He shall resign either at his own request or when he attains such age as may be determined by national ordinance.
4. He may be suspended or dismissed by the Parliament in circumstances specified by national ordinance. His legal position shall be otherwise regulated by national ordinance.
5. The powers and procedure of the Ombudsman shall be regulated by national ordinance.
6. Other duties may also be assigned to the Ombudsman in terms of national ordinance.
§ 4. Other provisions
Article 79
1. Other standing advisory committees for matters of legislation and administration shall be established by national ordinance.
2. The establishment, composition, and powers of these committees shall be regulated by national ordinance.
3. Other duties may also be assigned to these committees in terms of national ordinance.
Article 80
1. The opinions of the committees specified in this Chapter shall be published in the manner specified by national ordinance.
2. Opinions issued in relation to draft national ordinances submitted by the government shall be transmitted to the Parliament, subject to such exceptions as may be specified in national ordinance.
CHAPTER 6
LEGISLATION AND GOVERNMENT
§ 1. General provisions on statutory regulations
Article 81
The valid statutory regulations in Sint Maarten are:
a. the Charter for the Kingdom of the Netherlands;
b. agreements with other powers and with international law organisations insofar as they have been ratified for Sint Maarten;
c. Kingdom laws and Kingdom administrative orders that are binding in terms of the Charter for Sint Maarten;
d. this Constitution;
e. mutual regulations as specified in Article 38.1 of the Charter in so far as they have been given statutory authority by a competent body of Sint Maarten;
f. mutual regulations as specified in Article 38.2 of the Charter;
g. national ordinances, including the unified national ordinances;
h. national decrees incorporating administrative orders;
i. ministerial regulations;
j. ordinances by public bodies as defined in Article 97.2 and independent administrative
bodies as defined in Article 98.2.
§ 2. National ordinances, unified national ordinances, national decrees incorporating general measures and ministerial regulations
Article 82
National ordinances shall be adopted by the government and by the Parliament jointly.
Article 83
Draft national ordinances shall be ratified by the government after approval by the Parliament. In this way, they acquire the force of national ordinances.
Article 84
1. The government shall submit drafts of national ordinances to the Parliament for approval.
2. Before making such a submission, the government shall offer a draft of a national ordinance to the Council of Advice.
Article 85
1. The Parliament is entitled to submit draft national ordinances to the government for ratification.
2. Draft national ordinances to be proposed by the Parliament for ratification shall be brought before the Parliament by one or more members.
3. The Parliament shall offer a draft of a national ordinance to the Council of Advice before proceeding to consider it.
Article 86
1. A draft national ordinance submitted by the government and not yet approved by the Parliament may be amended by the Parliament on the proposal of one or more members, or by the government.
2. Until the Parliament has decided to propose a draft national ordinance for ratification, it may be amended by the Parliament on the proposal of one or more members, or by the member or members who brought the draft before the Parliament.
Article 87
1. A draft national ordinance that has been submitted by the government but not yet approved by the Parliament may be withdrawn by the government.
2. Until the Parliament decides to propose ratification of a draft national ordinance, it may be withdrawn by the member or members who brought the draft before the Parliament.
Article 88
1. The government and the Parliament shall notify each other of their decisions on any draft national ordinance. The Parliament shall notify the government of their decision to submit a draft national ordinance to a referendum as specified in Article 92.
2. The submission and withdrawal of draft national ordinances by the government shall be effected through the offices of the Governor.
Article 89
The publication and commencement date of national ordinances shall be regulated by national ordinance. They shall not take effect until they have been published.
Article 90
1. For mutual regulations with one or more countries within the Kingdom, the procedure for the creation of uniform national ordinances may be applied, in which case the provisions in this section may be departed from.
2. Any such mutual regulation shall not come into effect until it has been approved under national ordinance.
Article 91
1. The government is entitled to adopt national decrees incorporating general measures.
2. These shall only include conditions enforceable by penalties if this is set forth in a national ordinance. The penalties to be imposed shall be specified by national ordinance.
3. The government shall submit the draft of a national decree incorporating general measures to the Council of Advice before it is ratified.
4. Article 89 shall apply, mutatis mutandis, to national decrees incorporating general measures.
5. A national ordinance or national decree incorporating general measures may grant a minister the power to adopt ministerial regulations. Article 89 and paragraph 2 of this article shall apply, mutatis mutandis, to ministerial regulations.
§ 3. Consultative referendum
Article 92
The Parliament may take the initiative to proceed with a consultative referendum.
Article 93
1. A referendum may relate to a draft national ordinance approved by the Parliament or proposed to them for ratification, or to a topic of major social interest in relation to which the government or the Parliament has taken a decision, and which is not excluded from a referendum under Article 94.
2. A draft national ordinance approved by the Parliament or proposed by it for ratification, which is then made the topic of a referendum, may not yet be ratified.
Article 94
1. The following may not under any circumstances be the topic of a referendum:
a. proposals for Kingdom legislation;
b. draft national ordinances in relation to the budget;
c. draft national ordinances that partly relate to the implementation of treaties or decisions by international law organisations;
d. draft national ordinances in relation to taxation;
e. draft uniform national ordinances.
2. Other topics may be excluded from a referendum in terms of national ordinance.
Article 95
1. The consequences of a referendum shall always be determined by national ordinance.
2. The national ordinance specified in paragraph 1 of this article may determine that, if the majority has voted against the draft national ordinance and that majority comprises a proportion to be determined by national ordinance of those who were entitled to participate in the referendum, the draft national ordinance shall lapse by operation of law.
Article 96
Everything else concerning the referendum shall be regulated under or by virtue of national ordinance.
§ 4. Other provisions
Article 97
1. Public bodies designed to champion specific interests may be established and abolished in terms of national ordinance.
2. The national ordinance shall regulate the duties and establishment of such public bodies, the composition and powers of their management boards, and also whether or not their meetings shall be held in public. Powers to produce regulations may be granted to their management boards under national ordinance.
3. Supervision over these management boards shall be regulated under national ordinance. Decisions by these management boards may only be quashed if they are in conflict with the law or the general public interest.
Article 98
1. Independent administrative bodies may be established and abolished under national ordinance.
2. The national ordinance shall regulate the establishment, composition, duties, and powers of independent administrative bodies and also whether or not their meetings are held in public. Powers to produce regulations may be granted to the independent administrative bodies under national ordinance. Regulations made by an independent administrative
body shall be published by being placed in the Official Publication, with a note of the date of issue.
3. Supervision over independent administrative bodies shall be regulated under national ordinance.
4. Annulment by the government or the withholding of approval by the body designated for that purpose by national ordinance may only occur in the event of a conflict with the law.
5. A decision for an annulment or withholding of approval shall be furnished with reasons and shall specify the consequences thereof. The Council of Advice shall be heard in relation to any decision for annulment.
Article 99
1. Taxes shall be levied by virtue of national ordinance.
2. The Parliament may not approve such a draft national ordinance and may not decide upon a reading of such a draft except with the approval of an absolute majority of the votes of the sitting members.
3. Government levies shall be regulated in terms of national ordinance.
Article 100
1. The budget of the Country's income and expenditure shall be adopted under national ordinance.
2. The annual budget and the long-term budget shall be balanced. The provisions in the first sentence may be departed from if this is necessary in connection with the restoration of the damage caused by extraordinary events, including natural disaster, in accordance with rules issued under or by virtue of Kingdom law or national ordinance.
3. The government shall submit the budget to the Parliament in one or more drafts not later than on 1 September.
4. Reports on the Country's income and expenditure shall be submitted to the Parliament in accordance with the national ordinance. The accounts as investigated by the General Audit Chamber shall be submitted to the Parliament each year.
5. Rules in relation to the management of the Country's finances shall be specified by national ordinance.
Article 101
1. Rules shall be imposed under national ordinance in order to assure the legality and integrity of the management and administrative actions, as well as the soundness of financial management.
2. Reports and accounts shall be submitted each year.
Article 102
1. Monetary loans taken in the name of or given by the Country shall only be entered into or guaranteed by virtue of a national ordinance.
2. The interest charges associated with the monetary loans entered into or guaranteed may not exceed a percentage fixed by national ordinance of the average income in the collective sector during the three years preceding the budget year.
3. More detailed rules shall be promulgated in terms of national ordinance concerning the entry into, guarantee or provision of a monetary loan.
Article 103
1. There shall be a central bank. The central bank shall supervise the monetary system. Other duties may be assigned to the central bank in terms of national ordinance.
2. The monetary system shall be regulated under or by virtue of national ordinance.
Article 104
The civil law and the criminal law shall be regulated in general codes, subject to the power to regulate specific topics in separate national ordinances.
Article 105
General administrative rules shall be adopted by means of national ordinance.
Article 106
The legal position of government civil servants shall be regulated under national ordinance. The national ordinance shall also set out rules on their protection during employment and on employee associations.
Article 107
The government shall observe openness in implementing its duties insofar as this is not regarded as being in conflict with the interests of the Country or the Kingdom, or with other interests that justify refraining from openness. More detailed rules in this regard shall be promulgated by means of national ordinance.
Article 108
National ordinance may impose rules to be followed for national decrees to grant licences for mining companies, public utility companies, telecommunications and for the construction of works for such enterprises.
Article 109
The management of domanial territory and other domanial rights shall be regulated under national ordinance.
Article 110
1. Persons resident in Sint Maarten may only be obliged to undertake military service or civilian reserve service by means of national ordinance.
2. Those undertaking civilian reserve service and serving with the army may not be sent elsewhere without their permission unless in terms of national ordinance.
Article 111
In the event of extraordinary circumstances, a national decree may determine that civilian reservists residing in Sint Maarten may be obliged or called upon to undertake active service. A draft national ordinance shall then immediately be submitted to the Parliament in order to determine, insofar as necessary, how long civilian reservists must remain in active service.
Article 112
1. A national ordinance shall specify the circumstances in which a state of emergency, to be designated as such in terms of a national ordinance, can be announced by national decree, with a view to enforcing external and internal security and public order; it shall also regulate the consequences.
2. In such circumstances, the following provisions may be departed from: Article 2.1 in the event of death as a result of lawful acts of war; Article 7.1 as regards the requirement for a special written authorisation from the courts; Articles 7.2, 8, 9 insofar as this relates to exercising the right described in that article outside buildings and enclosed spaces, 10, 12, 13, 14.1 and 15.1.
3. Immediately following the announcement of a state of emergency and thereafter for as long as this has not been cancelled in terms of a national decree, the Parliament shall determine how long the state of emergency shall continue whenever they regard this as necessary.
CHAPTER 7
ADMINISTRATION OF JUSTICE, PUBLIC PROSECUTION SERVICE, AND POLICE
§ 1. Judiciary
Article 113
1. Rules may be imposed in relation to the organisation of the judiciary in terms of common regulations with one or more countries in the Kingdom. A common regulation as defined in the preceding sentence shall be adopted by Kingdom law as defined in Article 38.2 of the Charter for the Kingdom. The government shall observe the provisions of the Constitution when making such regulations.
2. No intervention in legal actions is permitted.
Article 114
1. The courts forming part of the judiciary are:
a. the Court at First Instance;
b. the Common Court of Justice of Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten and Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba.
2. The jurisdiction of the Supreme Court of the Netherlands in relation to legal cases in Sint Maarten shall be regulated by Kingdom law.
Article 115
1. The responsibilities of the judiciary are:
a. the adjudication of disputes on civil matters;
b. the trial of criminal offences.
2. The responsibilities of the judiciary also include the adjudication of disputes on administrative law matters, unless the adjudication thereof has been assigned in terms of national ordinance to special legal bodies, whose membership may include one or more members of the Court of Justice.
3. The remaining aspects of the establishment, composition and powers of the judiciary shall be determined by national ordinance, unless these aspects have already been provided for in a common regulation as defined in Article 113.1.
Article 116
1. The members and deputy members of the judiciary charged with the adjudication of cases shall be appointed for life in terms of a Royal Decree.
2. The members and deputy members of the judiciary charged with the adjudication of cases shall be dismissed by a Royal Decree at their own request and on attainment of such age as may be specified in a national ordinance, unless these aspects have already been provided for in a common regulation as defined in Article 113.1.
3. In the circumstances specified under national ordinance, they may be suspended or dismissed by a court forming part of the judiciary, designated for that purpose by national ordinance, unless this matter has already been provided for in a common regulation as defined in Article 113.1.
4. Their legal position shall be regulated under national ordinance, unless this matter has already been provided for in a common regulation as defined in Article 113.1.
Article 117
1. Except in such cases as are specified under national ordinance, sessions of the court shall be heard in public, on pain of nullity. Verdicts shall contain the reasons on which they are based. Verdicts shall be pronounced in open court.
2. The investigation of the case at the hearing may be held entirely or partially in camera if there are weighty reasons for doing so. The reasons shall be reported in the official record of the hearing.
Article 118
Clemency shall be granted under a national ordinance after an opinion has been obtained from the judge who issued the verdict, subject to such conditions as may be imposed under or by virtue of national ordinance.
Article 119
1. The judge has authority to assess the compatibility of any effective statutory regulations as defined in Article 81.g (except for uniform national ordinances), 81.h, 81.i, and 81.j with the Constitution. The judge may refrain from testing the statutory regulation as defined in the preceding sentence against the Constitution if there is no sufficient interest
for doing so, or if the contents of the provision in the Constitution do not lend themselves to being tested. Nor may a judge test the process of enactment of effective statutory regulations, as defined in the first sentence of this paragraph, against the Constitution.
2. The judge is entitled to declare that an effective statutory regulation, as defined in the first sentence of paragraph 1 of this article, is fully or partially inapplicable. In so doing, the judge may specify that the consequences of the statutory provision that has been declared fully or partially inapplicable shall remain in effect, fully or partially.
§ 2. Public Prosecution Service
Article 120
1. There shall be a public prosecution service.
2. The public prosecution service consists of:
a. the office of the Procurator General;
b. the prosecution at first instance.
3. The head of the public prosecution service is the Procurator General.
4. Rules may be imposed in relation to the organisation of the public prosecution service in terms of common regulations with one or more countries in the Kingdom. A common regulation as defined in the preceding sentence shall be adopted by Kingdom law as defined in Article 38.2 of the Charter for the Kingdom. The government shall observe the
provisions of the Constitution when making such regulations.
Article 121
1. The Procurator General is in charge of the office of the Procurator General.
2. A principal public prosecutor shall be in charge of the prosecution service at the Court of First Instance, and shall be appointed as the head of the prosecution service at first instance. The principal public prosecutors shall be subordinate to the Procurator General in office.
Article 122
1. The public prosecution service is charged with the criminal enforcement of the legal system and other duties assigned to it in terms of national ordinance.
2. In particular, the public prosecution service is charged with:
a. the enforcement of statutory regulations;
b. the investigation and prosecution of criminal offences;
c. arranging for the execution of verdicts and decisions in criminal cases;
d. supervising compliance with judicial decisions in disciplinary cases.
3. The duties and powers of the public prosecution service shall be exercised by the members of the public prosecution service in the manner specified under national ordinance.
4. The remaining aspects of establishment, composition, and powers of the public prosecution service shall be determined by national ordinance, unless these aspects have already been provided for in a common regulation as defined in Article 120.4.
Article 123
1. The Procurator General, or such other member of the public prosecution service as he may appoint, shall prosecute a minister or a member of the Parliament for the commission of any offence, having received an order to do so from the Common Court of Justice of Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten and Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba in response to a petition by the Procurator General.
2. The procedure shall be regulated under national ordinance. The Parliament may not approve such a draft national ordinance and may not decide upon a reading of such a draft except with the approval of two thirds of the votes of the sitting members.
§ 3. Police
Article 124
1. There shall be a police force.
2. Rules may be imposed in relation to the organisation of the police force in terms of common regulations with one or more countries in the Kingdom. A common regulation as defined in the preceding sentence shall be adopted by Kingdom law as defined in Article
38.2 of the Charter for the Kingdom. The government shall observe the provisions of the Constitution when making such regulations.
Article 125
1. The duty of the police force, in subordination to the competent authorities and in accordance with the applicable rules of law, is to arrange for the actual enforcement of the legal system and the provision of assistance to those who require it.
2. The remaining aspects of the establishment, composition and powers of the police force shall be determined by national ordinance, unless these aspects have already been provided for in a common regulation as defined in Article 124.2.
Article 126
A police officer is authorised, in the lawful performance of his duties, to use force against persons and property if the purpose intended to be accomplished by this is justified, bearing in mind the risks associated with the use of violence, and if that purpose cannot be achieved in any other way. Any use of force shall be preceded by a warning, insofar as possible. More detailed rules concerning the use of force may be imposed under or by virtue of national ordinance, unless these aspects have already been provided for in a common regulation as defined in Article 124.2.
CHAPTER 8
Constitutional Court
Article 127
1. There shall be a Constitutional Court.
2. The duty of the Court is to assess the compatibility of any applicable statutory regulations as defined in Article 81.g (except for uniform national ordinances) 81.h, 81.i, and 81.j, which have been ratified but have not yet come into effect, with the Constitution. No assessment shall be made if the provision in the Constitution does not lend itself to such assessment.
3. A case may only be raised before the Court by means of a written petition by the Ombudsman pleading incompatibility with the Constitution, submitted within six weeks after ratification of the statutory regulation specified in paragraph 2 of this article, unless the circumstances are urgent. If the circumstances are urgent, a petition by the Ombudsman shall be inadmissible. More detailed rules concerning urgent circumstances shall be promulgated under or by virtue of national ordinance. The Parliament may not approve such a draft national ordinance and may not decide upon a reading of such a
draft except with the approval of two thirds of the votes of the sitting members.
4. A statutory regulation as defined in paragraph 2 of this article shall not come into effect until six weeks have passed since its ratification, unless there are urgent circumstances as defined in paragraph 3. If the Ombudsman raises an action within this period, the effective date shall be suspended until two weeks after the Court has issued its decision.
5. If the Court finds that a statutory regulation as defined in paragraph 2 of this article is incompatible with the Constitution, the Court may quash the statutory regulation in question. The statutory regulation shall not then come into effect.
6. Other duties may also be assigned to the Court in terms of national ordinance.
Article 128
1. The Constitutional Court consists of three members, including a president and a vicepresident, and three substitute members.
2. The members and substitute members of the Court shall be appointed for a period of 10 years under national decree. They shall be eligible for reappointment on one occasion only. One member and one substitute member shall be appointed on the proposal of the Council of State of the Kingdom and from its numbers. One member and one substitute
member shall be appointed on the proposal of the Common Court of Justice of Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten and Bonaire, Sint Eustasius, and Saba, and from its numbers. One member and one substitute member shall be appointed following consultation with the Constitutional Court.
3. The requirements for appointment of members and substitute members shall be established under or by virtue of national ordinance. The Parliament may not approve such a draft national ordinance and may not decide upon a reading of such a draft except with the approval of two thirds of the votes of the sitting members.
4. The proposals mentioned in paragraph 2 of this article shall contain the names of two individuals if possible.
5. The president and vice-president of the Constitutional Court shall be appointed in terms of a national decree from members of the Court, on a proposal by the Constitutional Court.
6. Suspension or dismissal as a member of the Council of State of the Kingdom or as a member of the Common Court of Justice of Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten and Bonaire, Sint Eustasius, and Saba shall result, by operation of law, in suspension or dismissal as a member or substitute member of the Constitutional Court.
7. The members and substitute members of the Constitutional Court shall be dismissed in terms of a national decree, either at their own request or having attained such age as may be specified by national ordinance. They may be suspended or dismissed by the Common Court of Justice of Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten and Bonaire, Sint Eustatius,
and Saba, meeting in chambers, in circumstances specified by national ordinance, in response to a petition by the Procurator General. The Parliament may not approve a draft national ordinance as specified in the first and second sentences of this paragraph and may not decide upon a reading of such a draft except with the approval of two thirds
of the votes of the sitting members.
8. The remaining aspects of the composition, establishment, working procedures, and the issue of decisions of the Constitutional Court, as well as the legal position of the members and substitute members and the Clerk of the Court shall be specified under national ordinance. The Parliament may not approve such a draft national ordinance and may not decide upon a reading of such a draft except with the approval of two thirds of the votes of the sitting members.
CHAPTER 9
CONCLUDING PROVISIONS
Article 129
1. Amendments to the provisions of this Constitution may be introduced by national ordinance. Every draft national ordinance for amendment of the Constitution shall explicitly state the nature of the amendment in question.
2. The Parliament may only approve a draft national ordinance on such a matter by a majority of at least two thirds of the sitting members.
3. A national ordinance amending this Constitution in relation to:
a. the articles relating to the fundamental rights;
b. the provisions relating to the powers of the Governor;
c. the articles relating to the powers of the Parliament; and
d. the articles relating to the judiciary, shall be submitted to the government of the Kingdom. They shall not come into effect until the government of the Kingdom has declared its approval thereof.
4. A draft national ordinance relating to the provisions specified in paragraph 3 of this article shall not be tendered to the Parliament nor proposed by the Parliament for ratification until the views of the government of the Kingdom have been obtained.
Article 130
This national ordinance shall be referred to as the Constitution.
Article 131
This national ordinance comes into operation with effect from the date on which Articles I and II of the Kingdom law for amendment of the Charter in connection with the abolition of the Netherlands Antilles come into effect.
ADDITIONAL ARTICLES
Article I
1. The national ordinances, national decrees incorporating general measures and other decisions of a legislative nature of the Netherlands Antilles, together with Island Ordinances and Island Decisions incorporating general measures of the Island Territory of Sint Maarten, applicable at the time when this Constitution comes into effect, shall remain in force until they are amended or withdrawn pursuant to the provisions of the Constitution.
2. Measures shall be adopted by means of national ordinance relating to the further application, as regulations of Sint Maarten, of the regulations specified in paragraph 1 of this article, as well as the maintenance of public administration bodies in Sint Maarten that are in existence at that time.
Article II
The national ordinances, which shall be elevated to national ordinances of Sint Maarten under the Kingdom law for amendment of the Charter in connection with the abolition of the Netherlands Antilles, shall come into effect on the date on which Articles I and II of the Kingdom law for amendment of the Charter in connection with the abolition of the
Netherlands Antilles come into effect. They shall be included in the Official Publication as quickly as possible, and if possible in the sequence followed by this Constitution.
Article III
1. The sitting members of the Island Council on the date when this Constitution comes into effect shall have the capacity of members of the Parliament with effect from that date.
2. If the Parliament consists of 11 members on the date when this Constitution comes into effect, then the Parliament shall be dissolved in accordance with Article 59.2 and elections shall be called. The dissolution shall take effect on the day on which the newly elected Parliament convenes.
3. In the period between the date when this Constitution comes into effect and the swearing in of the Parliament consisting of 15 members, no draft national ordinances as defined in Article 31.1 or Article 129 shall be approved or proposed for ratification.
Article IV
1. On a proposal by the government, the Parliament may deliberate upon a draft national ordinance that had been raised by the government of the Netherlands Antilles with the Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles before this Constitution came into effect. They shall take up the deliberation of the draft in question from the point the draft had reached at the relevant time.
2. The Parliament may decide to deliberate upon a draft national ordinance that had been raised by a member of the Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles with the Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles before this Constitution came into effect. They shall take up the deliberation of the draft in question from the point the draft had reached at the relevant
time.
3. This article shall lapse one year after this Constitution comes into effect.
Article V
1. The first appointment of members and substitute members of the Constitutional Court, as defined in Article 128, shall be made by the Island Council on the proposal of the Executive Council for the Island Territory of Sint Maarten.
2. The first appointment of the Clerk to the Constitutional Court, as defined in Article 15 of the draft national ordinance for the Constitutional Court, shall be made by the Executive Council for the Island Territory of Sint Maarten.
Article VI
The government shall be authorised to adjust the numbering of the references to the Penal Code in Articles 36.1 and 50.1 in connection with the draft national ordinance to adopt a new Penal Code, pending before the Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles. The text shall be submitted in advance to the Parliament.
Thurso, 20 August 2010:
This is the Constitution of the Country of Sint Maarten, consisting of this and the thirty-four (34) preceding pages, referred to in my Affidavit of today's date.
Bruce Louden Clark Gordon, Translator.....................................................................
Ewan John Thoms, Notary Public.................................................................................
...
Philipsburg:--- Radio journalist and talk-show host Andrew Dick who was arrested on Thursday suspected of embezzlement has been released on conditional dismissal on Friday confirmed press prosecutor Rienk Mud.
SMN News learnt that the well known talk show host and radio journalist stole a blank cheque from his place of employment (PJD2) and had it cashed it to the tune of $4,200. Mud said Dick has to repay the owner of PJD2 Donald Hughes by December 10, 2010 as well as he must complete eighty hours (80) of community service before the said date. The press prosecutor said should Dick fail to comply with the terms of his release then he will be re-arrested and prosecuted.
SMN News learnt that the cheque was stolen sometime in March this year and that Hughes only discovered that a cheque was stolen after the cheque was cashed. The source said when Hughes saw the cheque he realized that no one from his company ever wrote a cheque to that amount, neither could he recognize the name of the person that cashed the cheque. SMN News learnt that Hughes went as far as calling the person's whose name has been given as "Raymond" to enquire who he was but was met with fierce hostility and it was then Hughes decided to have the police investigate the circumstances regarding his cheque and stolen monies.
SMN News further learnt that police arrested the person who cashed the cheque and found out that Andrew Dick met the man in one of the banks and asked him to cash the cheque which he did. The person it is understood is from the French side of the island, police did not press charges against the man.
SMN News learnt that Donald Hughes did not press charges against Dick but requested that he be repaid.
After Dick was arrested on Thursday another person told this media house that Dick asked them for a blank cheque some months ago as he was organizing a show and needed a blank cheque to provide to someone as guarantee. The person said Dick promised to return his blank cheque after two days but to date he is not able to recover the cheque.
Philipsburg:--- St. Maarten Pride Foundation has paid close attention to Commissioner Frans Richardson's recent announcements of plans for a Drag racing strip and a Cricket Stadium, plans which require the filling-in of the Great Salt Pond to accommodate the facilities. The Foundation strongly advises against and objects to these and any future plans which involve the further destruction of the Great Salt Pond and St. Maarten's other remaining wetlands.
Filling-in the Great Salt Pond for these facilities will lead to an additional reduction of the pond's already limited water retention capacity and will have drastic consequences for the surrounding areas in times of rain and during Hurricanes as excess run-off water will cause flooding of the already overburdened districts adjacent to the pond.
In the days since the Commissioner's announcement many residents of the Over the pond, A. Th. Illidge Road, Madame Estate and Sucker Garden neighbourhoods have contacted St. Maarten Pride Foundation to express concerns about increased noise pollution in their district should the proposed plans be executed.
The Commissioner's plans, particularly those for the Cricket Stadium will also destroy a large portion of the same area of the Great Salt Pond that Government only recently identified and designated as a monument (BC# 1172-08). In establishing the Great Salt Pans area of the Great Salt Pond as a monument the Executive Council of the Island Territory of St. Maarten acknowledged the cultural/historical significance of the area and committed to protecting it.
BirdLife International (de Vogelbescherming) recently recognized the Great Salt Pond as one of the Caribbean's "Important Bird Areas (IBA)". IBAs are places of the highest global priority for bird and biodiversity conservation.
Philipsburg:--- Creating 300 jobs, beginning the construction work on a bridge across the Simpson Bay Lagoon and constructing more social homes within his first 100 days in office were some of the promises the leader of the United Peoples Party Theo Heyliger gave the people of St. Maarten during the last of four political debates organised by Arts Video Studio on Sunday evening. Heyliger also criticised the political parties for attacking his party rather than focusing on the issues facing St. Maarten.
The UP leader was accused of treating the harbour as his own company and the funds derived from that particular government owned company as his "little Piggy Bank". Leader of the National Alliance charged that Heyliger did not show up for work in months and that he basically abandoned government to campaign for Friday's election. Marlin reminded the people that Heyliger is their coalition partner and while the commissioner resigned from the executive council he did not quit the coalition. Heyliger tried to throw the blame on the leader of the National Alliance saying they were supposed to appoint a new commissioner but Marlin quickly reminded Heyliger that if anyone was to appoint a commissioner to fill his seat it was Heyliger himself who had to do so since the agreement they signed on June 6th still stands. Both the leader of the National Alliance and the Democratic Party pointed out that Heyliger did not show any interest in the current constitutional process because he was not interested in separate status. It was pointed out that Heyliger never attended any of the meetings that relates to the constitutional change which is to take effect on October 10 yet he wants to be elected to manage the new status. A question from the audience also pointed out that Heyliger did not even show up to celebrate 10.10.10 on Friday yet he wants to be the one to manage country.
The leader of the National Alliance William Marlin promised to eliminate school fees from government subsidized schools and giving school boards more subsidies, the removal of the wage taxes, enhance education , tackling crime through education and continuing the constitutional process as St. Maarten becomes country on October 10th , having a National Insurance plan in place by January and increasing the old age pension by 50% is the plans of the National Alliance Government.
Leader of the Democratic Party strived on her party's more experienced and is capable of making a governing program to build the new country. Wescott Williams said eliminating school fees, removing wage tax, building a bridge or the ring road is simply any politician's dream because there is no money and the budget is not even balanced. While the leader of the Concordia Political Alliance Charles Jeffry Richardson spent most of the evening attacking the leader of the National Alliance and the United People's Party. In his closing arguments he said that the CPA will make sure St. Maarteners are first in their country if they are given the chance to be in government. Jeffry wants government to reverse the compulsory education since that cannot be used regulate the immigration problems. Jeffry argued that there is no need to install a committee to define who is a St. Maartener, instead he has the definition. Jeffry said government needs to make sure the Indians and other businesses on St. Maarten hire more locals to work if they are alleviate the crime situation. Heyliger said he is going to hire the local youths to do the construction of the bridge and social homes. Marlin immediately rebutted by saying that the youths were not given opportunity neither training and he wants to know from where these youths would get the required skills to construct bridges or homes.
The leader of the Democratic Party stressed about the things that government did not do during the past 15 months. Wescott Williams on a number of occasions said the National Alliance and Heyliger government are executing the programs of the Democratic Party.
Instead of debating the issues facing St. Maarten and discussing their party's manifesto the political leaders spent most of their time attacking and criticising each other. The leader of the United People's Party was attacked because he jumped from the Democratic Party to the National Alliance whom he later abandoned, while the leader of the National Alliance pointed out that the three other panellist are basically from the same house. Marlin said each of the three DP candidates changed colours to suit their own needs. Marlin pointed out that he did not allow Heyliger to get away with his own ways while conducting government business, he reminded the audience of how he dealt with the Olzina issue when Heyliger presented a motion that was not discussed or agreed upon in the executive council. Marlin said the Olzina issue was wrong and he put down his foot and dealt with the issue at hand. The leader of the Democratic Party said she was not aware of many things that Heyliger was doing when he was part of the Democratic Party. Most of the debate was spent on rebuttals as each political leader wanted to get in the last word in order to set the record straight.
Philipsburg:--- A number of civil servants who recently joined the civil core took the oath of office on Tuesday in the presence of Acting Lt. Governor Reynold Groeneveldt and commissioner of personnel affairs Xavier Blackman. Governor Groeneveldt congratulated the workers for their choice to join the government service and to work in the best interest of St. Maarten who would be taking on its new status on October 10th. While commissioner Blackman said this has been the largest group of people to join the civil service since he took office over a year ago. Blackman also urged the workers to do their best as St. Maarten takes on its new challenge. Among those who took the oath on Tuesday was well known photo journalist Gromyko Wilson who is now working as a taxi dispatcher and controller.
Pointe Blanche:--- The number two candidate on the United People's Party Slate Gracita Arrindell said she still stands behind her belief that voters should not sell their votes and that politicians should not engage in vote buying. Over the years Arrindell spoke openly about how certain politicians especially about her now party leader has engaged in buying of votes to win elections. Asked about that on Wednesday Arrindell said she still stands behind her statements she made in the past, however, when asked what she has to say now about the long lines of people that are seen at the UP head office in Pointe Blanche, Arrindell said she was told that the persons who are in the lines are there to sign the membership forms. Arrindell also confirmed that people has approached her asking for things but she did not say if she has complied with the request of the voters to supply material things they asked for in exchange for their votes.
One source said Arrindell has given out cheques to people who said they needed monies to buy spectacles and other medical supplies. The number two candidate on the UP slate and former island council lady said very soon the law on integrity that restricts vote buying will be implemented and this is a law she fully supports.
SMN News was called on several occasions including Tuesday night to witness the amount of people that are standing outside the UP leader's campaign office in Pointe Blanche. One source close to the party said that people have been asking the UP leader Theo Heyliger for all sorts of things. "Some of the people even police officers are asking for flat screen television while some want a blackberry phone or laptop, freezers, stoves and fridges are on the request sheets that were filed in by these potential voters. Besides that there are people who asked for school fees while others wanted money or food hampers. A man brought 180 voting cards and he was offered $200 the source said. "Those at the head office would have these people fill out a form and they would take copies of their identification cards to verify if those persons requesting money or material things are eligible to vote. Then they would tell the people they are going call them back" the source continued.
This is ridiculous said one UP supporter saying that the voters on St. Maarten have no pride and dignity and that they would even sell their votes for material things not taking into consideration the implications this would have on how their country will be governed.
Another UP supporter who asked to remain anonymous said that St. Maarteners have become beggars in their own country. He said the late Dr. Claude Wathey is the one who trained the people to beg when its election time and that is one of the legacy his grandson is continuing. "Imagine we were able to get rid of that to a large extent when the late Dr. Wathey left politics but the minute his grandson formed his own party he brought back the same tactics."
It is alleged that while the potential voters are filling in their request forms in Pointe Blanche at the UP head office, the actual distribution of items are done on the Board Walk where the UP launched its party some weeks ago.
SMN News contacted the UP leader Theo Heyliger for a comment on the lines of people at his headquarters and he said SMN News should take a photo of the people who are standing at the Government Administration Building to get things too. Later he said his official statement is that "I am meeting with people and that is what the headquarters is about. The National Alliance meets with people at the government building, I meet with people all over including our headquarters." Despite saying he is meeting with people Heyliger did not deny if people are asking him for monies or things in exchange for their votes.
Another UP supporter said that is something that has to change because they are not supporting the lawlessness that is currently taking place on St. Maarten when it comes to selling and buying of votes.
A candidate on the UP slate said the UP leader did not even give them monies to campaign and they are told when someone ask them for anything they should take the people to the UP headquarters who would deal with the people from there.
Also at the government administration building a number of people are there trying to meet with the commissioners to see what they could get for their votes. Many of the people this reporter spoke to said they need a place to live or a secure job from government.
Philipsburg:--- The executive council will be taking a decision next week on which contractor will be awarded the contract to build the 16 classroom SBO school in Cay Hill confirmed commissioner of education William Marlin on Wednesday. Marlin said the bidding has already taken place for that school and very soon construction will begin.
Marlin said another thing St. Maarten is looking at is partnering with the Dutch Government with regards to Saba and Statia. He said the school board that will be over the SBO schools would have to work closely with the Dutch government so that students from those two islands can attend school on St. Maarten. Marlin said instead of those students going to Bonaire, Curacao or Holland the students from the two neighboring island can attend the SBO School on St. Maarten when it is completed. Marlin said he already discussed these possibilities with officials from the two islands and the Dutch State Secretary even though no formal discussion and exchange of documents has not taken place.
The commissioner also refuted the comments and statements that are being made by one of the political parties and their candidates who are creating fear in the residents of Belvedere by telling them that no school will be built in the area.
Marlin said he wants the general public but particularly those living in Belvedere to know that a school consisting of eight classrooms will be built in the area. The commissioner said right now they are finalizing the project and very shortly a public bid will be held and soon after the construction of the school will begin. Marlin said one of the advantages of having a school in Belvedere is that students will no longer have to go to Philipsburg or St. Peters to attend school but a school will be within walking distance from their homes. Marlin said the education infrastructure is improving not only at the existing schools but government is busy with the construction of new schools.
The education commissioner said funding has been made available for the upgrading of the teachers as there is ongoing training and retraining of teachers taking place. Marlin said that the island government also intends to invest heavily in a quality teacher's education program in the future. He said right now the teacher's salaries are not as attractive when compared to those that have a bachelor's in business or IT. He said years ago teachers belonged to the better paying jobs but today they are the worst off. He said right now government has to take this in consideration if they are to attract the best and brightness to attract people in the education field.
Philipsburg:--- Acting Lt. Governor and chairman of the main voting bureau Reynold Groneveldt along with members from the main voting bureau drove around the island on Thursday night inspecting the various polling stations.
The first polling station that was inspected is polling station number 14 Belvedere Community Center. At that polling station Groeneveldt made sure the rules were in all the booths while he ensured that a special table was inside the polling station for voters to rest their cellular phones and cameras. Groeneveldt said there will be signs in all the polling stations warning voters that it is prohibited for them to take cellular phones and cameras inside the booth where they are to prepare their ballots.
Also inspected was polling station number 16 the Methodist Agogic Center in St. Johns, then polling station number 8 the St Maarten Academy and polling station number 6 the Milton Peters College.
Philipsburg:--- The International Coastal Cleanup will commence on Saturday September 25th. 2010 at the Mullet Bay Beach from 7am-10am.
This year marks the 25th anniversary of this worldwide movement to clean up the world's oceans and waterways of marine trash.
All groups and students are welcome to participate in the ICC at Mullet Bay Beach.
Students who are need of community service hours will receive 4 hours for this event.
The International Coastal Cleanup is about cleaning up our beaches and coastlines, preventing trash from entering our world's oceans and making an inventory of the trash found.
All volunteers will sign in at the entrance to the beach and receive a special data card for marking down each trash item.
Also on Saturday morning, an underwater diving cleanup will take place; dive volunteers who are certified must register this week with Nature Foundation Manager Tadzio Bervoets, please call 54-44267 for this part of the exercise.
Porto Cupecoy employees have signed up to clean the Cupecoy Beach, volunteers who would like to join this leg of the cleanup, please contact ICC Site Captain Michelle Warden at the Porto Cupecoy Sales office.
Last year over half a million volunteers in over 130 countries participated in this one of a kind event, making the ICC the largest volunteer effort worldwide.
The Sint Maarten PRIDE foundation is the local coordinator for the ICC; our group has a direct working relationship with the Ocean Conservancy's ICC office in Washington DC.
The Ocean Conservancy notes that "Our Ocean is Simply Getting More Crowded and we are putting additional strain on our fragile ecosystems essential for life on our planet"
A comprehensive detailed report of all trash collected in the participating countries including St.Maarten can be found on www.oceanconservancy.org
PRIDE foundation is looking forward to seeing our repeat volunteers as well as newcomers to this year's ICC.
It is time to START A SEA CHANGE by taking back our beaches, one piece of litter at a time.
For more info, please visit us on our facebook page St.Maarten PRIDE or call 5200650.
Philipsburg:--- After touring in Barbados with Reggae singer Kirk Brown, Keldamuzik was invited back to the Caribbean to tour with artist Ku-J of the SXM Freedom Fighters Foundation in St. Maarten, Dutch side. Founder of Freedom Fighters, Roland Joe, better known as Ras Bushman respected Diva's history and music, and decided that her visit to St. Maarten would be a great way to build a relationship with the California artist. Two events took place which were presented by Freedom Fighters, at the Alley Simpson Bay featuring Keldamuzik, Ku-J, Versatile, Ziggy Chang, hosted by DJ Suppa Kidd of Laser 101 and on the turntables was the famous cut creator of St. Maarten, DJ Outkast of Shadyville Caribbean DJ's. The beach party concert, in which Keldamuzik and Ku-J performed at on Sunday, took place at Galion Beach in the French side of St. Maarten. Posters and flyers were spread throughout the island in numerous locations, and both events turned out to be a great success and woke up the island of St. Maarten, with not only great music but with the presence of Diva.
The first day started out with a Keldamuzik and Ku-J collaboration in the studio, song entitled "You Don't Know Me", which has the essence of Reggae/Hip Hop World vibe to it. The next day, was full of press and media interviews, with Oasis Radio, and Island 92. A couple visits to sponsors later that day were with Tony Halley, marketing director of Caribbean Liquors, who sponsored Diva and her crew with top shelf liquor beverages for their stay. The 2nd day contained interviews with Laser 101, SOS Radio and a TV guest appearance at AVS Productions. On the 3rd day of the visit, the meet and greets continued with sponsors such as Pineapple Pete's Restaurant and Motor World, who all contributed to Diva's stay.
Magazines and media were so impressed with Diva, the Daily Herald decided to give her the front cover with more write ups to follow inside. The publication was distributed all over the island and even found in Diva's hotel, Belair Beach's front desk. At the end of the trip, the entire island was familiar with Diva and wanted more. Golddigga Entertainment gives special thanks to Ras Bushman and the Freedom Fighters Foundation for putting together such a successful campaign. The founder Roland Joe aka Ras Bushman was exploiting farming activities at St. Peters, Marigot Hill. Ras Bushman, born in Curacao, reached St. Maarten on the 3rd of June 1985, where he continued his agricultural activities at a succession land in Marigot Hill. Ras Bushman found the Rastafarian faith and culture in 1980 and reached St. Maarten in 1985.
Philipsburg: --- Leader of the Pueblo Saberano and parliamentarian Helmin Wiels told SMN News in an exclusive interview on Wednesday that when the new parliament is convened after 10/10/10 he will seek to have former Ministers of Justice Pedro Attacho, David, Dick and Magali Jacoba impeached for the illegal phone tapping taking place within the Netherlands Antilles. Wiels said the new parliament would not limit itself to just impeaching the former Ministers from the PAR government but they would also expand it to the prosecutors and possible judges that are involved in the illegal phone tapping.
The parliamentarian and current island council member said politicians on the opposition benches, reporters, police officers and unions leaders were heavily targeted. He said those involved in the illegal tapping went as far as tapping the phones of persons who were not supporting the PAR. It should be noted that several persons on St. Maarten had the same experience, just recently a news report states that leader of the United People's Party Theo Heyliger phone was also tapped.
Wiels said that it has been years now that the members of the PAR government have decided to target politicians that are in the opposition, police officers and reporters by tapping their telephones. He said right now a number of police officers that worked in the three tap rooms in Curacao are speaking out against the illegal tapping simply because this has gone too far. Wiels said there is one particular tap room in Curacao that does not share information with local authorities. That tap room he said is called the "informatsie haishouding" and they share information only with the RST and the AIVD and the Federal Detectives. Wiels said the illegal phone tapping will spark one of the largest investigations in Caribbean history and will be the largest scandal ever known.
Wiels further explained that the penal laws of the Netherlands Antilles have various procedures that must be followed when it comes to phone tapping. He said the procedures to tap phones are clearly laid down in the law but over the years the former Ministers of Justice did not follow those laws. He said in the criminal law, the elements and components of crimes are clearly laid down which dictates how investigations are conducted and the methods that must be used in these investigations.
The parliamentarian said the international law on human rights clearly protects the people's privacy everywhere and the Netherlands Antilles is no exception. He said democracy dictates that no one can violate the privacy of an individual based on suspicions. This violation of one's privacy can only be done if the investigators can substantiate their suspicions in front of a judge.
Wiels said the persons behind the illegal tapping have used the laws of the Antilles to commit injustice against their people and this kind of behavior is called fascism. They are trying to persuade people to think and talk like the Stateand this is called fascism. Wiels said right now this illegal tapping raised a lot of concerns and they have to ask for the impeachment of those persons who were behind it for the last 15 years.
Wiels said over the years those involved in the illegal tapping have been breaking into people's vehicles and homes to place secret (hidden) cameras. He said hundreds of peoples privacy has been invaded. He said the persons that break into these homes and vehicles have been broken into not once but at least two or three times to either install or to remove the cameras and microphones.
Wiels said his phone was tapped for the past three and a half years and he knew because of the echo that is normally heard when speaking on the phone. He said despite the advance technology in place those involved in the illegal tapping is arrogant and simply does not care whose privacy they invade. He said these people know they are tapping people's phone illegally yet they are doing it harsh and open.
Wiels said this is one of the main reasons the police officers are speaking out against the illegal practice. Asked if he knows the officer who is accused of leaking the information, Wiels said he does not know the officer in question and he cannot say if the officer leaked the information or if he just decided to speak out.
Wiels said one has to realize that these people have broken into homes, vehicles, and offices to place the hidden cameras and microphones and they follow the same procedure to retrieve these devices. In doing so they not only violate the person they are targeting's rights but they also violate the rights of the family members that live in the homes or travel in the vehicles that were targeted. He said the situation right now is outrageous and if the illegal practice is not stopped it will get worse especially knowing those who are the targets. Wiels said politicians know that they were being tapped but when they expand to union leaders, reporters and police officers then something has to be done.
Asked about the illegal phone tapping on Tuesday chairman of the parliament of the Netherlands Antilles Pedro Attacho said he did not receive any complaints from the members of the parliament regarding the illegal phone tapping. Attacho said unless the members of parliament inform him about their concerns it cannot be discussed. Attacho also said he can only speak on behalf of parliament and nothing else.
BRADES, Montserrat:--- NAGICO Insurances introduced an educational coloring book under the theme: "We all need insurance" The coloring book which contains a story and related pictures on the various insurance products, why they are needed and what each product can protect our families against, was officially introduced in Montserrat.
Marketing Officer Jimmy Challenger: "NAGICO Insurances has over its twenty-five years of existence supported education in every sense of the word. The book will be available to children of clients at all the territories in which NAGICO operates with special introduction via NAGICO "adopted" primary education learning institutions. The community of Montserrat was selected as the official place to launch this educational book due to the call made by Mrs. Judith Greer, Managing Director of Judith Greer & Associates - local Agent representative for NAGICO Insurances. Mrs. Greer stated: "Every year NAGICO provides stationery to schools in different territories in the Caribbean. This year, I suggested we do something different and reemphasize education as the foundation for every child's personal development and the development of a nation as a whole. With Jimmy's assistance we are now able to add a tool which educates both the children and parents alike on the importance of education."
To commemorate the official launching of the educational coloring book, NAGICO Insurances made a donation to Samuel Academy, a primary school in Montserrat that is currently faced with financial challenges to the value of EC$3000.-. The funds will be used to assist the school with its expansion project: building of a computer lab. The head of the Samuel Academy Ms. Rosmond Meade expressed much gratitude to NAGICO and Judith Greer & Associates for the contribution of the coloring books, pencil cases and monetary donation.
Dr. Sharon Burns, Education Officer Early Childhood Department in the Ministry of Education thanked NAGICO for the contribution to the local schools. She noted that the language in the coloring book may be above the level of some children but it was a perfect opportunity for parents to read and interact with their children while at the same time learning together on the importance of insurance and how parents can protect themselves and their families against natural disasters and accidents.
Chief Minister for Montserrat the honorable Ruben T. Meade was also presented with a copy of the educational coloring book by Marketing Officer Jimmy Challenger and Mrs. Judith Greer, of Judith Greer & Associates.
Philipsburg:--- The leader of the National Alliance William Marlin surrounded by the candidates who were elected as parliamentarians on Friday told reporters that when he contacted the leader of the Democratic Party Sarah Wescot Williams to begin formation talks Wescot Williams told him she already had an agreement with the UP Party to form a government.
Marlin said Wescot Williams and Heyliger did not keep this as a secret since they told reporters on Tuesday night when they signed their political accord that formation talks had begun even before the polling stations had closed on Election Day. Marlin said the only reason he held a press conference was to be able to set the record straight since many persons are saying he did not make an effort to form a government.
Marlin also informed the media that the leader of the United Peoples Party shook hands with his son at 04:30am on Monday morning telling him that should the leader of the National Alliance agree to give him three ministries including Public Works, Chairman of Parliament and Minister of Plenipotentiary and control over all the government owned companies then the UP and NA would have formed a government. Marlin said when his son and another member of the National Alliance asked Heyliger about the declaration of intent he had with the DP, Heyliger responded by saying that is why they worded the agreement the way they did. Marlin said the member of the National Alliance who partook in that meeting was supposed to draft the governing accord and send it to the UP and NA leader to be reviewed and signed. Marlin said when he was informed about the meeting he asked his son if he was not being played by the UP leader and it turned out that was exactly what the UP leader Theo Heyliger did.
Marlin made clear he has no hard feelings that his party has been left out of the process but he can assure the media that the public is very upset because the party that received the majority votes in 15 districts was left out. Marlin further explained that the reaction he has gotten from the people of St. Maarten thus far is that their will has been put aside. This is a reality the people either will have to live with or not accept.
Marlin said he wants to set the record straight because it is clear that the UP and the DP had an agreement to form government. Marlin said by their own words they said they began negotiations before the polling stations were closed on Friday. Marlin all seven of the candidates on the National Alliance slate that were elected will be taking their seats in parliament and they will be a force to be reckoned with in the parliament of country St. Maarten. Marlin further explained that his faction will continue to fight for what is right and they have always said that they are on team St. Maarten and they will continue to look out for the people's interest.
The National Alliance leader said St. Maarten has its own constitution and the seven members of from the National Alliance will be defending that constitution in parliament for the people of St. Maarten.
He said based on the results of the island election the candidates on the National Alliance slate received the majority in 15 districts and the candidates on the National Alliance were broadly accepted by the voters. Marlin said if anyone analyzes the results they will see that the National Alliance had more of their candidates in the top ten spots.
UP was trying to take NA members before and after election
In response to a question posed by SMN News as to whether or not the leader of the National Alliance was trying to convince members of the UP to join in forming a government. Marlin said he never contacted any individual candidates. However, the other two parties contacted members of the National Alliance even before they launched their slate to have the NA members join them. Marlin further explained that those parties contacted at least two of the candidates that were elected on the National Alliance slate to join them to form this new government. He said they wanted a broader base rather than a majority by one seat which they believe is not solid enough and concerns were also raised about the in-experienced people that were elected in the other parties.
Broad Base Government
Asked if the National Alliance was willing to form a broad base government Marlin said on numerous occasions he said political parties needed to bury the hatchet and put aside their political differences and work together for St. Maarten. Thus, he wants to make clear that it is not a decision of the National Alliance to stay outside of government. He asked why would he have chosen to remain in government and to take care of the people's affairs while others were busy campaigning and most of all, why would he and the team of the National Alliance have worked so hard to make sure St. Maarten gets its desire to become a country on October 10th 2010.
Marlin said his hard work and dedication over the past year was not for him to leave government now. He said despite being the largest faction in the new parliament and the party that clearly won the election they were forced out.
He told reporters they should be asking the two other parties that formed the government why they began negotiating before the election results were announced. Marlin said it is clear that the UP and DP have placed their parties and personal interests before the interest of the people of St. Maarten when they formed the coalition government.
Furthermore, he made it clear that it is unfair to the people of St. Maarten who gave the National Alliance a resounding victory in every district which gave them more than 25% more votes than the UP to be shut out and not given the opportunity to govern. Marlin said he heard that persons who are interested in seeing the two parties govern St. Maarten met with them prior to Election Day to see to it that they come together in an effort to keep the National Alliance out of government.
Marlin said over the years the Democratic Party has dwindled and for the public to see that they are the ones who would be delivering Prime Minister on 10/10/10 is ridiculous. He said in recent functioning democracy there are certain rules to live by but in this case the self interest of individuals and political parties is what mattered most.
Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten Nature Foundation is ramping up its efforts to control and manage the Lionfish Infestation in St. Maarten waters. In the past weeks there have been increasingly numerous reports of the invasive and dangerous fish being sighted on offshore reefs as well as on local beaches. "We are increasingly collecting specimens not only on offshore coral reefs but also in shallow beach areas. Recently there were specimens on Mullet Bay Beach and just off of Pelican which were sighted in very shallow water," commented Tadzio Bervoets, Nature Foundation Manager. Another worrying aspect of the lionfish infestation is that larger, more sexually mature specimens are being collected and more numerous sightings are being reported.
In its efforts to manage and control the infestation the Nature Foundation, through the generous donation of the St. Maarten Timeshare Association (SMTA), has started distributing lionfish collection materials to the various dive centres' "dive operators are very important in capturing the lionfish. Already many dive shops are collecting and reporting numerous specimens and are being a tremendous help in controlling the infestation. We have given them a lionfish collection package which includes collecting nets, first aid equipment, and location markers," commented Bervoets. Also through the donation of the SMTA the Nature Foundation will be distributing heat packs, which is the primary first aid if a swimmer is stung by a lionfish, to the various water sports concession stands throughout the island as well as information signs informing locals and visitors about the lionfish threat.
Representatives from the Nature Foundation also recently attended a regional lionfish workshop held in Mexico where various controlling strategies were discussed, including the future use of fish traps and the possibility of grouper eating the lionfish; "If our research shows that grouper indeed prey on lionfish we might be better able to control it. The problem is that, especially for St. Maarten, there are not enough large grouper due to a lack of formal protection. If protection such as the Marine Park Ordinance were in place we would be better able to promote a healthy grouper population which may naturally control the lionfish," commented Bervoets.
The lionfish is an invasive species which was introduced into the Caribbean through the aquarium trade. The fish is a threat to local fisheries because they have the potential to destroy local fishing grounds and the economies which depend on them. The lionfish is also a venomous species which can inflict a very dangerous sting. If someone is stung by a lionfish heat should be applied directly to the wound and medical attention should be sought immediately. To a report a lionfish please call the Nature Foundation at 5444267.
...
Great Bay:--- It was more like a journey through memory lane for the 60 senior citizens of the Golden Age Foundation when they went on an island tour hosted by the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau on Friday, September 24th, 2010. The tour was organized as part of the activities marking World Tourism Day under the theme, "Tourism and Biodiversity".
"We wanted the seniors to experience what the tourists see when they come to St. Maarten and to be able to compare the island today to the St. Maarten of their youth," said Tourism Director Regina LaBega.
Taking off from the John Larmonie Center, the group sported complementary T-shirts provided by the Tourist Bureau and was alert throughout the tour as they acknowledged the tremendous development of the island in comparison with their younger days.
"They lamented the disappearance of several ponds, and were saddened by the dilapidated buildings at Mullet Bay where several of them had worked before the resort was destroyed by Hurricane Luis in 1995." Lisa Coffi of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau said. "They also noticed with regret that they could no longer see the Simpson Bay lagoon as they drove towards the airport because it had been filled and built up."
"Some of them said they had never been at the Orient Park on the way to Orient Bay and promised to return there with their children and grandchildren," Ms. Coffi added.
The tour took them around the entire island with a stop for lunch at Busby's at Oyster Pond. The showers that came down at lunch time could not dampen their enthusiasm as they expressed gratitude to the management and staff of the restaurant for a delicious meal.
Such was the spirit in which they were that they broke into a sing-song on the way back into Philipsburg, intoning many old tunes.
Patsy Flanders of Home Away from Home Golden Age Foundation thanked the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau for involving the elders in such an activity. "They all had fun," she assured.
"They were very jovial, very exciting to be with. I learned a lot from them," said Fabian Badejo of East Caribbean DMC, who served as their tour guide.
A group young boys and girls of the Belvedere Community Center pose for a group photograph as they get ready to take part in the 12 metre race on Friday, September 24, 2010. The event was organized by the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau as part of activities for this year's World Tourism Day, which is on September 27th. It was sponsored by the 12 Metre Race ... The group enjoyed the activity very much. Indeed, for many of them, it was the first time they would participate in the 12 metre race. The St. Maarten Tourist Bureau has been focusing this year on activities for the youth and the elderly to familiarize them with what tourists do when they come to the island.
St. Peters:--- A mother and her son who is implicated in a shooting incident which occurred on September 23 on Apricot Road is now in police custody. Police spokesman Ricardo Henson said two young men apparently had some disagreement and they fired shots at each other. At least one of the suspects was shot twice in his legs and he was treated at the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital and later released. Henson said police visited the suspect at his home where they conducted a house search in the presence of the suspect's mother.
Police found several cartridges for shotguns in the house but the woman refused to cooperate with police. The suspects in police custody have been identified as S.C who was arrested the same day of the shooting while F.G was arrested at his home on Caines Drive along with his mother V.B.M who refused to cooperate with the investigating officers. SMN News learnt that the young man's mother refused to tell police who exactly the cartridges belong to and where the shotgun was hidden.
Philipsburg:--- Civil servants working at the government administration building including the eleven island council members who were at a central committee meeting were evacuated from the building after someone called the fire department telling them that there was burning scent in the building.
A central committee meeting that was in process had to be adjourned until later in the day as the elected officials were told they too needed to evacuate from the building until a thorough search was done.
Two fire trucks as well as police officers rushed over to the government building to conduct searches to see if anything was alight. Workers were seen outside the building waiting to see if in fact there was fire in the building or if the call was a hoax. On numerous occasions the fire department was called to government building to put out mostly electrical fires.
Workers were overheard saying that the call on Wednesday must be politically motivated since the person or persons who called the fire department could have easily called the maintenance department for them to conduct an initial search for fire. "It appears as if someone was used to stall the central committee meeting that was ongoing so that the current executive council could not finalize pending projects before October 5th" a group of civil servants was overheard saying.
In an invited comment Clive Richardson from the fire department said there was no fire at the government administration building; however the search revealed that there was a malfunctioning air conditioning unit that was making funny sounds.
Philipsburg:--- The police and detective department is asking persons who witnessed the brutal killing of the young man who was murdered on Wednesday night to come forward with the information so they can solve the case.
The police said on Wednesday evening several police patrols responded to the Churchill round-about where the body of an unknown man was on the street. Police later identified the victim to be Woodson Lazarre.
The victim it is believed was shot while he was lying on his back. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said it appeared as though the victim was abducted from somewhere in the vicinity of the Jose Lake Sr. ballpark.
Oyster Pond:--- Relatives and friends of the late David Eustace Priest proprietor of the Casa Blanca Exotic Club are still mourning their lost. While Saturday October 2nd will remain a day the relatives of Eustace Priest will never forget, not knowing who killed their loved one is more painful and worrisome said a relative of the late Priest.
"This could happen to anyone of us and the killer is walking free out there. It appears to us that this case has been placed in the cold files. What we heard is that there are 25 detectives working on one case while the investigation into the other murders slowed down." The relative continued.
David Eustace Priest was shot to death on October 2nd 2009 just around 2pm said close relatives. "David was leaving Casa Blanca to go meet his lawyers when he was brutally murdered in his van."
Police was sure they got the killer when they arrested a well known convict from the French side but this person refused to cooperate with police even though convicted on previous crimes. The case of Eustace Priest is yet to go before the courts.
In an invited comment press prosecutor Rienk Mud said the detective department is short staffed and the detectives are working overtime on these cases. The press prosecutor also said that people who saw what happen the day Eustace Priest was murdered should come forward. "The detectives are doing their very best but they are not able to do it alone." Mud said.
The press prosecutor further explained that the TGO team has taken up 25 detectives which indeed slowed down the other investigations. "I can assure you that even though the detectives and prosecutor's office have a lot on their hands, they are not neglecting any of these cases."
Philipsburg:--- Police officers, the public prosecutors, acting Lt. Governors and leader of Government were among some of the dignitaries who attended the church service at the Roman Catholic Church on Front Street on Friday in celebration of the 61st anniversary of the police force of the Netherlands Antilles.
Officers of the law sang several choruses before the actual sermon took place. Also singing was police choir and the choir of the St. Joseph School.
The chief of police who took up office on St. Maarten last June told the gathering that while the police forces of KPNA and KPSSS share special cooperation within a few days these organizations would dissolve and become independent organizations of their future country. De Witte said when he took office he immediately began working on the plan for the future organization however, crime did not stop they still had to deal with three murders and other violent incidents all of which led to public outrage. He said because of police reinforcements and cooperation with the French side crime has decreased as many criminals were caught and placed behind bars.
The new police chief said in just a matter of days the organization will have to build an independent police organization and this can only be possible with professionalism, leadership, integrity, service-mindedness, result orientation, and accountability.
Acting Lt. Governor and Chief of Police Reynold Groeneveldt said that he is thankful for the services of the police and especially the men and women who work endless hours to keep the community safe.
Groneveldt said the work of the police is not an easy task they are called to do many things some of which requires specific social skills. The police on St. Maarten, he said are called to deal with all sorts of people who come from different places speaking various languages and have different cultural backgrounds. The police also have to deal with the homeless, and the helpless and to make sure everyone is safe, secure and satisfied therefore it is fitting to thank the men and women in blue that have an enormous task ahead of them.
The service concluded with a recommitment and dedication prayer.After the official ceremony, a parade was organized through Front and Back Street.
The 61st anniversary the last ceremony under the umbrella of the Netherlands Antilles concluded with lunch in front of the police station and a symbolic washing of one of the police cars with the hose from one of the fire trucks marking the end of the KPNA and the KPSSS.
Dawn Beach:--- A fatal accident on Tamarind Hill and Defiance Road has claimed the life of a Learning Unlimited School Teacher. SMN News has confirmed that teacher Brigitte Van der Waals better known as Miss Brigitte succumbed to her injuries on her way to the St. Maarten Medical Center. Press Prosecutor Rienk Mud confirmed that the victim who was the driver of her car was going up Tamarind Hill when she lost control of her vehicle and bumped into a wall. Mud said the teacher's death has been determined to be an accident since no other vehicle was involved.
SMN News also learnt that a passenger a young female was also in the vehicle but she escaped uninjured.
Philipsburg:--- Minister of Home and Constitutional Affairs Roland Duncan decided to put all rumors to rest when he gave an on the record comment to SMN News on Sunday about the possibility of him being the Minister of Justice under the United People's Party and Democratic Party coalition.
Duncan said he was approached by the UP party and while he was offered the position to serve as Minister of Justice he has not taken a final decision as yet. "I may take a decision ten minutes from now and I can tell you that I am considering the proposal favorably as I have always said I will serve my country to the best of my ability. However, I have one more week to serve in the Council of Ministers of the Netherlands Antilles and I would like to complete my job." Minister Duncan said on Sunday.
Duncan said he was not elected as a parliamentarian during the September 17th election and as such he has not jumped ship as is rumored on the island. "I do not have a parliamentary seat to discuss or negotiate and the positions of Minister, Advisor and Ambassadors are all appointed positions at the discretion of the government. Those that contacted me did so because they know that I am competent to hold the position they offered me."
SMN News also learnt that a part of the deal to support the UP/ DP government is that Duncan will be the shareholder representative for WINAIR, now that the new government of St. Maarten would be accepting St. Maarten's shares in WINAIR.
Asked if he already notified the party on which he ran. Duncan said he did not take a final decision and when an agreement is reached then he will do the honorable thing by notifying the board of the National Alliance.
Roland Duncan was appointed to serve St. Maarten by the National Alliance in the year 2006 as Minister of Home and Constitutional Affairs he served until 2010. He was re-appointed in January 2010 by the National Alliance after they won all three seats in Parliament.
SMN News has learnt that Minister of Telecommunication Patrick Illidge has also met with the United Peoples Party on Friday evening and has reached an agreement to support the UP/DP coalition. Sources say that Illidge will be going independent in parliament and he has reached an agreement with the UP leader to support them in parliament, which would leave the National Alliance with six seats.
SMN News tried contacting Illidge on several occasions on Sunday for a comment on the meeting and to confirm if he in fact jumped ship but Minister Illidge did not answer his telephone. In an invited comment Duncan said Minister Illidge is a good friend of his and someone he respects very much and whatever decision the Minister takes he will support him fully. SMN News further understands that National Alliance Ministers Patrick Illidge and Roland Duncan are working closely to support the UP/ DP government since Illidge is one of the seven candidates on the National Alliance slate that was elected to Parliament.
In an invited comment UP leader Theodore Heyliger confirmed that the United Peoples party and Patrick Illidge has signed an agreement to work in the best interest of St. Maarten. Heyliger did not release the contents of the agreement that was signed.
Below is a copy of the agreement between the United Party Leader Theo Heyliger and Patrick Illidge which was signed on Sunday October 3rd 2010.
Cay Hill:--- A native of St. Kitts is in the intensive care unit of the St. Maarten Medical Center after he was shot during an armed robbery on Friday evening at the Cuchara Alegre Bar on Cannegitter Street. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson in a press release said police patrols and detectives responded to the scene about 10:30 am on Friday morning. According to the victims on the scene, while they were in the bar two unknown men with dark complexion entered the establishment armed with handguns, threatening everyone and demanded their monies and other valuables.
Police Spokesman Henson said that one of the patrons identified as E.J a licensed firearm carrier shot one of the suspects as one of the robbers snatched his gold chain during the robbery. The police spokesman said the suspect identified as C.D was dropped off next to the St. Maarten Medical Center. He was spotted by the security guards who assisted him to the hospital where an emergency surgery was performed to remove the bullet from his stomach.
GREAT BAY:--- The Department of Disaster Management is advising motorists to stay off the road network or only drive is necessary and when driving to exercise caution due to flooding of streets, roads and low lying areas.
Persons residing on hill sides and those driving along hill sides are advised to drive with caution and be alert for possible rock falls. This is due to the saturated soil.
According to the Monday 5.00pm Meteorological Service of the Netherlands Antilles & Aruba weather advisory, heavy rainfall is expected to continue. Showers will be widely scattered along with an isolated thunderstorm. Heavy showers may be accompanied with high wind gusts.
Current weather conditions are due to the passing of a Tropical Wave with an area of low pressure. The system is moving through the island chain very slowly.
Philipsburg:--- At the Round Table Conference held in March 1983 in The Hague, the Netherlands, the Netherlands Antilles and the individual Island Territories of the Netherlands Antilles acknowledged the right to self determination of each island of the Netherlands Antilles.
On October 30th 1998 the Island Council of the Island Territory Sint Maarten adopted a motion, resolving to among other things invoke the right to self determination and consult the people of Sint Maarten on the constitutional future of Sint Maarten. The subsequent referendum held on Friday, June 23rd 2000 offered 4 options; Sint Maarten becoming a country within the kingdom of the Netherlands won. As a consequence of this referendum, a framework was put in place to execute the wish of the people. The framework included a new Constitution for the Country Sint Maarten, which come 10-10-10 will go into effect.
How did we get here?
It was not until 1922 that the Constitution provided the Dutch kingdom to encompass not only the European territory, but also Indonesia, Suriname and Curaçao (read: Curaçao and its dependencies), giving the pertinent institutions in these territories limited powers to regulate their internal affairs. This in accordance with the contemporary views at the time, that Holland had an obligation towards her people stationed in the overseas territories.
The events of World War II prompted Queen Wilhelmina on December 7th 1942 to announce a kingdom conference to discuss new relationships within the kingdom. After the war Indonesia ("Nederlands-Indië") was however no longer interested to be part of a new order within the kingdom. The protocol subsequently signed between the United States of Indonesia and the Dutch kingdom, which then constituted of the Netherlands, Suriname and the Netherlands Antilles, was notwithstanding protest from Holland unilaterally dissolved by Indonesia even before the new order within the kingdom was officially established in December 1954. The Caribbean territories however preferred to continue ties within the kingdom, with greater autonomy and equal rights ( Dutch: "gelijkgerechtigdheid") within the realm. As such two Interim Regulations (1949: Suriname; 1950: Netherlands Antilles) were enacted, as a prelude to the "Statuut", the kingdom Charter. Suriname insisted that the right of self-determination was included in the Charter, which became an instrument of higher order than the then existing Constitution for the kingdom. A new era was born, without severing cultural and economic ties within the kingdom. The contrary, cultural and economic ties were somewhat intensified through development aid and economic preferences among the kingdom partners. As such Suriname and the Antilles were incorporated in various treaties between the European Community and other countries. According to the motherland, the Netherlands, the enactment of the kingdom Charter signified the end of the colonial period.
Question in an earlier articles series written by the undersigned, and published in 2004, was: Are we in the Caribbean part of the kingdom after fifty years of the Charter prepared and ready to accept full responsibility for our actions and institutions as provided for by article 43 of the Charter, i.e. taking care of, and guaranteeing fundamental human rights and freedoms, legal security and good governance?
The answer is clear, hence the choice of a separate status within the kingdom by Sint Maarten and Curaçao. Failure to take decisive actions in the Caribbean part of the kingdom often resulted in the European partner taking the decisions, not necessary from a Caribbean perspective. Our cultural tradition of being oral societies, lack of trust and confidence in our own, combined with a culture of political patronage -perceived or real- should not be underestimated as sources of obstacle to take charge of our own affairs. These are issues that are in general rather ignored than faced, and as such difficult to overcome as a nation.
The combined Workgroup Financial and Administrative Relations within the Netherlands Antilles installed by the governments of the Netherlands Antilles, the island territories and the Netherlands, chaired by Mr. E.A.V."Papi" Jessurun, had its work cut out after the Referendum. The introduction to the first Interim report drafted by the Workgroup, dated July 1st 2004, was -like most of the many reports written regarding restructuring, and or new relations within the Netherlands Antilles, and or kingdom- very promising. The report entitled "Geef sturing aan veranderingen, voordat veranderingen jou sturen" (Give direction to changes, before changes direct you) outlined the preliminary findings during the evaluation stage and points of departure. All islands were given an extensive questionnaire for self-assessment, included in the interim report. An inventory and analysis was made of all reform procedures of the past. Government models applied in foreign territories, mainly the United Kingdom, were also researched. Good governance as the key to an effective approach to the big problems that the islands and the Netherlands Antilles are facing, as well as for long term economic and social development, was the overall conclusion in the report.
From slavery to the kingdom Charter, the Maydays of 1969 and the "Friendly Anger" on Sint Maarten in1974; from born there to born here's, nationality and citizenship; from colony to overseas territory; from "Curaçao and its dependencies" to the Netherlands Antilles, being a partner in the Kingdom of the Netherlands; and now, come 10-10-10 the dismantling of the Netherlands Antilles!
"The people" of Sint Maarten –after a failed attempt to restructure the Netherlands Antilles in the nineties- has voted to obtain a status as an autonomous partner in the kingdom. "The people" chose to maintain ties with its European heritage. Self-reliance though with the will to support one another as partners in the kingdom, the foundation on which the new order was established on December 15, 1954 still applies. "The people" of Sint Maarten will continue to have the right of self-determination, until according to international constitutional law it has exhausted this right.
In previous essays I argued, that the paper work alone will not bring about the results we hope for with the new status. Building a nation is not just socially right; it is a matter of strategy and economic survival. 10-10-10 is here; Did we do so during the past ten years? In the constitution of the UNESCO is written: "Since war begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defenses of peace must be constructed ". It therefore has to start with reconditioning our minds. Did we invest our energy to develop positive thinking to overcome our differences, and focus on our common goals?
If country within the Dutch Kingdom is an interim stage, which will ultimately lead us to becoming an independent state as many of us proclaim is the ultimate desire, then building a nation is a must in preparation for statehood. To execute the rights and duties assigned to a state, we need to have and use our manpower, and prepare our human resources to assume the responsibilities assigned to, and required of a state.
As many of our recently elected councilmen and -ladies, soon to be the first Members of Parliament of country Sint Maarten, stated, and I would like to single out Dr. Loyd Richardson, a professional, who made his entry on the political stage: We have the human resources, let us make use of them, rather than alienating them. We have to consider our human resources to be our natural resource. Through collaboration we can create and promote a strong nation. We need to create a sense of belonging for each one of the citizens living on the island. Sharing and combining our strengths in all sectors of our community from one group to another is a means to promote common welfare. I believe that we should get ready to reach the stage to build that strong nation where fraternity, sharing our strengths, our know-how, our experiences, and our expertise become our way of life.
I wish one and all nothing but the best and prosperity come 10-10-10 and beyond!
GREAT BAY:--- The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) met this morning and after a review of the current situation on the island, all citizens are requested including employees of businesses to be off the roadways and indoors by 3.00pm until further notice.
Workers of essential services such as the Hospital can proceed to work after 3.00pm. Businesses and other entities that don't necessarily have to be open and don't provide essential services are advised to follow the advice given above such as being indoors and off the public road by 3.00pm. This measure has been taken in the interest of public safety and if persons venture out it will be at their own risks. Police will be out on patrol and persons will be stopped and advised to go home. This is a precautionary measure due to current weather conditions.
Businesses are requested to allow their employees to go home as of 1.00pm, today, Thursday. Everyone should be indoors and off the roadways by 3.00 pm today.
Only essential government and emergency services are allowed to move around after 3.00pm.
Periods of heavy rainfall will continue through Friday and may cause street and urban area flooding according to the Netherlands Antilles/Aruba Meteorological Service report of 5.00am Thursday morning.
Authorities are out on the road monitoring the situation and will take the appropriate actions on the spot where road closures are concerned should it be necessary.
There will be periods of isolated thunderstorms with gusty winds to even gale force.
Avoid low lying areas which can be easily flooded. If driving along hill sides drive with caution because of possible rock falls due to the saturated soil. Additional information will be released as warranted.
Philipsburg:--- In connection with the upcoming 10-10-10 celebration and ceremonies the Police Department is making the following announcement to the general public.
Front Street between Sea Palace Hotel and Diamond Casino will be closed off to all motorized traffic as of Saturday October 9th 2010 from 04.00 p.m. until Sunday October 10th 2010 at 03.00 a.m.
The closing off of Front Street is a precautionary measure taken to insure the safety of all persons attending the activities taking place in Front street and Board walk areas during those hours mentioned.
Normal business and government activities on Friday.
GREAT BAY– A number of Emergency Support Function (ESF) agencies have been very busy Thursday afternoon dealing with disaster operations which conducted the evacuation of six senior citizens from the emergency houses in Foga (Arch Road).
The six persons were evacuated by the Red Cross with the assistance of ESF-7 Sector Welfare and moved to the Rupert Maynard Center in St. Peters. The Red Cross has supplied sleeping cots and blankets.
After a review of conditions on the island, EOC officials are confident that normal business operations and government activities can resume as of Friday morning. Those commuting and have to pass adjacent areas near the Salt Pond should bare in mind that certain areas are covered by water, so persons leaving for work should take this into consideration and leave earlier than plan and drive with caution.
ESF-5 Police, ESF-3 Public Works and ESF-4 Fire Department were busy taking measures that fall under their respective responsibilities.
After a preliminary assessment, water levels in the Fresh Water Pond and adjacent areas have gone down a bit, however the water level in the Salt Pond is still high and although the water pumps are operating around the clock, it will take some time before the water level goes down.
This is due to the saturated hillsides where runoff water instead of soaking into the ground is running into the Salt and Fresh Water Ponds.
Philipsburg, especially areas adjacent to the Salt Pond and Pond Island remain high points of interest and the situation will be closely monitored.
Other areas of interest are parts of the Pondfill Road, Suckergarden Road and the Arch Road. The section of the Pondfill Road between the old Van Dorp and the Prins Bernhard Bridge will remain closed on Friday due to the high water.
Authorities are pleased that the advice to stay off the roadways and remain indoors has been adhered too. This allowed emergency agencies to move around unhindered and at the same time there was no accidents or persons getting hurt, due to the precautionary advice given.
Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Chairman Acting Lt. Governor Reynold Groeneveldt would like to thank and congratulate the general public for following the advice issued earlier on Thursday.
Groeneveldt would also like to commend the ESFs who diligently worked to manage a serious and potential dangerous situation of flooding caused by several days of continuous rainfall.
Philipsburg:--- "I am not going anywhere and I did not give up my seat in Parliament to go to work in the embassy in the Dominican Republic. I am in politics because I want to work and serve my people, are some of the words the number eight candidate of the United Peoples Party Johan Janchi Leonard said on Friday as he reacted to an article published on SMN News which stated that Leonard is expected to go to the Dominican Republic as St. Maarten's representative.
Leonard said while there are rumors saying he is the one appointed to take up an appointed position in the Dominican Republic Dutch embassy no one from the United Peoples Party approached him to discuss the matter. Leonard also said that the persons who will be representing St. Maarten in the different embassies will not be an ambassador as some people perceive it to be. He said the ambassador is appointed by the State and the new country representatives are going to be employees at these embassies. "Do you really think that I am going to give up my seat in parliament to take up a position somewhere else where I have no power?" Leonard asked.
Leonard said he is the next person in line to become a senator and he has no intention to step aside since his desires are to serve the people of his island and not the citizens of any other country.
SMN News has been reliably informed that the leader of the UP as well as it board members suggested that Leonard should take up the position in the Dominican Republic because Leonard is fluent in Dutch and Spanish and most importantly he has a vast amount of knowledge on immigration procedures. Other sources say the UP insiders are trying to get Leonard out of the way since he is the next person in line to take up one of the seats in parliament the minute any of the six candidates become Ministers. However, there are those who prefer Jesus Richardson who is right after Leonard to get the seat in parliament over Leonard.
Raphael Christian, campaign manager for Johan Janchi Leonard told SMN News that Leonard did not receive the support he was expecting from the UP and others that were closely aligned to the party. "Janchi is a generous man and there are people who he assisted and supported enormously and they did not support him in the election." Christian said Leonard is accustomed of getting close to 400 hundred votes and he was expecting over 1000 persons to have supported him but that did not happen. Furthermore, Leonard campaigned and ran in this election because he wanted to become the next Minister of Justice but according to Christian God's Glory and majesty tends to suffer when someone is clean and straight. "A person that is clean and cannot be bought will never become the Minister of Justice in St. Maarten politics." Christian concluded.
GREAT BAY:--- The Collective Preventive Services (CPS) is promoting Oral Hygiene Month amongst students. On Tuesday representatives from CPS visited the Montessori School in Cole Bay, the first educational institution to participate in the activity.
The age group three to eight years old received information on oral hygiene which was done in the form of a video presentation. Students of Montessori were also asked to participate in preparing a poster and an art gallery.
Montessori School students will have to work along with their teachers on a special classroom project related to Oral Hygiene.
The World Health Organization (WHO) goal is to build healthy populations and communities and to combat ill health and therefore the organization has a Oral Health Programme.
During the commemoration of Oral Hygiene Month, a presentation will also take place at the Belvedere Community Center for kids attending the After School Program.
Students will learn how to take care of their teeth, and which healthy snacks to consume, how to protect their teeth and how to brush their teeth.
During the school year 2009/2010, the Youth Dental Care Program within Youth Health Care visited the schools Ruby Labega, Prins Willem Alexander, the Oranje School, Martin Luther King, and the Charles Leopold Bell School to share information on the dental program with principals and parents/guardians.
During this period the information on maintaining a healthy smile was shared with the students of these schools.
Dental decay (cavities) is the most common chronic disease of childhood, affecting 50 per cent of children by middle childhood and nearly 70 per cent by late adolescence.
Chronic gingivitis is also common among children. The mildest form of periodontal disease, gingivitis is often caused by inadequate oral hygiene which leads to plaque build-up.
The best way to ensure that your child does not get cavities or periodontal disease is to instil proper oral habits early. Good oral hygiene routines should be established as early as infancy and continued throughout life.
Philipsburg:--- The Mental Health Foundation (MHF) is joining the UN and the rest of the world in observing Mental Health Month.
The theme for the year is "Mental Health in primary care: Enhancing treatment and promoting Mental Health", which the World Health Organization (WHO) describes as a day to "promote more open discussion of mental disorders, and investment in prevention and treatment services. The treatment gap for mental, neurological and substance use disorders is formidable especially in poor resource countries"
"450 million people world-wide, currently suffering from mental or neurological illnesses, are being failed by their communities, many of which have no mental health policies in place" announced WHO almost a decade earlier.
For this reason, MHF joins with the rest of the world in promoting Mental Health in Primary Care while still providing Secondary care to patients and families who need it most.
MHF has 5 Care Products from which the Foundation is able to execute mental health care in its utmost capacity.
Psychiatric Care product involves Psychiatric evaluation and consultation, which requires general practitioner referrals. At the moment the Foundation operates with visiting Psychiatrists who are able to prescribe treatment when onsite. When not on the island MHF has an on call physician for emergencies or a crisis.
When a crisis occurs MHF has its Crisis intervention product, which services individuals at their home or other location when deemed necessary. Other than stabilizing patients, the foundation provides psycho education to family and friends through the help of their equipped nurses and psychologist.
The Faraja Center, which is situated on the premises of MHF, operates as a haven for clients with many different situations. Their day is filled with planned activities, discussions and followed by a hot meal. They interact with each other, their mentors and Psych aids that provide encouragement and support.
For those who are not able to leave their home, the Psychiatric Home Health Care (Ambulant care) delivers the same care to homebound patients as well as those who are homeless.
The Information and Prevention product provides information concerning the Foundation and its care products to the community at large. Conducting workshops, school presentations and Public awareness activities.
During the month of October The Mental Health Foundation would like to make its existence and services known and admonishes Sint Maarten to reflect on the issue of Mental Health and its importance.
Philipsburg:--- Police apprehended a man identified with initials S.S from St. Maarten as a suspect in a number of armed robberies. Police spokesman Ricardo Henson said the suspect was spotted on Sucker Garden and Arch road on Monday October 11 with three other persons in a vehicle. S.S. Henson said is wanted for a number of armed robberies and a warrant was out for his arrest. Police also arrested three other persons who were in the vehicle with S.S because police found a large plastic bag containing marijuana. The other suspects have been identified as G.J., R.M. and G.D and they are from Curacao.
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Philipsburg:--- The chairlady of the parliament of St. Maarten Gracita Arrindell and her assistant general secretary Frank Hanse is busy preparing for the second parliamentary meeting which is scheduled to be held in the week of October 25th 2010. Arrindell told reporters on Thursday that while the entire process is new to St. Maarten they are doing their very best to make sure the state of affairs and parliament are secure.
To listen to the interview, select the audio from the list below:
The chairlady said government is expecting to have their location ready by October 25th where the second meeting will be held. She said while the intention was for them to get the building on the night of October 9th the preparations were delayed due the passing of hurricane Earl and the rain from tropical depression Otto.
On the agenda for the second meeting are, the validation of the credentials of the incoming members of parliament, to approve the rules of order, and to establish the committees for the different ministries in parliament. The members of parliament will also be preparing that which is necessary for proper functioning of the parliament of country St. Maarten.
Arrindell said so far the parliament of St. Maarten does not have the required amount of staff and the members of parliament is currently located at the old parliament building will be reviewing applications from persons who applied for certain positions.
The chairlady made clear that parliament will be using a speedy procedure to hire persons to occupy key positions since these positions must be filled for her to carry out her duties. Arrindell said a decision was taken on Wednesday to appoint some interim staff members so that she can function and to move the people's business forward.
Philipsburg:--- Proprietor of Bobby's Marina Bobby Velasquez confirmed that a court case he initiated against the government of St. Maarten will be heard on Friday. Velasquez said he started this court case some two years ago but government has been asking for postponement each time and they have refused to respond to the letters his lawyers sent them. However, the lawyers representing the government of St. Maarten have already indicated to the lawyers representing Bobby's Marina that they want another postponement.
To listen to the interview, select the audio from the list below:
Velasquez said he bought a property belonging to Risdon some two years ago for 1.1million dollars. The former proprietors he said sold him their long lease rights which was Naf.0.85 per square meter. "The judge already ruled that the island government has to honor the long lease for said property. When I bought that property I built exactly what was on the property which was a gas station, a warehouse and an office space. To my surprise when government billed me they charged me Naf.10.00 per square meter and the property I bought is 1900 square meters. I received a bill for Naf 20.000" Velasquez explained.
The CEO of Bobby's Marina further explained that he did not lease any land from government, instead the owners of Risdon sold him their sixty (60-years) long lease rights. He said when he received his first bill he went to see the former head of ROB Joseph Dollison who said what was done was not right. Velasquez further explained that he is of the opinion that the head of Domain Affairs Marieke Van Zadelhof took it on her own to bill him that way simply because he believes she is involved in politics. The CEO said it appears that someone was trying to be mischievous when they billed him ridicously.
Velasquez further explained that his neighbors bought properties from the same owners and they have added on to their property but they are paying far less than him. Asked if he knew how much his neighbors are paying, the businessman said he did not have the figure but he is sure that they are paying less. He further explained that if government increased the fees to their long lease then it is understandable because the new owners added more buildings on the property.
Velasquez also responded to the comments that are on SMN News alleging that he owned the properties by the Red Cross in Simpson Bay. "The property where the marina is located belongs to the Red Cross I am paying them a rent of $3000 per month. The Red Cross needed monies to keep them afloat. Furthermore the property next to Duedeck I bought it for half of a million dollars ($500.000). I am also of the opinion that government will look to increase the long lease for that property also."
Velasquez also addressed some of the comments on SMN News regarding his detention and alleged rape or inappropriate touching of a minor that was related to him. The businessman made clear that he was detained for questioning and has never been indicted or convicted. He said people need to allow the judicial process to take its course and not mix apples with oranges when it comes to him or the businesses he owns. Velasquez said he was treated like everyone else when the case was being investigated meaning he spent the maximum amount of time behind bars as the prosecutor and police conduct their investigations.
Philipsburg:--- The Police traffic department have reported to be investigating several traffic accidents which took place between Friday October 15th and Sunday October 17th. One accident took place on Friday at approximately 01.25 a.m. in where the driver of P-478 lost control of the vehicle due to the wet road conditions at the time.
The car struck the guard rail and headed back to the other side of the road and then overturned ending up on the side. The driver came out of the car on her own however had several bruises to her body. She was treated by paramedics and then taken to the St Maarten Medical Center for further treatment.
On Saturday evening at approximately 09.15 p.m. on the W. J. A. Nisbet road another accident occurred involving two cars, M-8895 and the M-5937. The M-8895 reversed from the parking lot of Souvenirs Gift Shop not paying sufficient attention to the traffic on the road causing a collision with the M-5937. Both vehicles received extensive damage and both drivers sustained injuries from the accidents having to be treated on the scene by paramedics and then transported to the St Maarten Medical center for further treatment. The driver of the M-5937 remained for observation.
Dutch Quarter:--- A Jamaican national and security officer identified as Sandra Hall of the Sherriff Security is now in police custody for the brutal murder of her Guyanese lover identified as Radford Alexander Seaford(45) better known as Skinny. Seaford is a Dutch citizen and has been residing on the island for a number of years.
The brutal killing took place early Monday morning neighbours of Seaford told SMN News. According to Angela Paul, the landlady of the late Seaford, the 45- year old man was always peaceful and jovial. "Skinny was no trouble to anyone, he lived here for years and we never had problems with him. We did not even know he was killed until the police and the doctor arrived here last night. As for the woman I don't know her, the first time I saw her was when the police brought her down to go with her." Other neighbours who lived close by said they did not hear any arguments or fighting. "We don't know the woman it's only about a week now she moved in with him. Skinny was hardworking and very jovial person," another neighbour said.
SMN News learnt that Hall stabbed Seaford at least three times, before calling her boss at the Sherriff Security to inform him of what she had done.
Prosecutor Rienk Mud confirmed that someone was stabbed to death and the killer had been arrested. However, the prosecutor said the two people had some problems in their relationship.
In a press release issued by the police department states that the police and detectives were directed to Christiansted Drive Dutch Quarter about 01:20 am for a stabbing incident, on the scene the patrols encountered the male victim identified as R.A.S better known as "Skinny" from Guyana who was lying on the ground and bleeding profusely from several stab wounds. Furthermore the victim was not showing any signs of life when police reached on the scene.
The suspect in this case, the lady with the initials S.M.H. from Jamaica and with whom the victim had a relationship was arrested on the spot. The suspect claimed that she had a very abusive relationship with the victim who would regularly beat her. She further stated that she was threatened by the victim with a knife at which time she also took up a knife and started swinging it in the direction of the victim fatally wounding him. The body of the victim has been confiscated for further investigation. The suspect is also in custody for further investigation.
Dutch Quarter:--- Relatives and friends of murder victim Radford Seaford better known as Skinny will be holding a candlelight vigil at the residence of the late Seaford.
Guyanese representative Diane Smith who is assisting the relatives said that the vigil will be held to honour Seaford a well known resident of Dutch Quarter. Friends of the deceased man can begin gathering at Christiansted Drive Dutch Quarter from 8pm on Saturday October 23 2010.
Radford Seaford better known as Skinny was stabbed to death by his Jamaican lover early Monday morning. The woman who has been identified as Sandra Hall is in police custody assisting them with the investigations. An autopsy was conducted on Seaford Wednesday and his body has been released for burial.
French Quarter:--- The body of a 19 year old young man was discovered in the Lamegeot French Quarter area on Wednesday afternoon. According to information reaching SMN News the relatives of the now dead lad reported him missing some days ago. SMN News learnt that the victim is known French Quarter community as "Yardie." Sources say when the body was found it was all wrapped up tied next to a pig pen. SMN News further learnt that the young man was living in his car and he had no fix place of abode. It is also reported that the gendarmes took possession of victim's car on Wednesday afternoon.
Commandant of the Gendarmerie Stephanne Brunet said the body was recovered sometime after midday and that the body has been confiscated to determine the exact cause of death. Brunet said they are not sure if the body that was recovered is that of the missing person since he has not yet been identified. However, the description of the victim matches that of the missing person. "Right now we are trying to determine the cause of death and to identify the victim." Brunet said.
GREAT BAY:--- Preparations for the offices of members of parliament, the parliament secretariat and the parliamentary chamber, are progressing, and the majority of the facilities in the new parliament building on Front Street should be ready by the end of October 25 week.
The first order of parliamentary business can then take place early November.
The first meeting of parliament is expected to handle the Rules of Order, credentials of three new members of parliament, the establishment of parliamentary committees on education, finance, justice among others.
The role of parliament will be to examine what the Government has been busy with, making new laws or adapting existing laws, and debates the issues of the day.
The Parliament of Sint Maarten has 15-members; six from the United Peoples (UP) party, six from the National Alliance (NA), two from the Democratic Party (DP), and one independent member namely Senator Patrick Illidge. President of Parliament is Gracita Arrindell.
Philipsburg:--- On Sunday, The International Coastal Cleanup came to end on St Maarten with the last beach cleanup held at the Point Blanche Beach.
77 Volunteers from the Seventh Day Adventist Adventurers youngsters, Educators, and Master Guides in training took to the beach and made an inventory of all pieces of trash found.
The group collected 25 bags of trash, 3 tires, and several pieces of metal.
The Seventh Day Adventist Church are annual volunteers during the International Coastal Cleanup period, with the Pathfinders participating a few weeks ago at the Belair Beach.
This year several beaches were cleaned and inventoried for the International Coastal Cleanup, those are:
Mullet Bay Beach with over 511 volunteers in attendance-others included
Cupecoy Beach, Simpson Bay Beach, Cole Bay Beach, Belair Beach, Guana Bay Beach and Point Blanche Beach.
The data of all trash will be summarized and the results sent on to the Ocean Conservancy to be added to the annual Ocean Conservancy report on marine debris.
The 2010 Ocean Conservancy report (with data from 2009) can be found online at www.oceanconservancy.org, the report titled: Trash Travels, From Our Hands to the Sea, Around the Globe, and Through Time.
The International Coastal Cleanup is starting a SEA Change in the way people think of a healthy planet, by cleaning up trash they are doing their part to clean the oceans. Two thirds of the Earth's surface is covered by Ocean. The Ocean is the engine that drives our climate and provides much of the food we eat, the oxygen we breathe, and home to 97 percent of all life.
Sint Maarten PRIDE foundation would like to extend gratitude to all volunteers who participated during the ICC period, and to the sponsors that provided us with the necessary clean up tools and trash removal.
A full report of all itemized pieces of trash collected at the beaches will be made available in the coming weeks.
Philipsburg:--- The driver's license section at the census office has been closed indefinitely. SMN News learnt that several persons who just recently passed their driving license examination and those persons applying for a renewal of their license are not able to get the required services to obtain a drivers license.
SMN News learnt that the section has been closed since the machine that is used to process the driver's license is not working. The source said the section is closed until further notice.
Efforts made to contact the secretary general for general affairs for Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams proved futile up to press time.
The Honorable Minister of Finance Mr. Hiro Shigemoto and delegation meeting with ICT representatives, to make proposals for a New Tax Inspectorate for Country St. Maarten.
GREAT BAY:--- President of Parliament Drs. Gracita Arrindell on Thursday afternoon met with the four factions represented in the Parliament of Sint Maarten in a briefing session to discuss a number of issues related to the aforementioned.
Representing the Democratic Party (DP) faction was Senator Leroy De Weever, National Alliance (NA) faction Senator George Pantophlet, United Peoples (UP) party faction Senator Romain LaVille, and Independent Member of Parliament Senator Patrick Illidge.
The four faction representatives along with the President of Parliament decided upon the first session of parliament which is set for Monday, November 8 at 9.00am.
Other parliamentary business that was discussed is: current status of the parliament building, incoming/outgoing correspondence, voting bureau and incoming new members of parliament, training of members of parliament, the 2011 budget, the parliamentary rules of order, members for the various parliamentary sub-committees, appointment of the Vice Chair person of parliament, logo contest for the emblem of parliament, and pending legislation of the former Netherlands Antilles.
The President of Parliament following the meeting with faction representatives was given a presentation related to a document management system for parliament.
"Parliaments the world over deal with a lot of paper, but since the invent of various technologies in information management, we are moving towards having an efficient and paperless system as much as possible while at the same time, creating processes that the public can retrieve information as expeditiously as possible in a simple manner," Arrindell explained.
President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell said that she would like to see the 2011 budget of country Sint Maarten handled as soon as possible.
"The first meeting with faction representatives went very well. Everybody is very enthusiastic and are ready to start working on the peoples business," President of Parliament Arrindell told the Government Information Service (GIS).
Certain pending legislation leftover from the Netherlands Antilles also needs to be handled, and these will be prioritized especially those with certain "international" deadlines related to treaties that fall under the scope of "international" law.
Also present for the meeting was interim Secretary General Frank Hanze.
The Parliament of Sint Maarten has 15-members; six from the United Peoples (UP) party, six from the National Alliance (NA), two from the Democratic Party (DP), and one independent member namely Senator Patrick Illidge.
Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) is hoping to finally have its financials together before the start of the New Year. Newly elected President Stuart Johnson explained that the board has been devoting months and hours to regulating the foundation's financial situation.
Johnson, along with new treasurer Erno Labega, has been going over the figures and working closely with PricewaterhouseCoopers in order to finalize the audit of the foundation's books. Once PwC has all the necessary information and can finalize the process, the report will then go to government.
Government requires that the foundation submits audited reports before it can release almost Naf 300,000 it still has for the foundation. Johnson said once the foundation obtains the money from government, it can start paying entities for services rendered to the SCDF and award stakeholders their prizes.
"We are almost there," Johnson said. "We understand the frustration of people who are still waiting on us but the financial situation was not a rosy one and it is taking a lot of work to regulate. This new board will ensure that once this process is complete, financial discipline will be of vital importance to make sure that the SCDF never goes through a period like this again," he said.
As for other preparations for Carnival 2011, the board will release additional information this week. "Despite the primary focus on the financials, we have been getting a lot done for Carnival 2011. With the cooperation of the public we are certain that the festivities next year will be unforgettable," he said.
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The SHTA met with organizers of the Heineken Regatta to ensure a fruitful and long lasting relationship for years to come.
During the recent meeting, the SHTA decided to make a financial sponsorship contribution of $5,000) to the Regatta (made possible by the SHTA's Dollar-A-Day fund) as well as aiding with the lodging (courtesy of SHTA's hotel members) for the guest judges, jury members and media flying in from abroad to take part in the Regatta.
SHTA's Dollar-A-Day program was established in 2005 and has funded, among others: clean-up campaigns, the Caribcert programs, Dollar-A-Day scholarships, Guest Excellence Training program for employees in the Hospitality sector and donations to various youth organizations on the island.
The SHTA recognizes the importance of such an event for St. Maarten as it is marketed worldwide and attracts many visitors from abroad. In addition, the Association feels that by maintaining a healthy relationship with the Heineken Regatta, it will have a positive impact on its members. The SHTA looks forward to cooperating with the Regatta in the future to ensure a successful outcome for all parties involved.
Trainers and leaders in the Active Parenting Program in all FBE and VSBO/ PSVE schools are ready to continue to assist parents in raising their children in these challenging times.
The Coordinator for the Active Parenting Program along with DERPI representatives recently held meetings with the trainers from both programs to provide them with information of new materials that have been ordered to be used in the schools.
New materials for the FBE program:
A series of DVD's entitled "Families talk about", some of the topics covered in the series are "Education begins at home, Wise words on discipline, Single parenting, Encourage positive attitude, Fathers matter, Grandparents as parents and Foster Parenting" These DVD's will soon be made available to all FBE schools.
New materials for the VSBO program:
A set of videos: Active Parenting of Teens in Spanish and a complete kit and books of "Family in Action" in English. This is a video and discussion program for teens and parents.
The purpose of this program is to provide training and support for families experiencing the dynamic changes of teen development.
"We would like to reach parent to prevent adolescent risky behavior" as is stated by the author of this program.
Schedule for the Active Parenting Sessions in FBE schools:
- The Oranje school will start with their first workshops for parents in Active Parenting Now in 3 (meaning 3 sessions of 2 hour each) on Monday October 18th for Spanish parents and on Tuesday October 19thh for English speaking parents. .
- Other schools are planning to start their session in November as well.
Schedule for the Active Parenting Sessions in VSBO/PSVE schools:
Sundial School:
- Finalization of Active Parenting for Teens for parents with students enrolled in the 1st forms.
- In November a second group of parents will be invited to follow the Active Parenting Sessions for Teens.
St. Maarten Vocational Training School:
- Sessions scheduled to begin October 25th 2010
Milton Peters College:
- Session scheduled for November 2010
DERPI takes this opportunity to remind all parents of students attending the FBE and VSBO/PSVE schools to take advantage of the programs for parental involvement in the schools.
We would also like to encourage more parents to attend these sessions as the programs are very informative and provide helpful tips.
DERPI also commends all school boards, school manager, trainers, leaders, teachers, parents and all involved for contributing to the wellbeing of the schools.
Parents are reminded that these workshops are free of charge in the schools as part of the Innovation in Education financed through USONA from Dutch Development Funding.
MARIGOT:--- The Gendarmes managed to arrest two sets of suspects who were involved in separate robbery incidents.
According to a press release from the Gendarmerie an 18 year old who is suspected to be part of a group was arrested on Rue de Hollande over the weekend. The suspect will be summoned to court at a later date.
The gendarmes also arrested another 18 year old suspect who was involved in break-in of a shop. The bandits stole the monies that was in the till as well as clothing. The suspects were arrested shortly after committing the crime. The stolen articles were recovered.
Gendarmes also arrested two persons whom they believe were involved in the breaking and entering of a medical clinic located in Bellevue. The clinic was robbed of cash. They also confessed to the robbery.
In unrelated news the Gendarmes also arrested an individual who was involved in a case of domestic violence against his ex-wife. The culprit was residing on the island illegally and he was deported.
Philipsburg:--- On Wednesday a police patrol was sent to the Dawn Beach area to investigate a case involving two suspicious men driving in blue car with license plate P-1968 in that area.
On the scene a witness informed the police what was taking place and that the suspicious men was somewhere in the vicinity. The police began an intense search to find the vehicle and persons in question. Shortly after the police located the suspected vehicle and suspects. The men were at the time busy doing some work on a transformer house in the immediate area. Not trusting the situation the officers proceeded to have a safety search for weapons in the car.
During this search a pair of binoculars and a pistol with one round (one bullet) in the chamber was found under the seat next to the driver, both suspects were arrested on the spot and take to the Philipsburg Police station for further investigation. The handgun and ammunition were confiscated for further investigation.
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PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Drs. Gracita Arrindell will be attending the state funeral of the late Prime Minister of Barbados David Thompson to be held on Wednesday.
Thousands of Barbadians are expected to pay their last respects to their beloved Prime Minister at Kensington Oval and line the route to St. John's Church in the parish which he represented in parliament for the past 23 years.
The President of Parliament will be leaving on Tuesday along with Minister of Education Rhoda Arrindell and her Cabinet Assistant Calvin Mardembrough.
The Sint Maarten delegation will attend the funeral service which starts at 9.30am on November 3.
Gracita Arrindell had the pleasure of meeting Thompson during the U.S. Democratic Party National Convention (DNC) in Denver, Colorado back in August 2008, where current U.S. President Barack Obama was nominated.
"The passing of Prime Minister Thompson is a great loss for the people of Barbados and the region as a whole. During his three-year tenure as leader of his country, he was an advocate for opportunity and prosperity for the people of his beloved island.
"We will be presenting a condolence book to the Government of Barbados on behalf of the people and Government of Sint Maarten. In the book we have messages from the Governor-General, the Prime Minister, from the Council of Ministers, members of Parliament and yours truly," President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell stated on Monday.
Prime Minister Thompson passed away on October 23 at his home in St Philip, Barbados, after a battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 48 years old.
The Sint Maarten delegation will return to the island on Thursday.
Great Bay:--- "Tourism binds the Caribbean together not only as a destination, but as a single market: now we have to remove the roadblocks that make this so difficult to achieve. We can do so under the banner of the theme of this year's Caribbean Tourism Day, 'One Sea, One Voice, One Caribbean,'" said Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunications, the Hon. Franklin Meyers in his first Caribbean Tourism Day address.
"The whole region is known world-wide for this one economic activity which has impacted so much on our way of life as a Caribbean people," the minister continued. "It will be my policy to vigorously promote Caribbean tourism to our island in accordance with our shared vision of 'One Caribbean'", he added.
While noting that "the same sea that separates us is the same sea that unites us," Director of Tourism, Regina LaBega pointed out that "Intra-Caribbean travel has become at best an obstacle course which is not only frustrating, but annoyingly expensive."
"How can we lay claim to "One Caribbean" when it is far cheaper to fly to Miami from St. Maarten than to Puerto Rico that is literally next door?" she asked rhetorically.
LaBega listed the three main objectives of Caribbean Tourism Day as raising awareness among Caribbean people of the importance of tourism in the region; raising the profile of the Caribbean tourism sector in the marketplace and making us reflect on the invaluable impact of tourism on the socio-economic and cultural wellbeing of the Caribbean.
"If tourism is everybody's business, as we often claim in the industry, then as a people business, it should indeed unite us more, much more than as a brand that is meant to attract only the rest of the world, while our own Caribbean people are not considered part of that target market," LaBega added.
In his own Caribbean Tourism Day message, secretary-general of the Caribbean Tourism Organization, CTO, Hugh Riley, said: "The Caribbean brand is a unifying force. It celebrates the diversity of the four language groups and our range of cultural influences, while highlighting the elements that unite us. That's what we mean when we speak of One Sea, One Voice, and One Caribbean."
"We want the brand to transmit the excitement of this region and to represent the elements that make the Caribbean the world's most desirable destination," Riley added.
Caribbean Tourism Day is celebrated throughout the region on the first Tuesday of November each year.
Philipsburg:--- Several persons who requested a certificate of good conduct at the IND office on Illidge Road are still waiting for the certificates to be processed. SMN News learnt that while the procedure takes as much as three months prior to St. Maarten achieving its country status there are people waiting for the document for over five months now.
SMN News learnt that Curacao packed up all applications from St. Maarten for the certificate of good conduct and shipped it back to the island explaining that Curacao is no longer responsible for signing documents for the citizens of St. Maarten.
SMN News has been reliably informed that the department of justice just recently sent back a stack of the certificates to IND informing that the these documents can no longer be printed in the old format and that all certificates of good conduct must be printed on the new formatted letter head bearing the island's logo and coat of arms. The certificates of good conduct has to be signed by the Minister of Justice Roland Duncan who is currently in the Dominican Republic and his replacement Minister Rhoda Arrindell was also off island attending the funeral of the Barbadian Prime Minister. Normally one of the two Ministers has the responsibility of signing justice related documents. The source said Minister Arrindell was not supposed to leave the island until Minister Duncan is back.
MARIGOT:--- The Ministry of Interior Affairs has granted St. Martin its requested subvention of 671, 675.00 Euros for the camera surveillance project that the Collectivity of St. Martin is working on announced the Prefecture of St. Martin.
The Ministry funding commission reviewed some 29 security projects and St Martin was the second most important project. The aim of the project is to assist is crime fighting and crime prevention on St Martin the prefecture added. It is expected that the subvention granted by the State will be added with the funds accumulated by the Collectivity. It is expected that the project will soon kick off.
Grand Case:--- The gendarmes are busy investigating a deadly motor cycle accident that has left 19 year old Jason Nyuiadzi of Orient Bay Park dead.
Information reaching SMN News states that the young man along with others was racing along Grand Case road when the accident occurred around 6am on Sunday morning. Eyewitnesses say the young man's motor cycle fell in a ravine that was recently dug across the road by one of the cable companies.
On the scene there were several onlookers and firemen trying to revive the young victim but he succumbed to his injuries on the scene.
A press release from the gendarmerie states that the accident occurred at the entrance to Hope Estate and a pick-up truck was involved in the deadly accident. While the exact cause of accident has not yet been determined, it has been established that the rider was riding at high speed and he lost control of the bike. The gendarmes have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident.
A relative to the deceased said the rider swerved away from a pick-up truck that was exiting the Hope Estate and while doing so he was hit by another pick-up truck. The relative who refused to go on the record and was extremely distraught at the loss said there are eyewitnesses who saw exactly what happened.
Philipsburg:--- While on St. Maarten for the 10th Anniversary Conference of PANCAP, St. Maarten's Minister of Health Social & Labor Affairs the Honorable Maria Buncamper Molanus paid a courtesy visit to Former UN Secretary General Kofi Annan.
During the informal meeting the Honorable Minister took the opportunity to discuss ways of St. Maarten as a country truly giving meaning to regional and international cooperation. A topic referred to by many speakers during the opening ceremony of PANCAP. "While St. Maarten as a country certainly is in a position to be part of the regional and international communities and thus participate in conferences and discussions, the constitutional structure as part of the Dutch Kingdom still brings with it challenges as it pertains to taking advantage of the benefits, financial or others. Such an example is that of Caricom Countries having access to medication at greatly reduced prices, for the treatment of HIV/AIDS patients, while St. Maarten on the other hand, the melting pot of the Caribbean in which citizens of these very same Caricom countries reside, does not enjoy the same benefits. If we are to place the individual (in this case the patient) at the center of this discussion we will quickly realize that those who these benefits are intended for do not always have access. Having considered this to be an interesting argument his Excellency Mr. Annan committed to deliver this concern to the relevant offices in the UN in order to get the debate started and as such assist St. Maarten on it's journey to building its international relations. The former UN official invited the St. Maarten delegation to contact his office during their visit to Geneva where St. Maarten will be participating for the first time as a Country, as part of the Dutch Kingdom delegation to examine measures taken by the Dominican Republic, the Netherlands and the Netherlands Antilles, Sri Lanka, Switzerland and Uruguay to comply with the standards of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights".
"We have a friend in Geneva" concluded Minister Buncamper Molanus "and I'm looking forward to foster the relationships we have been able to establish just a few days into our country status".
The government must resist the temptation and reject the recommendation to sell large tracts of our lands to foreigners," says Hon. Eugene Hamilton.
Basseterre, St.Kitts:--- St.Kitts-Nevis Opposition People's Action Movement Deputy Political Leader Hon. Eugene Hamilton is summoning the government to discontinue the seemingly un-checked sale of government lands to foreign entities. The PAM MP made the statement in light of recent recommendations by the IMF board of directors which suggest that the government speed up land sales in an effort to pay down the massive national debt which currently stands at over $3 billion.
"The government should resist the urge and reject the recommendations to sell our lands to foreign entities," said Opposition MP Eugene Hamilton. "Over the last 15 years and in particular the last 4 years we have seen massive tracts of government lands, being sold to foreign investors at cents per square foot.
"Bradshaw and then Simmonds played their significant roles securing the land for our people from the colonialist and the slavish mentality of the Denzil Douglas led Government seems to be on a path of returning all those lands back to the colonialists ," Hamilton opined.
Hamilton further stated "If lands are to be sold they must be sold to our people not to foreign investors. Foreign investors, if they are truly serious about investing, should be willing to lease the land to construct their projects and properties rather than the government selling the people's land and eventually shrinking the opportunity for our children and grand children to own a piece of the rock."
In a recently released IMF Executive Board Article IV Consultation with St. Kitts and Nevis report the IMF Directors underscored the need for structural fiscal reforms over the medium term to underpin fiscal and debt sustainability. The Directors further stated that Given that fiscal adjustment alone will not be sufficient to achieve fiscal and debt sustainability, they encouraged the authorities to speed up land sales and to consider seeking financial support from multilateral institutions.
Thousands of acres of government lands became available after the closure of the Sugar Industry in 2005. Since then thousands has been sold to foreign entities including almost 300 acres at Lavallee and 400 acres at Kittitian hill .The Lavallee Project was first announced in 1999 and the Kittitian Hill Project in 2005. Neither project has gotten off the ground however the lands are in the hands of the foreign investors in both projects. In contrast CUOPM Press Releases of April 1 2008 and February 2009 indicated the allocation of less than 150 acres of lands for the purpose of cultivation by local farmers. In a statement made by Prime Minister Douglas in a news story published on WINN FM the Prime Minister stated that 70 acres in the Estridge, Phillips, Mansion and Old Road areas would be leased to small farmers to facilitate the expansion of their crop and livestock production. In the CUOPM release of April 1st 2008 it stated "A total of 40 acres of new land has been approved in these three areas, and another 30 acres in the Old Road area for prompt distribution to other farmers who have recently applied for land,"
PAM MP Hamilton expressed grave concern in the disparity in the amount of lands allocated for locals and those sold to foreigners. He also commented on the method of the land transactions.
"I must express concern and gross opposition to the government's land distribution and sale policy which seems to favour foreigners over hardworking local farmers," said MP Hamilton. "While less than 200 acres of land according to the CUOPM Press Releases were allocated and LEASED to local farmers almost 1000 acres was SOLD to foreign investors in just 2 projects during a similar period. This disparity is cause for concern for our people, " Hamilton maintained
"It must not be accepted by our citizens that Foreigners can own while the locals lease. In recent transactions Government has been offering lease arrangements to locals for an uneconomic period of just five years. That is a tragedy as it suggests that the Government is not serious about encouraging our Nationals to invest in businesses. Five year leases?," Hamilton orated
As outlined in the 2010 manifesto, the People's Action Movement's land use policy dealing with Foreign Investors is through lease arrangements
Hamilton went on to comment further on the IMF report , "The IMF report is a very sobering document and it clearly outlines how far into the depth of economic despair this Labour administration has driven this country, said MP Hamilton.
"Our Nation faces a serious problem brought about by a Government that over fifteen years has mismanaged the economy, wasted our scarce resources and bankrupted the country.Year after year deficit budget after deficit budget. There is no reason to believe that if we wake up every morning doing the same thing that we will see a different result. If anything is to change; if a new direction is to be followed, the Government which is the problem must be removed," stated Hamilton.
Philipsburg:--- The Central Committee meeting to discuss the appointment of the general secretary for the parliament of St. Maarten is scheduled for 2pm on Wednesday at the parliament building on Back Street.
SMN News learnt that an emailed convocation was sent to each of the members of parliament. Copies of the convocation were also sent to the faction offices where the MP's were asked to pick up their hard copy convocation.
During this meeting the proposed candidate Franklyn Hanze will not be allowed to participate in the meeting since the members of parliament already indicated that they have several questions that they would be asking pertaining to the appointment of the general secretary as well as his functions. Chairlady of parliament Gracita Arrindell had hoped parliament would have approved the appointment on Monday during the first working meeting. However, the National Alliance faction proposed that the agenda point on the appointment of the general secretary be discussed in a closed door central committee meeting.
Chairlady Gracita Arrindell in her proposal to parliament said the general secretary who is already working would be appointed in the interim for a period of six months. In the proposal submitted to parliament signed by the chairlady it states that Hanze will be receiving a total package of Naf: 11,210 per week. The amount includes housing, car rental, food, airport tax, airline tickets and his weekly fees.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Honourable Ministers of Finance Hiro Shigemoto and Vice Prime Minister Theo Heyliger, are scheduled to leave the island on Friday on a 10-day working visit to Holland.
The ministers will be meeting with the Dutch Minister of Finance, Minister of Economic Affairs, representatives of the Financial Supervisory body CFT, faction leaders in the Dutch Second Chamber of Parliament as well as the Minister of Interior Affairs and Kingdom Relations.
The objective of the working visit is to get acquainted with the Dutch ministers and other entities while at the same time building and strengthening the relationship between the countries of The Netherlands and Sint Maarten.
"It is an opportunity for us to foster the relationship that already exists within the Dutch Kingdom, but at the same time to network with the different entities in Holland and to get to know the political representatives holding office and vice versa.
"The Vice Prime Minister and I plan to appraise the ministers and faction leaders about various issues on the island and how we are dealing with them, especially in the area of public finance.
"This is one area of concern of Kingdom partner Holland, but at the same time, this area is also of great interests to us. As Government we have to allocate the resources and take the necessary measures to make sure that public finance is handled according to the principles of good governance and the rule of law which country Sint Maarten realizes are the fundamentals of democracy and of a good functioning state.
"Our discussions will also focus on the debt relief package for the island as well as the payment of the outstanding former Netherlands Antilles Federal Government invoices through the "vereffenings commissie" which still has to be established. Our representative candidate for this committee is Jean James.
"We look forward to sitting down with our colleagues and having productive discussions," Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto said on Thursday.
The delegation also plans to visit the offices of S4, the student organization that handles the affairs of Sint Maarten students in Holland. Both ministers are looking forward to informing students about current developments on the island since the attainment of country status on October 10 as well as what the future holds for the nation.
The Minister also added that he hopes to sign a number of contracts of persons who will work in the tax department.
GREAT BAY:--- In connection with World Diabetes Day that is coming up this weekend, the Collective Preventive Services (CPS) would like to draw attention to the fact that people with diabetes are prone to having foot problems, often because of two complications of diabetes.
Firstly, nerve damage and secondly, poor circulation. Nerve damage causes loss of feeling in your feet, taking away the ability to feel pain and discomfort, whereby one may not detect an injury or irritation. Poor circulation in your feet reduces your ability to heal, making it hard for even a tiny cut to resist infection.
Having diabetes increases the risk of developing a wide range of foot problems. With diabetes, small foot problems can turn into serious complications.
The Health Survey of 1999 indicated that diabetes and hypertension was a major problem on the island and that 28 per cent of persons 65 and over had diabetes and was in the top five chronic health groups.
Diabetes related foot and leg problems are infections and ulcer, sores that don't heal; corns and calluses; dry, cracked skin; nail disorders; hammertoes and bunions; charcot foot; and poor blood flow.
Proactive measures that persons can take to reduce complications are: inspect your feet daily; don't ignore leg pain; nail cutting; never trim calluses or corns; keep floors free of sharp objects; don't go barefoot, wear shoes indoors and outdoors; check shoes and socks before putting them on; and have your family physician check your circulation and sense of feeling.
The Sint Maarten Diabetes Foundation trained 23 persons on how to examine for diabetic foot. The foundation is reminding diabetic patients and family members to observe to foot of their family member on a regular basis and to carry them on a regular basis to their family physician for an examination.
Dr. G. Spencer's practice has provided the opportunity to create awareness about diabetic foot and is offering every Thursdays to examine persons with diabetes for diabetic foot. This is only by appointment, and persons can call 542-2391 to set a time.
World Diabetes Day is celebrated on 14 November to mark the birthday of Frederick Banting who along with Charles Best, were instrumental in the discovery of insulin in 1922, a life-saving treatment for diabetes patients.
World Diabetes Day is part of CPS's calendar of observances where the latter raises awareness of diabetes and how to prevent the illness.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that more than 220 million people worldwide have diabetes. This number is likely to more than double by 2030 without intervention.
PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Drs. Gracita Arrindell calls on the nation to use international day of tolerance to reflect on our national diversity, and continue to build on our unity as a nation.
Arrindell's comments come on the eve of International Day for Tolerance, observed around the world on Tuesday, November 16.
"Tolerance is a way of life and based on a diverse society, everybody should have respect for each others views. I call on the nation to reflect on our national diversity and the strength that it has given us as a nation.
"The International Day for Tolerance is a time for people to learn about respecting and recognizing the rights and beliefs of others. At times there is a tendency to articulate related to identity rather than opinions or interests.
"As a nation of diversity, we must strive to uphold the principles of tolerance, pluralism and mutual respect. We must be our brothers and sisters keeper, and speak up for victims of discrimination.
"November 16 is also a time to reflect on the negative effects of intolerance. Injustice, racism and unfair discrimination have a negative impact on society. As a nation, of more than 102 nationalities, we live together collectively, but must watch out for any signs of prejudice, ignorance and hatred.
"The basis for every healthy modern society must be dignity, equality and mutual respect of all men and women. This year for International Day for Tolerance, let us as a nation celebrate our wealth of diversity," President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell said on Monday.
In 1996 the UN General Assembly invited member states to observe the International Day for Tolerance on November 16.
Philipsburg:--- For the third year 12-Metres Challenge has welcomed the students of the SBO Maritime Assistant Course level 1 to experience their number 1 tourist attraction: racing against each other in America's Cup race boats.
In a 1 year maritime SBO program, organized by SVOOBE, drop outs from the regular school system are being trained to help maintaining boats and work in the touristic water activities on the island. This year 13 boys and 1 girl chose to enjoy this second chance. In September the first part of the training started with subjects such as social skills, basic calculation and swimming. Just before they can start with their job training three days a week, they will now experience the same exhilaration as many tourist do while grinding a winch and trimming a sail in a thrilling race against each other. For some students it will actually be their first time sailing.
Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) is looking for a slogan for Carnival 2011. As is customary, the foundation has opened up the process of selecting a slogan to the general public. The person who submits the eventual slogan will win a season pass to the Carnival Village for Carnival 2011.
Submissions can be emailed right away to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. It has also been a tradition to have the slogan rhyme with the Carnival year. In other words, slogans mustrhyme with '2011'. Deadline for submitting slogans is December 1, 2010.
"Carnival is the people's festival and as such we seek to involve the community in all facets as much as possible," President of the SCDF Stuart Johnson said. "So here we are again turning to the public for a lively, catchy, short and sweet slogan for Carnival 2011. We hope to get a number of submissions to choose from. So spread the word, we need your help," Johnson said.
The slogan for Carnival 2011 will be displayed on Carnival posters, calendars, radio ads, website, Facebook page (currently being setup). "Our slogan helps to set us apart so make it catchy," Johnson concluded.
Philipsburg:--- The Zero Tolerance, Voluntary Korps and the Public transportation unit controlled a number of school buses on Thursday reported police spokesman Ricardo Henson. Henson said the controls began at 05:45 am in the parking lot of John Cooper Jose Lake Sr. Ball Park. The police spokesman said some 52 buses were controlled. One of which was towed away because the bus in question had no insurance and the driver had no driver's license. Police also detained one student while another was given a fine.
During the control some 23 pairs of scissors were confiscated, one pocket knife, three lighters, six bandannas or head ties, one pair of pliers, one eating fork, 12 afro combs, six styling combs and one sling shot.
During these controls the police noticed than several of the of the male students using the buses to get to school would wear T-shirts of different colours, such as red, black and green under their uniform shirt. These colours indicate which group of persons these students are a member of or they associate with.
The Police department is asking cooperation from parents and schools to inform their kids or students that they should wear only white T-under shirts and not of any other colour under their school uniforms and should follow all dress codes of the school they attend. In this way we will give the younger kids/students the right message.
Marigot: --- The confusion and misunderstandings between the first Vice President Daniel Gibbs and the Union Pour les Progres moved to another level on Thursday night when Gibbs resigned during an extra-ordinary territorial council meeting. The meeting which took place behind closed doors was called by the President of the Collectivity Frantz Gumbs to announce the decision taken by the executive council which is to strip Gibbs of his portfolios. During that meeting the president announced the decision he has taken and asked Gibbs to stay as far as possible from him. SMN News learnt at that moment Gibbs announced that he has resigned from the UPP group however, he will remain a vice president without portfolios.
Shortly after territorial councilors Jean David Richardson, Marthe Ogoundele Tessi, Remi Williams, and Annette Philips left the meeting.
They gathered for a moment in front of the Collectivity where they shared their grievances with the members of the opposition then left for the Galisbay port where they continued their meetings. SMN News spoke to the councilors who said they have had enough with the dictatorship of the president and the UPP leadership. Jean David Richardson confirmed to SMN News that a group of the elected officials who are part of the majority will be submitting their resignation on Monday morning to the President Frantz Gumbs. Those that are expected to submit their official resignations are Daniel Gibbs, Marthe Ogundele Tessi, Remi Williams, Annette Philips and Jean David Richardson. Should another councilor decide to follow Gibbs and his supporters then the current government will fall. Sources say that discussions are currently taking place with the other members who are also dissatisfied with the way the COM is being managed.
In an invited comment territorial councilor Jean David Richardson said that Thursday night's meeting was a disgrace to democracy. Richardson said he has serious problems with how the dismissal of Gibbs has taken place and he reminded the UPP leadership of how they handled the situation with Marthe Ogoundele almost three years ago.
The territorial councilor further explained that the president has five councilors making decisions for 16 persons. Richardson said to date he has not received any letters from the UPP faction stating what are the problems they are having with Gibbs. He further explained that the president has decided to give tourism to Dr. Louis Jeffry someone whom he said has no experience. "What is he going to do with tourism?" He said the tourist office was supposed to submit its financial statements before November 15th but up to now that has not been done. He said St. Martin is not a banana republic or a "piason" he said the Collectivity is dealing with people and their livelihood. He said the councilors are faced with a situation where they cannot discuss with their president and that he seems to have Alzheimer's disease because somehow he forgets that he is the one that does not listen or discuss with his councilors. Richardson said their intention is not to break the government but when faced with situations where the president is not working in the best interest of St. Martin, then a decision has to be taken.
A press release from Daniel Gibbs states that the president indicated to members of the council that he has lost confidence in him generally and that his decisions are based on their disagreements with the waterfront project.
Gibbs said Jean David Richardson intervened criticizing the way the Collectivity is being governed. The embattled vice president said he informed the council of the true reasons why the president has taken a decision to strip him of his portfolios and to reshuffle it among the remaining vice presidents. He said besides the waterfront project there are issues regarding the audit he asked for at Semsamar and the open conflict at the tourist office and most importantly the two headed government rather than a collegial or collective government. He said there are certain members of the council who are eager take over his portfolios. Gibbs said in view of the above reasons he has expressed respect for the population who elected the Union Pour les Progres on a program which he upheld, even though the ruling government has modified that program due to several ups and downs during the last three years. Therefore he has logically decided to resign from the UPP group. A letter of resignation will be sent to the President in the coming days.
The portfolios that were taken from Gibbs have now been redistributed to the following vice presidents.
PRESIDENT
- Economic strategy and interventions
- Emerging sectors, innovation and TIC
- Professional training and employment
• A mission entrusted to Mr. Arnel DANIEL: follow-up of the following
files:
- Agriculture, fisheries and stock-raising
- Public transportation and territorial continuity
• A mission entrusted to Catherine LAKE on economic interventions (AOT, Assistance to companies...)
VICE-PRESIDENT Claire GUION-FIRMIN
- Protection of mothers and infants (PMI)
- Social protection of children
- Senior citizens and handicapped persons
- Health of populations
- Housing
- Fight against exclusion
- Prevention of delinquency
VICE PRESIDENT Pierre ALIOTTI
- Territorial development
- Urban planning
- Road construction and maintenance
- Constructions of school and public buildings
- Natural environment and living environment
- Domain property
- Technical services
VICE-PRESIDENT Louis JEFFRY
• A special mission is entrusted to Mrs. Carenne Mills for the organization of certain events.
- Tourism
- Education
- Culture, Youth, Sports
- Associations
- District Councils
- Communication, protocol, events
- Spokesperson for the Executive Council
French Quarter:--- The gendarmes patrol recovered this stolen Toyota Corolla that belonged to Amencia Lake. According to Lake her vehicle was parked in the projects where she lives and it was stolen on Thursday night. The vehicle was fully stripped and parked beside a van on Impasse Adams Alexandre.
Philipsburg:--- In August the consumer price index for Sint Maarten decreased by 0.3 percent compared to June.
Over the period of twelve months ending with August 2010, average consumer prices have increased by 3.6 percent compared to the same period one year earlier.
This appears from data released by the Department of Statistics (STAT) today.
Price changes between June and August 2010.
In August, consumer prices in Sint Maarten were 0.3 percent lower than in June. The price index dropped slightly from 111.5 to 111.2. One must go back till December 2008 to observe the former price index decrease, when the price index took a dive of 3.9 percent, tumbling from 108.3 to 104.1.
Of the nine consumption categories three became cheaper in August: Housing (-0.9%), Food (-0.2%) and Beverages and Tobacco (-0.2%), whilst five became more expensive and one -Recreation, development and education- stabilized in price. The five consumption categories that became more expensive are: Miscellaneous goods and services (+0.7%), Clothing and footwear (+0.5%), Transportation and communication (+0.3%), Household furnishing and appliances (+0.2%) and Medical care (+0.1%).
Looking at remarkable price changes of specific products and services, five consumption categories stand out. This will be highlighted in the following, starting with the three largest consumption categories Housing, Transportation and communication and Food, which account for respectively 39, 20 and 10 percent of the total consumer expenditures in Sint Maarten.
Starting with the consumption category Food, especially worth mentioning are the price decreases of eggs (-22%), grapes, prunes etc (-14%) and white rice (-3%) on the one hand and the price increases of spareribs (+13%) and t-bone-steak (+12%) on the other hand.
Mainly due to the significant price drop of eggs, the food group "diary products became 2.1 percent cheaper, whilst the price drop of grapes, prunes etc. was the main contributor to the food group "potatoes, vegetables and fruits" becoming 0.9 percent cheaper. In contrast, the food group "meat and fish" became 0.7 percent more expensive, mainly due to the two price increases of meat mentioned above.
The specific product or service with by far the largest influence on the consumer price level in August in Sint Maarten is electricity, which became 7 percent cheaper. This price drop triggered the fall of "energy expenses", part of the consumption category Housing, with 6 percent.
In contrast, fuel (+4%) became more expensive, hence raising "the expenses for own transport vehicles" -part of the consumption category Transportation and communication- by 1.3 percent.
The consumption category Clothing and footwear was also characterized by an important price rise: men's shirts became 5 percent more expensive. This price increase was the main cause for the subgroup clothing to become 0.5 percent more expensive.
Last but not least, the consumption category Miscellaneous products and services was highlighted by the price increase of a men's haircut with 16 percent, hence raising the price of the subgroup "personal body care" by 2 percent.
Philipsburg:--- The surviving female victim, by the name of Maria Del Carmen-Ramirez, in the recent case of possible LPG-gas poisoning which occurred at their home at Brime road on Pond Island died last night in the St. Maarten Medical Center. The victim along with her companion by the name of Nando Muelssen who was found dead in their home on Thursday November 18th around 11.00 a.m. were both from the Dominican Republic.
The possible cause of death of the victims during the preliminary investigation was thought to be LPG- gas poisoning (cooking gas).
This assumption however turned out not be the case after an in depth investigation done by the Forensic Department.
The Investigation showed that the victims had died as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning. This gas was caused by a generator that was used the night before as an electricity supply for their building where they operated a small bar and shared a living area. The generator was running during the night in the enclosed building. This odourless and colourless gas seeped through the openings and cracks of the building finally reaching the bedroom where the victims were found.
The police department is hereby sending out a very serious warning to the general public informing them that they should avoid operating any type of gasoline or diesel machinery in an enclosed or unventilated building. The gases coming out of the exhaust of these engines are mostly odourless, colourless and very hazardous to your health and can lead to ones death.
Philipsburg:--- The parliament of St. Maarten has approved the hiring Franklyn Hanze for a period of six months as interim griffier to the president of parliament. The parliament also approved the hiring of Amador Muller former island secretary who would act and replace Hanze in the case of emergency. Muller who is already working for the government of St. Maarten will be paid Naf. 250.00 for every hour he works at parliament.
Parliament also approved that it will become a member of Palatino and will take part in at least eight committees.
Words like mistrust, having no time to waste and stop playing political games were freely thrown around during the parliamentary debate on Wednesday. Senator Louis Laveist was of the opinion that the ruling government in parliament had already nominated the members who will be sitting in the eight committees of Parlatino. Based on that assumption Laveist accused the chairlady in the opening session saying that parliament deviated from an agreement made a day earlier with the faction leaders.
Laveist later apologised for the accusations when he was given clarity as to who will appoint the chair and sub-chair of the committees that St. Maarten will partake of.
The statements made by Laveist irked his colleagues who fired off at him requesting that he tell them where was the mistrust since they were discussing the appointment of the griffier at the time. Laveist in his response said no one was going to use scare tactics to intimidate him when he poses question on the floor of parliament.
Senator's Lloyd Richardson appealed to the members of parliament to make sure they appoint those in parliament that can bring home the bacon in these committees. He also urged parliament to seek to foster closer ties with it the neighbouring islands which he felt will be more beneficial to the people of St. Maarten. Health care issues and the importance of having relations with Parlatino was brought up by Senator Roy Marlin who made his arguments based on a youth who was born on St. Maarten and could not get a travel document to seek medical assistance abroad. That child eventually passed away because according to senator Roy Marlin government's hands were tied and they were not in a position to assist the child.
Diversification of the tourism economy was also brought up in parliament. Senator Patrick Illidge felt that St. Maarten can buy land in the Dominican Republic for the purpose of agriculture and fisheries.
Philipsburg:--- The detective department recently received several reports of "pick-pocketers" roaming the streets not only in the Philipsburg area, but also in those areas where tourist frequently visit and where large crowds are gathered. Thus far two suspects involved in pick-pocket cases were arrested. The arrests of these suspects were successful due to the fact that in the areas where these acts were committed high quality security cameras are installed. The suspects were easily identified. The Police Department as a security measure recommends and encourage business and home-owners to also have high quality security cameras installed.
Police also arrested a robber in the armed robbery case at Cuchara Alegre which took place on in the evening hours of October 1st 2010. The wanted suspect was arrested by officers of the Zero Tolerance Team on Thursday November 24th. One suspect was shot by a former police officer during the robbery. The suspect with initials T.A.Y. from St Maarten for whom a warrant for his arrest had been issued was spotted by the officers on the Juancho Yrausquin Boulevard in the Vicinity of Sang's Supermarket.
He was arrested on the spot without incident and taken to the police station where he was handed over to the Detective Department for further investigation.
On Thursday detectives also arrested two young men both with the initials O.R. from St. Maarten. Both suspects are suspected of robbing a crew member of a cruise ship in port on that day. The victim stated that while walking with another crew member in the Sucker Garden area he was attacked and beaten by the two men and his gold chain was stolen from his neck. As a result of the beating he suffered a hematoma to the left side of his face.
Based on the description the victim and witness gave to detectives the suspects in question were arrested. Both suspects are in custody for further investigation.
The men in blue also captured two persons for being in possession of firearms.
On Thursday at approximately 06:30 p.m. while on patrol on the Little Bay road, a patrol from the Zero Tolerance team spotted a small white vehicle with license plate 144ZBG971 with dark tinted windows coming from the Fort Willem road. As the occupants saw the police patrol they started behaving quite suspicious. The patrol stopped the car in question to verify who the occupants of that car were. During the control of the car the officers smelled a strong scent of marijuana and noticed that one of the occupants had a marijuana-butt in his hand. During search of the car a ladies handbag containing a pistol and ten bullets were found and confiscated. Both suspects with the initials L.K. and G.J. denied having any knowledge of the weapon found. Both suspects were arrested on the spot and taken to the police station where they were handed over to the Narcotics and Fire-Arm Division.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Economic & Tourism Affairs, Transportation & Telecommunications Franklin Meyers, says he hopes to sign a cooperation agreement and protocol with Curacao concerning Civil Aviation services by mid-December. The legal staff of both governments will now come together to work out the details of the concept agreement.
This was the result of his working visit to Curacao last week.
Minister Franklin Meyers also met with the Curacao Civil Aviation Department last week for the purpose of obtaining clarity pertaining to which part of the responsibilities that the aforementioned authority will execute as well as what Sint Maarten will execute.
The concept cooperation agreement and the terms and conditions were also discussed at length.
A meeting was held with representatives of the United Kingdom Civil Aviation Authority (UK CAA) for the Caribbean region, to discuss the possibilities of the UK CAA assisting the Sint Maarten Civil Aviation Authority.
Areas identified are capacity strengthening, execution of inspections, policy and legislative matters among other issues. Follow-up meetings are planned to see how the UK CAA can assist St Maarten despite the differences of language and legislation.
The UK CAA currently executes various civil aviation tasks and responsibilities for England in their Overseas Countries & Territories (OCT's) such as Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Turks & Caicos Islands, Anguilla, and Montserrat.
"We want to continue to assure the airlines and other stakeholders that our air traffic control authority is currently and will continue to operate and function according to international aviation treaties in order to ensure an efficient management of airspace in the North Eastern Caribbean," Minister of Economic Affairs Meyers said on Sunday.
Marigot:--- First vice president Daniel Gibbs whose portfolios have been taken away by the president of the Collectivity Frantz Gumbs has written a letter to the French Minister of Interior and Overseas Affaibrs Brice Hortefeux. The first vice president highlighted the crime situation on St. Martin shortly after the First Deco employee Pascal Delalosa (44) was murdered.
Gibbs said St. Martin is entering the 2010- 2011 tourist season and the people of St. Martin deeply regret the murder of one of its citizens which is added to a list that is already too long.
He said he took the initiative to write to you today (as I have committed myself in the local press) it is because Saint-Martin is dying and that none of the aspects of the modest collective existence does not reassure him. The notorious absence of security and the no less troubling increase of delinquency and crime appear in the forefront; criminal acts follow each other at a particularly disquieting pace. Aggressions on persons and (sometimes armed) burglaries are skyrocketing.
The first vice president said he is more concerned about the situation as they are confronted with a sleeping Collectivity who is leaving the State with the entire responsibility of maintaining order in Saint-Martin. He made clear that he does not subscribe to that theory and he already made requested that the numbers and the intervention areas of the Territorial Police be increased.
Gibbs said if I do not contest the responsibility of the Collectivity in its denial of reality, even though he believes that the State has its share in this matter. Saint-Martin is part of the Republic and must, in that respect, be treated like any other national territory in matter of security and public order.
Since the beginning of 2009, Frantz Gumbs has promised a video surveillance in the sensitive spots of the island. Nearly two years later, we still do not dispose of this device which, in his viewpoint, is one of the elements of a true political will in matter of security.
Gibbs said on the economic side St Martin cannot not overlook the crime situation since the island only source of income is tourism. Despite the silly remarks made by Senator FLEMING and President GUMBs. He further explained that St. Martin cannot afford to be blacklisted on the American blogs and forums.
Actually, if the death or injury of a tourist is not more important than that of a resident, each being absolutely as respectable as the other in times of misfortune, to these human tragedies is added an economic dimension on account of the negative impact they generate.
Finally, and correlatively to the direct and real damages caused to persons and property, the palpable atmosphere of anxiety and fear emerging from this situation, the media repercussions on the markets are truly a disaster for St. Martin's economy.
"You know it, the socio professionals have drawn the attention of State authorities for years, they took initiatives, proposed directions of action, participated in all the work sessions which took place on that topic, without the successive State authorities in Saint-Martin seriously considering the true measure of this question. It is true that we only had a sub-prefect when we were a commune and today as a Collectivity only a delegate prefet who does not enjoy the full authority of the prefet of a region. Yet, we are repeatedly told that those means are amply sufficient; it seems obvious that they are not! A denial of reality, I have already said, shared by the territorial authorities
Mister Minister, this letter is truly a cry of distress! I am appealing to your sense of Statesmanship and order, and I solemnly request that you give a special attention to the "state" of Saint-Martin in order to prevent the insecurity on the island to pull us down into a permanent economic and institutional collapse." The letter concluded.
Philipsburg:--- Attorney at law Remko Stomp has officially submitted a request for asylum for the nine Cubans that were arrested three weeks ago.
Attorney Stomp who represents the Cubans said he has delivered the signed Asylum requests from the Cubans today at the Government building.
Pending their request Stomp has sent a letter to the Minister of Justice Roland Duncan stating that the situation of the Cubans (among them young women) at the police station is becoming unbearable and has demanded their immediate release.
According to Stomp, there are no indications that a short term solution is in sight for the Cubans. Deporting them back to Cuba is no option for they have clearly indicated that they want asylum. That means that they fear prosecution once they return, Stomp said.
"I have indicated before that Government could ask for assistance with this matter from bigger nations with more resources. The US for instance but also Holland that has committed itself notably last year to intensify its support and cooperation in the field of immigration. Fact is that nothing seems to be happening and my clients are sitting in the dark, occupying space that is seriously needed at this point and time on St. Maarten. Therefore they should be released and wait for Government to find a proper solution and I am willing to assist with that."
This is obviously not a standard immigration case St. Maarten does not want to see many Cubans land on our shores if it is known that they can get asylum here.
Stomp said he indicated to the Minister that he expects to see his clients out of the police-cells before 12 noon this Wednesday December 1.
The attorney at law said that should the Minister not comply with his request then he would have no other choice but to file an injunction in the court of instance for his clients release since this case cannot go on like this.
Attorney Stomp said the Minister made a public statement a week ago saying that the prosecutor's office cannot deport these Cubans because they have no authority based on the law to make such a decision. Stomp said since then he has not heard anything from the Minister.
In an invited comment Minister Duncan said the statement he made about the prosecutor's office is based on the law and international treaties. He said he did not receive the asylum request from the Cubans even though he made a public announcement. Minister Duncan said should the Cubans submit a request for asylum he will do whatever is necessary to assist them. He said he has his own convictions for Cubans based on what has happened in the past, reasons why he felt that they should not be deported. However, the Minister said he has no intention to force anyone to stay here and if the request is not submitted then they would be deported.
Philipsburg:--- The parliament of St. Maarten ratified the decisions taken by the central committee to appoint two members each of the Parlatino committees on Tuesday.
The following are the committees and its appointed representatives:
- Economic Affairs, Social Debt and Regional Development Commission (Senators Jules James and Frans Richardson).
- Citizen Safety, Combat and Prevention of Narcotics, Terrorism and Organized Crime Commission (Senator Johan Janchi Leonard and Senator George Pantophlet).
- Education, Culture, Science and Technology and Communications Commission (Senators Silvia Olivacce Meyers and William Marlin).
- Health Commission (Senator Ruth Douglas and Petrus Leroy De Weever) it should be noted that Dr. Lloyd Richardson was also nominated but he receded when the chairman of parliament wanted to take this to a vote. Dr. Richardson made a gentleman's agreement with the chairman stating that he will act as a replacement for the first two years if any of the two appointed senators are unable to travel, while he will take the latter two years over from De Weever.
- Human Rights, Justice and Prison Policies Commission (Senator Johan Janchi Leonard and Senator Patrick Illidge are the nominated appointees). Again Dr. Richardson was also presented by the National Alliance but he receded from the appointment based on the gentleman's agreement with the chairman of parliament.
- Gender Equity Childhood and Youth Commission (Senators William Marlin and Senator Frans Richardson).
- Agriculture, Cattle Raising and Fishery Commission (Senators Patrick Illidge and Hyacinth Richardson).
- Environment and Tourism Commission (Senator Roy Marlin and Senator Jules James).
- Labour, Social and Legal Affairs Commission (Senators Romain Laville and Lloyd Richardson).
- Energy and Mines Commission (Senators Romain Laville and Louie Laveist).
The Parliament of St. Maarten also ratified the members of the permanent committees of parliament on Tuesday.
The following are the appointed senators who will sit on the following committees:
- The committee of Housing and Spatial Planning, Environment Infrastructure (Senators Romain Laville, Patrick Illidge, Roy Marlin and William Marlin).
- Committee for Justice (Senators Patrick Ilidge, Johan Janchi Leonard, Petrus De Weever, and George Pantophlet).
- Committee of Finance (Senators Silvia Olivaccce_Meyers, Roy Marlin, Patrick Illidge, and Frans Richardson).
- Committee of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (Senators Jules James, Petrus Leroy De Weever, Patrick Illidge, and Frans Richardson).
- Committee for Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Affairs (Senators Silvia Olivacce Meyers, Petrus De Weever, and Louie Laveist).
- Committee of Health Care, Social Development and Labour (Senators Petrus De Weever, Romain Laville, and Lloyd Richardson).
- Committee for Kingdom Affairs and Inter-parliamentary Relations (Senators Roy Marlin, Ruth Douglas, William Marlin and Patrick Illidge).
Parliament also approved on Tuesday that two persons from Parliament will be travelling to Saba on Friday for Saba Day, they are Senators Johan Janchi Leonard and Roy Marlin. The deputy chairman of parliament Petrus De Weever suggested that the four factions in parliament caucus to select a candidate that would represent each faction in parliament at the Saba day celebration.
Senator Frans Richardson said the National Alliance will not nominate any of the senators since they consider that to be a waste of money for four people to represent parliament.
Senator Richardson said his faction would leave that to the people in parliament who are eager to travel.
Furthermore, senators are not representatives of factions instead they are representing parliament. Richardson also expressed concerns at the advice the newly appointed griffier is offering to the president of parliament. He said he worked with Franklyn Hanze for years and he the best suited candidate for the position. However, the mistakes he allows the president to make is uncalled for. Richardson said should these kind of mistakes continue he would have no other choice but to take a turn at Hanze since he is a well paid advisor and griffier to the parliament of St. Maarten.
Richardson expressed his frustration at the financial decisions parliament are taking while they do not have a budget. He said parliament has to put on paper how many people they intend to hire and what are the necessities of parliament rather than approving trips overseas. Senator Richardson said the finance department will not add a budget for St. Maarten parliament in its 2011 budget if they do not get a draft budget from parliament. He made clear that the draft the president of parliament found when she took office was not a finished document and that more work needed to be done on the draft for it to be presented to the Finance Minister and the department of finance.
Marigot: --- Former board members of the Office du Tourisme Josianne Artsen Fleming, Noreen Brooks and Maude Gibs can breathe a sigh of relief from the judgement they recently received from the Appeals court of Basse Terre. The three women were condemned by the court of first instance when attorney at law Aude Richards implicated them in a case in which his brother Alex Richards was involved.
The trio was condemned for the abuse of the court system on March 3 2007 to pay Euros 2,500 and Euros 3,500 plus the legal fees the Office du Tourisme endured some four years ago to prepare the case against the tree women. The case was appealed by all three of the board members immediately after the verdict was rendered and on November on 18th 2010 the appeal court issued its findings.
The former President of the Office du Tourisme Romeo Fleming had fired Alex Richards when he was accused of plagiarizing Nievre Tourism plan and presented it to the former commune as St. Martin's plan.
In the verdict of November 18th the court ruled that from the preliminary investigations conducted they have sufficient charges against attorney at law Aude Richards.
The decision further reads that to have, between SAINT MARTIN AND BASSE TERRE, in the department of Guadeloupe, during the month of February 2007 and until March 13, 2007, in any case on national territory and the statute of limitations has not yet passed, by using fraudulent practices, in this case by making Noreen BROOKS, Josiane ARTSEN, Maud GIBS and Eric PAUL believe that they were instituting legal proceedings through Maître Jean Marc FOY, the appointed lawyer, by making these persons give him documents, by paying the bailiff's fees, by participating in the drafting of the writ and the preparation of the file, attempted to deceive the judge in chambers of BASSE TERRE, to cause him to authorize a deed making obligation or discharge, in this case a judgment favorable to the desired purpose, the said attempt manifested by a beginning of execution, in this case the referral to the court by issuing of the subpoena, by personally paying the bailiff's fees, having only missed his effect on account of a circumstance beyond his control, in this case, the decision of rejection taken by the judge in chambers,
Facts mentioned and punished in articles 121-5, 313-1,313-3, 313-7, 313-8 of the penal code.
Upon these grounds the court rule that they order that the case be referred to the criminal court and Richards must be judged in accordance to the French laws.
In consequence, the court ordered that the file for these proceedings, together with the present order, be transmitted to the Public Prosecutor of the Republic.
The court also informed Mr. Richards that he has been indicted and he must report to the public prosecutor if he changes his address during the formal investigation by registered letter with acknowledgement of receipt until the final judgement is rendered in this case.
They also inform Richards that any subpoena, notification or signification will be considered made to his person.
Several efforts made to contact Attorney at law Richards for a comment on the decision on Wednesday has proved futile as he could not be reached by telephone.
Great-Bay:--- On November 30, 2010, a delegation of concerned St. Martin persons met with Mr. Lars WALRAVE, Representative of the Dutch Government in St. Maarten.
The delegation consisted of independent social activist Eldrige van PUTTEN-, Albert ADAMS ('Jesse')- and Leopold JAMES of the grassroots St. Martin nation building movement.
During the meeting a number of very pressing issues were discussed pertaining to the current social economic situation of the island.
Parties agreed to keep these contact-meetings on a more regular basis in order to apprise each other of issues of concerns-, as well as possible solutions.
GREAT BAY:--- Every parent's number one concern this holiday season should be to make sure that whatever it is you buy for your child this year, it's safe.
Every year Collective Preventive Services (CPS), an executing agency within the Ministry of Public Health, reminds the public of safety during the holidays. This is part of its calendar of health observances which pose an opportunity to highlight and creates awareness on preventive actions to ensure a healthy life style within our community.
There are preventive actions that can be taken to ensure safety for you, your family and even community. Before purchasing or giving any gift, particularly one intended for a child, double check to make sure it does not pose a hazard by reading the safety conditions attached to the gift.
Here are some safety tips for holiday season shopping: select toys suitable for a child's age, abilities, skills and interest level; for infants, toddlers, and all children who still mouth objects, avoid toys with small parts, which could pose a fatal choking hazard.
Avoid toys that have sharp edges and points, especially for children under age eight; do not purchase electric toys with heating elements for children under age eight; read the labels that give age and safety recommendations and use that information as a guide in your holiday shopping.
One of the most important gifts of all to give a child is time spent with you as a parent this holiday season.
Health facilities in Curacao were impressed by the Mental Health Foundation's (MHF) initiative and execution of an exchange trainee program held there which was co-financed by Samenwerkende Fondsen.
The objective was to gain more insight into Curacao's organizational set up and development concerning mental health treatment through visitation of several mental health bodies.
"This was something new and they truly enjoyed sharing their knowledge with us in Curacao" says Angie Stelk, MHF's Faraja Coordinator.
The 6 staff members of the Mental Health Foundation's Faraja Center who completed their trainee exchange program included: The Faraja Center's 4 Psych Aides - Abdule Wattley, Gladys Labady, Benjamin Jones, Shamaika Gario - Faraja's maintenance and driver, Baldwin Peterson along with Coordinator Angie Stelk.
To ensure that the Center continued its daily operations, the group left the Island on a rotating schedule between October 17th and November 14th which allowed half of the staff to receive training and the other half to keep the center running
In Curacao, they visited 3 Psychiatric clinics (Sonrisa, Klinika Capriles and Paaz), 2 drug and rehab Institutions (Fundashon Maneho Adikshon and Brasami) and a Clinic for the mentally and physically challenged (SGR- Fundashon Verriet).
At each Establishment, The Faraja Center's Staff members were greeted by a representative of the establishment and given a detailed tour. However, it was at Sonrisa's establishment that MHF's Staff was allowed the opportunity to be involved in daily activities with clients for a period of two weeks.
Sonrisa is a small organization on Curacao that offers guided living and daily daycare activities to clients with psychiatric problems much like what the Faraja Center offers.
"We learned a lot while over their" says Angie Stelk "We were able to learn different methods of treating our clients as well as other ways to execute plans and tasks. Mental health is an ever developing field and it is important for us to know of the latest treatment and management techniques."
Besides the warm reception and exchange of ideas, the program and Sint Maarten's MHF left a notable impression on the Establishments visited. In addition to that they were amazed by MHF's capability to handle clients with multiple diagnoses.
"I think we started something" says Shamaika Gario "The staff of the institutions visited liked the concept of this program and are eager to come to Sint Maarten and visit our foundation."
The Mental Health Foundation would like to thank the Samenwerkende Fondsen who graciously funded this program and made it possible.
Philipsburg:--- The Minister of Tourism Franklin Meyers has informed the attorneys representing Head of the Tourism Bureau Regina Labega and her assistant Edward Dest that he has decided to lift the suspension for the two civil servants and they shall return to work on Friday morning at 8.am.
Attorney at law Jairo Bloem told reporters that he received the information from government hours before the injunction case was to be called on Thursday. Bloem said the prosecutor's office also confirmed that government had filed a criminal complaint against Labega and Dest on November 25th with the prosecutor's office but no criminal investigation has been launched.
The attorney at law said the prosecutor's office also informed him that his clients are not suspects at this time and as such they are not entitled to information sharing. Bloem said the Minister also expressed willingness to compensate his client the sum of Naf.1, 500 each for the injunction procedures they initiated against government in the administrative courts. Bloem further explained that he is busy preparing another letter to send to government requesting more information that led to the episode of his clients being suspended forthwith on November 5th.Should government fail to provide clarity by next Wednesday then the two civil servants would see what other route they would take so that they can be taken out of the dark where the investigation and criminal complaint are concerned.
Giving some feeding back on how the episode started Bloem said on November 5th 2010 his clients were suspended with immediate effect and that they were asked to remove their belongings with them. Bloem said on that day government did not provide his clients with any explanation, no facts neither circumstance was provided to them that led to their suspension. He said a broad allegation was made saying that the suspension concerned a civil violation of their duties. He said on November 9th his clients sent government a letter requesting detailed clarification. On November 16 the Minister responded by saying he needed more time to gather the information while he sent the letter to the relevant department for advice. Bloem said his clients agreed to give the Minister the extra time he requested so that he could provide the justification or an explanation as to what was taking place. Bloem said from the very inception his clients said that they felt that government had made a big mistake and that with time clarification was going to be provided to rectify the situation. Bloem said because of this his clients gave the Minister an additional five business days to come up with the justification but the Minister never responded to their letter. Bloem said the following day his clients filed an injunction in the administrative courts so they could be reinstated back to work if the justice system could not find any reason to not reinstate them.
Bloem further explained that up until Wednesday at 2pm he did not receive any information neither documentation was provided to for the court case scheduled for the following day. Bloem said very late on Wednesday he received an email from government attorney with an attached letter confirming that a criminal complaint was filed on November 25th. He said it appeared as if government was trying to use that letter in the injunction case slated for Thursday. Bloem said he then made contact with the prosecutor's office to clarify when the complaint was filed and they also asked that the prosecutor share information with him if his clients were considered as suspects. Bloem said he informed the prosecutor that his letter was very vague and that if used in the court procedures then it could have brought on a negative effect for his clients. Furthermore, he believes that it is prudent that they bring clarity on the two questions he posed since in his opinion answering his questions will not bring about harm for a possible criminal investigation. Later Bloem said he received an email notifying him that the suspension has been lifted and that his clients should report back to work on Friday morning. He said the Minister also informed him that the penal investigation will continue and the Minister reserves the right to take any other action if necessary in the future. Bloem said that shortly after that he also received an email from the prosecutor's office informing him that there is no criminal investigation taking place and that the only procedure ongoing was the civil one. Bloem said that government's lawyer even asked if his clients were willing to withdraw the court procedure slated for Thursday. He said since the Minister expressed willingness to compensate his clients if they withdrew the court injunction.
Bloem said he is amazed at the way how the Minister handled this matter by suspending the civil servants then after three weeks to file a complaint with the prosecutor's office, then a week later lift the suspension. He said his clients are still in the dark on the facts and circumstances that led to where they are today. However, they are willing to go back to work for the people of St. Maarten. Bloem said both clients' wants to know what led to this especially if they were doing things wrong unknowingly. Furthermore, both Bloem and his clients are wondering why the SOAB was not called in to investigate the accounts prior to the type of actions that were taken.
Responding briefly to questions both Labega and Dest said they are eager to get back to work and they both admitted that it is not a good feeling to know that criminal proceeding are also hanging over their heads.
Cay Hill: --- Tensions at the St. Maarten Medical Centre got out of hand on Friday morning between Dr. J. Bocher and Dr. Michel Petit. According to Dr. Petit who was seen leaving the Philipsburg Police Station where he filed an official complaint against Dr. Bocher said that at around 9am on Friday Dr.Bocher approached him and poked him while hurling insults at him. Dr. Petit said that he was physically assaulted by the bone specialist of the St. Maarten Medical Centre simply because he filed a report with the medical inspector over a year and a half ago about some irregularities taking place at the St. Maarten Medical Centre. Dr. Petit further explained that the specialist in question has someone in the operating theatre who is not a registered doctor or surgeon performing operations on people. Dr. Petit said he even expressed his concerns in the media while he filed an official report over a year ago with the medical inspector and nothing was done to rectify the irregularities. He said it appears now that St. Maarten has achieved its country status some changes are about to take place and it appears as though that is frustrating people. Dr. Petit said he personally saw the person who is not a registered doctor or surgeon in the operating room working on patients and if his allegations are wrong then Dr.Bocher should sue him or take him to court. He said while he did not react violently to the 74 year old doctor on Friday he already warned police that should this happen another time he will take matters into his own hands.
In the meantime, Director and President of the board of St. Maarten Medical Centre Dr. George Scot said the hospital has began a fact finding mission into determining exactly what took place on Friday morning between the two specialists.
Philipsburg:--- The news broken by finance Minister Hiro Shigemoto on the increase of turn over tax from 3% to 5% to balance the budget is not sitting well with many residents especially the workers on St. Maarten. During a man in the street conducted by SMN News some of the workers felt that government should go after those companies and corporations that owe government monies.
Carl Richardson a former employee of Eastern Caribbean Cellular said he believes that government should go after these corporations whom he said is using St. Maarten tax system to their own benefit. Richardson gave an example on the Pelican Resort who recently declared bankruptcy while owing government millions in taxes. Not only that they did not pay their taxes but they fired a number of locals who have been working there for years. Richardson said Pelican was allowed to build a newer resort next door to the old one and they brought in foreign labour. Richardson said government has to become proactive and to force the management of the new Pelican to pay up its back taxes since the owners are the same. He said government must stop the tax breaks to corporations that are just changing hands to their own benefit. Richardson said the 5% TOT will not be borne by the businesses instead it will be passed on to the consumers. Another view for most residents is that government should ensure that the resorts pay up the 5% room tax they are collecting on government's behalf.
Ingrid Davis a vendor at the Philipsburg market place also shared the same opinions when it came to the increase of taxes. Davis said she recently wrote a letter to the Minister of Economic Affairs asking him if government is willing to reduce taxes for the local entrepreneurs. Davis said the bigger companies on St. Maarten are given a five year tax break when they set up shop here while vendors and other locals have to begin paying taxes the day they receive their licences. She said locals have no place to go when business is bad and government should look for ways to cushion its own people. Davis said should government continue with its plans then a number of smaller businesses will close their doors.
In the meantime, banker Jan Beaujon of the Windward Islands Bank said he felt government did well in balancing the budget. Beaujon said while the increase will affect people especially when purchasing certain items, he believes that if good governance is to take its course on St. Maarten then a proper budget has to be in place with the necessary controls. Beaujon said that while these measures are difficult especially when cuts and increases are made it is better when it's done early. The well known banker also feels that St. Maarten has a difficult year ahead but the nation he said is strong and resilient, they have been through major hurricanes and rebounded.
While the advisor to the United Federation Union Willy Haize feels that government should hold the Dutch government responsible. "It's time for Holland to shape up or else our people would have to shape them up." Haize said.
Haize said as is, only a part of the population will be paying taxes especially low income earners. He said government would have to increase the cost of living allowances for workers to cope with their day to day expenses. The unionist said he understands that government did not have much time on their hands and increasing TOT was an emergency measure. However, he felt that government must include the tripartite when making these decisions. Haize also called on government to muscle up and to go after the bigger businesses so they too can pay their dues.
Businessman Arthur Luguisse said it has been years now that people have been talking about the TOT mostly because most of the revenues derived from TOT went to Curacao and not St. Maarten. Luguisse said the United States has a huge deficit and the people there are against the increase in taxes since it serves as a deterrent. However, if the increase is meant to fill the budget deficit then government should reduce the TOT when they reach their target or peak. Luguisse said sometimes things just have to happen even if it's not in ones interest. Right now St. Maarten has to be looked at as a country and it must be able to position itself where it can make a difference.
Philipsburg:--- The Minister of Public Health, Maria Buncamper-Molanus is pleased to announce the temporary appointment of a General Health Inspector, dr. Theodorus J.W. Braeken for the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour.
The Minister informs that Government has been trying for a while to fill critical vacancies, whereas the vacancy for a General Health Inspector falls here under.
The possibility for temporary assistance has been made possible via the 'Experienced Young Pensioners' project temporarily financed by USONA. Hence based on the successful results of this project, we have been able to select and appoint dr. Theodorus Braeken to temporarily fill this critical function as General Health Inspector for the Ministry of Public Health, for the period November 29, 2010 until January 31, 2011.
The Minister asserted that in view of the appointment being a temporary (urgent) assignment, at present an agreement of collaboration with the Inspectorate of Public Health in The Netherlands is in process and preparations on the selection of a candidate is being made aiming for February 1st, 2011 as commencement date.
The Minister is also pleased to announce that the temporary appointment will not have any financial consequences for Government, since this is a temporary project being financed by USONA.
Philipsburg: -- The prosecutor's office will start an investigation into the alleged vote buying that involves two police officers a VKS officer and a civil servant the moment they get more human resources from the Lands Researche (Federal Detectives). Press Prosecutor Rienk Mud said the case was already discussed with the federal detectives and when the detectives are appointed they will begin a fact finding investigation to determine if there is need for prosecution.
Already police internal affairs conducted their own investigation late September when the story broke inside the police station. The findings of the police internal affairs were submitted to the prosecutor's office whose job was to decide how to move forward with the case.
Virgin Island Search and Rescue (VISR), has recovered two more bodies, a child and an adult, believed to be linked to the illegal Haitian immigration catastrophe bringing the total number of dead to eight.
The bodies are believed to have surfaced at the same location of the crash. Police and other officials are presently investigating the find and an official public announcement is expected to be made within short.
The coroner is scheduled to view all recovered bodies today while a forensic pathologist is expected in the Territory on Friday to conduct post-mortem examinations.
An official of the Haitian Consular in the Bahamas is expected to arrive in the Territory today.
Meanwhile, just yesterday the search team had discovered an additional body as rescue agencies continued search efforts after a boat carrying mostly Haitian immigrants ran aground on a reef off Brandywine Bay around midnight Sunday.
Virgin Islands Search and Rescue recovered the body of a male from the seabed near the site of the wreckage.
Monday morning, five bodies were recovered from the water and near the scene of the wreckage – two females, one male and two children. Among the survivors are 14 males and 11 females. Some 21 detainees are being held at the Detention Centre at Balshum Ghut while four have been hospitalized.
Yesterday morning RVIPF convened a meeting, which included Police investigators, St. Maarten law enforcement officers and representatives from Her Majesty's Customs, Immigration and the Ministry of Health.
Among the matters discussed were provisions for immigrants to connect with families in Haiti or in St. Maarten and to receive health and other welfare accommodations and preparations for repatriation of bodies and survivors. Police are also arranging for a meeting with members of the BVI Haitian Association.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development through the BVI Health Services Authority completed a preliminary health assessment of the detainees specifically to detect the presence of the cholera disease. The Ministry maintains that there were no known risks to the general population as none of the detainees are exhibiting signs or symptoms of the cholera disease. However, the Ministry will continue to monitor the situation and is working closely with other agencies to ensure the safety of the public. A comprehensive health assessment will be completed today.
All general procedures to safeguard health are to be maintained among officers in contact with the detainees.
Local investigators are working closely with the St. Maarten law enforcement authorities to identify those responsible for the illegal human trafficking and to bring them to justice.
Further, Her Majesty's Customs, Virgin Islands Search and Rescue and U.S. Coast Guard were part of the early efforts to rescue individuals from the waters around the wreckage and to detain those that had made it on to shore.
A 25-foot fiberglass boat which is believed to have transported the group has since been removed from the scene and is now at the Police Marine Base.
The Governor and Premier have both been notified of the situation and have been briefed on the conditions of the detainees and any possible threats to the BVI public in light of the cholera epidemic in Haiti.
On this situation, the Governor has stated that his office has been in contact with the Haitian government to brief them on this incident.
In addition, the Ministry of Health and Social Development along with the BVI Health Services Authority are collaborating on health issues related to the detainees and are taking all necessary precautions to safeguard the BVI public. Presently, there are no known risks to the general population as none of the detainees are exhibiting signs or symptoms of the cholera disease. However, the Ministry will continue to monitor the situation and are working closely with other agencies to ensure the safety of the public
(BVI Online News)
Philipsburg:--- Labour Minister Maria Buncamper Molanus announced on Wednesday that her Ministry is currently working on some more amendments to the labour policy. The Minister said those amendments should reach her office by Friday this week. Areas of the policy to be amended are the age limits, timeline, the three year aspect of the policy and the process itself. The Minister said the idea is to also look at the processing time because they are of the opinion that the procedure can be more efficient.
The Minister said persons applying for work and residency permits have to duplicate the procedures with documents. The Minister said there are cases where documents are expiring because one process took longer than the other. She said government is going further in examining the policy rather than making some cosmetic changes. The focus she said is to create more jobs for locals while following the labour regulations.
Buncamper Molanus said her Ministry is yet to discuss with the justice Ministry as to how they would proceed with the BTA procedure. However, she said that this is something that has to be done since it is her intention to make sure people who were registered are not treated unfairly.
In the meantime, the Minister said that while the management of the St. Maarten Medical Centre would have to deal with the incident that took place at the hospital involving two specialists, her Ministry via the inspector of health is looking into the matter where it is alleged that unregistered persons are practicing medicine at the St. Maarten Medical Centre.
Philipsburg:--- Minister of finance Hiro Shigemoto in press release said the following regarding the 2011 budget.
"We have attained the status as Country St. Maarten. We should all celebrate this momentous accomplished feat. And we must also understand that as a new country, we must now be capable and efficient in financing the needs of our Government and our communities. Nobody likes paying taxes, particularly in times of economic hardship. But as St. Maarten emerges from the global crisis and builds itself as a new nation from scratch, new structures must be adopted and difficult choices must be made.
Balancing the budget
Since the emergence of the new Government into office, vigorous efforts have been put into place to balance the 2011 budget, which was initially prepared by the former Government. Numerous issues concerning the budget have been identified, and have revealed the 2010 budget to be not as solid as it was portrayed. For example, one major issue was the use of advanced portions of the Netherlands Antillean's assets ("boedelscheiding") of Nafl. 15 million to cover the gaps in the 2010 budget. This was an incidental benefit, therefore it should not have been used for the budget deficit. In summation all these 2010 budget issues that had to be addressed were the equivalent of Nafl. 47 million. When St. Maarten wanted to make the 2010 budget as a Country budget, it was stopped dead in its tracks and St. Maarten had to revert to an Island Territory budget which was artificially balanced. This would have helped to prepare St. Maarten for a transition into country status which was illogically (especially from an administrative perspective) planned for 10/10/10.
It must be stated that the basic costs for running a country are much higher than running an Island Territory. And this is partly due to the number of added tasks as well as agreements made with the Netherlands that the new Government must deal with. The costs associated with these new tasks were about 30% higher than anticipated. The former Federal Government failed to provide a sufficient budget and did not make the necessary funds available to invest in the workforce, knowledge base and infrastructure on St. Maarten; they also failed to address the operational costs properly. Our resolve in dealing with this insufficient resource scenario had to unavoidably be to raise the annual budget. Only after resolving the inherited burden from the previous Government, we could put into place new plans of action we see as vital for good governance, which rightfully increases our costs. The sum of all the costs for the new Government of putting new plans to work, deal with the old burden, and run the country for 2011 is of Nafl. 445 million. Please note that the new policies of the current Government are not yet incorporated in this emergency budget of 2011.
The Government put forward great efforts to improve public expenditure management by taking cost-cutting measures, such as implementing a cost of living increase of 2% in 2011 and 3,3% in 2012 instead of increasing straight to 5,3% in 2011, which results also in a decrease in back service debt for the pension premiums associated with this cost of living increase over 2011. Despite these efforts, there is still a budget deficit which can only be erased by income generating measures. Due to the short timeframe to submit a balanced budget by 15th December this year, the Government must adopt emergency measures which can generate a substantial amount of revenue and be implemented by January 2011. We have considered plans of action to introduce new taxes, such as sales tax, gaming tax or duties on cigarettes and alcohol. We have also considered changing the whole tax system by shifting from direct tax to indirect tax. These measures are certainly worth looking into, but at the moment have proven to be not feasible within the given time frame. Furthermore, other suggestions like increasing the time share tax or abolishing certain tax exemptions to broaden the tax base will not generate the amount of revenue the Government has planned for. Thus, in order to balance the budget, an increase of the Turn over Tax (ToT) with 2% is a necessity.
The answer to the question of why the Government did not start earlier in making the necessary tax reform, is that the competence and authority to make tax policy and write tax legislation were in the hands of the former Central Government. Only when after 10/10/10 and attaining country status, that responsibility has been transferred to St. Maarten and only then were we able to establish our own Department of Fiscal Affairs within the Ministry of Finance. Furthermore, the previous Federal Government of St. Maarten did not submit any proposals or requests to the former Central Government to change the tax legislation for St. Maarten. Should that had been done, we wouldn't likely be in the present urgent position where we are forced to take measures such as the increase of the ToT. But now is not the time to look back, we must approach the future with diligence and positive action. An enormous challenge is put in front of our young nation and failing to tackle the budget deficit quickly will lead to serious complications and failures which could result in the intervention of the Kingdom Government with higher supervision. This would be a catastrophic result, one none of our people desires and most certainly our new Government.
Our communities have expressed their concern and have raised valid questions with regard to the increase of the ToT. They fear that this measure may have an effect on the buying power of the consumers, in particular those who already have little to spend. We have addressed these concerns with the deserved attention. That is why the Government has introduced particular exemptions for basic commodities for goods such as sugar, milk, eggs, baby food, rice, beans, potatoes, grain and flour, which are currently taxed with 3% ToT. These mentioned items among others of vital importance will be completely tax exempt. This approach will cost the Government approximately Nafl. 10 million on an annual basis, but it is a necessary investment that must take place in order to compensate for the increase of the tax burden.
Our current tax situation
As in many democratic countries, the tax system of St. Maarten is based on the principle of voluntary compliance. In other words, this system relies on individuals and entities to adopt their responsible position and honorably to calculate their tax liability correctly and successively report their income freely and voluntarily, followed by filing a tax return on time. Unfortunately, many of our inhabitants and businesses misinterpret the definition of voluntarily and feel it is optional or that the tax law doesn't apply to them. While some of our inhabitants and businesses honor their responsibilities because they understand their role in society and the necessity to pay the costs of our common goods and our mutual well-being, there are many others who are avoiding their duties mostly due to low tax morale, incomprehensible tax system and weak tax administration enforcement.
In the past, the Federal Government failed to implement the necessary steps to improve tax compliance, mainly because as an Island Territory of the Netherlands Antilles, St. Maarten received the needed funds from the Netherlands to pay the costs of the public expenditure. Furthermore, some politicians have even used this lack of tax enforcement as a selling point and presented St. Maarten as a tax haven in order to attract foreign investors.
The times have changed and St. Maarten no longer has the luxury to ask the Netherlands to bail us out or give us a loan every time we are running out of funds. Becoming a country means we now have to act with pride and acknowledge and assume the responsibility of our actions, decisions and policies also to encompass the obligation to report, explain and be answerable for the resulting consequences of those actions, decisions and policies. Accountability, transparency and good governance are the key factors and foundation to build our young nation. Now is the time to finally do something about tax evasion practices (efforts not to pay taxes by illegal means) and bring justice to those citizens and businesses that have consciously avoided paying their taxes, and fairness to those who have been in compliance. As I have been quoted saying: "For many decades, St. Maarten has been home to many form all over the world, and has provided countless economic opportunities for all of its inhabitants. Now St. Maarten as an emerging country in challenging times needs its inhabitants to be resolute, resilient, steadfast and contribute back to its development into a band new nation."
Our vision and approach
The Government has established several task-forces to respectively reform the tax system, update the database of taxpayers and efficiently enhance the enforcement capacity of the tax administration. With this collaborative approach we will tackle the non-compliant tax behavior and ensure that all our citizens and all our companies are paying their fair share. I realize that this issue has been paid much lip-service in the past, but it simply has to be done now, and it will be done under this administration.
Many empirical studies and international country surveys on the growth of the informal economy have concluded that the direct tax burden, the complexity of tax legislation and the lengthy and complex administrative procedures are the key factors discouraging individuals and businesses to operate in the formal sector. Our current tax system, which is inherited from the former Netherlands Antilles, is quite complicated and has a narrow tax base and relatively high direct tax rates (e.g. Wage tax, Income tax and Profit tax).The existing tax system is also full of loopholes, designed by clever well-connected lobbyists on behalf of well-heeled interests and individuals. It's a tax system that makes it too easy for some citizens and businesses to dodge their responsibility, while ordinary St. Maarteners pick up the slack. It's a tax system that makes it possible for tax payers to hide behind legal structures associated with the neighboring islands and using intermediate companies of their own as billing companies to create false invoices in order to lower their tax liability and, as a result, keeping the prices of the products in St. Maarten artificially high.
With the tax reform, the Government is going to put an end to these harmful tax evasion practices, closing the loopholes and making it more profitable for companies to create jobs here in St. Maarten. By doing so, we will save taxpayers millions of guilders: money that can be reinvested in St. Maarten and reduce the budget deficit, cut taxes for our businesses that are playing by the rules, provide relief for hard-working families and, most of all, restore fairness to our tax code by helping ensure that all our citizens and all our companies are paying what they should. The new tax framework of St. Maarten will be simple, efficient and fair.
To ensure that our tax administration have the necessary tools to enforce the law, we will put in place an unprecedented effort to upgrade and strengthen our enforcement capacity. Compliance strategies, such as penalties, audits and prosecutions will be applied consistently on an escalating basis of severity. Further steps are being taken to reach a level of transparency in which the database of taxpayers will be as accurate and complete as possible through exchange of information between the tax administration and other governmental and semi-governmental entities like the Chamber of Commerce, Immigration, Census, Cadastre and GEBE. To combat international tax evasion schemes, St. Maarten will be working jointly with the tax authorities from the neighboring islands by requesting their assistance in the assessment and the collection of taxes, but also by seeking their tax data regarding, among others, bank accounts, beneficial ownership, companies and properties of our taxpayers to cross-reference with our data.
Joint effort
Achieving financial health for St. Maarten through raising the tax burden on the people hasn't been an easy choice. It is only fair that the citizens and businesses who pay taxes, demand a more responsive and accountable government and transparency in the way public resources are raised, allocated and managed. Establishing a dialogue between the Government, our people and business community to understand each other's standpoint and expectations, is of the utmost importance and at the top of our list. In the tax reform process, the Task-Force Tax Reform will be inviting the representatives of the business community, social partners, interest groups and other stakeholders to share their vision on the possible tax framework of St. Maarten. A special forum will also be created on the website of www.sintmaartengov.org where all citizen of St. Maarten can post their valued ideas and suggestions regarding the ideal tax system.
Becoming a country in these challenging times is not an easy task and it demands our joint effort, solidarity, mutual understanding and unfortunately also some sacrifices for the greater good. As Martin Luther King declared, "The ultimate measure of man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenges and controversy."
Philipsburg:--- The daughter of a well known businessman Reggie Pantophlet has decided to break her silence now that the media has exposed the Buncampers dealings with leased land.
According to information reaching SMN News, the former executive council of the National Alliance and Heyliger granted long leases to three other persons for properties on Pond Island (Sucker Garden). Lands that Reginald Pantophlet filled in early 1997.
According to our sources, a long lease was granted to Island Concrete N.V. (409/2008), Eugene Richardson (407/2008) and Caribbean International Maritime N.V. dba as Intermar (408/2008). The latter is the step father of the former commissioner of Public Works now Minister Theo Heyliger.
Records obtained from the Kadaster' s Office showed that Eugene Ezechiel Richardson obtained long lease from Government for section 407/2008. The long lease was registered on June 1st 2010, while the long lease was executed on May 25th 2010 before Notary Gijsbertha. Island Concrete received their long lease for 409/2008 which was registered on December 24th, 2009 while the lease was executed on December 4th 2009 before notary Gijbertha. For the section 408/2008 the property remains under the name of the Island Territory of St. Maarten.
Angele Bell-Pantophlet told SMN News that she has been going to the office of deputy Prime Minister (Former Commissioner) Theo Heyliger's for years to obtain a long lease for the land her father filled in but to date government did not grant them that long lease. Bell-Pantophlet said she met on several occasions with the Minister's executive assistant Maurice Lake who did not provide solutions to the problems. Furthermore, Heyliger's office had referred Bell-Pantophlet to the office of former Commissioner William Marlin for him to resolve the issue when Heyliger resigned from the executive council earlier this year.
Bell-Pantophlet in a letter dated September 2nd 2010 to former leader of government William Marlin stated that she also met with the former head of Public Works Joseph Dollison and Marieke van Zaddelhoef (Head of Domain Affairs) to discuss the sections of land her father filled in and government did not grant him his long lease for all sections. Bell-Pantophlet said Dollison asked her to make an invoice for the cost her father endured to fill in the property so he could send an advice to the executive council for her family to be paid. She said after some time had passed Dollison informed her that government was not in a position to reimburse them for the filling in. So at that point Pantophlet gave government three options namely: (a) grant them the long lease for the land they filled. (b)compensate them for the work they did by filling in the property (c) or grant Pantophlet another area as compensation.
Bell-Pantophlet wrote in her letter that in 1997 her father Reginald Pantophlet went into business with Walter Kosch of Island Concrete. The first plot Pantophlet filled in she said was located in Sucker Garden knowns as (C/A80/1991) located next to Jo Jo's Construction.
According to the letter, government indicated to the businessman that the section in Sucker Garden area was a commercial and residential area and not for industrial business, thus government suggested that they (Pantophlet) fill in another area closer to Arch Road based on his business plans. The letter also states that Pantophlet filled in 6000 square meters plus the second option of 4000 square meters.
Bell-Pantophlet said government granted them a long lease for one section of the land they filled in marked as C/A 80/1991 after several meetings with Dollison. The young businesswoman said to date her father has not been compensated for 4279 square meters of land he filled in. She further explained that while she attempted to see Heyliger on several occasions and she was unable to meet with him until the last day of his election campaign when he showed up at her office. Bell-Pantophlet said during that meeting the UP leader told her he was willing to give her father a plot of land in Simpson Bay as compensation since he could not approach his stepfather and request payment for the land Pantophlet filled in. Heyliger she said told her he was not aware of the land issues and that his executive assistant did not apprise him of the meetings she held with him.
Bell-Pantophlet further explained that since then she did not hear or see Heyliger until December 8th 2010 when he sent her an email informing her that he instructed his staff to look into the issues of the land.
Bell- Pantophlet was not very forthcoming as the deputy Prime Minister she said made a verbal agreement with her and she did not want to jeopardise that agreement. She said that she and her father has been dealing with this issue for years and when she heard long lease was granted to Caribbean International Maritime dba Intermar she attempted to see the managing director/CEO George Pilgrim but he did not meet with her or return her calls.
In an invited comment on this ongoing issue Heyliger said in an email to SMN News that that there is no resolution in government records to show that the Pantophlets had rights to the land.
GREAT BAY:--- The Collective Preventive Services (CPS) which is part of the Ministry of Public Health, says its travel advisory to Hispanola remains in force due to the cholera outbreak.
Persons who plan to visit Hispanola during the holiday season are advised to take preventive measures. Ensure taking vital precautions such as ensuring hygienic food preparation, boiling or purifying all water, and washing hands often with soap and clean water.
The CPS continues to monitor the situation in Hispanola very closely with the assistance of the family physicians and its weekly syndromic surveillance system.
Family physicians are on alert to report any symptoms of cholera especially of persons who have traveled to Hispanola within the seven days of onset.
There have been more than 2000 deaths and over 25,000 hospitalizations and over 60,000 hospital visits in Haiti related to cholera.
Cholera is a bacterial infection spread through contaminated water. It causes severe diarrhea and vomiting that can lead to dehydration and death within hours.
About 75 per cent of people infected with cholera do not develop any symptoms, although the bacteria are present in their feces for seven to 14 days after infection and are shed back into the environment, potentially infecting other people.
Cholera is transmitted through fecal contamination of water and food. In places where there is infrastructure damage, the lack of safe drinking water and poor sanitation and hygiene can increase the risk of cholera, as well as numerous other diarrhea diseases.
Cholera is easily treatable, and if patients are given oral re-hydration salts promptly to replace lost fluids, and they can nearly always be cured.
In a small percentage of people, cholera can cause very severe dehydration potentially leading to death. To minimize the number of people infected, frequent hand washing, personal hygiene, safe water use and food preparation are a necessity.
By taking a few basic precautions, cholera as well as most other food and water-borne diseases can easily be prevented. The main rule is, always be aware of the quality of what you eat and drink when you are traveling to Hispanola.
GREAT BAY (GIS):--- The Honorable Minister of Education Rhoda Arrindell requests the presence of all sports federations and associations to a meeting to review a proposal by Curacao to host alternative games to the Kingdom Games 2011 and to discuss other urgent matters pertaining to the organization and hosting of sports on St. Maarten.
The Minister would also like the input from the sporting organizations regarding the Olympics.
At the meeting, the Minister will speak about her vision, and the future plans in this regard.
The agenda points are: Agreement on alternative games, Date for the event, Number of sports, Rules and regulations, Age group of participants, and Name for alternative games.
Date: Monday December 20th
Time: 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Location: Claude Wathey Legislative Hall, Government Administrative Building
GREAT BAY:--- Parents who make use of baby clinic services are advised to note the dates and opening times of the clinic.
The Madame Estate Clinic at the Madame Estate Shopping Center (across from the laundry) is open from Monday through Friday from 8.00am to 12.30pm and from 1.30pm to 5.00pm, except on Tuesdays.
The Cole Bay Clinic, located across from the Charles Leopold Bell School, operates under the same opening hours as the Madame Estate Clinic.
Parents of newborns and of young children are encouraged to make use of the baby clinics in order to ensure that their toddler is growing according to its age.
The same nurses who worked under the While & Yellow Cross when the baby clinic fell under their responsibility continue to administer the medical care services to babies and toddlers under the auspices of the Ministry of Public Health.
Parents should take note that service is no longer offered at the St. John's Ranch.
Those requiring additional information can call Youth Health Care at 542-3003, 542-2078, or 542-3553.
GREAT BAY (GIS):--- A Mutual Arrangement has been signed by St. Maarten's Minister Franklin Meyers and Curacao's Ministers Charles Cooper, both of whom are responsible for their respective Meteorological Offices, for the services of Forecasting and for the appointment of the representation in the World Meteorological Organization.
Minister Meyers welcomed Minister Cooper and his accompanying team and said that the agreement is sort of a brotherhood agreement in the sense that Curacao is still family. After 10-10-10, each country has to do certain things on his own. But because of the time span, it was difficult to acquire all the personnel we needed, so we have come to an agreement with the Met Office in Curacao who will provide the needed services.
Minister Cooper thanked everyone for being there and said that it was a pleasure to be on St. Maarten and representing the Government of Curacao. He said this is the way it should be, working together. On one hand, where one of us need help or are less developed, the other is there. In this case, it is with the Met office. In another case, we need assistance with Tourism, where St. Maarten is well developed. So we are mutually helping each other out. The way it should be in the Dutch Caribbean. And so we can grow together.
Due to the fact that the Meteorological Service of Curacao provides services for all of the former Netherlands Antilles, the details of the actual Cooperation Agreement (CA) will be worked out among in a mixed committee where all parties will be represented. The CA will itemize the cost of the agreement as well as the services that is covered based on ICAO regulation of cost-recovery. However, the current Mutual Arrangement is for a period of 1 year.
Philipsburg:--- Reliable sources have informed SMN News that Minister Maria Buncamper Molanus has indicated via email to Prime Minister and leader of the Democratic Party Sarah Wescot Williams that she is not going anywhere since she did not commit any criminal act. Minister Buncamper Molanus was referring to the sale of the economic value of a parcel of lease land she sold to Eco Green on December 19 2009. The Minister also informed her party leader that she sought legal advice on the ongoing scandal which dominated the headlines for the past two weeks.
Shortly after the meeting, a press release from the President of the Democratic Party Michael Ferrier states that "a meeting was held on Sunday, December 19, 2010, between the Board and Leadership of the Democratic Party regarding issues presently covered by the media relating to DP Minister Maria Buncamper Molanus. During this meeting, the Board took note of the intention of the Minister to issue a Press Release on these issues, which is to appear in Monday, December 20th". 2010. The Board and Leadership of the party have also been apprised of a legal advice sought and received by the Minister on the matters at hand. The Board and Leadership, even before taking note of the content of this legal advice, has taken the decision to hear Mrs. Buncamper-Molanus, not only regarding that legal advice, but regarding the entire matter to ensure that when the time comes, well informed decisions are taken. This meeting will be convened on Monday, December 20, 2010 at 6:30 PM."
In the meantime, while the press release from the Democratic Party states that Minister Buncamper Molanus intended to send out a press release which is to be published on Monday, no such release has been received from the Minister. SMN News placed several phone calls to the Minister's cellular phone but they all went unanswered.
Shortly after SMN News launched this news item a press statement from the Minister was received outlining the legal advice she received from HBN Law.
PRESS STATEMENT
Minister Maria Buncamper-Molanus
Dear Friends,
For the past two weeks my family and I have been subjected to the worst kind of assault humanly possible. Our names and reputations have been dragged through the mud, primarily by articles in the "Today" newspaper.
The reason given?
My Husband Toontje and I, allegedly broke the law by selling government land, given to us in long lease for a profit. Some have even accused us of money laundering.
While on the program "For the Record" with Eddy Williams one week ago, I promised that I would give you, the St. Maarten public, an explanation. I asked the reputable law firm HBN Law for a legal opinion on the matter and have now received their statement, which I will now share with you:
M E M O R A N D U M
Date : December 18, 2010
To : C.A. Buncamper and M.J. Buncamper-Molanus
From : HBN Law (E.R. de Vries)
Subject : Economic Ownership
We are attorneys at law with the Court of Appeals of Aruba, Curacao and Sint Maarten and Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba and qualified to render the opinions contained in this memo.
For the purpose of rendering the opinions in this memo, we have been provided with the following documents:
- Decision of the Executive Council of Sint Maarten of February 14, 2008, no. 129 (the "Decision") to issue a parcel of land on Sint Maarten, described in certificate of admeasurement no. 230 of 2007 ("Parcel 230/2007") in long lease (the "Long Lease Right") to C.A. Buncamper and M.J. Buncamper-Molanus ("Buncamper");
- Notarial deed of December 19, 2008, drawn up by mr F.E. Gijsbertha, a civil law notary on Sint Maarten (the "Notary"), whereby the economic ownership of the Long Lease Right (the "Economic Ownership") was assigned to Eco-Green N.V. ("Eco-Green"); and
- A Commercial Lease Agreement dated December 19, 2008, purportedly drawn up by the Notary, whereby the Economic Ownership was leased by Eco-Green to St Maarten Building Supplies N.V. ("SMBS").
In this memo we will, at your request, give our opinion on the following issues: Page 2 of 5
A. Is it legally possible to assign the economic ownership of a right of long lease?
B. What is the position of a civil law notary in Sint Maarten legal practice?
C. Can a citizen that employs a civil law notary in Sint Maarten to carry out a real estate transaction rely that the transaction is carried out validly?
D. Do the transactions described above constitute the crime of money laundering?
In issuing this memo we assume, and with your permission rely thereon, that there are no documents, facts or circumstances that are relevant to our opinion in this memo that have not been disclosed to us.
This memo and the opinions expressed herein are based on our knowledge of the law as applicable in Sint Maarten during the relevant period covered by this memo.
A. Assignment of economic ownership
Sint Maarten law does not formally distinguish between the transfer or assignment of forms of ownership, such as an assignment of legal ownership (juridische eigendom) or an assignment of economic ownership (economische eigendom). In legal practice when the transfer of ownership of real estate is conducted, this generally means the transfer of legal ownership of the real estate involved. Also, where article 3:88 Civil Code stipulates the form of the assignment of real estate, the assignment of legal ownership (not economic ownership) is meant.
Nevertheless, it is common practice and commonly accepted that the economic ownership of real estate can be assigned between private parties. Such an assignment of economic ownership is carried out where parties wish to arrange between themselves the change of the economic benefit and risk of real estate from the legal owner to the acquirer of the economic ownership, without actually transferring (the legal ownership of) the real estate. The assignment of economic ownership on real estate therefore in essence is nothing else than an agreement between the legal owner of the real estate and a third party, that from a certain moment on the benefit and risk of the real estate are for the account of the third party.
For the assignment of economic ownership to be valid, it is not required to have the agreement between the parties involved laid down in a notarial deed, nor is it necessary to inscribe such a deed in the public land registers.
The assignment of economic ownership only works between the parties involved and therefore does not change the fact that the legal owner is and remains the holder of the legal ownership rights to the real estate involved. If, for example, a creditor of the legal owner wishes to attach the real estate of the legal owner to recover payment of a debt of the legal owner to that creditor, the holder of the economic ownership of the real estate in question will have to accept that right of the creditor and will only remain with a claim against the legal owner for breach of contract (safe for other arrangements that may have been made between the parties).
Given the above, it is our opinion that it is legally possible to assign the economic ownership of a right of long lease in the afore-mentioned sense.
B. Position of a civil law notary
The Notary, as a civil law notary (notaris) with place of sitting Sint Maarten, is a public civil servant (openbaar ambtenaar) exclusively authorized to pass authentic deeds for all acts, agreements and decisions where the law dictates or parties request an authentic document. In order to be appointed as civil law notary, the person in question has to meet several Page 3 of 5
professional and personal conduct requirements. The notary is generally considered to be a legal expert in the field of real estate transactions.
C. Assumption that a transaction carried out by a civil law notary is valid
Given the position of a civil law notary in the legal system of Sint Maarten, it is our opinion that any citizen that does not have an extensive legal background, may, in principle and in good faith, assume that a real estate transaction carried out by or under the guidance of a civil law notary, is legally valid. In this regard we point out that real estate transactions are generally complicated and there is a public interest in having real estate transaction carried out properly, in particular for legal certainty (rechtszekerheid). This is one of the main reasons why the legislator has made involvement of a civil law notary in the process of transfer or mortgaging of real estate mandatory. As such a citizen without an extensive legal background can generally rely on the knowledge and expertise of the civil law notary and should not be deemed required to second guess the validity of the deeds, agreements or acts of the civil law notary, safe for a manifest error contained therein.
D. Do the transactions constitute money laundering?
The transactions described above are, in essence, the assignment by Buncamper of the Economic Ownership to Eco-Green against a purchase price, followed by the lease by Eco-Green of the Economic Ownership to SMBS. All transactions have been documented and are partly laid down in public documents that have been inscribed in the public registers of Sint Maarten. In order for the transactions to constitute money laundering (in the sense of articles 435a-435d Criminal code Sint Maarten), it is required that the item (good or right) that is being acquired or transferred is derived directly or indirectly from a crime. Given the contents of the transactions described above, they could constitute money laundering only if the Long Lease Right, the Economic Right, the lease, the purchase price or the lease price due or paid are derived directly or indirectly from a crime. We have no indication to believe that to be the case. As such we would not see how the transactions described above could constitute the crime of money laundering.
******
The legal opinion given by HBN law clearly proves that I have done nothing wrong, legally nor morally.
Please allow me in simple English to explain what actually happened.
Based on a request submitted in 1992, my husband and I were granted permission to use a piece of land in the landfill area for commercial use in 2005. This means that the land is to be used for business purposes. This transaction was formalized in 2008 with the issuance of Page 4 of 5
government resolution for the long lease. The purpose of the land is for storage of imported aggregates (construction material such as sand, blocks and cement)
When we were approached by a young St. Maartener Mr. Ivan Havertong, who hails from a decent respectable, community minded family and a very close personal friend of ours, who was looking for commercial property to operate his business, we agreed to work something out with him.
It was a business transaction. He, Mr. Havertong, wanted land to use to operate his business SBS, we, my husband and I, had land for commercial purposes, so if all could be legally formalized, we could proceed.
Notary Gijsbertha was approached and explained what our plans were, and asked if such an arrangement can be legally worked out. He replied yes and suggested the format that is now so severely being critisized. A format widely used on the island by many prominent business leaders, including some who are today criticizing me.
Now let me say something about Eco Green.
Eco Green is a locally established business. Owned and operated by a Sint Maartener from Middle Region. ... Mr. Walters is a long time friend of the Buncamper family. The discriminating remarks made against this good gentleman are sickening. He was described as not fitting the profile of someone having money because he is from Middle Region, dresses simple and does not speak fancy. What is exactly the profile of someone who has money? Must he or she have a particular skin color? What color should their eyes be or what type of car must they drive? Where should they live, Point Blanche? Guana Bay? Pelican?
A blatant insult to the Sint Maarten people, but we laugh and agree because the goal is to take out the Buncampers.
One prominent politician said that Mr. Walters does not even own a wheelbarrow.
My question is did the managing editor of the Today newspaper own a wheelbarrow when he came to Sint Maarten from heaven knows where? Does he or his friends fit the profile of people with money?
Mr. Walters is a respectable Sint Maartener from the town of Middle Region, a town that has produced some of St. Maarten's best and brightest. He made use of a totally legal business opportunity provided to him. He does not have to fit any profile to be able to establish, own and operate any business on this island. This is his island and he has a right, more than some of his critics, to be able to operate his own business here. Shame on those of us who join others, who we have welcomed here without having even owned a wheelbarrow, in criticizing our own local entrepreneurs and exacting that they must fit a certain profile before being able to operate a business here.
This is no longer about the Buncampers. This is about the role of the press in our community. I stand up front, in supporting the press in uncovering any wrongdoing, especially of politicians. I cannot however condone the twisting of stories and inciting the public with as sole goal, the character assassination of three local families who have done nothing wrong.
One of my critics said and I quote "there is a line you are not supposed to cross" unquote. Page 5 of 5
I agree, but he apparently keeps moving that line depending on what he stands to gain from someone who has blatantly crossed that line.
I was asked to consider tendering my resignation. And I have seriously considered it. However it is difficult to accept guilt when you have done nothing wrong.
This type of witch hunting must stop.
Today it is Maria, Toontje, Walters and Ivan all Sint Maarteners who did nothing other than to try to earn a decent living on their island in a totally legal fashion.
Tomorrow it will be whom ............you fill in the blanks.
I hope I have given you the explanation I promised you. And I will continue to work in your interest so that not only those whom we welcome to our shores may prosper, but also those of you from Middle Region, Suckergarden, St. Peters and Capebay without having to necessarily fit any particular profile.
Simpson Bay:--- Managing Director and owner of Rent 4 Less Car Rental Patrick Braithwaite in told SMN News on Tuesday morning that he was awoken by an acquaintance who informed him that his business place was broken into sometime Monday night. The businessman said when he got the phone call he went to his place of business where he discovered five of his cars were stolen, along with all the keys of the other vehicles that remained on the premises.
Braithwaite said the bandits broke into his office and stole a computer, while they ransacked the office and filing cabinets. Braithwaite said the police and detectives visited the scene while he had two teams on the road looking for the stolen vehicles. One of the cars he said was found parked in someone's parking space at Ground Dove Residence Pointe Blanche.
Residents are asked to keep a lookout for the stolen vehicles and not to buy them if they are approached by anyone attempting to sell the vehicles. Persons with information on the stolen items can call Rent 4 Less at 5223839.
The stolen vehicles & items are:
- A Grey Hyundai Sonata - R-296
- A Grey Hyundai Accent - 896 ZAX 971
- A Green Hyundai Accent - 516 ZAV 971
- A Green Hyundai Accent - 518 ZAV 971
- 1 Compaq Laptop
- 1 HP 2010i Desktop with CPU
NAGICO Insurances wall calendar 2011 will focus on highlighting insurance products and services. The Wall calendar is available to NAGICO customers and general public via its network of Agents and Brokers or Head Office on the Cannegieter Street.
Marketing Officer Jimmy Challenger: "NAGICO's 2011 Wall and Desk Calendars have been designed with the input of the Management Team, in particular the Product Managers, with a focus on educating the general public and reminding our customers about insurance products and services available as a whole. While the calendar will fulfill its regular role of helping us to track the days and months ahead, it will also function as an educational medium for all on insurance products and services and protection of one's family via adequate insurance coverage. Each month, with the exception of January, will depict a picture and text message on a particular product. For example, the month of May has been assigned to Life Insurance and February to Auto Insurance. The product messages will provide a general overview of the type of coverage available at NAGICO; however, the full product information and benefits are best received directly from our Agents or Office."
In 2011 one of the primary roles of NAGICO will be to continue to educate the communities in which it operates on financial products and services. The 2011 Wall Calendar is now the second medium, the first being the NAGICO Life Lines newsletter, which is being introduced to continue to highlight the need to provide valuable information on financial planning with an emphasis on insurance products and services.
Philipsburg:--- Minister of Labour and Health Maria Buncamper Molanus is yet to submit her letter of resignation to the governor of St. Martin Drs. Eugene Holiday and the Prime Minister of St. Maarten and Democratic Party leader Sarah Wescot Williams. SMN News contacted Minister Buncamper Molanus on Sunday evening requesting information on her letters of resignation to the Governor and the Democratic Party and she said she has no comment at this time.
SMN News has been reliably informed that the Democratic Party has accepted the public announcement made by Minister Buncamper Molanus on Thursday evening during the parliamentary debate that she has made her position available to the parliament of St. Maarten as her resignation. However, the letter of resignation must be sent to the governor by the Minster which has to be confirmed by the Prime Minister. Minister Buncamper Molanus told the members of parliament she did nothing wrong when she sold the economic rights to a parcel of government leased land for three million dollars.
The Minister said she was also aware of the awkward position she placed on the shoulders of the Prime Minister and their coalition partners. Leader of the National Alliance in his response said that making her position available was "déjà vu" since the Minister who was a commissioner in 2008 did the very same thing when she was caught in a situation of conflict of interest when she accepted $25,000 from TELEM as a donation to her foundation Sky is the Limit, at the time Buncamper Molanus had also appointed her husband to the board of TELEM while she was the commissioner in charge of the government owned company. During that scandal Buncamper Molanus resigned from the executive council but was re-appointed to her position a few weeks later.
Shortly after, Prime Minister Wescot Williams said the Minister tendered her resignation and promised that what took place in 2008 will not happen again since St. Maarten is now a country and things have to be different. The Prime Minister also promised that the coalition would handle the resignation of Minister Buncamper Molanus after the holidays.
Governor Holiday when contacted on Sunday evening said he will deal with the issue at hand on Monday as Sunday was Boxing Day.
Well placed sources within the Democratic Party told SMN News that the Democratic Party had prepared their own motion of no confidence on Thursday to present to parliament against Minister Maria Buncamper Molanus but Member of Parliament Leroy de Weever refused the sign the motion claiming that he did not appoint Buncamper Molanus as a Minister. The source said De Weever said those who opted to make her Minister should be the ones to fire her.
It should be noted that the only two persons that were elected on the Democratic Party slate were Sarah Wescot Williams and Leroy De Weever. SMN News has been reliably informed that the party leader Wescot Williams did not include De Weever in the discussions when she formed the coalition with the United Peoples Party. De Weever also wanted to appoint his nephew Cornelius De Weever as Minister of Health but his proposal was rejected by the party's leader and board.
According to our sources, the motion was prepared by Member of Parliament Roy Marlin who was expecting full cooperation from his colleague in parliament Leroy de Weever. SMN News learnt that the motion could not be presented by the Democratic Party because it its mandatory for any motion or requests of parliament to have at least two signatures.
Furthermore, the leader of the United Peoples Party and their MP's refused to participate in the firing of Buncamper Molanus saying the Democratic Party should deal with their internal problems.
In an invited comment. Leader of the National Alliance William Marlin said he expects the Minister and Prime Minister to submit Buncamper Molanus's resignation by Monday December 27 so that the process of appointing a new Minister can begin. Marlin said that it is the governor who would have to decide if the Minister could continue working until she is replaced. The NA leader said if nothing happens this coming week then the matter would have to go back to parliament.
Philipsburg:--- Minister of Education and Culture Rhoda Arrindell announced on Wednesday that she held a number of meetings with Sports Federations and Associations as well as with groups such as the NAOC from Curacao. Discussions centred mainly on plans for St. Martin's participation in the Alternate Games for 2011 which will replace the Kingdom Games. It has been decided that the Kingdom Games will not be held in 2011 as initially planned. Curacao was going to be the host of those Games.
One important point that emerged from the talks with the Sports Federations and Associations is that all sporting organizations on St. Martin must go through their respective National or parent Associations or Federations when organizing or participating in events if they want government and those Associations and Federations to recognize the events and endorse them.
The Minister said she also met with members of the Board of the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex and of the Sports Upkeep Foundation and urged them to work together under one body to manage all sports facilities on the island.
The Board of the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex expressed some of the immediate needs of the facility which she visited earlier on an inspection tour. Those needs will be addressed shortly.
Education Minister Rhoda Arrindell said that the planned school visits went on very well. She said she was accompanied on these visits by the Secretary-General Mrs. Claudette Forsythe-Labega and her Executive Assistant, Morenika Arrindell.
Minister Arrindell said she listened to the various concerns brought forward by the school authorities. These were mainly about structural and maintenance issues and also about their human resource needs. Some of them mentioned certain projects that had been put on hold but which will hopefully be resumed in the new school year.
The Minister said she promised to address those issues which can be dealt with in the short term and some of these are already being handled by the Ministry. The long term concerns will be incorporated into the strategic planning for the year(s) ahead.
Among the themes that were discussed was the issue of parental involvement in the education process of their children. "We are convinced that this is one area in which the private sector needs to partner with government by being more pro-active. Businesses, for instance, must be able to cooperate in granting time off for parents to attend school meetings."The Minister said.
The tour of the schools also revealed the need for us to go on a recruitment drive of particularly male teachers. Female teachers far outnumber their male counterparts and that imbalance is not good for the overall development of the male students.
Minister Arrindell said she held the final meeting of the regular scheduled deliberations with the WITU last week during which they discussed Teacher Evaluation instruments. "During this meeting we arrived at positive conclusions for the way forward on this, and will proceed accordingly in the New Year. The idea is to use this evaluation to help in identifying the needs of those teachers who may require upgrading, and possibly establish a remuneration system based on performance.
As I said upon taking on this job, there is a lot of work to be done, and we are marshalling all our resources to accomplish the vision and the mission of the Ministry."
Every year the pension and wage limit for Sickness and Accident Insurance (ZV/OV) are adjusted in accordance to the development of the cost of living (price index). The adjustment is based on the increase of price index of August of the preceding year.
The Executive Body Social and Health Insurance in accordance to the law sent a proposal to the government regarding the increase of the wage limits, old age pension and widows and orphans pension. In accordance to the calculations of the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) cost of living for St. Maarten increased by 3.6 %. In comparison the price index for Curaçao increased by 2.3%.
Old Age -, Widows- and Orphans pension
The old age pension for 2011 is fls. 829,-- per month. The amounts for widows and orphans pension have also been increased.
For the first quarter of 2011 the amounts paid out to pension recipients will be based on the same amount being paid out by SVB Curaçao e.g. old age pension fls. 818,-- which is fls. 11,-- less than the St. Maarten pension. The reason for this is that the process to split the St. Maarten pension database from the one of Curaçao has not been finalized. The application used to process pensions PRIS (Pension Registration and Information System) does not have the capability to administrate two different pension amounts. Once the split is finalized, which is planned in the first quarter of 2011, the difference, will be paid retroactively to the pension recipients.
Social Premiums
All the social premiums have remained the same as the previous year.
The income ceiling over which AOV premium has to be paid has also been increased to fls. 83.228,-- annually. If you have an income that exceeds the limit you have to pay premium up to this limit. The annual wage limit for Sickness and Accident Insurance is fls. 59.264,40.
The gross wages of employees already in service of the employer is determined on the reference date which is November 1st of every calendar year. If the wage is less or equal to the wage limit of the next year the employee will remain insured for the whole year for Sickness Insurance notwithstanding any wage changes during the year.
The wage limit does not have any influence on the Accident Insurance taken the fact that all employees are insured but the employer pays the premium up to the wage limit.
Enclosed you will find the two tables with all amounts and premiums for 2011.
The Director of the Executive body Social and Health Insurance St. Maarten would like to inform the general public of the new pension amounts. These new amounts will be effective as of January 1, 2011.
Old age pension (AOV).
Pension amount (max) fls. 829,--
Allowance for spouse (max) fls. 568,--
General Widows, Widowers Pension (AWW).
-- to 39 years fls. 383,--
40 to 48 years fls. 502,--
49 to 57 years fls. 629,--
58 to 59 years fls. 829,--
Orphan’s pension..
Half Orphan Full Orphan.
0 to 9 years fls. 278,-- fls. 303,--
10 to 14 years fls. 303,-- fls. 332,--
15 to 24 years fls. 332,-- fls. 382,--
The Director of the Executive body Social and Health Insurance St. Maarten would like to inform the general public of the premium percentages and new maximum wage limits. These new amounts and rates will be effective as of January 1, 2011.
Premium percentages. Premiums(in percentages of income).
AOV 13% Employer’s contribution 7.00%
Employee’s contribution 6,00%
AWW 1% Employer’s contribution 0,50%
Employee’s contribution 0,50%
OV 0,5 - 5% The premium depends on the risk
class your company is categorized in,
and must be paid by the employer.
ZV 12,5% Employer’s contribution 8,3%
Employee’s contribution 2,1%
Government’s Contribution 2,1%
Premium- income/wage AOV/AWW limit per year fls. 83.228,--
Maximum Wages ZV and OV:
Per day (6-day workweek) fls. 189,95
Per day (5 day workweek) fls. 227,94
Per week fls. 1.139,70
Per month fls. 4.938,70
Per year fls. 59.264,40
Cessantia payment: fls. 40,00 per employee per year
Philipsburg:--- Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams drafted a resolution and fired labour and health Minister Maria Buncamper Molanus. SMN News has been reliably informed that the Prime Minister sent Minister Buncamper Molanus a letter on Thursday informing the Minister that effective January 1 she is no longer a Minister, making the Minister's last working day to be Friday December 31 2010.
The source said Minister Bucamper Molanus also submitted a letter to the Prime Minister on Thursday afternoon informing her that she has now made her position available to the Council of Ministers. Last week Thursday, Minister Buncamper Molanus said she has made her position available to the parliament of St. Maarten when they were discussing the latest scandal involving the Minister and her husband Claudius Buncamper.
Minister Buncamper Molanus and her husband who is a senior civil servant sold the economic rights of a parcel of government land to which they were granted a long lease. The contested parcel of land was leased the out the same day government granted the Buncampers the long lease to St. Maarten Building Supplies.
At the time, the executive council granted the Buncampers the long lease Maria Buncamper Molanus was a commissioner and part of the executive council. The Buncampers later sold the economic rights to that property to Eco Green for three million USD. Eco Green was established three days prior to the sale.
Currently the prosecutor's office is investigating the Buncampers. Just recently the Prime Minister was asked to submit all documents relating to the granting of the long lease to the Buncampers.
The prosecutor's office has indicated that they will inform the media and the general public by mid January if there are sufficient grounds to prosecute the Buncampers.
...
Airport:--- An early morning accident on Friday has left two persons injured reported police spokesman Ricardo Henson. Henson said police and the ambulance department responded to the scene around 08:30am. Henson said on scene the investigating officer realized that there was a head-on collision between two vehicles, a white Hyundai Accent with license plate 431 ZBE 971 and a white Hyundai Atos with license plate M-3319. Henson said the cause of the accident because the driver of the Hyundai Accent was driving on the left side of the road causing the collision with the oncoming traffic.
The Hyundai Atos came to rest on the left side of the road, while the Hyundai Accent remained in the middle of the road. As a result of the severe impact both vehicles suffered severe material damage. The right leg of driver of the Hyundai Accent remained stuck between the seat and the body of the vehicle.
The Fire Department was called in to assist in helping remove the victim from the wreckage. The driver of the Hyundai Atos suffered a cut to his right knee and several other minor cuts to his face, due to fact that at the time of the accident he was not wearing his seat-belt. Both victims were treated on the spot by paramedics and then transported to the St Maarten Medical Center for further treatment. Both vehicles were towed from the scene by a towing company.
Grand Case:--- The gendarmes is currently investigating the shooting death of a Jamaican man who was shot next to Belto's Car Wash in Grand Case early Saturday morning. Relatives of the suspect identified as Orlando Isaac told SMN News that their son surrendered to authorities shortly after the fatal shooting.
The gendarmes brought the suspect to his home about 11 am Saturday morning as they continued to search for the weapon that was used to shoot the victim whose identity has not been revealed. Gendarmes as well as territorial police were seen combing the bushes and nearby drains hoping to would find the weapon. The gendarmes and the suspect entered his apartment which was first searched then they moved over to his mother's house where they continued to search for the murder weapon.
The girlfriend of the suspect who preferred to speak to SMN News on the condition of anonymity said her boyfriend has a restraining order against his ex girl friend yet she and her "man" was just meters away from Orlando's house. The young woman said the ex girlfriend has been using other people as tools to get to Orlando because she already made clear that if she could not be with him then no one else could. "Once she came into the family's yard and took Orlando's car key and left with it and when Orlando saw her car with its key in it he took her keys, hoping that the woman would return his key and he would then return hers. But the woman she said used someone in Marigot whom she sent to Orlando's house with a machete to fight for her key. The young woman who has been living with Orlando Isaac for the past four months said she was not feeling well and was asleep when the commotion began."I was awoken by the gunshot." She said when she heard the shots she went outside to inquire and found out that it is her boyfriend who shot and killed the Jamaican.
The woman said Orlando and other members of the family waited on the gendarmes to arrive and they all accompanied the gendarmes to La Savanne where they all gave their statements, yet the gendarmes went to her home in Marigot to look for the murder weapon. Asked if Orlando filed complaints against the woman and her husband recently she did not know how many complaints Orlando filed. "You people know that even if he filed complaint the gendarmes do nothing unless there is bloodshed." "Orlando was shot once before by people who threatened him and made good on their threats. He still has lead in his shoulders from that incident. So to be threatened again and having his family being threatened forced him to act." The girlfriend explained.
Supporting the allegations of constant harassment was Orlando's mother who said the young woman once came to her house and sprayed tear gas at her daughter and other relatives. She also accused Orlando of raping her two years ago and the gendarmes broke his doors down when they went in search of him, to date the two doors has not been repaired.
Other relatives of the suspect said he has been victimized over the years by this woman whom they considered as a menace to their family. The family said the gendarmes shot a local man who was married to the woman. "Mr. Dormoy was shot and killed by the gendarmes for this woman and now Orlando shot her current husband. This is the second local man to lose their life for Marie." "Marie is the mother of three children and I would like to know where she leaves these children at night when she in search of trouble" asked another relative. As the news spread several bystanders were seen on Grand Case road looking on while several family members gathered at the home of the Isaac family.
The brother of the suspect Oliver Isaac said the now dead man drew a knife at his brother threatening to take his life. Oliver said around midnight on Friday Marie and her "man" came to his brother's house and knocked on the door. He said it appeared that when no one answered them the duo waited outside of their residence waiting on Orlando's arrival. "I don't know exactly what happened but based on what we are told the two people began fighting with Orlando and they threatened to kill him and his entire family including his elderly mother, father and other siblings." "Orlando acted in self defense because the now dead man pulled a knife at him in the past and he was in possession of a knife when the shooting took place.
On the scene there were blood stains and parts of the dead man's brain on the roadside.
Commandant Stephanne Brunet confirmed that the gendarmes have arrested the shooter and they are currently hearing a number of witnesses. Asked if the female in this affair has been detained at this time Brunet said so far they do not think the female is involved in the shooting incident.
The St. Martin Sunrise Rotary Club welcomes their newest member Kenny Parwani with an induction ceremony at their weekly breakfast meeting. Present were Guest Speaker Pamela Sims from the Animal Welfare Foundation, invited guest and members. Kenny a businessperson who is in the retail clothing business is also a past president from Rotary Club of Midsyap in the Philippines where he once resided, knew he wanted to continue the good work of Rotary.
At the club yearly open house "membership drive" he was invited by our president Peter Dialani as a guest and right there he express his feeling of joining our club, Kenny visited the club on many other occasion and said the camaradie between the membership at such an early hour was refreshing and he was looking forward to joining the group.
Sunrise Rotary Would once again would like to welcome Kenny and his family to our Rotary Family and thanking him for making our club his club of choice.
Sunrise Rotary Club meets every Tuesday at the Restaurant Air Lekkerbek (near the Prince Bernhard Bridge) at 7:00AM to 8:00AM.
Philipsburg:---Planning for the second annual St. Maarten Lions Health and Wellness Fair is in full gear with the arrival of the club's eye screening machines. Chairperson of the Health Committee Lion Wally Havertong stated: "The club made every effort to have the machines on the island in a timely manner to be able to provide free eye screening and glaucoma testing which will be done under careful supervision of Optometrist Ricardo Heemskerk on the spot at the Festival Village. A selected team of Lion members and health care professionals will be trained in the coming days on the operational aspects of the machines to guarantee a smooth operation".
This year's Lions Health and Wellness Fair which is scheduled for Saturday March 27th starting from 10am to 6pm, will also include Dental Hygiene, Breast Cancer and Mental Health information, Diabetes and HIV testing, Vaccination for Children, Physical Exercises and Pharmaceutical Awareness among last year's services provided by: St. Maarten Aids, Mental Health and Diabetes Foundations, White and Yellow Cross Foundation, Sector Public Health, NAGICO Insurances, Sunny Foods and Divico Distributors, among others.
Food and drinks will be on sale and a kiddy's corner will be set up for parents wishing to bring their children along. Basically, the event is a family affair, as health awareness is for the young and old alike and is one of primary focus points for the St. Maarten Lions Club yearly community projects.
GREAT BAY:--- The EOC would announce when hurricane shelters would be activated.
1. Leonard Conner School – Venus Drive – Cay Bay
(for the Cay Bay & Cole Bay districts)
2. Christian Fellowship Church – Welfare Road – Cole Bay
(for the Cay Bay & Cole Bay districts)
3. Salvation Army Building – Union Road – Cole Bay
(for the Cay Bay & Cole Bay districts)
4. Milton Peters College – L.B. Scot Road – South Reward
(for the St. Peters, Ebenezer & South Reward districts)
5. Rupert Maynard Youth Center – St. Peters Road – St. Peters
(for the St. Peters, Ebenezer & South Reward districts)
6. Sr. Marie Laurence School – Ellis Drive – Middle Region
(for the Middle Region & Defiance districts)
7. New Testament Baptist Church – Cannegieter Street – Philipsburg
(for the Philipsburg & Pointe Blanche districts)
8. Allan C. Halley Community Center – Simpson Bay Road – Simpson Bay
(for the Simpson Bay & Beacon Hill districts)
9. Marie Genevieve de Weever School – Guana Bay Road – Hope Estate
(for the Hope Estate & Sucker Garden districts)
10. Epheses SDA Church – Belvedere Estate Road – Belvedere
(for the Belvedere & Dutch Quarter districts)
11. St. Maarten Academy – Cupper Drive – Cul-de-Sac
(for the St. Peters, St. Johns & Cul-de-Sac districts)
PHILIPSBURG – The University of St. Martin (USM) hosted over 50 Oranje School sixth grade students on Wednesday as part of USM's Upward Bound Initiative program. The program, now in its third year, is designed to encourage students to do well in school, focus on completing high school, and consider college and career possibilities from a younger age. On Wednesday, the students, accompanied by teachers, were given a tour of the USM's campus by Admissions Director Angeligue Hazel (photo left) and they then attended a workshop facilitated by Marketing Director Michel Chance (photo right). During the workshop they received information on career areas they are interested in and the educational paths needed to accomplish such. The workshop concluded with study tips and basic information about USM being given to the students. The sixth grade students will be sitting exams later this year to determine which secondary schools they will be attending. Earlier this month sixth grade students from Sister Marie Laurence and Learning Unlimited schools visited USM as part of the program. More of the island's elementary schools are expected to participate in the Upward Bound Initiative in the coming months.
Philipsburg:--- The United Telecommunications Services (UTS) management has launched an SMS service which is aimed at raising funds to assist Haiti said Glen Carty of UTS St. Maarten. Carty said that the moment UTS learnt of the devastation Haiti suffered on Tuesday afternoon with the 7.0 earthquake they have decided to drop their rates by 75% to that country for an indefinite period. Carty said they contacted their counterparts in Haiti and was told that communication to Haiti is very difficult since they also suffered damage. Apart from that, Haitians from around the world are trying to make contact with their love ones, which is congesting their systems. Carty said UTS has decided to keep the reduced rate for an indefinite period. UTS is also offering members of the Haitian community to take advantage of their free internet services at any of their Chippie locations on St. Maarten, namely Cole Bay and Philipsburg to make contact with their relatives. He said the internet is working well in Haiti and since the phone lines are practically jacked up they have decided to allow members of the Haitian community to have free access to the internet.
Carty said UTS also launched a SMS code which is aimed at raising monies to send to Haiti. Persons interested in donating to Haiti can type the word "HAITI" in their SMS messaging by sending the message to 4357 (HELP). UTS would then deduct $1.00 from the callers prepaid account or they would add $1.00 to the caller postpaid account which would go towards helping Haiti. UTS already contacted the Red Cross who would assist UTS St. Maarten in making sure the funds reached its rightful destination.
Carty made clear that the Haitian community on St. Maarten has helped in the island's economic development and this is one way Chippie has chosen to help them in their time of need.
He said the dropping of the rates on Tuesday night is not new to the company since they have done so in the past when other nations are in distress.
GREAT BAY :----The Conscious Lyrics Foundation (CLF) will invite the audience at its 23rd annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. lecture on Friday, January 15, to donate funds for earthquake relief in Haiti, said Shujah Reiph, the CLF president.
"We are inviting all of our island's people, all people of good will to the MLK lecture at the Chamber of Commerce Building in Spring Concordia, Marigot, starting at 8 pm," said Reiph. The guest speaker will be attorney-at-law Denicio Brison, addressing legal and other aspects of the 2010 theme, "Truths About Democracy."
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The audience collection and all monies from books and poetry/music CDs sold at the lecture will be donated to the Red Cross to assist survivors of the earthquake in Haiti, said Reiph. The 7.0 quake of January 12 is reportedly the most devastating to hit the Caribbean in 200 years.
Reiph and Lasana M. Sekou from House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP) met on Thursday to discuss a concrete way for both foundations to contribute, in connection with the already planned lecture that honors the great compassion and universal courage of the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, said Reiph.
"Many people are so sad, and feeling overwhelmed about what to do. The idea on Friday is to involve folks. Let's show our concrete support in this grave hour of need being suffered by our Caribbean brothers and sisters, by our children and the elderly in Haiti," said Reiph.
CLF will host the table of books and poetry/music CDs published here and offered by HNP. The money from each book or CD bought by audience members on Friday will be donated to Red Cross earthquake relief in Haiti, where millions of people are "directly and badly affected," said the duo, well known for their activism on the island.
"The Haitian people have been a very resilient and prevailing people. Their tireless and ongoing struggle for freedom, socio-economic independence, solidarity, justice and peace has influenced or impacted all Caribbean peoples, including St. Martin, and a number of countries in the Americas, including the USA," said Reiph, who is also a labor union leader.
Reiph and Sekou said that the St. Martin people are already joining a regional and world community of prayers and donations. "This Friday lecture serves as another moment of unity as an island-wide community, and to give what we can to relieve human suffering from this latest natural disaster," said Reiph.
The International Red Cross estimates that between 40,000 to 45,000 people were killed in the quake that devastated the Haitian capital of Port-au-Prince. Millions of people are suffering from loss, injury, hunger, lack of security and other severe hardships said Reiph and Sekou.
"The Red Cross, Partners in Health www.pih.org/inforesources/news/Haiti_Earthquake.html, and Doctors Without Borders, along with key Haitian NGOs and volunteer PVOs, have a tested track record of on-the-ground successes in alleviating poverty and assisting with the tough but ongoing process of human development in Haiti," said Sekou, who is also an author.
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Philipsburg:--- A mentally ill elderly man who was held at the police holding cell in Philipsburg had to be transported the St. Maarten Medical Center on Monday morning by ambulance.
SMN News learnt that the prisoner fell ill while in police custody. So far, police did not release any information on the prisoner. It is still not clear if the man committed any crime and why he has been detained.
Airport: --- A national of Jordan doing business on St. Maarten was taken off American Eagle early Monday morning. The businessman had intended to travel to Puerto Rico but was taken off since his name is on the FBI no fly list. The businessman who operates a clothing store in Philipsburg was transported to the Philipsburg Police Station where they checked his immigration status prior to releasing him.
In an invited comment, Prosecutor Rienk Mud said he was informed of the incident but he could not say why the businessman was placed on the FBI no fly list.
MARIGOT—The gendarmes have arrested a 23-year old man from Grand Case for firing gunshots in the air. According to a press release, the suspect fired the shots during a fight with another man over a woman. It is believed the man fired the shots in an attempt to scare the other man away and to end the fight. The suspect is to appear in court in March this year.
The gendarmes are also asking the public for assistance in locating a hit and run driver. The driver who is now at large knocked down a pedestrian in Grand Case sometime during the night of January 15. The release said the hit and run accident took place at Rue Franklin Laurence. They said the victim is a 48-year old woman whose medical condition is not known. So far, no official report has been filed with the gendarmes regarding the accident. Persons having information on this case are asked to call the gendarmerie at number 17.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—The Sector of R.O.B., department of maintenance, Traffic Police, NV GEBE would hereby like to inform the general public that trenching works alongside the Bush road, from Blijden Drive until the Prins Bernard Bridge will start on Monday the 25th of January, 2010 and is scheduled to be completed by mid April.
First the south part of the road will be worked on, where the contractors will bury the high tension cables; then the Northern side for lower tension cables.
Sergio Hodge site engineer for Windward Roads provided some details about the project.
The trenching works and the laying of cables will be executed partially under the main water drainage trench. The laying of the cables is the continuation of the trenching work executed alongside the Welgelegen road to the Blijden drive last year.
Benjamin Ortega of the Department of Maintenance indicated that due to the work space needed, considering the safety of the workers and the motorist, a section of the road will be partially closed off with barricades. This entails that the roadway (in two directions) will become smaller/narrow.
To allow a smooth flow of the traffic, all heavy traffic (large vehicles and container transport) will be diverted thru the Zagersgut road and the A Th Illidge road, and vice versa.
The general public is also advised to make use of the Link One and/or Zagersgut Road/A Th Illidge Road.
General contracting will be executed by Windward Road Infrastructure under supervision by the Sector ROB and NV GEBE.
In addition to the traffic detour and narrowing of the Bush Road motorist should take note of the traffic rules and adhere to the traffic speed and men at work signs. This small inconvenience will allow Sector of ROB to execute the necessary upgrading of the Utilities on the Bush Road along with its infrastructure.
The Sector of ROB, N.V. GEBE and Contractor Windward Roads apologizes for any inconveniences this may cause.
Chief of the Traffic Department and Dispatch Benjamin Gout said that the public should drive carefully through the area, and that no dump trucks, trailer trucks or tour buses are allowed. The Police will monitor the area consistently.
The Department of Maintenance has considered the gut next to Ernest Williams Motel and preparatory works will be made.
In addition, the department is looking into installing proper bus stops along the bus road.
For more information regarding the above mentioned work interested persons can contact the Sector of R.O.B., New Works and Maintenance department Head, ing. C.A. Buncamper.
Philipsburg: --- On Saturday January 23 at approximately 05.00 a.m., police and detectives were sent to St Maarten Medical Center where a man who was victim of a shooting was taken for medical attention.
Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said at the hospital the investigating officers spoke to the victim with initials M.N.M. The victim had a serious "in and out" gunshot wound to his left leg. The victim told police that the shooting took place at the Lucian bar not long before.
He further stated while at the establishment he was walking towards the bar which at the time was very busy and accidentally walked into an unknown man. According to the victim, he immediately apologized to this man and continued walking towards the bar. Shortly after the victim noticed, the man he had accidentally walked into had also come to the bar.
This man spoke to another man standing at the bar. The first suspect pointed out the victim and the second suspect came towards the victim. The second suspect pulled a gun a shot the victim in his left leg at close range. Both suspects then fled the scene. The victim was then transported in a private car to the hospital to seek medical attention. Witnesses are being questioned in this investigation to determine exactly what happened and who is responsible for this shooting.
Philipsburg:---On Monday February 1st, six police recruits from the Windward Islands who are presently attending the police academy in Curacao, will start a three week practical training course with the local police department. The training is expected to conclude on February 21st. This practical training is the fourth of seven modules of the entire police training. The objective of this training is for the recruit to:
1. get more insight of the complex work environment within the police department.
2. gain more confidence with police organization.
3. get a more realistic image of the possibilities within the police department.
4. discover which his or her realistic possibilities are.
5. stimulate the interest of the trainee for the work when he or she is assigned to do.
Each one of these recruits will be assigned a certified mentor within the local police department for the duration of the course. At the end of the course the recruits will be evaluated by the mentors based on their knowledge, skills and attitude. A complete evaluation report will be forwarded to the Police academy in Curacao.
The recruits are, I.O. Schmidt and R.S. Courtar from Sint Eustatius and G.A. Jacobus, J.A Boyrard, S.A.F. Doran and R.C.R. Rogers from Sint Maarten.
Great Bay, – Two young students have been chosen to represent S. Maarten at the 2010 FCCA Children's Environmental Poster Competition. Juda-El sam, (15 years old), of the St. Maarten Academy who won in the senior category and Shemar Abdul Hamid, (11 years old), of the Rev. John A. Campus, Methodist Agogic Center, (MAC), winner of the junior category, are the two artists whose posters have been forwarded to the Florida Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) Selection Committee for judging to determine who the overall regional winner will be.
According to Regina LaBega, Director of Tourism, "the competition seeks to promote and stimulate environmental awareness among Caribbean students, while effectively educating our younger generation on the importance of environmental protection."
It is also a way of sharpening their creative skills, especially in the arts, she added.
For the St. Maarten leg of the competition, the Florida Caribbean Cruise Association along with the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau invited all students from the Primary and Secondary schools on the island to participate in the two categories of the annual contest. A total of 32 entries were received from various schools and were judged on island.
The posters depicted three ways in which the student's destination can make a difference in preserving the environment.
The FCCA will now choose a first, second and third prize winner from the two age categories and award cash scholarships to the overall winners and their schools as follows:
1st place $3000,- for the student and school
2nd place $1500,- for the student and school
3rd place $1000,- for the student and school
"This is a competition in which St. Maarten has been participating for a long time and we wish the two winners this year the best of luck in the regional contest," said LaBega.
The FCCA will notify all winners by Friday, February 12th , 2010.
Philipsburg: --- Motor vehicle owners would have to dig deeper into their pockets as of this Saturday. The executive council has adjusted gas prices that would go into effect this Saturday January 30.
Consumers would be asked to pay Naf.1.93 for a litre of unleaded gasoline instead of Naf.1.77, the new price for gasoil Naf1.70 from Naf.1. 55. LPG bulk would now cost Naf.1.40 per pound from Naf.1.35. The new prices for cooking gas have also been increased from Naf. 30.60 to Naf. 35.60 (20lbs) and Naf. 125.00 for (100 lbs) compared to Naf.102.60
Philipsburg:--- Teachers teaching at the undocumented schools on St. Maarten attended a two-day workshop at the UTS training center. The workshop is sponsored by the Ceespot funds said vice president of the St. Maarten United Multipurpose Educational Foundation (S.U.M.E.F) Claire Elshot. Elshot told reporters that the instructor for this third workshop is Ms. Dimph Rubbens of the Academic Pedagogic Center in Holland.
There were some thirty teachers from the Starlight Education, ACE foundation, and School of Arts (Sophia Camp) that attended the workshop Elshot explained.
The instructor also visited the schools on Tuesday to both observe and gain experience with how the teachers work at these undocumented schools. Rubbens said two of her colleagues visited St. Maarten to conduct the same kind of training. She said while visiting the classrooms she immediately realized that the teachers at these undocumented schools were applying the skills and knowledge passed on to them by Ceespot. Rubbens felt that the training provided to them will bring about a greater good in education on St. Maarten. She said that with these trainings the teachers enhanced their skills. "During my school visits I realized that these teachers love their jobs and the students they teach."
President of the SUMEF Carmen Hodge said the changes in the teachers are visible to the owners of each school. Hodge said the trainings provided by Ceespot is a plus for the private schools since they are not allowed to make use of the FBE training provided by the education department. Mrs. Hodge, director of Starlight education said they managed to secure a two-year grant from Ceespot in the form of trainings. Hodge said the teachers still have to participate in two other workshops before they are certified by Ceespot. The SUMEF board said the trainings that are provided are similar to the FBE training. One of the strategies taught on Thursday is how to deal with students behavioral problems. Claire Elshot said the training on Thursday focused on structures and or ways to deal with students that have behavioral problems in the classroom. She said in several cases they would find that certain structural models have to be used in problematic cases, many of which has to involve the students that need special care. Elshot said one of the issues they are faced with is that students are being suspended from school when they misbehave but there are never alternative measures to occupy the students. "We are in a period where corporal punishment cannot be used in schools and teachers today have to find ways and means to embrace their troubled students so that they can be streamlined or more productive in their class." Elshot said they are currently looking for new strategies to address children with disruptive behavior. She said in many cases students act out because they are not accepted. Students she said have to be analyzed and streamline, something they are currently working on. One of the of the options that teachers could use is to give students with behavioral problems awards as they change their pattern of behavior.
Philipsburg: --- Constant rumors around the island are linking a former police officer to one of the recent murders. SMN News has learnt that the officer was fired from the force over a year ago after he allegedly was involved in a kidnapping case. This media house understands that the officer was subsequently fired.
SMN News on more than one occasion contacted Prosecutor Rienk Mud for a comment. Mud said on Wednesday that he would not confirm neither denies if the rumors have any bearing on any of his five murder investigations. SMN News also contacted Chief of Police Franklyn Richards who said he was not aware of the case. On Friday when contacted again on the information we are receiving, Mud said that he had no comment to make about the rumors. On Friday, we provided the name of the former police officer to Mud but he maintained that he had no comment to make.
Over the past months, reporters on St. Maarten are being pushed aside when questions are posed about the ongoing murder investigations. The police and prosecutor's office on more than one occasion have refuted media reports about arrests they have made regarding these murder investigations. Photographs of several suspects were published online when the suspects were taken to court yet there is no information forthcoming from the police and prosecutor's office.
While we fully agree that these investigating officers as well as the prosecutor's office cannot try their cases in the media neither can they give us their case files we believe that there must be some level of transparency with the community. The community of St. Maarten has a right to know and if they are included, enough they are the ones who are going to assist both the police and prosecutor's office with their investigations, which might lead them to the culprits involved in these senseless killings.
Early last year the prosecutor's office published some photographs as well as released names of suspected criminals to the media and within days the police managed to arrest their wanted men and women and safely put them away. Due to the fact that the police and prosecutor's office have seen that the general public are willing to assist them in fighting crime, we strongly believe that its time they embrace the community and allow them to assist in solving these murder cases. The records can show that St. Maarten, "a dot on the map" have far too many unsolved murders that have gone cold. For the sake of transparency, we are going to list the names of a few of those victims whose families are still waiting for closure. They are Brenda Azille, Jack Gumbs, Josnersabre, and Derrick Smith.
SMN News insisted on Mud to react to our story and he said he do not believe that by giving detailed information about ongoing investigations to the media the people on St. Maarten would step forward and supply the police or prosecutor's office with information that could help them solve the pending murder cases. The public prosecutor said if people really have information that is important, they need to come forward or call the tip line 9300. Mud made clear that his office does not deal with rumors and stories that are going around. He felt that people are generally scared and are not willing to "snitch" or help the police department.
Philipsburg: ---Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba said that there would be no extension of Brooks Tower Accord process. Jacoba said for the sake of clarity she wants to emphasize that she would not be prolonging the registration of the Brooks tower project. She said based on a request of the Island Government of St. Maarten a decision has been taken for all undocumented persons who entered the Netherlands Antilles prior to 2001 and believe that their case is special now have the opportunity to deliver a letter along with the required documents to the work group. The applicant must explain their case in the letter and why their case. These applicants have until February 28 2010. The work will then take a decision on the petitioner's application for a temporary Brooks Tower Permit.
Persons interested in submitting the letter and their documents must send their request to
Sint Maarten: By Mrs D.Roosberg, E Camille Richardson Street, and Police Station Phillipsburg
BES islands Bonaire, St Eustatuis, and Saba: at the respective department of civil, --- Curacao: Department of Justice.
PHILIPSBURG—GEBE's Company Newsletter, "THE GRID", is now available online to anyone who is interested in learning more about GEBE. THE GRID includes information concerning the production and distribution of energy, the water distribution, improvements within the company, community programs, workers accomplishments, environmental programs, and health tips.
The aim of THE GRID is to increase awareness about the projects the company is working on, the processes behind the scenes that make electricity and water possible, as well as renewable energy articles, department profiles, and other activities affiliated with GEBE.
In the latest edition you will find articles concerning the new diesel generators, the company's goal to become ISO 9000 certifiable and how that helps improve GEBE's processes and procedures, the opportunities and challenges of solar energy and much more.
THE GRID is available on the GEBE website (www.nvgebe.com/grid).
Philipsburg: --- The prosecutor's office is calling on the general public to provide them with more information so that can solve the brutal murder of Christian Lloyd. Prosecutor Rienk Mud in a press release said that on Monday January 25th Lloyd was found dead in his house on Watermelon Road #4. He said Lloyd died from a fatal head injury.
Mud said the investigation is currently conducted by the detectives of the KPSSS and KPC in cooperation with the RST. Persons with information are urged to contact the RST at their email address or telephone numbers. The RST can be contacted at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by telephone 5813720 or simply call the tip line 9300
Mud said in the course of the investigation several people have been questioned by the investigation team. This has led to several rumors about suspects being arrested. Mud said that both the police and his office want to stress that no arrests have been made in the case so far. However, the investigating team is urging the general public to come forward and help them solve the case. The team of detectives wants some specific questions answered and as such they have sent out a list of questions.
(1) The team wants to know who was the last person that spoke to Christian Lloyd on Saturday January 23 or Sunday January 24th?
(2) Who saw when he parked his car in the front of his house and who had an appointment with him on either Saturday January 23 or Sunday January 24?
(3) They also want to know if anyone knows of someone that had an appointment with Lloyd on those two days.
(4) The investigating team also wants to know who was in contact with Lloyd by phone on Saturday and Sunday January 23 and 24 respectively.
(5) They are also calling on anyone who knows of somebody that might be in contact with Lloyd on those two days either by phone or in person.
(6) The detectives also want to know who if anyone saw anything out of the ordinary near or around Lloyd's house in the days prior to them finding his body which is between Saturday January 23 to Monday January 24?
(7) The officers who are bent on solving this case is now asking members of the public to provide any and all types of information they might have, perhaps you noticed something strange in his behavior in the days prior to his death.
Philipsburg:--- Four of the five advisors that were recruited from the Netherlands for the Police force on St. Maarten are currently on St. Maarten on their orientation visit. For the past week the advisors met with the police management team, the unions representing the police. They also toured the island and met with other justice departments in an effort to familiarize themselves with their counterparts.
A press release from the management team of the police department states that these advisors would not be taking up any positions in management however, they would be working under the directives of the local chief of police for a duration of three years.
The advisors along with a designated local counterpart will assist the local police force with the implementation of the new organization plan for country St. Maarten.
The police management believes that St. Maarten deserves a well functioning police department and therefore supports all efforts to improve the quality of the department in the broadest sense.
Following the preparation and finalization of the structure and the organization plan for the St. Maarten Police Force, a selection process for implementation advisors took place in the in December 2009 in the Netherlands.
Based on their expertise and qualifications four advisers have been selected by members of the police management team. Mr. Huib Zwaan will be assigned to the Detective Department, Arie Broere to the General Uniformed Division, Mr. Nico Remkes to the Human Resource Department and Ron de Milde as coach/change manager. The advisors will not occupy any managerial position.
AIRPORT:--- Two young employees within WINAIR have been recognized for what the company's Managing Director have dubbed as their sterling, significant and service beyond the call of duty.
Charlesea Joseph and Roland Brison were stunned when they were announced by Managing Director of Winair Edwin Hodge as recipients of the two special awards. He told the packed gathering that the service and contributions rendered during 2009 by both Joseph and Brison cannot go unnoticed thus he saw it fit to honour them. As a sign of continued demonstration of the company's recognition and value for the contributions made by the two employees during last year they were rewarded with a financial token.
Addressing the employees, Hodge told those in attendance that he must recognize two special young people who he said can be viewed as role models to young people within Winair and in the Caribbean. "The services and performance of Miss Charlesea Joseph and Mr. Roland Brison are enormous, not that I am not remembering others who have contributed significantly. I am very grateful and thankful for the overall contributions of all of our employees as it would have been truly unfair of me to not identify them," he said.
Hodge urged fellow employees to emulate the ethics and work spirits of Joseph and Brison noting that employees like them will certainly aid in boosting the overall performance of the airline. He reminded all that giving of their best will certainly help in keeping the doors of Winair open while ensuring that the planes are kept in the skies. "I would like to encourage each of you to follow suit the example set by both Joseph and Brison in executing your duties as I am very confident that with more employees like them we will certainly remain a force to be reckon with," he said.
Admitting that they were both stunned both Joseph and Brison expressed thanks and gratitude to the Managing Director for the awards noting that it serves to motivate them more. Joseph who has not been with the airline for a long period said that she is very excited and elated noting that she enjoys working with the team and will continue to give of her best as she seeks to develop her self professionally. She noted that while Winair is her first place of employment it has been a teaching ground for her declaring that she has learnt a lot.
Brisons pointed out that working with Winair continues to be a joy for him noting that it's easy to give your best when you are working with employees who are more than just colleagues but sees each other as family members. He stressed that he will continue to give his best noting that he would like to see other employees give of their best also.
Charlesea Joseph is Customer service originally and she is now working as an assistant to some of Winair's managers. Meanwhile, Rolando Brison is Assistant to the Chief Pilot, but he is used for several other items.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—The Inspectorate Department of Public Health, Social Welfare and Labor is intensifying their controls with regards to the labeling of food products.
The managers and owners of all Supermarkets, Grocery stores, Bakeries, Distributors and any other food outlets, should be aware of the law, stipulated as: Landsbesluit, Houdende Algemene Maatregelen, of the 18th of January 2005, Article 3 (1 a, f and j) of the Commodities Act, P.B. 1997 Nr. 334.
According to the department, the law states that all food products must have an expiration date and be labeled correctly. That includes all meat, dairy and seafood produce.
Products can become unsafe for human consumption very quickly, if not handled and dated correctly. After assessing the risk related to this activity, the Inspectorate Department of Public Health, Social Welfare and Labor have given labeling the highest priority of controls for 2010.
The managers and owners are advised to pay attention to the following;
- All Chilled, Fresh and Frozen meats, poultry, fish and their products when packed and displayed for sale MUST have an expiration date.
- All goods for sale MUST have a proper label.
- All goods for sale MUST have labels indicating their ingredients printed on them.
- Breads and pastries from local bakeries MUST have labels indicating, the bakery at which they were produced, the type of bakery products e.g. whole wheat bread, whole wheat salt free bread, etc., and the date on which the item was produced.
If you are not in compliance with the above mentioned laws, corrective measures will be taken, starting with the confiscation of goods.
The measure goes into effect February 10, 2010.
Philipsburg:--- With the ongoing investigation at the section ROB and a damning report by the SOAB regarding the discrepancies that are equivalent to corruption at the ROB (Public Works Department). SMN News has learnt that the committee that is currently investigating the department for Commissioner Theo Heyliger has interrogated the head of Inspections Henry Ellis and the owner of Olzina NV Samir Andreos on Friday last week. According to information reaching SMN News is that the interrogation of Ellis was done in the presence of Andreos who according to our sources was putting pressure on Ellis for him not to tell the truth.
SMN News also learnt that the head of domain affairs Marieke Van Zadelhof is chairing the committee even though the SOAB suggested in their report that an investigation be conducted in domain affairs department. Also on the committee is Eunicio Martina from legal affairs. Miguel de Weever from Economic Affairs, Ron Daal from Independent Consulting Engineers and David Morison an architect. Currently several questions are being posed towards the make up of the committee regarding two members who are not civil servants. It is mandatory that all committee members who are conducting investigations for government should be civil servants while outsiders can serve as advisors or experts to the committee.
In the preliminary and final report of the SOAB it states that although they have not carried out a detail control of the domain affairs department it has been brought forward in the interviews that there are shortcomings in that department. The investigators noticed that persons who put in a recent request for domain land, including some workers of the Sector ROB, received domain land before persons who requested domain land long before them. One of the workers who received domain land is Marieke Van Zandelhof head of domain affairs. Zandelhof also created the parcel of land she now occupies in the Pointe Blanche area, land which was not designated as domain land.
SMN News learnt that the committee wants Ellis to tell them why he did not issue a building stop to Olzina N.V in 2008 since there was no building permit in place for the buildings situated in Cay Hill. According to documents provided to SMN News it is clear that Ellis wanted to issue a building stop but the sector director of ROB Joseph Dollison refused to sign the document.
The building stop which is published below was made up on July 16th 2008 bearing the signature of Henry Ellis but not that of Dollison. Ellis wrote that on July 14th 2008 the inspector's service of the island territory of St. Maarten observed that construction activities were taking place at Oryx drive Cay Hill and that the contractors were busy building without a building permit, which is not in accordance of the building ordinance. Therefore the owner, caretaker or lessee of the premises must stop construction immediately.
SMN News also managed to recover a second building stop for the same company which was made out on October 27th 2008, this time ordering the owner of Olzina to stop construction since his workers were working without the necessary safety equipments.
SMN News also got a circular which has several questions pertaining to Ellis's sudden move from the head of inspections to the office of former commissioner Roy Marlin in December 2008. The writer of the circular wants to know of Ellis's removal has the same motives as that of Guy Gumbs who recently resigned from his position as head of permits. Sources say that Ellis was under severe pressure from Dollison. The circular states that Ellis left for vacation in November 2008 and when he returned in December 2008 he learnt that he was removed as head of inspections to Marlin's office. The question posed by the writer is if Ellis moved because of pressure or is it because of the famous Olzina permit that everyone working at ROB refused to sign including former VROM head Delano Richardson.
It is further understood that the former head of VROM Delano Richardson faced the same kind of pressure Gumbs and Ellis faced with Dollison when it comes to permits for certain investors. SMN News also learnt that Gumbs was also under pressure and he sent at least five memos to Dollison telling him that he would not sign permits for people who were not complying with the building codes on St. Maarten. SMN News also learnt that Gumbs resigned because of the constant pressure from Dollison.
Dawn Beach: --- A 43 year old man identified as Navindranauth "Navin" Saywak was found hanging from a tree in Dawn Beach early Friday morning, Saywak committed suicide by hanging himself on a grape tree in the garden area of the housing complex where he lives. A maintenance worker for the property where Saywak lives said he noticed the body hanging from the tree while he was cleaning the swimming pool area. The man said Saywak was hanging from a rope which was tied to a grape tree in the garden area of the residence. He said when he saw the body of the man he recognized as Navin he immediately informed the property owner.
Police as well as the coroners on the scene struggled to remove the body from the location due to the steepness of the steps leading to the beach side of the property.
Relatives and friends of Navin said he was suffering from severe depression. It is further understood that is the second time Saywah fell ill and he just returned to the island on Sunday from Canada where he went for treatment. "When I saw Navin on Sunday he told me he was not sleeping", said one of his cousins. "Navin has been ill for sometime now but he still was working until December last year. Due to his illness Navin resigned." The cousin explained.
SMN News understands that the young man was an employee of Paradise and True Value Car rental. SMN News also understands that Saywak was also involved in another reputable business but somehow he was suffering from depression. On scene was his business partner who was obviously devastated by the sudden loss of his best friend and business partner.
Relatives of the now deceased man said they spoke to him on Thursday morning and they felt he was alright. Another relative told this reporter that he had intended to visit Navin Thursday night but he finished working late and did not make it to his relative's house. On the scene there were several persons who either worked or knew Saywak. Many of them in tears saying they never thought Saywak would take his own life. They said Saywak was a very kind and generous man and an exceptionally quiet person who lives alone.
Prosecutor Hans Mos said after the investigation was conducted by police it was determined that the victim committed suicide.
Philipsburg/Willemstad:--- Police on St. Maarten arrested a man identified as G.K (Gregory Rogelio Koeiman) a former police officer who is wanted in Curacao for an ongoing murder investigation. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said a musician identified as Gabriel Santos Castillo was shot to death on Tuesday night at Hanchi Dipopogido.
Henson said the suspect then boarded a flight and fled to St. Maarten on Wednesday. The police spokesman said police on Curacao requested the assistance from St. Maarten and the suspect was arrested just around 8pm on Wednesday night. Koeiman was convicted for taking bribes while in uniform on St. Maarten. In the meantime, the police on Curacao is also investigating a second shooting all of which took place during Curacao's 40th carnival.
Philipsburg:--- The couple that was arrested last Tuesday as suspects in the murder of Saliba Absalon (Haitian) was set free on Wednesday confirmed Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos. The two suspects a male and female identified as B.B from Dominica and J.W from Jamaica spent eight days behind bars as the investigators interrogated them on the slaying of the Haitian man. Mos said the two did not go before the judge of instruction on Wednesday because his office decided there was not enough evidence against them for the killing of Saliba Absalon. Saliba Absalon was found dead in his Middle Region home on December 11.
Already two detectives who were working on the Absalon case were removed for unknown reasons. They are detective Carlton Philips and detective Norwin Villarreal. The police in collaboration with the RST are busy investigating five murders which occurred in recent months. Police are currently investigating the murder of David Eustace Priest, Eric Yuan Sam, Haresh Dayalani, Christian Lloyd, and Saliba Absalon.
Airport: --- Hundreds of passengers leaving and coming to St. Maarten were taken by surprise when airline agents, pilots and airport security informed them that a bomb threat was issued at Princess Juliana International Airport just about 6pm on Friday.
Fire fighters and other security agents were busy searching the Princess Juliana International Airport building, the aircrafts that were on the tarmac as well as the immediate surroundings for a bomb.
The airport was given clearance just about midnight on Friday after a thorough search of the entire facility was conducted. Normal operations are scheduled to resume on Saturday morning at 7am.
The all clear sign has been given by the emergency response team headed by Acting Governor Millicent De Weever with the support of Chief Commissioner of Police Ademar Doran, Chief Public Prosecutor Hans Mos and Airport Director Eugene Holiday.
Law enforcement agencies have searched the Princess Juliana International Airport Terminal Building as well as airport grounds as a precautionary measure due to a security threat that came in at 17:47 Friday afternoon.
The result of the operation that started at 17.47 and concluded at 23.30 is that nothing was found that would pose a security threat.
Roads leading towards the international airport were open to vehicular and pedestrian traffic. On Saturday morning the airport will resume normal operations at 7.00am.
According to passengers that arrived on KLM from Holland and was on their way to Bonaire said they were already on the plane and it was about to take off when the pilot informed them that they have to get off the airplane and get outside of the airport as they received security threat.
One passenger identified only as Anna said while she understands that the airport has to take every threat seriously no one updated them about their departure flight for almost two hours. The woman said they were practically kicked out of the building and was told to wait outside for further information. Other passengers who were also scheduled to leave on KLM back to Amsterdam said they were also eager to know if their plane would finally leave. It was over two hours after the ordeal airline agents came outside and asked the passengers to take the various buses that would take them to nearby hotels. Several of the passengers said while the ordeal was more than an inconvenience they wished the airline agents could have acted faster to take them away from the parking area and roadside.
Passengers that were supposed to leave St. Maarten to Tortola via LIAT were the hardest hit by the security threat on Friday. Some passengers that came from Sweden with KLM and in transit on St. Maarten to Tortola were told that they were on their own since LIAT is not taking any responsibility for the inconvenience caused by the threat.
A couple who gave their names only as Charles said they were travelling for over 24 hours from Sweden and this is their first time to St. Maarten. The woman said that LIAT agents basically told them that they were on their own and they should find a taxi and look for a hotel to stay.
The entire airport and traffic leading to the airport was cordoned by police as the search for the bomb was underway when the LIAT agent told this reporter that the decision was taken by LIAT headquarters and there is nothing the St. Maarten agents could do for the in transit passengers. About ten passengers most of them holding their hand luggage was standing in a small group as the other passengers left the airport. No one gave those passengers any direction or assistance for more that an hour before someone decided to give them a lift towards Simpson Bay where they would look for a taxi.
Philipsburg:--- Traffic on Cannegietter Street backed up on Monday when a well known vagrant passed out in the middle of the road. The man as shown in this photograph was seen lying down motionless in the roadway next to GEBE. Several bystanders including a health care worker stood up looking at the man as drivers tried to swerve away from him.
The University of St. Martin (USM) Admissions Office is reminding all current applicants and those interested in applying to the University degree programs of the upcoming April 8 deadline. Students wishing to enroll in classes for June are required to complete applications by April 8. All applicants must submit a completed USM application form, $25.00 application fee, official high school transcripts, high school diploma and exam results, 2 passport pictures, affidavit of financial support, copy of passport, personal essay and proof of residency.
Some requirements may differ for students transferring into USM programs. Late fees will be levied after the April 8 deadline. Placement tests are scheduled for mid April. Applications are currently being accepted for the Associate of Arts degrees in Business and General Liberal Arts, Bachelor of Science in Hospitality & Tourism Management, Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and Bachelor of Arts in Business (one offered in conjunction with Mount Saint Vincent University and another with the University of the Virgin Islands). For more information please contact the University of St. Martin Admissions Office at Tel: 542-5171 Ext. 1008.
Philipsburg:--- Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba has sent a letter to the Lt. Governor of St. Maarten Franklyn Richards asking him to make sure the department of Labour and Social Affairs do its job when processing work permits under the Brooks Tower Accord.
Jacoba told SMN News that a large of amount of people who applied for the Brooks Tower permit category two will suffer comes March 1 since the island labour department is not working efficiently to process the working permits for persons who qualified for the category two permits.
Jacoba said when the guidelines of the Brooks Tower Agreement was drafted each island participated and St. Maarten is the only island who wanted the recipients of the category two permits to get their working permit before they are able to pick up the residency permit. She said in all the other islands such and Curacao, Saba, and Statia the applicants are asked to pay their processing fee and then they can pick up their Brooks Tower Residency permit. However, St. Maarten chose to do things differently Jacoba said because of the choices St. Maarten has made several people will stand to get hurt.
Jacoba said during the processing of the Brooks Tower her Ministry discovered a lot of discrepancies that is hindering the people from becoming legal residents. The Minister said while the Federal Government is responsible for residency permits there is nothing she can physically do for the labour permits since that department falls directly under the island territories. As such, she has chosen to advise the Lt. Governor of the problem the Brooks Tower workers are facing.
Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards could not be reached for a comment on Wednesday.
Marigot: --- The court of first instance has granted the request of the attorneys representing Pascal Morelle on Thursday as he appeared before the court for arresting four minors illegally. Batonniers Derussy and Nicolas asked the court to grant them a postponement since they have not received the process verbal on the case.
The lawyers said that they needed to have the necessary documents to prepare a proper defense for their client. The defense lawyers said they made a request to the prosecutor's office since February 11 2010 and to date they have not received the necessary documentation. Prosecutor Jacques Louvier objected to the request of the lawyers saying the case is rather simple. He said his intention was to finish this case on Thursday however, after a short deliberation the court decided to postpone the case until March 18.
Morelle in an invited comment said he is looking for justice and instead he is the one that is being punished. Morelle said his house was robbed and he did his own investigation and caught the culprits responsible for the break in. He said he took all four of the minor suspects to the gendarmerie hoping that justice would be served.
The courthouse was under high security on Thursday morning since several friends and other acquaintances of Morelle showed up at the courthouse in support of Morelle. Some of the supporters said that the four suspects that were released by the gendarmes have already committed other break ins to homes and businesses on the French side.
GREAT BAY:---- The members of the executive council met with the first cooperate governance council on Friday. Attending and chairing the meeting was Lt. Governor
Governor Franklyn Richards and Commissioners William Marlin, Xavier Blackman, Frans Richardson and Hyacinth Richardson. Commissioner Theodore Heyliger is presently off island.
The Board members are Louis Duzanson, a career civil servant, Minerva Monte-Vlaun, with a background in Business Economics, Maria van der Sluijs-Plantz, based in the Netherlands and owner of a company that focuses on compliance, Francis Carty, a businessman with over 40 years experience, and Agnes Gumbs, a professional accountant with 30 years experience.
All board members were very pleased to be there and honored for being selected. They all collectively agreed that no doubt they would do their best by providing objective advice to the Executive Council, whether solicited or not, as stipulated in the Good Governance code. Acknowledging as well the difficult tasks that lay ahead.
Commissioner Marlin indicated that it was a pleasure to have the group here and he was pleased and honored that they accepted the proposal to serve on the Corporate Governance Council. With the establishment of the council, St. Maarten can move forward in its development in this regard.
It was difficult to find candidates who would not pose a conflict of interest with their present functions because many work for government or for a government owned company, or some other related entity that may pose a conflict of interest if persons were chosen.
Nevertheless, Commissioner Marlin said, we found some outstanding candidates who have agreed and who can contribute greatly to this effort. All members have remarkable and professional qualifications. I congratulate you and I know that it won't be an easy road, but with your advice the decision making process will be more complete. Thanks again, and I wish you the very best.
It is said that the Corporate Governance Council in St. Maarten is the first in the Netherlands Antilles and probably in the Dutch Kingdom.
The Council members are all fully aware of the huge responsibility that they have assumed and the historic importance of achieving the objectives of the Corporate Governance Ordinance.
They commend the Island Government and Island Council of having taken the courageous step in striving for more discipline and transparency in accordance with international standards.
The Council members are also fully aware that there may be tensions in the future between the politicians and the council but they have all pledged their commitment to making the council a success.
By unanimous vote the council has elected Mr. Louis Duzanson as its chairman and Mrs. Maria Van der Sluijs-Plantz as vice- chairman.
The Council will be taking inventory of the relevant entities, the legacy issues and what will be required to ensure that all entities are "in good standing".
Mr. Louis Duzanson on behalf of the council accepts the responsibility for the tasks at hand, the challenges to be faced and expressed the confidence in the council member's commitment to make the changes that are needed.
A woman who spoke on the condition of anonymity has issued a passionate appeal to women to be very vigilant and cautious as to the activities that they engage with men. This appeal comes after the recent circulation of some pornographic pictures via the internet. According to the woman the photos that are being shown was taken out some time now however she noted that it is being circulated owing to strained relationships with all involved.
She pointed out that when the photographs were taken it was done with the understanding that the pictures formed part of the love making process. "It was just two people playing around and it was a means of being romantic with each other. Displaying the pictures publicly was never discussed thus it is a direct breach of one's privacy," the woman said.
She noted that the actions are a direct breach of one's privacy calling on the relevant authorities to take action against the perpetrators. "Somebody should be made to be punished for such unethical actions," she stressed.
The young woman has issued a strong appeal for women to be very vigilant and cautious regarding the activities that they engage in with their boyfriends. She said that the method at getting back at women is to deliberately embarrass them whenever a relationship may have gone sour stressing that displaying graphic photos via the email seems to be the course of action for many. "These men nowadays just trying to be spiteful and wicked and when dem and de woman done they doing these scrap," a visibly upset woman said.
She declared that action is critically important warning that this can evolve into being the culture of the day thus literally making women the 'talk of the town'. She stressed that a number of men are seeking ways into using these situations as a means of preventing women from existing relationships when they would have made a decision to leave. She declared that while many persons would heap scorn and negative comments on the women involved, she firmly believes that everyone has their own secrets declaring that whatever happens within a bedroom should remain there regardless.
"Women have to question the motives of these guys today as they would come and tell you that what they are doing is part of the love making and when you done they have yuh picture all round the place," she said.
Meanwhile, a source close to the persons involved said that the act was not committed by the man but rather by another woman who he shared a relationship with. The source said that while the man is being blamed for the acts it is another woman who have committed the act. "Its strange as the culprits themselves are women who finds fun in these kind of acts so it's disturbing to hear she complaining about it," the source said.
Attempts to contact the man implicated in the act has proven futile, as he was not reachable.
Former Chairman of the Board of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria and the Board of the Barbados National HIV Commission, Dr. Carol Jacobs, will lead the Caribbean Broadcast Media Partnership on HIV/AIDS (CBMP) as the new Chair of its Board of Trustees. Dr. Jacobs, who has over twenty years experience working in HIV both regionally and internationally, noted that she is looking forward to this new chapter of work with the regional charity.
" I have always felt the need to engage our media more fully in the Caribbean's response to HIV, so CBMP's request for my assistance is timely in providing a different path for me to continue my support of local and regional initiatives to stem the HIV epidemic. As the charity continues its work to mobilize the region's broadcast media make HIV a business priority, I hope to use my experience to assist them in working more closely with National Commissions, Government Ministries and NGO's to build effective and productive partnerships. The work of the CBMP is therefore pivotal to ensuring that as a region, we increase our focus on HIV prevention to enable behaviour change that will hopefully reduce the triggers of the spread of this disease", Dr. Jacobs stated.
CBMP Executive Director Dr. Allyson Leacock acknowledged that with her "vast experience Dr. Jacobs is well placed to provide dynamic and effective leadership" as the Charity continues to work at strengthening the response of regional broadcasters to HIV matters.
"The CBMP is honoured to have someone of Dr. Jacobs' calibre accepting the Board's invitation to take over at the helm of our Board of Trustees, after being recommended by another distinguished global leader in the field of HIV, former Chairman Sir George Alleyne. Dr. Jacobs' unique qualities of poise and diplomacy coupled with innovation and courage to confront the complexities of HIV in the region, are ideal for the institutional development and sustainability of the CBMP at this juncture." With a full schedule of programme activities for 2010 as well as our new "This is Me" Creative Campaign being launched this month, we truly value the enthusiasm and professionalism not only of our new Chair but also the other new members of the CBMP Board" Dr. Leacock stated.
Dr. Jacobs has served as Chair of the Barbados National Advisory Committee on AIDS based in the Ministry of Health and has represented Barbados and the Caribbean on the board of the WHO's Global Program on AIDS and subsequently on the Program Coordinating Board of the Joint United Nations Program on AIDS (UNAIDS). She has been recognized by the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) with the Gold Medal and is the sole recipient of the Barbados Gold Medal of Achievement, which was awarded by the Government of Barbados in April 2006.
Joining Dr. Jacobs as new members on the CBMP Board of Trustees are General Manager of the National Broadcasting Corporation of St. Vincent & The Grenadines and CBMP Steering Committee Chair, Ms. Corletha Ollivierre, GIPA Representative on the Global Fund Board and CBMP Champion Mr. Ainsley Reid of Jamaica and Managing Partner of KPMG Barbados Ms. Carol Nicholls of Barbados. The remaining Board members are Dr. David McBean, CEO of CVM Communications Group in Jamaica and CBMP Executive Director.
Established in 2006, the Caribbean Broadcast Media Partnership on HIV/AIDS (CBMP) unites 92 top broadcasters from 24 countries in the region's first coordinated media response to the HIV pandemic. The Partnership creates a structured framework for sharing information and resources among broadcasters that significantly expands HIV/AIDS-related programming and public education activities across the Caribbean. Member broadcasters deliver HIV/AIDS information across a variety of platforms and formats, including targeted public service announcements (PSAs), entertainment programming, news and public affairs programming, and online resources.
In 2007, the CBMP launched LIVE UP – the Caribbean's first media-led regional initiative that links people together with one message of hope and possibility and inspires everyone to consider what is within their power to stem the spread of HIV/AIDS. The CBMP is the regional action arm of the Global Media AIDS Initiative (www.thegmai.org), a U.N.-supported effort conceived by the Kaiser Family Foundation in partnership with UNAIDS to mobilize the world's media in response to AIDS.
The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation, the Elton John AIDS Foundation, and The Ford Foundation are supporting partners of the CBMP.
For more information on the CBMP at http://www.cbmphiv.org and to learn more about LIVE UP and the new LIVE UP: This is Me creative campaign you may visit http://www.iliveup.com.
The Department of Education hereby informs all parents that the second phase of the implementation of compulsory education continues from March 8 through March 12, 2010 with the registration of children between the ages of 4 and 9. This registration is important in order to get an accurate picture of the number of children whose status is not regulated (the undocumented) that need to be placed within the school system for the upcoming school year.
Parents are advised to bring along the following original documents as well as copied of said documents:
- An original birth certificate of the child
- The passport of the child (especially if the child was not born on St. Maarten)*
- A valid residence permit (if there is one)
- 2 passport pictures of the child
- Identification (passport) of the person registering the child
- If the registration is not being done by the parent, proof of legal guardianship.
- Report card of child
- Immunization card
All birth certificates in a foreign language must be officially translated in English or Dutch.
*The information page of the passport should be photocopied.
The Department of Education is located on the N. Debrot Street (across from the post office). Should there be questions, please contact us at 542-3718 or visit the Department of Education during the registration period.
Parents/guardians of undocumented children are strongly urged to make use of this registration period.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—The Sector of R.O.B., Department of Maintenance, Traffic Police of St. Maarten, and NV GEBE would like to inform the general public that Bush Road would be completely closed on 10th of March, starting at 8 p.m. in the evening throughout the night until 6 a.m. on Thursday 11th of March.
Only residents of the Bush Road will be allowed to enter during the above mentioned time.
During this timeframe, General contractor Windward Roads Infrastructure will be laying the new High Tension cables in the trenches alongside the Bush Road, from the entrance of Blijden Drive until the Prins Bernard Bridge.
Due to the needed work space, the temporary bridges accessing the properties over the open trench will be removed in order to lay these cables.
Residents living along the Bush Road who need to use their transportation during this time frame are urged to park their vehicles on the other side of the road. Thus, residents will not be able to access their property with vehicles.
Full access to the properties will be restored at 6.00 am on Thursday morning.
This small inconvenience will allow us to execute the necessary upgrading of the utilities on the Bush Road.
During this project, Windward Roads will accommodate the residents in anyway that is possible.
The Sector of ROB, N.V. GEBE, and Contractor Windward Roads apologizes for any inconveniences this may cause.
For more information regarding the above mentioned work, please contact the Sector of R.O.B. Department of New Project Development and Infrastructural Management (Mr. C.A. Buncamper or Mr. B. Ortega) or NV GEBE Maintenance and Execution Department.
The St. Martin Sunrise Rotary Club had the privilege of having as guest at our weekly breakfast meeting on Tuesday, Mrs. Carol Miller widowed of the Late Eye Specialist Bert Miller and long time friend and honorary members Steven and Kay Shepphard who made a donation to the "Bert Miller Funds" a fund created in the name of Dr. Miller, an eye doctor by profession, who was a regular visitor of St. Maarten as a timeshare owner at Belair Hotel. Sadly, Dr. Miller passed away during his last visit on St. Maarten in March of 2008. At his memorial held on St. Maarten family and Belair Beach Hotel timeshare owners and guest donated funds towards eyeglasses for children in need, as they knew Dr. Miller would have wanted. Sunrise Rotary Club is very honored to have been chosen to identify these children in need and to therefore make the funds available to purchase the required eyeglasses.
So far, the Club has covered the full cost of four students and is finalizing donation to one student in the coming days.
Sunrise Rotary Club would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Mrs. Miller and the Shepphard's for their kind contribution that goes a long way in making life easier for our children of St. Maarten.
Sunrise Rotary Club meets every Tuesday at the Restaurant Air Lekkerbek (near the Prince Bernhard Bridge) at 7:00AM to 8:00AM.
Philipsburg: --- Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba, and Junior Minister Ernie Simmons attended information session, which was given to several police officers on Wednesday. The Police Union NABP organized the information session, which was provided by Geomally Martes Director of the SOAB of the Netherlands Antilles. Officers of the KPSSS are very concerned about the dismantling of the Netherlands Antilles. Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba said she understands the concerns of the Federal Government Civil Servants and as such, the information sessions are needed to bring the workers up to speed with the process. She said so far St. Maarten did not make an official request for the transfer of the workers, and unless that is done, the Federal Civil Servants will remain under the federal government. Jacoba said some of the workers are concerned about their scales and position when the transfer is completed. However, she is not in a position to deliver the types of answers the workers are requesting. Jacoba said the only persons to tell the workers about scales and positions in the new setting are those that take over from the federal government.
GREAT BAY:--- "It is sad, very sad, that some people would deliberately take a decision of government meant for the good for our youth and create a big controversy from it about the separation of church and state." These were the initial comments of Commissioner Frans Richardson regarding the ongoing debate about remarks he made at the ground-breaking ceremony for the new Methodist Church building in Belvedere last Saturday.
He reiterated that the decision of the Executive Council, taken unanimously, to assist the Methodist community in the construction of a new chapel in the Belvedere area to serve Dutch Quarter, Middle Region and environs, was meant as compensation for an oversight of government.
"With our assistance with the building of this church, we hope to resolve all concerns arising from our decision to fulfill our promises," the Commissioner stated. "Once completed, it will serve as the bedrock of Christian teachings in this community. With so much happening in our neighborhoods, an additional place of worship is never too much."
According to the Commissioner, contrary to what has been reported in the media about his message, he never said there should be no separation between church and state, but actually emphasized the need for stronger cooperation and understanding between the two institutions which have perhaps the greatest impact on our daily lives.
"I suggested that maybe the new church congregation and the managers of the new sports field will agree to join to create recreational programs for our community's youth.
In this way, we will be better equipped to help our youth and students to become better socially and educationally by facilitating them with regular inter-generational contacts that would help them to grow as responsible citizens; facilitating parents with a better knowledge of their child's friends and parents; to encourage our children's development with their norms and values."
"When the church and the field have been built, I said, 'I believe if there's a fight or problem on the field, they can all come here to the house of God to resolve their conflict."
"I also said they always talk about separation of church and government, but I know every year, every so often, the government calls on the church to pray for it. Why is it OK to pray for you, but it is not OK to build a temple to pray in?"
Finally, I expressed gratitude to the representatives of the Methodist church "for their patience and their useful recommendations, paving the way for better mutual understanding between the church and government."
"These are the facts; these are the exact words I said at the ground-breaking ceremony. I make no apologies for the decision of government to correct what was an obvious mistake. I make no apologies for neither calling for closer cooperation between government and the church for the positive development of our youth and of our island.
However, I also understand the sensitivity in some quarters about the issue of the separation of church and state. This is a problem all over the world, even in the U.S. where President Obama has continued the "Faith-based initiative" of former President George W. Bush, which many see as an attempt to erase the separation between church and state.
The separation of church and state is not only a legal and political doctrine to keep both institutions independent of each other; it also has a biblical foundation. Jesus Christ himself established that separation when he commanded His followers to "Give unto Caesar what is Caesar's and unto God, what belongs to God."
There are several European countries where the state subsidizes the churches – Belgium and Greece being two good examples. In fact, some countries considered to be very liberal in outlook such as Sweden, Norway, and Germany, also do the same or something very similar although no one would ever accuse them of not practicing separation of church and state. Similarly, when the island government pays teachers' salaries and other subsidies for religious schools, nobody sees that as an affront on the separation of church and state.
I acknowledge that we are in a political season, and that some politicians are so desperate that they will stop at nothing to undermine the good that this government has been doing and will continue to strive to do. Let me state very clearly that government has not instituted any new policy to nullify the separation between church and state; far from it. However, there are those with their own political agenda who want to mislead the people in thinking so.
But this is not about politics for me; this is about recognizing the role the church has to play in our society, especially in the development of our youth, and doing whatever we can to assist in achieving this common goal. I have no doubt at all, that a better mutual understanding and cooperation between church and state will result in a better St. Maarten for all. This is what it is all about: a better future for ALL."
NAGICO Insurances has once again sponsored the cricket matches for the Digicel Home Series, which is being broadcasted live via St. Maarten Cable TV. The company which is known for its strong support of sports activities on the island, including basketball, baseball and cricket, has tagged teamed with co-sponsor companies Motorworld and Caribbean Auto Sales to cover the costs of the sponsorship.
The competition started earlier this month and is scheduled to last until June. Cricket fans on the island can view Cable TV's channel two-program line up for more information on exact live broadcast dates.
The Managing Directors for the three companies issued a joint statement, stating: "Over the years, cricket has become part of St. Maarten and we are pleased to sponsor the costs of the live broadcast. The sponsorship represents our continued commitment to the development of sports activities on the island, as well as support for St. Maarten Cable TV in their efforts to keep the population up to date on international sports events. We encourage cricket fans on the island to view and enjoy the popular cricket series!"
The Digicel Home Cricket Series next game is scheduled for the 12th of March and can be viewed by all St. Maarten Cable TV subscribers on channel 20.
Philipsburg: --- Commissioner of finance Xavier Blackman in reaction to several media reports on the 2010 budget said the information given to the media was emotional and misleading. The commissioner said he believes the aim was to cause fear and deception to the public and taxpayers both of which are irresponsible and unfortunate. He said for as for him the information was politically tainted and does not represent the facts regarding the CFT and the budget of 2010.
Blackman used several quotes that were printed in the media such as arrogant, slap in the face that was used in several media articles all of which he said he intended to clarify at his press conference held early Sunday morning.
The commissioner made clear that he is a non-politician and he was hired to do a job as a professional based on technical and legal specifications. He said he has been approaching his duties based on the exact guidelines, rule, and regulations. The commissioner also indicated that the executive council has also approached the process of budget in the same exact manner.
Blackman said in July 2009 the CFT advised the central government to include the financial consequences of the dismantling in the budget for 2010. He said the central government chose not to follow the advice of the CFT and they approved the budget of the central government in November 2009 without any provisions for the dismantling of the Netherlands Antilles. Blackman said interestingly enough this was done a few weeks before the law was handled and passed on December 29 2009 on the transfer of tasks for St. Maarten and Curacao.
The finance commissioner said the island government of St. Maarten has been making several calculations while preparing the 2010 budget based on the same advice given to the central government by the CFT that is include the elements on the dismantling in the budget.
The commissioner said he said repeatedly that if St Maarten takes into account the dismantling and if the island should receive its rightful share along with the locally generated income then St. Maarten could have a balanced budget and have a small surplus in 2010 without implementing any new taxes, which would further burden the people of the island. Blackman said he also indicated on a number of occasions that safeguarding the island's income and assets should be a top priority for St. Maarten as it moves towards country status.
He said should St. Maarten take the advice and suggestions made by the CFT then the island government would have raise taxes, or, as St. Maarten prefers, balance the budget without putting additional tax burdens on the people and businesses of St. Maarten. Instead, the executive council proposed to use revenue due from the Central Government, which is due this year when St. Maarten starts taking over Central Government tasks, instead of burdening the population and businesses with new or additional taxes in these tough economic times.
Blackman said up until January 2010 the CFT secretary had been working closely with St. Maarten's financial advisers in fine-tuning the amount of income and expenses that are reflected in the draft budget, which also reflects the transfer of tasks in the dismantling of the Netherlands Antilles. The commissioner said during the deliberations St. Maarten's advisers and government was even praised by the CFT for being ahead with the visions on the transfer of tasks to the island territory. He said the CFT was even pleased to see the island was beginning to think what it would mean when the island takes over the tasks in 2010. Blackman said on February 8 2010 the CFT then suggested that if St. Maarten removes all the projected income and expenses related to the transfer of tasks from its 2010 budget and to plug the deficit that this would create with new and additional taxes. He said the main argument of the CFT regarding their request was that the central government budget had already been approved without taking the transfers of tasks into account. He said the CFT also indicated that there is no formal agreement other than the law that was passed on December 29 2009, which states that the transfer of tasks and income will begin as of 2010.
Blackman said he already indicated to the CFT that St. Maarten and Curacao has a formal agreement regarding the transfer of a number tasks dated March 12 2010 which would take effect as of March and April 2010. He said all along St. Maarten's arguments are correct which is now backed by history, which shows that St. Maarten is taking the right approach.
Apart from those two main arguments, Blackman said the CFT also had some technical requests, which they want the island government to address prior to them giving their blessings to the budget. Blackman said the technical requests are caused by the lack of financial management in the past. He said there were a number of items that could not and still cannot be provided because they were never provided when making budgets in the previous years. Blackman said it is not that St. Maarten does not want to provide that information but the information is not available to the current government.
The commissioner said they are currently working on the information based on the CFT's recommendation. Blackman said St. Maarten's island government has reacted to the CFT's letter where they clearly indicated the island's position, which is also based on the law on budgeting where all income and expenses must be projected in the budget. The commissioner said the island government did not make this law instead its common practice in the accounting world which is also laid down in the same laws that regulates the CFT and other entities involved in the process.
The commissioner gave an example where he said the Dutch government has been planning and budgeting a 3.2 million Euros savings on their budget based on preliminary negotiations with the unions in the Netherlands. Blackman said these projected savings came as the unions have said they would be less adamant on their wage increases. The commissioner said that despite there is no signed agreement the Dutch has taken into account the projected savings.
He said the position of St. Maarten is that all agreements signed dating back to 2006 are firm and they asked how firm is firm when it comes to the CFT. He said the executive council he said also informed the CFT that it would be unrealistic not to take the projected responsibilities and income in its 2010 budget into account. He said they also indicated that it would not be feasible to wait until 10/10/10 to have a budget that would reflect the changes, while it would not be feasible to make the changes and preparations without a budget. Blackman made clear that the executive council also received legal advice prior to responding to the CFT in order to ensure that all parties involved in the budget are governed by the same rules and regulations on financial supervision.
The commissioner said the 2010 budget will be debated in the island council on March 22 2010. Blackman said the CFT has been doing what they are supposed to be doing and so is the island government to ensure that the matter proceeds as required by law.
In the response, the media articles Blackman said the CFT does not issue demands or instructions instead their job is to give advice. He said the CFT is to inform the Kingdom Council of Minister about the status of the budget and they could advise the Kingdom Council of Ministers to give the island territory instructions to finalize the budget. He said the role of the CFT can easily be found in the articles regulating the CFT and financial supervision.
GREAT BAY (GIS)— In 2008 DERPI began to offer the course "Active Parenting Now in 3 " for parents of all FBE schools in English. This course is now also being offered in Spanish.
Dr. Martin Luther King School started on March 3, with offering the first complete course in Spanish. The material provides a variety of cultural and linguistic sensitive options, such as group discussions, personal one- to-one contacts, family enrichment activities, adult reflective thinking and home activities. All participating parents will receive the parent's guide free of charge.
The language used acknowledges the diversity of Hispanic individuals' backgrounds by including in the video Latino actors from different countries with different Spanish accents. The videos and the parent's guide also include pictures that represent contemporary dress and customs.
Due to elaborate discussions, parents, school and APN leader Mr. Duffis agreed that the sessions will be extended with an extra evening.
The dates of the next workshops are Wednesday March 17 and Tuesday March 23. Time: 7.00 - 9.00 p.m at the Dr. Martin Luther school in Dutch Quarter.
DERPI continues to provide solutions for parents facing the challenges in our society.
This program is financed with Dutch Development Funds made available through USONA.
Philipsburg: ---- The 2010 budget has been making headlines for weeks now, while two-island council meetings were called by the opposition, could not take place for the lack of a quorum.
Last week the Democratic Party faction requested a meeting to discuss the 2010 budget, which is still to be presented to the island council, but that meeting was adjourned and re-called on Wednesday. Wednesday's meeting also had to be rescheduled to Monday March 22 on the same date that the budget debate is scheduled to take place since the Democratic Party still did not have a quorum to question the draft 2010 budget.
While the Democratic Party faction has been highlighting their concerns and the implications this would have on St. Maarten for not having an approved budget for 2010 that received the blessing of the CFT they are yet to say that the 2010 was supposed to be ready since 1 May 2009 while they were in government.
The Island Regulations clearly states that the budget for the following year must be ready by May 1 of the preceding year. Leader of the Democratic Party Sarah Wescot Williams confirmed on Wednesday that budgets are supposed to be ready by May 1 but the CFT regulation states that the budgets must be approved by August 15 of the preceding year. Wescot Williams also told members of the media that they sent a number of questions on the draft 2010 budget to the current executive council and the answers provided are not satisfactory. In a follow up question leader of government, William Marlin confirmed that the budget was supposed to be ready at least one month before he took office last year. However, he agreed that budget preparations are always late but if one wants to stick to the rules then the National Alliance/ Heyliger government should have reached the 2010 budget when they took office on June 8 2009.
The Democratic Party leader also expressed her dissatisfaction with the way executive council and their members refused to sign in for the meeting to take place. She said after the meeting was adjourned for the second time the members of the island council received the notifications for the March 22 meeting where the budget will be debated. Wescot Williams also expressed her dissatisfaction on an agenda point that was placed on the meeting of PCCA they requested. That agenda point is to discuss the federal law on dualistic system be used in St. Maarten.
As for not signing in for the island council meeting Wescot Williams said the National Alliance Heyliger Government does not want to answer to the people of St. Maarten, however, she felt that the executive council should tell the people how they intend to address the budget of 2010 since the people want to know what magical trick they have pulled out of their hats to have a surplus on the 2010 budget.
William Says DP Still frustrated with loss of Federal Election.
In response to the allegations made by the Democratic Party against the executive council, Leader of Government William Marlin said that there are rules that govern the island council and this is not the first time an island council meeting has been convened and there was no quorum. Marlin reminded that on more than one occasion, the National Alliance called for meetings when they were in opposition and the meetings could not be held for a lack of quorum, one of those times he said was when former commissioner of telecommunications Maria Buncamper Molanus was caught in a conflict of interest with TELEM and Sky is the Limit. Marlin said the Democratic Party has to realize there are rules and when its is applied they too have to abide by them. Marlin further said that even though he understands that all politics are local he believes that the members of the Democratic Party are still frustrated because they lost the Federal elections held on January 22 bitterly.
As for the agenda points of the island council meeting that was requested "the consequences of not having a budget" Marlin says everyone knows the consequences of not having an approved budget and they also know that government is allowed to spend from the budget of the former year which clarifies the reasons why the retroactive payments were not made since it is not reflected in the 2009 budget.
The island leader said that the budget debate will take place on Monday March 22 and assured that St. Maarten has a budget that went through the central committee. He said during any public hearing the amendments could be submitted then. Giving explanations about the fall out and the CFT Marlin said the executive council and the commissioner of finance has a difference of opinion on how the budget should be prior to October 10 2010 when St. Maarten gets its country status. Marlin said since St. Maarten has a signed agreement that the island would become country as of October 10 they incorporated the taxes that would be collected from October 10 to December 31 in the 2010 budget. However, the CFT he said has a difference of opinion saying as long as St. Maarten does not become country they cannot include the expected taxes for the last three months of the year. Marlin said the CFT also does not want St. Maarten to include the funds coming to St. Maarten with the transfer of tasks. He said the CFT wants a budget for the island territory of St. Maarten and when the island gets its status then they can make the necessary amendments to include the additional incoming finances. Marlin said when he was informed of the CFT suggestions the matter was discussed in the executive council and it was agreed to follow the suggestions made by the CFT, which was done by the finance department. He said when the finance department did this they indicated based on the income taxes for the last months of 2009 and the first few months of 2010, they projected that the revenues for St. Maarten will be higher all of which was discussed and coordinated with the CFT.
Marlin said while the Democratic Party is saying they don't have information they know the exact figures as well as the advice that is given to executive council. He said the National Alliance/ Heyliger government disagrees with the Democratic Party who wants them to pull back the budget and present a new one. Marlin explained that the policies have not changed and the only thing changed is the projection of income for the island government and certain expenditures that has to deal with the dismantling process.
Marlin said he already made sure that all civil servants were officially informed as to why they did not receive their retroactive pay. As for the PCCA agenda point that was added on behalf of the executive council Marlin said some two weeks ago he requested the island secretary to schedule a PCCA meeting since he understood that the members of the Democratic Party does not intend to support the federal law which would allow St. Maarten to expand its island council to 15 seats and for Curacao and St. Maarten to hold their early elections in June 2010. Marlin said that the meeting had to be re-scheduled due to his travel plans and meetings the Minister of Constitutional Affairs Roland Duncan had since Duncan was invited to attend the PCCA meeting. He said when the Democratic Party requested the PCCA meeting the decision was taken to include all the agenda points.
In the meantime, the Democratic Party has sent a letter to the chairman of the island council requesting information on how the state secretary for Kingdom Affairs reacted on the information she received from the CFT. The Democratic Party faction in their letter said should the executive council have any correspondence from the state secretary they are requesting that it be passed on members of the island council prior to March 22.
Philipsburg:----- There is no arrest warrant out for the arrest of Julian Rollocks said prosecutor Rienk Mud. The public prosecutor said his office received all the documents pertaining to the civil case between Julian Rollocks and his half brother Cimmeran Marlin. Mud said they were given the documents for sake of information. Mud said the information that is in the public domain pertaining to an arrest warrant out for the arrest of Rollocks is rumors.
Mud said at this point in time the prosecutor's office is not involved in the Rollocks and Marlin case and there is no criminal investigation-taking place at this moment. However, Mud did not rule out the possibility of a criminal investigation in the future. "Right now we are waiting to see the outcome of the civil case, but now we are not involved." Mud said.
When contacted about the case on Wednesday Mud said he did not have all the information on the Rollocks Marlin case and his colleague who does have that information was on sick leave.
Julian Rollocks took the Talking Drum Foundation to court on Monday claiming that the foundation owes him for the investment and consultant job he did for the foundation to establish Border Point. The judge has given the president and founder of Talking Drums Cimmeran Marlin and the claimant Julian Rollocks the opportunity to find a solution to there disagreement. Should parties not able to find an amicable solution then the judge will deliver his verdict on April 9.
Julian Rollocks already sent a letter and a cashier's check to Talking Drum Foundation on Wednesday.
Philipsburg:---Minister of Justice, Magali Jacoba, had her regular meeting to evaluate the trajectory of the Win Win Agreement (WWA). The WWA is an agreement between the Police Force, Lt Governors of Saba, St. Eustatius, and St Maarten, the Public Prosecutor's office, the Minister of Justice, and the Unions. The WWA is to strengthen the Police Force and to facilitate the necessary changes in order for the Force to become formal and balanced.
The meeting was very fruitful. The Force gave a presentation of the different processes, which are being executed. For example, hard work is being done to fix the internal organization. Soon there will be a better administrative system to deal with the personnel as well as with documents. The appointment of a new Chief of Police can also be expected soon. The different ongoing developments indicate that the Police Force is on the right track and can rest assure that country St. Maarten will have a high level functioning Police Force.
Commissioner of Public Health Hyacinth Richardson stands proudly with a group of six persons who have been trained as Assistant Controllers to carry out yard controls as of Monday in search of aedes aegypti mosquito breeding sites.
The aim of the project is to inspect yards, give information and accumulate data such as the number of breeding places, types of mosquitoes found, and what are the most common mosquito breeding sources.
CTIA WIRELESS 2010 – LAS VEGAS – March 23, 2010 – United Telecommunication Services (UTS) announced today that its local broadband subsidiary, CaribServe.NET, signed an agreement with Motorola, Inc. for the development and deployment of WiMAX / 4G telecommunication infrastructure, devices and services for the island of St. Maarten / St. Martin. In doing so, it will once lead the way in St. Maarten/St. Martin in offering consumers the cutting edge in connectivity.
WiMAX, which stands for Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access, is a wireless digital communication system that provides broadband wireless access over extended distances to fixed, portable and fully mobile access devices. The technology, which is also known as 802.16, allows for more efficient bandwidth usage, interference avoidance and enforcement of Quality of Service right down to the end-user's service level. Wimax can provide access up to 30 miles, as opposed to WiFi, which in most cases has a reach of only 100-300 feet.
"We identified WiMAX as the natural evolutionary path for CaribServe.NET some time ago and have spent a considerable amount of effort since then researching the technology as a whole, its related market trends, maturity, vendor's stability & commitment to ongoing research & development of WiMAX before sending out an RFQ and eventually selecting Motorola as winning candidate for our Next Generation Network," said Roy Richardson, co-founder and General Manager of CaribServe.NET.
He further stated, "In selecting Motorola, we have not only selected a vendor that has built a solid name and reputation as being the trendsetter in the world-wide telecommunications arena but we also selected "The Vendor" whose Canopy wireless technology actually help put CaribServe.NET on the Map." CaribServe.NET plans to launch its WiMAX service with enhanced bandwidth packages to the Dutch side of the island later this year with the French side to follow shortly thereafter.
"Our objective is to provide "Broadband @nywhere, @nytime" to our island's residents and tourists," said Glen Carty, COO of UTS Eastern Caribbean. He went on, "I am proud of the fact that UTS through its subsidiary, CaribServe.NET, will be the first to launch a true WiMAX/ 4G network on our island and are happy to be partnering with a vendor that is fully committed to WiMAX".
According to howstuffworks.com, "WiMAX has the potential to revolutionize broadband Internet access in the same way that cell phones have changed telecommunications industry. In the same way that many people have given up their "land lines" in favor of cell phones, WiMAX could replace cable and DSL services in the near future, providing universal Internet access just about anywhere you go."
Willemstad --- The Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles unanimously passed the federal ordinance creating the possibility of early elections and other major constitutional changes. The federal ordinance- also referred to as "Duncan's Law" – gives the Island Councils of St. Maarten and Curacao the authority to dissolve themselves and hold early elections after the approval of their respective draft constitutions.
Additionally the ordinance changes the Island Regulation (ERNA) to allow the Executive Council of St. Maarten to expand to seven Commissioners and increases the Island Council of St. Maarten to fifteen members after the next elections.
Moreover, the ordinance introduces dualism on the island territory level. Dualism entails that a member of the Executive Council can no longer be a member of the Island Council.
The faction of the National Alliance, Senators Rodolphe Samuel and George Pantophlet, introduced an initiative amendment to the ordinance – supported by a wide majority of Parliament – to create the authority for St. Maarten to - by Island Ordinance- regulate wages, attendance fees and other remunerations for Island Council members. A similar change of the island regulation was also introduced for Saba, St. Eustatius, and Bonaire. By this change of the Island Regulation members of the Island Councils can now be full-time and salaried Parliamentarians. The Minister of Constitutional and Home Affairs adopted the amendment making it part of the ordinance.
The vote of Parliament- approving the draft ordinance and its amendments - was carried by twenty two (22) in favor and zero (0) against, thus unanimous.
The Prime Minister and Minister Duncan heartily thanked the Parliamentarians for their unanimous support of the legislation and the further empowerment of the Island Territories in the exercise of their right of self -determination. The draft legislation is a further necessary and important step in the constitutional process; moving St. Maarten closer to country status.
On Tuesday 23 March 2010, the day that President Obama of the United Stated of America signed a historic health bill into law in Washington, D.C., a monumental event also became a reality in Tallahassee Florida. Bob Rackleff, Chairman of the Leon County Board of County Commissioners signed a Proclamation with Executive Director Arthur (Arturo) Lugisse of Tallahassee-St.Maarten Foundation, (TLH-SXMF) on behalf of Commissioner William Marlin.
Commissioner Marlin who, during his last visit to Tallahassee instructed Mr.Lugisse to pursue this relationship, which could benefit St.Maarten on becoming a country. It was felt that it would be beneficial to have both the City and the County available to assist in St.Maarten's development as a Country come 10-10-2010. The joint relationships would be beneficial in formulating strategies to develop expertise in infrastructure, environment, human resources', health, police matters, EMS, metrology , agriculture, fire department , technology, arts and culture, sports, financial options, and assorted Joint ventures.
The Leon County Government has always been supportive of the ongoing relationship with St.Maarten and Commissioner Bill Proctor has traveled to St.Maarten approximately five times in the past 10years. During his last visit Commissioner Proctor had several meetings on the Dutch Side and French side, including a meeting with President Frantz Gumbs, who was then a representative of the education system in St.Martin. Commissioner's Proctor reason for that meeting was to lay the groundwork for Tallahassee students to come to St.Martin to learn French instead of sending them to France based on the Partnership Agreement with Dutch St.Maarten.
Commissioner Proctor has also indicated his willingness to assist in sharing programs with St.Maarten that can address youth issues such as juvenile delinquency and gang development. Now that the TLH-SXMF office is operational there is a vehicle in place to bring many competencies, expertise, and programs to St.Maarten that could benefit both the Public and Private Sectors of the Island based on the close relationship with both the City and the County. It is in that vain we invite request from the Public and Private Sectors to take up the challenge for future developments based on the Strategic Plan that was developed by FAVACA with the collaboration of the then head of the Economic Development Department of St.Maarten Diana-Fleming-Hendrickson who is still in contact with us on the on going process of the Partnership.
We know that in order for this undertaking to be successful we must have the continued involvement of our partners and supporters in both the public and private sectors, such as Public and Private Sectors of St.Maarten and Tallahassee, ,and our partnership with Victorious Living in St.Maarten and Calvin Mardembrough, our Government liaison for the foundation. Commissioner William Marlin confirmed his support to TLH-SXMF based on the positive profile of affairs conducted in his presence by Mr.Lugisse and his team at TLH-SXMF.
...
Philipsburg – In reference to the ongoing police controls that are taking place throughout the island, some individuals have casted doubt on the legitimacy and implementation of the tint ordinance. One of the major arguments has been that the tint is purchased to shield the occupants from the harmful rays of the sun as well as protecting the interior of the vehicle; tint that has been purchased by the hard-working, tax-paying citizens that are burdened by the high cost of living.
Taking such into consideration, Stuart Johnson feels it necessary to revise the tint ordinance. Johnson, Vice-President of the Democratic Party board and a candidate of the same faction, also believes that serious adjustments should be made to the ordinance or even removed completely.
His claim is that the initial implementation of the tint ordinance took place during the time when a higher crime rate was said to be prevalent. "Where it concerns the crime issue, has this been effective with the tint ordinance a few years ago?" Johnson questions. "Have we seen a reduction in the number of crimes committed in relation to the tint ordinance? If we truly wanted the tint ordinance to be properly implemented utilizing a comprehensive approach, we should be seeing a complete ban of it being sold by retailers and wholesalers locally," he remarked further. The concern is that establishments are allowed to sell tint, thus hindering the effectiveness of the ordinance.
Johnson concludes that "We, the people of St. Maarten, must should come together to discuss and address this particular issue as well as other issues taking place in the community, such as education and crime, amongst other priority areas."
Philipsburg: --- The executive council has taken a decision in their weekly meeting on Tuesday to suspend the director of sector ROB Joseph Dollison and head of maintenance Claudius Buncamper pending reassignment. SMN News has been reliably informed that commissioner of Public Works Theo Heyliger voted against the decision.
According to information, reaching SMN News is that Heyliger believes the council should disregard the SOAB report, which was issued in November 2009. Reliable information reaching SMN News states that the council took the decision some three weeks ago but they placed it on hold so that the commissioner in charge of ROB Theo Heyliger would discuss the decision taken by the council with the two civil servants.
It is understood that Heyliger told the council last week that he was working on a solution, which would have been ready, by Tuesday this week. The source said Heyliger showed up at the meeting on Tuesday with an email that was sent to him by Joseph Dollison outlining the position he wants at sector ROB. SMN News further learnt that at that point the council decided to suspend both Dollison and Buncamper pending reassignment.
The source said the intention of the executive council is find an interim management who would then take over from the current sector heads. "When the interim management is found then both Dollison and Buncamper would have to stay home with pay until a suitable position is found for them," the source said.
Some of the concerns of the council SMN News learnt is the amount of time it takes to process building and other permits, while the several large investors such as Duck International, Olzina NV, Ama Jewelers have decided to take government to court for negligence committed by ROB under the management of Dollison and Buncamper.
On Wednesday, June 9, the Lower House Elections will be held. Do you want to vote from the Netherlands Antilles?That is possible, if you have lived for at least ten years in the Netherlands
or if you are employed in the Dutch public service. In the latter case, your Dutch partner and children (18 years+ living at home) can also vote.
Pay attention! With the European elections, all Dutch residents of the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba were entitled to vote. This is not the case
for the Lower House elections. You comply with the conditions, and you want to vote? You will then have to register by filling out a registration form, printing it and mailing it. Don't forget to add your certificate of Dutch nationality (a copy of your passport or ID card). The form must be received no later than Tuesday, April 27.
You can find the registration form:
- via www.uheefthetvoorhetzeggen.nl or www.denhaag.nl
- at the Representation of the Netherlands in the Netherlands
Antilles, Scharlooweg 55, Curaçao - at the Windward Islands office of the Representation of the Netherlands in the Netherlands Antilles (VNP) in St. Maarten, Front Street 26 (Convent Building). Voters in the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba can send their completed registration form to the municipality of The Hague, or send it to/deliver it at the Representation of the Netherlands. Did you register earlier as a
voter abroad for the Lower House elections in 2006? Only then will the registration form be sent automatically to you. If in the meantime you
have moved, you yourself will have to notify the municipality of The Hague (Dienst Burgerzaken, Bureau Verkiezingen, postbus 12620, 2500
DL Den Haag or e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).
Philipsburg: ----The statements by some Justice experts from the Netherlands that the Police Forces for Curacao and St. Maarten will not be ready to function properly by October 10, 2010 should not come as a surprise to anyone. They were mostly concerned about St. Maarten whose police force could take some 10 years before it get where it s supposed to be. One has to understand that one of the consistent statements coming from The Hague besides St, Maarten needing to have good financial management and a proper administration has been the Justice system.
Senator Pantophlet said he is surprised about the fact the second chamber and the Dutch Government requested an investigation to see if the Kingdom Charter could be amended so that St. Maarten and Curacao police forces could function optimally come
October 10, 2010.
In the document called The Final Accord of November 2, 2006 (Slotverklaring) the issues of the Police, Finance and Justice were dealt with and what remained was how to fine-tune these agreements. And hearing the words quality and quantity sounds very familiar as these are found in documents such as the decision list which was signed on September 30, 2009 during a meeting of the Political Steering Group comprising of the Netherlands, the Netherlands Antilles, Curacao and St. Maarten. One of the decisions was that together a proposal would be developed to set up the (Gemeenschappelijke Voorziening Politie) different departments and structures to ensure that the police force is being improved. It mentions a small committee of 5 members. It mentions representatives of the Netherlands Antilles, Curacao, St. Maarten and the Netherlands (representing Bonaire St. Eustatius and Saba). It mentions the fact that every country will be responsible for quality a mature and professional police force. Also mentioned was that there should be continuity in the combating of organized and border crime. The protocol with the RST has been extended for two years after the transition period. I believe this information is already known to the public. On November 2, 2006 the delegations of the Netherlands, the Netherlands Antilles and the Island Territories of Curacao and St. Maarten during the discussion agreements were made regarding future cooperation with the new entities in the areas of among others the maintenance of law and order, jurisprudence and finances and about the criteria the constitutions and the legislation the civil apparatus of the new entities have to comply with. There might be a few but I know of no country in the world that has a functioning police force that is the pride and joy of all. The discussion should not be whether St. Maarten's police force will be ready by October 10, 2010 but what steps are being taken today. Based on statements by one of the experts St. Maarten will not be ready for another 10 years while Curacao not for another 7years. As I stated before working agreements have been signed as to how to proceed in the areas where St. Maarten will not be ready. Will the Kingdom Justice Laws that are proposed effectuate immediate change in the operation of the police force or will it take years? Why should it be expected that a situation which has existed for over 25 years or more to change overnight? What would have happened in the initial stage if we had gotten the cooperation of all when the people of St. Maarten decided on June 23, 2000 for separate status? Having working agreements between the Police forces for St. Maarten, Curacao and the BES islands should not be a problem. We should be able to regulate amongst ourselves how we will work together. What stops the islands from agreeing amongst each other on rotating their police officers? A delegation is travelling from the Netherlands Antilles with persons of Parliament and the Island Territories to hold discussions on some consensus kingdom Laws and here is where the agreements made should be concretized. I understand the concerns of the experts as the issue of familiarity where a police officer might become too friendly with persons in the community. This might not be a bad idea. Maybe it will allow us to solve more crimes. I am trying to understand the undue pressure placed on St. Maarten. First the Budget, now our Police Force and I believe that the Administration is next or maybe is already under pressure. There is a statement from one of the justice experts Mr. Visser that I can agree with which is that he praises the local government for being cognizant of the precarious situation and truly wanting to make improvements. Government wants to build a force with a strong leadership and where integrity is the rule. To this I say Let us get going. The people of St. Maarten are tired.
PHILIPSBURG - The University of St. Martin (USM) on Tuesday publicly thanked all the elementary schools and students who participated in its Upward Bound Initiative for the Spring 2010 term while looking forward to the schools' participation in other sessions.
An estimated 601 students visited USM this term as part of the Upward Bound Initiative, which was started in 2008 and is designed to encourage elementary school students to do well in school, look forward to high school, and start thinking earlier about college and career possibilities. During the 2008 pilot program, a USM representative visited four elementary schools in the immediate area and when the construction of upper level of USM was completed, schools were invited to the USM campus.
"We are pleased with the progress of Upward Bound Initiative that was started in 2008 and I am sure that with the continuation of the awakening and conscienticizing of our youngsters at an early age and giving them the direction to higher education, St. Maarten will be well on its way to building its human capital on a steady and sustained basis," said USM President Josianne Fleming –Artsen.
The Upward Bound Initiative focuses on the sixth graders as they are at the point where they will be transitioning to high school after their exams.
"We hope to encourage the young minds to strive for academic excellence as they transition to high school," remarked USM Admissions Director Angelique Hazel.
During the program's sessions, students get a tour of USM, which includes the classes used for the Teacher Education Program, the video conferencing classroom, distance learning laboratory, computer labs, library, and offices. According to Hazel, who also conducted the tours along with Admissions Representative Lakhsmi Hathiramani, students asked various questions during their campus tour. Most questions were regarding Room 105, the video conferencing classroom.
"There was some speculation after seeing the equipment in the room as to what Room 105 was used for. Students were informed that Room 105 is used for distance learning and students learned how distance learning happens at USM. Students also enjoyed viewing the projects on display by the students in the Bachelor of Arts in Education," Hazel reiterated.
Hazel added that the students asked many questions about the university such as what is hospitality (program), how many students USM has, and what time are classes held, what is a dean, and whether they too can attend USM?
The sessions conclude with a workshop where students are informed about career possibilities and the educational routes needed to realize these possibilities. The workshops were facilitated by Marketing Director Michel Chance and Admissions Director Angelique Hazel.
"Many want to be engineers, teachers, doctors, firefighters, police officers, and lawyers, while others want to become athletes or learn game or fashion designing. Although it is early in their lives, it is very encouraging to see a majority of our youngsters already identifying career possibilities. This is their head start to becoming productive and educated citizens. With St. Maarten heading to a new constitutional status, the country will be needing all the skilled, qualified, and educated persons possible," said Chance.
"Important is the fact that our youngsters are reminded of their value and that they know they can follow any career they wish. But, it is very important, based on our educational system, that students are guided in the most appropriate directions, respectively."
The USM Marketing Director said that, during the workshops, students are asked about their career interests and the respective high schools where they think they are going to attend and often the two do not align. He added that if, for example, a student wants to become a doctor or lawyer and ends up in vocational school, then that student will have more challenges to overcome, in order to get into the desired career compared to if that student attend and complete an academic high school. He said the same applies to a student who wants to be a carpenter and ends up in an academic high school.
"Education and careers are interrelated and students are urged to seriously consider their options, ask questions, and to do their research," according to Chance. In addition, students receive a newsletter and study tips during the Upward Bound Initiative program. "We do not believe that education results are a surprise for students, for they are achieved through input of efforts," said Chance, while wishing all the students much success on their upcoming exams.
St. Joseph School's sixth grade with some 23 students participated in the program on Tuesday. This session was the last school for this semester 2010, which started in January and ran through April. Other Elementary schools which participated include: the Sister Marie Laurence, Learning Unlimited, Oranje School, Leonard Connor School, Christian Hillside School, Ruby Labega School, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School, Genevieve DeWeever School, Sister Regina Primary School, Seventh Day Adventist Primary School, Methodist Agogic Center, and St. Dominic Primary School.
Teachers and school administrators have been responding favorably to the program Chance said, while adding that the information provided by the teachers and administrators will be used to further improve the program.
"It is a pleasure to see the Upward Bound Initiative embraced by the primary schools," said Hazel.
"We would like to thank all the teachers and school administrators for giving us this opportunity to interact with the students and also to let the students know that there is a university here for them," Chance said. USM is looking forward to all the schools participating in future sessions of the Upward Bound Program.
"USM will do all that it can with the help of the community to ensure and assure quality education for present and future generations," USM President Fleming-Artsen said.
The Upward Bound Initiative schedule for the next term will be available within short.
Philipsburg: --- On Tuesday at approximately 10.55 p.m. a Philipsburg police patrol noticed a young man behaving quite suspicious next to a car with license plate 257 ZAR 971 which was parked on the premises of the former Abdul Tire center on the Bush road.
The patrol approached the young man who stated he was catching some fresh air. He was told by the patrol to immediately leave the premises, which he did. A further investigation done by this patrol led them to look in a car that was parked nearby. In the car, two other young men were found hiding. The patrol also noticed also that the wires leading to the switch of the car were cut. All three young men were arrested on the spot. They were brought to the police station and handed over to the detective department. for further investigation.
The killing of taxi driver Bradford Tweed aka Braddy has plunged the taxi fraternity into deep mourning while registering the federation's tenth victim to have died by homicide for the year.
Reliable reports reaching Sun St Kitts indicated that Tweed was shot sometime after 4 yesterday (Thursday). The taxi operator who is of Cunningham Village, Lower Cayon was shot to death in the vicinity of Morgan Heights in Canada Estate. Police Press and Public Relations Officer Inspector Vaughan Henderson said, "Sometime about 4:45 a.m. on Thursday, April 8, police received a 911 call and officers from the Cayon Police Station and members of the Strike Force were alerted and they responded.
"On arrival at the scene, they found an elderly man by the name of Bradford 'Braddy' Tweed of Branch Street, Basseterre, who sometimes resides at Cunningham Village, Cayon, lying on the grassy verge of the Island's Main Road towards the seaside next to the front wheel of his bus (T 2587) in the vicinity of Morgan Heights in Canada Estate. Police also discovered that his body bore what appeared to be gunshot injuries," he was quoted as saying.
According to police sources no suspect has so far been held in connection with this incident while Henderson has indicated that investigations are ongoing. However, reliable sources indicated that Tweed had picked up someone some time after 3, however where and what the purpose of the trip for are unclear as a taxi operator who requested anominity said that he was 'set up' by the passenger. However unconfirmed reports are that he was shot in his butt, head and stomach.
Another taxi operator said that Tweed may have been dupe into the run as he is customary known for picking up passenger irrespective of who they are at any time of the day or night. "Hey he was a man who would do any run regardless of who you be as he was not the type who was afraid and he was here at the Circus last night at least up to 11.30 when I left. This is very sad as he was such a pleasant man who was known for his passion in politics," the taxi operator said. Tweed is the father of well known radio personality Kenny "Dj Cupid" James who currently works at ZIZ Broadcasting Corporation being one of his sons.
The federation's ten murders recorded so far for the year saw three of those being 26-year-old Keithon Stanley of Cole Hill, 23-year-old Kimoy 'Pudding' Powell of Bath Village, Nevis and 32-year-old Maxwell 'Mad Max' Chumney were all killed in January.
In February 31-year-old Vincentian, Wesley Trimmingham, of Brown Hill, 30-year-old Damian 'Nashi' Isaac, 29-year-old Nkoma 'Koma' Jacobs of Lower Monkey Hill, St. Peters whose death is currently being investigated after allegations that he was murdered by the police and 17-year-old Jervin Wilson were all victims of homicide
While in the month of March the deaths of Denzil 'Para' Williams and Twenty-one-year-old Karim 'Sleepy' Browne, formally of McKnight were recorded.
PHILIPSBURG - Yesterday District Band released one of their songs for carnival 2010 entitled 'Unity'. This track is on their soon to be released carnival CD entitled "Hold Yuh Balance" and District Band is calling on all their fans (young and old alike) to join them on the road for the opening of Carnival 2010.
"We specifically chose to release Unity leading up to the opening of Carnival as a message to the youths to put down the gun and the knives," bandleader Calvin Mardembrough jr. said.
"We know that there have been many complaints that the jump-ups are too violent, so we are appealing to all Carnival lovers to come out and have fun and jam in unity", District Band said.
Unity is one of several road-march songs on their second CD and the entire community is asked to take a listen to the lyrics of 'Unity' and get on board with District Band.
What happen to Carnival nowadays when back then everybody use to jam
in unity Nowadays all these youngsters wanna come inside a session with the gun in their hand to start negativity The people say they fed up..
These youths them got to make Carnival stronger So we got to keep our heads up
So carnival can last much longer Now put down the gun Put down the knife
Throw up your left hand. Throw up your right hand Leh we jam in unity, unity
Now everybody pushing and fighting this violence thing is leading out to be
a travesty. Why everybody just don't come together as a family and bring some peace
in our country Put down the guns and let we free up, (free up man)
In addition, let we stop targeting each other. This violence thing we got to clean up, (clean it up)
So we can start loving one another Now put down the gun Put down the knife
Throw up your left hand. Throw up your right hand
Leh we jam in unity, unity. District band is a group of young people between the ages of 16 and 21, who took St. Maarten's 2009 Carnival celebration by storm. Branded as St. Maarten's next generation jam band, District Band is ready to do it again for Carnival 2010.
District Band CDs and t-shirts will be on sale during Carnival 2010. Look out for a special carnival package...coming soon. Persons interested in booking the band may contact
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 5208014.
Philipsburg:--- Senator and Island Councilman George Pantophlet is calling for someone to give him the correct definition of the word consensus. What does it really mean? Pantophlet said his interpretation of the word is that we agree (with emphasis on the word agree) on a particular subject or procedure and so on. Pantophlet said by asking the question persons would conclude that he is talking about the Consensus Kingdom Laws. It appears that consensus according to Mr. Johan Remkes member of the Second Chamber has to do with majority not equality. In other word, whether you agree or protest majority rules. Can this be placed under the heading of the column of Democratic Deficit? The focus of members of the Dutch Second Chamber is mainly on the Police Force of the Netherlands Antilles under the guise of justice of course. He said his conclusion has always been that it was a matter of control and he realized this attempt which began sometime in 1999 with a presentation of the introduction of the NAVAS system at the Immigration department on St. Maarten.
One of the statements by a member of the Second Chamber has been that the Dutch Kingdom sorry or the Netherlands is responsible to the international community (United States) for Law and Order in all parts of the Kingdom. Pantophlet said he cannot agree more but wondered why not include Education, Health Care, Social Welfare, Pension and Sports Facilities just to name a few? But the main focus is the Police Force for now that the Finances have been locked down. It is a pity that there was no interpreter of the debate that was being broadcast by Radio Souliga 99.9 FM in the Dutch language. Most if not many of our citizens don't understand or even speak the Dutch language thanks to our educational system that has forgotten that we live in a Dutch Kingdom, unfortunate because decisions taken during these debates will have serious consequences for the future and that of future generations. Where do we go from here? We have never said we don't need assistance, we have said that there has to be mutual agreement. But he will continue to say if you live in somebody else's house you have to follow their rules or get your own. There is a total of ten Kingdom Consensus Laws to be handled. If statement by members of the Dutch Chamber continues in this vein it means that self-determination by the people of the islands will be trampled under foot. This is the time for all of us as representatives of the people especially those now in the Hague to stand united in purpose and remain resolve to accomplish that which the people have elected us to do. Painful in all this is that the rest of the world so far is turning a blind eye to the process. We don't have oil or other minerals that can be a reason why. Consensus for whom.
Philipsburg:--- Island Council lady Maria Buncamper Molanus is calling on the chairman of the island council and chief of police Franklyn Richards to answer the questions she submitted to him relating to crime. Buncamper Molanus told members of the media on Tuesday that while she received a receipt from the governor's cabinet acknowledging they received her letter to date the answers to her questions on crime was not answered. She said the behavior of the governor and failing to respond to the island council members are far from good governance. Buncamper Molanus said elected officials are the people's voice and when they speak out they are speaking on behalf of the people who elected them to office.
Buncamper Molanus said the crime situation on St. Maarten is a serious one and while it has now become customary that no answers are given to members of the island council is calling on the governor openly to do what is right and answer her questions.
In her letter to the governor dated January 19 2010 Buncamper Molanus said any member of Parliament of The Netherlands Antilles has the right to ask questions to the Council Ministers or directly to a particular Minister in an attempt to obtain information for the benefit of the people.
Similarly, Members of the Island Council have the right to ask questions to the Executive Council, however asking questions to the Lt. Governor as it pertains to his function as Local Chief of police is not specifically regulated anywhere. Nevertheless, she is submitting her questions to his office the following inquiries with the hope that for the benefit of the general public, information is made available on the topic of crime.
- During the past few months it appears that crime has been on the increase, particularly violent crime. Could you please confirm or deny this.
- Are statistics available regarding the number as well as the type of criminal activities that are taking place on the island?
- This apparent increase in violent crime seems to repeat itself periodically:
a. Has a particular trend been established? If so please elaborate.
b. Have the established efforts to combat these criminal activities rendered any results – positive or negative? Please explain.
- What is the current shortage of police officers on the island and what is the status if the recruitment efforts.
- In all the agreements that have been made for re-enforcement of the Windward Island Police Force has the shortage of police officers been addressed effectively?
- What does the working relationship with the police force of Rotterdam and or any other Dutch city entail?
- The Central Government on several occasions during the past few years informed the general public that it is taking steps to improve the police force in the Windward Islands. One such step is the reorganization of management and providing coaching. Is the Local Chief of police able to provide a status of affairs of the improvements as a result of the measures taken in general and that of the reorganization and coaching in particular?
- What has happened to the many project proposals submitted by St. Maarten, by your office in particular with respect to tackling the problems we face when it comes to fighting crime on the island.
More police presence and proper equipment appear to be the recurring calls from those involved. If this is indeed the main issue, why are these issues not given priority? Yes indeed the Central Government is responsible for Justice. We have had Justice Ministers come and go and we have the same problems recur. The constant factor in this equation is the people of St. Maarten, crime and the responsibility of the Local Chief of police on the island. So should we be doing things differently leading up the constitutional reform? Should there be more involvement from the Island Government and the Local Chief of Police?
Fighting crime is everybody's business and so I look forward to your prompt response for the benefit the people of and the visitors to St. Maarten.
In the response and confirmation of receipt Richards notified Buncamper Molanus that he has taken note of the contents of her letter and has forwarded it to the Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police Ademar Doran for advice.
Philipsburg:--- Members of the Democratic Party told members of the media on Tuesday that while the trip to the Netherlands has been dubbed as being very important there was no preparation meeting on St. Maarten. The opposition island council members said that St. Maarten did not even send a delegation to Holland since the commissioner of constitutional affairs William Marlin went as an invited guest of the Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles.
Former commissioner of constitutional affairs commissioner Sarah Wescot Williams said the other members of the National Alliance who are currently on the trip is not representing St. Maarten instead they are there as parliamentarians. She further explained that she was not invited neither was she informed about the trip. "The only thing I got was an e-ticket and spending monies on my desk. But no information was given to me, and there was no preparation as to what we would do when we get to the Netherlands." Wescott Williams said.
She said despite all of that she did try to get a flight to the Netherlands but they were all booked. The only flight she said was available was on April 13 and her return was scheduled for April 16. Wescott Williams said at that point she refused to go ahead with the trip since she felt it would have been a waste of monies.
While island councilman Roy Marlin in his statements said that, everyone is looking at the leader of the Democratic Party faction who did not attend the meetings. He said the island council of St. Maarten has eleven members with four factions.
The Democratic Party, the National Alliance as well as the two independent members Theo Heyliger and Louie Laveist. Marlin said he went as far as asking the two independent members of the island council if they were invited to the Netherlands and if they were informed about the trip and both Laveist and Heyliger told him they were not invited neither were they briefed. Marlin said even if the leader of the Democratic Party had gone on the trip she would not have been able to speak since the second chamber meetings are for parliamentarians.
Marlin said ever since the National Alliance took over government they did not hold no more than two PCCA meetings, the first he said had no quorum while on the second meeting Leader of the Democratic Party Sarah Wescot Williams handed over the mantle to now commissioner of Constitutional Affairs William Marlin.
Philipsburg: --- Island Council member Petrus Leroy De Weever tabled a second motion of non-confidence against finance commissioner Xavier Blackman on Wednesday during the island council meeting called by the Democratic Party.
De Weever said leader of government William Marlin has given Blackman a motion of no confidence when he publicly announced on Tuesday that he had to seek assistance from outside with the 2010 budget so that it could be approved by the CFT. De Weever said St. Maarten is confronted with a level of incompetence in Blackman who is constantly traveling overseas. He said Blackman needs to assume his responsibilities and not look for scapegoats or people to blame for his failure. He felt with the motion of non-confidence against Blackman would end the blame game against the civil servants especially those in the finance department.
The island council member said Blackman has his priorities set wrong and as such, he can no longer enjoy the confidence of the island council. Copies of the motion will be sent to the first and second chamber of the Dutch Parliament, The Kingdom Council of Ministers, and the Governor of the Netherlands Antilles and the Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles.
De Weever said the leader of government has already given Blackman a motion of non confidence in his media article and in that same fate he is bringing his motion against Blackman. A copy of the motion can be viewed at the end of this article.
De Weever said St Maarten is faced with a high level of incompetence since the island leaders failed to prepare for the responsibilities and take over of tasks from the central government, reasons why he believed the current executive council is try to get service level agreements with the Dutch and Central government.
De Weever made clear that if the delegation that is currently in Holland comes back to St. Maarten with another level of higher supervision he would give up his job as an island council member. He said he would not be in an island council that is dictated by outside forces.
The island council member said all eleven members of the council was elected by the people of St. Maarten even if some is more competent that the others, nevertheless they are all sitting in the council as a representative of the people. He said those persons who wants to participate in the people's business should get on a list and be elected by the people before trying to tell the elected on how to run the people's affairs.
De Weever said the current executive council is full of surprises and he will not be surprised if they make another amendment to allow un-authorized people to participate in deliberations of the people's business.
De Weever said if 10/10/10 means giving up levels of autonomy then the Dutch can keep their status change and leave St. Maarten as is, since the elected officials can still sit in a central committee or island council meeting to discuss matters related to the people of St. Maarten without having outside dictators dangling over their heads, or threatening the island with further higher supervision. He said the motion against Blackman is rather unfortunate but it is warranted since Blackman has pushed the island leader to seek assistance from the same persons St. Maarten is trying to run away from, the motion presented will come up for voting next Thursday when the continuation of the meeting continues.
Also expressing dissatisfaction against Blackman is former commissioner of finance Roy Marlin. Marlin said the requests of the CFT were very simple and if the civil servants in the finance department did it in 2009, they are able to do it again. Marlin said Blackman has an obligation to St. Maarten and he should have been on St. Maarten to hear what the CFT has to say about the 2010 budget that was approved by the island council. Marlin said Blackman has his priorities set wrong and his actions will jeopardize St. Maarten and its status change. Marlin said he is now wondering if Blackman has any allegiance to St. Maarten and if he did then he would have dealt with the issues of the 2010 budget differently.
Inspectors from the Inspectorate VSA have started pre-inspections of Carnival booths as can be seen from this picture where they looked at the layout of equipment in the booth. Inspections will continue throughout the two weeks of Carnival. Booth holders, vendors and others can contact the Inspectorate VSA for information about safe food handling by calling 542-2079, 542-2059 or visit the office at Front Street #1, above Diamond Casino.
GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (GIS) – Leader of Government and Commissioner responsible for Constitutional Affairs William Marlin, will be addressing the Sint Maarten community via a press briefing on Friday, April 23 upon his return to the island on the same day from The Hague.
The press briefing is expected to be carried live on Sint Maarten Cable TV Channel 15 at 4.30pm as well as broadcast live by a number of radio stations from the A.C. Wathey Legislative Hall in the Government Administration Building.
Commissioner Marlin will address the Sint Maarten community and update them on the accomplishments and about the presentations made in the Dutch Second Chamber of Parliament as well as the voting on legislation related to the constitutional renewal process.
Recently, the Kingdom Parliament approved changes to the Kingdom Charter and the different Kingdom Consensus Laws, making it possible for Sint Maarten to become a country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands on 10-10-10.
The public is invited to tune in to hear what the Leader of Government has to say with respect to the accomplishments of his working visit to Holland.
Philipsburg/French Quarter: --- President of the French Agricultural Association Dorvan Cocks and his cousin Norman Lake are urging residents on both sides of the island to call them if they have bees in their areas.
Cocks and Lake both residents of French Quarter said they have been trying to save the honey bees and their hives on St. Maarten while preparing more hives at Rue du Frères French Quarter.
The two St. Martin men were seen Sunday morning in the yard of the Government Administration Building retrieving honey and preparing the cadres to removes the swarm of bees that gathered under the Christmas hut. While harvesting honey can be dangerous both Cocks and Lake are professionals as they both took a training course in Guadeloupe to deal with honey and bees.
The president of the French side Agricultural Association said he is pleading with the residents not to call the exterminators to get rid of the bees since St. Martin is losing the bees as well as the fresh honey that has no preservatives. He added that while people maybe afraid of the bees who can sometimes be very aggressive there is a safe way to remove the bees. He said when there are bees the fruits and vegetable trees on the island would bear more fruits since it is the bees that pollinate these trees.
The two entrepreneurs said that so far, they saved about 12 hives and they are hoping to begin harvesting honey early next year and to commercialize it so that residents on the island could purchase fresh natural honey for their personal use. They said to save these bee hives they have to buy materials such as the smokers, the suits, as well as materials to prepare the cadres.
Cocks said one of the challenges they currently have is that youngsters in the area are purposely destroying their hives but day by day, they are able to curb the maliciousness of the youths.
Residents can reach Dorvan Cocks at telephone numbers 005995-34638 or 00590 690 87-06-92 while Norman Lake can be reached at 005995-233171 or 00590-690 47-89 08 or Emilio Martina at 005995-23 8893. Interventions to save the hives would cost $150 for simple interventions or $60 to take off swarms off trees. Prices for larger interventions they said have to be assessed depending on the amount of work to locate the hives.
MARIGOT—The Gendarmes arrested a 25 year old man and sent him off to Guadeloupe on Friday. The suspect was sentenced to 18 months, six of which are suspended for crimes he committed previously. The suspect was caught in Hope Estate during a routine control. At the time he did not have his driver's license and was in possession of a sixth category weapon.
The gendarmes also sent out a reminder to all boat users about their speed limits and the need to have lights on their boat after an accident occurred in the Simpsonbay Lagoon on April 17.
A boat owner was charged with being in control of vessel that was speeding with no lights when it collided with a small dingy. One of three persons on the dingy had to be taken to the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital for injuries they sustained.
The accident prompted a control by the brigade Nautique who issued several fines to boat users mostly for excessive speed and not having the required documents to operate a boat.
Several persons using the lagoon were also summoned to court in June 2010.
In an unrelated incident on April 28 a collision between a scooter and car occurred in La Savanne. The scooter rider was taken to the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital for injuries he sustained. According to the gendarmes the rider of the scooter was riding without a helmet.
The outpour of long pent-up emotion, pride, sense of ancestral belonging, togetherness and hope, dominated the event held on labor-day, Saturday, May 1, 2010.
Those who attended the event, are still in awe of the inspirational impact it has left behind, as well as the significance in terms of the inevitable role the natives of this island are set to play in bringing about changes favoring their interest in the development of the island.
The oftentimes heard 'mantra', that its was 'done' too late to bring about positive changes for the people of the island, is making way for the a thinking.
Yes, we can and certainly yes we will !
The ceremony was organized by the grass root St. Martin nation building & unification movement in collaboration with the New Era Foundation.
As part of the mission of this new pro-St. Martin partnership, 'Strengthening and preserving our St. Martin identity, unity & way of life', this ceremony was organized to be the first, in a series of ongoing public activities, which are expected to awaken the feeling of belonging of all native-indigenous St. Martiners to their country.
Based on the impact, these future functions are expected to have on the St. Martin community in general, the organizers decided to first, out of respect and love for the contribution made by many St. Martin ancestors, to honor them posthumously by offering a token of recognition to one of their descendants.
During the ceremony which was brilliantly chaired by Mr. Jeffrey RICHARDSON as M.C. and assisted by Mr. Christopher EMANUELLE, Mr. Leopold JAMES did the opening remarks.
As was to be expected, keynote-speaker, historian Ms. Daniella JEFFRY, held the audience spellbound by her knowledge of th history of the island.
Clearly there is a very good reason why many consider her as St. Martin's own 'grande-dame' and certainly a native St. Martin icon and landmark.
Stealing the show, was 9-year old Hanae PETERSON, a grand-daughters of Mrs. Aline CHOISIE, school-principal and former Councilor on French Saint Martin.
When Hanae witness the handing out of the certificates and heard the recipients expressing appreciation, she whispered into her grand-ma's ear; 'Mamy can I say something too ?'
What this little and obviously, very talented young girls then told the audience certainly touched the souls of all, when she ended by saying that she loved St. Martin more than anything else.
This gave all a sense of pride, inspiration and relief that there is great hope for the natives of this island to preserve their ancestral-heritage and rights as host population of this country.
Certificates of recognition were given posthumously to;
Felix CHOISIE, Louis-Constant FLEMING sr, Jean-Luc HAMLET, Xavier Vanburing JAMES, Atley LARMONIE, Wallace PETERSON, Jules ARTSEN, Simon JEFFRY, Alberic RICHARDS, ALbert ADAMS,
James Theophilus PRIEST, Joseph LAKE , Lilian STEPHEN, Lionel SCOT, Alexander RICHARDSON.
The representatives of the recipients each received an autographed copy of the book '1963 A Landmark Year in Saint Martin' by Daniella JEFFRY, who also had the honor to gave out the certificates.
In addition, all receives a copy of a DVD with 4 national songs of the island, St. Martin is my home by Lino and the Hardways, Oh Sweet St. Martin land by father Kemp, Rally around the national flag, and St. Martin will live on by Jeffrey RICHARDSON.
Mr. Leopold JAMES, handed out a certificate of recognition to Daniella JEFFRY for the contributions made by her late father Mr. Simon JEFFRY.
All in attendance, including president Frantz GUMBS, heaped praise on Leopold for having consistently been the voice of the native-St. Martin people for almost 30 years.
Although he could not attend in person, Governor Franklyn RICHARDS, sent Mr. Leopold JAMES an email and also called him the day before the event to extend his best wishes for the event and to express his deep appreciation for the work being done to restore the pride and dignity of the St. Martin people.
This, the Governor stressed, is now more than ever needed, if we are to build a sustainable country St. Maarten and to attract the right people for the process.
In ending all those involved one way or the other are thanked for making this event a historical one and a great success.
Clearly, this ceremony has completely lived up and even surpassed the expectation that it will contribute significantly to a paradigm-shift, in which St. Martiners will claim their rightful role as host population of this island.
In addition, this ceremony has also laid a very powerful foundation for another event, which will take place on May 15, 2010 and is organized by Billy D. HAMLET o emphasize the indivisible one-nesss and traditional way of life of the native St. Martin people.
For copies of the DVD of the event, one can contact Mr. Jeffrey RICHARDSON at 5221574 or 5860043 or at email;
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Marigot:--- Students of the Herve Williams 1 School in the Spring were locked out of school on Tuesday. According to a concerned parent the Directress of the school did not notify parents that she would be taking drastic actions on Tuesday by locking out students. The mother said she arrived at the school with her two children and noticed that the teachers including the directress were all standing outside the school. After a while she said the directress left the area without informing the students and parents who were all waiting alongside the road that she would not open the school for the day. "Many of the students left saying they were going by friends while some of them just wandered the streets."
The woman said she learnt from other students that the Directress and her teachers were protesting against the violent behaviour of a disturbed parent.
Further investigations into the lock out revealed that a well known parent of the school walked into the school on Monday and physically abused a male teacher in the presence of all his students. SMN News further understands that the parent in question has done so before and that the school gates are normally closed but on Monday another teacher accidentally left the gate open.
According to information gathered the parent accused the teacher in question of spanking her 7 year old child and the disgruntled mother was on the lookout to see when she would get the opportunity to beat the teacher in question. Other sources say the teachers of the school have been refusing to attend to the child because he has issues with one of their colleagues. "This is not the way to handle this matter, the child in question needs attention and if the teachers are not going to give him that attention then something would happen," another parent said. Members of the union were also seen at the school hoping that the directress and authorities would find a solution to the ongoing problem. SMN News learnt that the gendarmes were called to the scene to remove the mother from the school premises.
"We do not have a problem with the school taking action, but they need to inform the parents as some of the students came all way from French Quarter by bus and they are left to wander the streets of Marigot. The directress could have informed the parents because she is responsible for these children during school hours whether or not there is a strike."
Several efforts made to contact the directress for a comment on Tuesday proved futile.
Philipsburg:--- Members of the Police Department namely detective, forensic, the armed robbery team and the special team investigating the murder cases on St. Maarten are on go-slow. Several persons informed SMN News that they have been trying to get assistance from the police force on Wednesday but no one is helping them. Already the prosecutor's office it is understood ordered the forensic department not to take evidence from homes or businesses that were robbed because the department is grossly understaffed. SMN News further learnt that the forensic department only has one person working in it and that person was told they should only process murder scenes.
SMN News further learnt that the officers in blue have decided to protest the understaffing of the police force and the lack of staff and equipments among other grievances specifically in the detective department. Sources close to the police said if the management team of the police force does not deal with the pending issues the action will intensify even though the union is not saying out loud that they are protesting.
One of the questions the detective department wants answered is who is managing the police KPSSS since the Prosecutor's office they said is allegedly making the decisions for the Police Force.
SMN News also learnt that the selected candidate that would take up the position as Chief of Police Peter de Witte who is currently serving in Aruba would only be available to St. Maarten by July 2010, while the Minister of Justice had said he would have taken his position by April 1 to May 15th. SMN News further learnt that the police bond and officers of the Korps is asking questions about the alleged Naf. 30,000 per month salary that De Witte would receive when appointed to St. Maarten.
In an invited comment President of the Police Bond Ronny Abrams said that the police is not in action however, he confirmed the police held a bond meeting all day on Wednesday to address issues relating to the detective department which is grossly understaffed. Asked if the union plans to address the issues surrounding Detective Carlton Phillips, Abrams said the union has decided to take the matter up and intends to deal with it.
SMN News learnt that Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba did not deal with Phillips dossier even though she heard him on several occasions. Sources close to the police organization said the Minister has sent a letter to Chief of Police Franklyn Richards asking him to issue a warning letter to Phillips for going to the media to expose the ills of the police management team.
SMN News further learnt that Richards received that letter over a month ago and so far he did not deal with it since he is soon to leave office. Several phone calls were placed to Richards's cellular phone for a comment but he did not answer his phone.
When contacted for a comment Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba said she was not aware of the situation on St. Maarten she also advised that the Korpschef of St. Maarten to deal with the issues of the force he is managing. "please call the korpschef so he can tell you what is going on". Jacoba said.
Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police Ademar Doran in written response to SMN News said the detective personnel complained about the understaffing at the Department which has been causing them to work extended hours over a long period of time. At this moment the department is dealing with seven major investigations of which six are capital cases. Doran said. He besides the major cases the detectives are called to deal with armed robberies and other crimes such as burglaries. The Assistant Chief Commissioner said the department has pulled its resources together to deal with the several murder investigations such as the Dayalani, Backstreet, Afoo Dutch Quarter, St. Peters, David Eustace, with the addition of the last case in Sucker Garden. We having teams consisting of Marechaussee, RST and KPSSS operating from different locations but still the work load is too much.
Asked what is the management team doing to address the understaffing Doran said the understaffing is a major problem throughout the organization. He said only recently the police got some new recruits from the police training school. The department he said already identified two prospective or potentials officers from the General Division and one from Saba to be transferred to the Detective Department. Doran further explained that formal talks with the respective chiefs still need to take place, and when officers are selected they still have to go through training to become detectives. Then they will have to undergo training in the field of detective while three officers have been transferred to the detective department and are part of the investigating team.
Asked how long would this situation continue he said this cannot be resolved overnight, the Police Force has been plagued with understaffing for a long period. He said it is not easy to select officers for the detective department and it will take sometime before they can reach the desired amount to resolve and deal with the crime situation on St. Maarten. At this moment there are 24 detectives in the department while they need as much as 81.
However, Doran refused to comment on the issue of Carlton Phillips and when would the Prosecutor's Office resume working with this detective. "I will not comment on the issues surrounding Detective Carlton Phillips" Doran said.
Marigot:--- Even though there are close to 9,500 students inscribed in the schools on the French side of the island and stand to benefit from bilingual education only about 60 persons turned up to march in support of Robert Romney. Participating in the protest march were some Collectivity workers clad in their working uniform and several territorial council members.
The marchers left the parking lot of Nina Duverly School about 9:30 am and marched through the streets of Marigot carrying posters. Posters that reads "Romney must remain on St. Martin, Respect our Specifities, An Excellent Education System for St Martin."
Their first stop was at the Collectivity of St. Martin where they met with Vice President Claire Javois and other council members as President Frantz Gumbs and Senator Louis Constant Fleming are currently off island. The delegation also marched to the office of Robert Romney where they showed him that the St. Martiners are in support of him before heading the Prefecture of Saint Martin to meet with officials there in the absence of Prefet Delegue Jacques Simonnet.
Aline Choisy, head of the support committee told reporters that members of the territorial council are scheduled to meet on May 11 to discuss the removal of Romney and other matters related matters to education. It is expected that the council would vote on Romney's transfer at that meeting to make sure that Robert Romney a native St. Martiner who is fully competent remains on St. Martin to precede with the education package he started months ago. Choisy said the march on Wednesday is the first of a series of action that they intend to take to make sure Romney remains on St. Martin. Choisy said they also have a petition for those in support of Romney to sign which will be sent to the Ministry of Education. Choisy said she was not disappointed with the amount of people that turned out to march but made clear that wars are never won with an entire army. She said St. Martiners always wait until the last minute before they join any action. "Actually I am St. Martiner and I know my people only act when the fire is under their feet." Choisy urged the parents of all the schools to get involved with their children's education and not to wait until there is a problem in the schools with their children.
"We are living in a bilingual country and I would like for the parents to be more attentive when it comes to education. It is not acceptable for certain parts of France to have bilingual education and for St. Martin where students are speaking English, Spanish and Creole and they do not have an education system that corresponds to their needs." Choisy said she believes that if the students of St. Martin are given bilingual education they would be more productive academically. Choisy said St. Martin has one of the best in the person of Robert Romney, a native St. Martiner who is bilingual, who also knows the problems the schools are faced with.
Choisy further explained that the reason they are reacting to the decision taken by the Rectorat is the manner in which Romney was informed about his removal. She said Romney was invited to a meeting in St. Barths on March 18th and it was there they announced that he would be removed from St. Martin back to Guadeloupe as a technical adviser to the Rectorat on Bilingual education. "Actually we do not think that Romney has received a promotion, we believe the Rectorat is sanctioning him and as such is putting him aside in Guadeloupe."
Choisy said the rector informed Romney that he was guiding St. Martin based on emotions and as such they felt it is necessary to remove him. She made clear that Romney's appointment was sanctioned by the Ministry but Romney was not given the means to execute his job here. Furthermore, those at the Rectorat humiliated Romney when they announced in St. Barths that he would be removed come September 2010.
Expressing concerns about the decision taken by the Rector is Lenny Mussington a teacher by profession. Mussington said he believes that the decision to remove Romney is a political one and the people of needs to get an explanation from the central government. Mussington said that Romney was the first St. Martiner to be nominated to such a prestigious position on St. Martin and removing him would be counterproductive.
Mussington said he personally spoke to Romney on several occasions and his main objective is to give the students attending school on St. Martin the opportunity to have a bilingual education system. He said Romney wants students to master both languages here so that they could perform better in school. Mussington said bilingual education would be extremely beneficial to students attending school on the French side of the island because they already are speaking English and instead of trying to master a language (French) they do not know is always more difficult. 
Mussington said he is basically endorsed Romney's approach and is rather surprised at the decision taken by the Rectorat. He said anyone who knows the statistics would see that the majority of the students attending school on St. Martin are not successful academically. He said the education system on St. Martin has been neglected over the years and the time has come to further research the problems faced in education and remedy it. Mussington said he do not know what is the real issue with the French Government and Romney are and he want to know if they have an issue with his approach on bilingualism. Mussington urged the committee to make sure they fully inform the parents and the population at large about the issues facing Romney and the education system on St. Martin.
In an invited comment opposition councilor and leader of the RRR Alain Richardson said education on St. Martin is not given the amount of attention it deserves and the situation today is far beyond Robert Romney. Richardson said St. Martin has certain areas of competency based on the organic law where they can be forceful. He said particularly relating to languages and cultural reality in the school programs. Richardson said if these possibilities are not exercised then St. Martin and its future generation are doomed. Richardson said Robert Romney is the only St Martiner who was appointed to a position where he could contribute to his island's development prior to retirement. However, Romney was not given the necessary means to work and neither did the Collectivity use him to fully enhance education. Richardson said should the Collectivity allow the Rectorat to remove Romney then they are definitely sending the wrong message to St. Martiners who are currently working in France, Martinique or Guadeloupe and are willing to return home to make their contributions to their island. Richardson said while it is necessary to make sure Romney remains on St. Martin to finish the job he started, the Collectivity has to also make sure the means to execute his job is given to him by the Rectorat or State. Richardson said the Organic law has given St. Martin the power to address the problems relating to culture, languages and education and it should be used to the fullest extent. Richardson said that St. Martin had the right person in the right position but regrettably the Collectivity did not capitalize on his capabilities. He said the intention of the RRR is to address this matter in the next council meeting and if they are successful in keeping him on the island then there should be a hand's on approach on the foundation for education on St. Martin.
SMN News also learnt that there are persons working within the education system on St. Martin that are pushing Romney's removal. Sources said there are persons who are giving the Rector information on St Martin's plan of action. "These persons are giving every detail to the rector who already contacted Romney on Wednesday morning and informed him that the decision on his removal has already been made and that the voices of the street would not change anything."
Philipsburg:--- Fourteen year old Joshua Hodge of the St. Maarten Academy emerged winner of the letter writing competition sponsored by Nieuwe Post Netherlands Antilles. Director of Nieuwe Post St Maarten Denicio Richardson told reporters at the prize giving ceremony on Thursday that this is the first time the Netherlands Antilles participated in the letter writing competition both in the Antilles as well as the 39th International Letter Writing Competition of the Universal Postal Union in Switzerland. The letter written by Hodge was selected to represent the Netherlands Antilles in Switzerland.
Participants of the competition were asked to write a letter to someone explaining to them why it is important to talk about HIV/Aids and to protect themselves from the disease.
Richardson said the International competition which is held annually is sponsored by the United Nations (UNAIDS) the World Heath Organization(WHO) and UNI Global Union all of whom are cooperating with the United Postal Union (UPU).
Richardson said invitations were sent to all Primary and Secondary Schools in the Netherlands Antilles and the participants of the contest had to be between the ages of 12 to 15 years old. He said a total of 28 schools participated and they submitted 86 letters of which 32 were from St. Maarten.
Two of the three winners are from St. Maarten namely Joshua Hodge of the St. Maarten Academy and Kimberly Williams of the ACE Foundation who captured the second prize. While the third prize went to Shaan Mahtani of Curacao. Hodge received a laptop as the first prize winner while Williams a Naf. 50 Windward Islands Debit Card and Mahtani a package of movie tickets.
Richardson said one of the reasons the United Postal Union and its sponsors chose the team HIV/AIDS was because of the current statics on persons living with HIV/ AIDS. Currently there are 33 million people that were infected with the deadly disease, while there are 7, 400 new cases reported daily, with 45% of these cases are between the ages of 15 and 24.
Accompanying the winners of the competition at the ceremony were the parents of Joshua Hodge, and his school principal Shareed Hussain, and the teacher of Kimberly Williams.
At the ceremony the first prize winner Joshua Hodge was asked what motivated him to write a letter on HIV/ Aids and he responded by saying that he wanted to share his personal experience with others. Hodge explained that he lost an uncle who was a gold miner to the disease as he was infected with a contaminated syringe. He said HIV/AIDS robbed him of the opportunity of ever meeting his uncle. Joshua Hodge is the son of internet journalist Bibi Hodge Shaw and Alain Hodge.
In concluding Denicio Richardson of Nieuwe Post said to young Hodge that he hoped that he would bring home the bacon from Switzerland as he did from the Antilles. He was also advised to use his laptop to further enhance his education.
Philipsburg: --- The Police A Team has arrested at least five persons in a major drug bust on Wednesday and Thursday disclosed Prosecutor Rienk Mud.
The five suspects arrested in Sint Maarten are H.M.A., R.A., D.P.L., F.D.B. and M.E.
E.M. was arrested in Curaçao. All suspects will be led before the investigating judge on Friday May 7 2010 said Prosecutor Rienk Mud in a press release.
Public Prosecutor Rienk Mud states that in a major ongoing international drug investigation conducted by the Recherche Samenwerkingsteam (RST) in close cooperation with Korps Politie Sint Maarten Saba and Sint Eustatius (KPSSS), Korps Politie Curaçao (KPC), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Coastguard of the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba, the Royal Marechaussee (KMAR) and the authorities of Colombia, Venezuela, Dominica, Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico, five people were arrested on Wednesday May 5 2010. Four of these arrests took place in Sint Maarten and one in Curaçao. A sixth suspect was arrested in Sint Maarten on Thursday May 6 2010.
Some of the arrests were made by the "Arrestatie Team" (SWAT) of KPSSS. On one occasion the suspect was caught red handed with a loaded firearm.
In a house in Simpson Bay approximately 170 kg. of cocaine was found and seized.
During several house searches conducted by the investigating judge (rechter-commissaris) cell phones and documents were confiscated.
Both the prosecutor's offices in Sint Maarten and in Curaçao are very satisfied with the investigations Mud said.
Great Bay:--- Within hours after a Facebook page was set up for the 6th Annual Boardwalk Mas, hundreds of people responded positively to the invitation to the island's fastest-growing traditional and folkloric fete with a twist of modern artistic expressions. The event will be held at the Great Bay Promenade (The Boardwalk) from 5:00PM – 10:00PM, Saturday, May 15, 2010.
Commenting on how quickly the Boardwalk Mas has caught fire on Facebook, Regina LaBega, Director of Tourism said, "The whole island has embraced this social networking service with such enthusiasm that it would be unwise to ignore it in our bid to reach as wide a cross-section of the community as possible for this unique event designed for the entire family."
The St. Maarten Tourist Bureau is the organizer of The Boardwalk Mas, conceived as a celebration of St. Martin traditional festive and parade culture. The Boardwalk Mas is one of the concrete activities born out of the Tourism Master Plan (TourMap), which was created for the enjoyment of the island's people and to offer visitors an original St. Martin experience.
About 300 Facebook respondents have indicated that they will surely attend this year's Boardwalk Mas or are likely to do so. Many who live abroad or who will not be on the island on that date have expressed regrets but are encouraging family members and friends to enjoy it "on their behalf."
More than 30 groups and individual artistes have signed up for this year's event, which begins with a parade that culminates in a stage performance at the Square in front of the Courthouse.
The Boardwalk Mas is coordinated on behalf of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, by Offshore Editing Services, a division of House of Nehesi Publishers Foundation. The parade manager Urmain Dormoy can be contacted at 542-2337, for groups and individual artists wishing to participate in the parade or concert of the Boardwalk Mas.
For further information on this release, please contact Fabian Badejo @ This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; cel. 523-1491.
Philipsburg:---Former Commissioner of Personnel Affairs Maria Buncamper-Molanus has written to the Executive Council expressing the concerns of the DP faction in the Island Council about the Central Government Civil servants. The particular group that the faction is querying the government about is the civil servants who are working in the recently transferred ministries from the Central Government to the Island Government, who apparently have not received any confirmation securing their positions in the new St. Maarten government.
The letter dated May 10th 2010 states that while the first two ministries have been transferred from the Central Government to St. Maarten, the DP faction would like to express its concerns about the civil servants employed by the Central Government whose status apparently has not been regulated.
Councilmember Maria Buncamper-Molanus continues to state that the central committee handled the social statute and while the questions posed to the supporting staff present, were answered during the meeting, the government is yet to respond to questions posed directly to the Executive Council.
It is our understanding that the Central Government personnel were informed that they would be seconded to the Island Government as of April 19th 2010, but the Executive Council must agree that without an official document such as a resolution establishing this, these civil servants have no guarantees, not to mention possible consequences this could have for their legal status within the new government organization.
We are hereby impressing on the Executive Council to regulate this matter post haste in order to provide the necessary guarantees to the central government civil servants currently working in the ministries recently transferred to St. Maarten.
The DP faction is hereby requesting receipt of confirmation and substantiation that the legal status of the central government employees working in the recently transferred ministries has in fact been done. Secondly we hereby request to be informed which positions through this process have been filled in the new government organization.
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Philipsburg:--- Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba is scheduled to arrive on St. Maarten on Tuesday where she would be meeting with the island's chief of police and leader of government to address the police go slow.
SMN News has been reliably informed that the meeting with Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards, Leader of Government William Marlin and the Minister is scheduled to take place on Wednesday. It is understood that the St. Maarten authorities would insist that the Minister deals with the issues facing the police since she is the one dealing the management of the Police Korps. Already St. Maarten suggested to the Minister to turn over management of the police to local authorities since St. Maarten is only months away from obtaining its country status but the Minister it is alleged refused.
SMN News learnt that Minister Jacoba would have to tell the local government how she intend to deal with the current go-slow as well as the issues facing the police department. The police department namely the detectives are on go slow since Wednesday last week. The officers it is understood met with their unions two days in a row to discuss some of the predicaments St. Maarten men in blue are facing. One of the core issues of the police is the understaffing which is hard hit on the detective department.
Several persons informed SMN News that they have been trying to get assistance from the police force but no one is helping them. Already the prosecutor's office it is understood ordered the forensic department not to take evidence from homes or businesses that were robbed because the department is grossly understaffed. SMN News further learnt that the forensic department only has one person working in it and that person was told they should only process murder scenes.
The detective department it is understood are protesting against the gross understaffing of the department. One of the pending questions the detectives has for the Minister as well as the management team of the police force is who exactly is managing the police force and what role does the prosecutor's office play in managing the police Korps. The detectives it is understood would also shed light on why they believe the pending murder cases are not being solved.
The Minister it is understood also have to explain the local government when exactly would the new police chief Peter de Witte would be available to St. Maarten. SMN News learnt that de Witte is expected to be on St. Maarten by June 1.
Sources say discussions would take place about detective Carlton Phillips since the Minister has sent a letter to the island's local chief of police informing him that he needs to send Phillips a warning letter for exposing the police management team in the media. So far, the local chief of police has not acted on the letter sent to him regarding Phillips simply because he was not involved in the investigation done by the police internal affairs.
Philipsburg: --- Leader of the Democratic Party Sarah Wescot Williams told reporters at a press conference on Tuesday that the executive council has contradicted itself when they answered questions posed to them about the Solid Waste Disposal Facility as well as the voting of the proposals. Wescot Williams said during the voting the executive council voted in favor of the sub-amendment to their proposal which was submitted by the Democratic Party faction but they voted against the amendment itself. She said based on the rules of order the island council had to vote on the sub-amendment, then the amendment prior to voting on the proposal itself.
Furthermore she said she purposely asked the executive council if Windward Roads had already submitted a proposal and she was told no proposal has been submitted by the contractor since they are awaiting the assignment given to KEMA. Wesocot Williams further explained that terms of reference from government about the KEMA assignment states that KEMA is charged with evaluating the tender documents as well as the October proposal of Windward Roads. She said she wants to know how the executive council can tell the island council on May 10 that they do not have a proposal, yet their terms of reference states that KEMA has to issue an advice on the proposal submitted by Windward Roads in October. Wescot Williams said when her faction asked about the Health Impact Assessment Study they were told that the island council or central committee would only have access to the document in synchronization with KEMA. The island council lady said they were also told that the executive council did not approve the Impact Study as yet but she wants to know why this report cannot be made available to the island council since the study was conducted.
Another concern for the Democratic Party is if the Solid Waste Disposal Facility would be responsible for the picking up of garbage or if government still has to contract private entities to pick up garbage. Wescot Williams said as an island council member she wants to know if the facility would be responsible for the picking up of garbage throughout the island.
She said if that is case then government has to also say for what time frame these entities would be contracted. The leader of the Democratic Party said government is yet to say what would be EDC's involvement in the entire process.
Wescott Williams said the executive council still has to tell them what would be the water capacity of the Great Salt Pond after the construction of the Ring Road. Another concern for the Democratic Party is the alternative solution for the location of the facility.
Wescot Williams made clear that they do not want this new plant to become a second Intaquin which was used as a political football, neither does the Democratic Party want to be accused of stalling the process of such a project which is of urgent need to St. Maarten. She said the Intaquin saga has left St. Maarten without a sewage facility.
Philipsburg:---- Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba said that some arrangements have been made to address the concerns of the detectives of KPSSS. Just over a week ago the detectives on St. Maarten have decided to go on a go slow so that the police management would address their needs. SMN News reported earlier that the officers were posing several questions to the management of KPSSS, one of which is related to lack of staff and equipments.
Minister Jacoba said even though there is a solution the lack of manpower in the department still exists. She said currently the RST is assisting the local police force namely the detectives with the larger investigations on St. Maarten.
Jacoba said she also spoke to the police union where she agreed to upgrade the current capacity by adding at least four more persons to the detective department within the coming weeks.
State Secretary of Justice Ernie Simmons said that there were certain decisions that were made with the distribution of the staff within the force which the detectives did not agree to. He said the matter was fully explained to the union and a solution was found on how to deal with the scarcity of officers. He said one of the concerns of the officers was that they are overworking.
Philipsburg:---The leader of the NA/Heyliger/Laveist government during the Island Council meeting of May 11, 2010, after much prodding by the DP faction members reluctantly admitted that the Executive Council of St. Maarten has proposed a 1% Turn Over tax increase to balance the 2010 budget.
Island councilman Roy Marlin in a press release says that Commissioner Theodore Heyliger in his usual manner is not expressing any public opinion on this matter, meanwhile telling individual citizens that he is not in agreement with this proposal. Heyliger needs to stop the cat and mouse games that he has played in the past as a member of the DP, and still now while supporting the NA government, by stating privately that he didn't or doesn't agree with this or that. The matter of the directorate of ROB is a case in point.
"You either are part of the Executive Council or you are not." The Democratic Party reminds Heyliger that the Executive Council carries a collective responsibility and even if you vote against as he said he did with the ROB directors, he is part and parcel of Executive Council decisions.
If you don't agree with a proposal tabled in the Executive Council then "pick up your marbles and go home". That would show some backbone.
The NA/Heyliger Executive Council sent a letter to the CFT wherein they stated that their solution to balance the 2010 budget is a.o. an increase of the Turn over Tax from 3 to 4%. At no time did the letter state that this measure is for a 6 months period. At no time did the letter state that it is a NA only proposal.
Once the additional 1% goes into effect prices for the small man and woman will also increase, because TO Tax is passed on to the consumer however you turn or twist it. Once the prices of a loaf of bread, powder milk, soap, pampers or other basic items increase due to this "knee jerk" decision of the NA/Heyliger/Laveist coalition, do they think that after 6 months if -and this is a big if-, the Turn Over Tax is reduced that the prices will go back down?
The small man and woman will continue to have to absorb this increase and feel it in their pockets. Overall increase of goods, but no increase in the wages of the working man and woman.
If this government would stop globetrotting around the world, they can achieve considerable savings which can be put towards balancing the 2010 budget without having to burden the community at large with more taxes.
The UPP party or better called the UP Party has launched its 2010 campaign with at the helm TO, but the only thing going UP is the cost of living for the small man and woman. Thanks to the increase in the TOT or better said the "TO" Tax.
If Commissioner "TO" Heyliger wants to maintain some credibility in this community then he must state his position on the increase of the "TO" Tax.
He can't hide any longer behind the frivolous statement of "I was not present when this was done". He can't blame it on Sarah any more.
"It is not done yet Commissioner "TO" Heyliger, because the Central Government has not carried out the request of the Executive Council. You still have the opportunity to redeem yourself with the voters who put you in office under the Democratic Party's vanguard. Stand up and state your position on this very important issue. It's either fish or fowl.
The DP party has stated its position, no "TO" Tax increase, but
1. Slash the "luxuries" in the 2010 budget,
2. Check the calculations of "Staat B" of the budget (see letter of the DP faction of April 1, 2010, 3. Use the political power of 3 seats in the Antillean Parliament to demand a greater part of the revenue derived on St. Maarten. With the dismantling that has started, the Central government is remaining with a surplus of revenue collected on St. Maarten;
The leader of the NA has stated the NA's position, which is, come what may "TO" Tax will increase. Now we need to hear from "TO". No response by the honourable gentleman means "silence is consent". This monkey will definitely not be placed on the backs of the Democratic Party.
GREAT BAY,– The application process for Mobility Passes for the 2010 Hurricane Season is now in its final week and will conclude on Friday, May 21. Potential applicants from the business sector and vital organizations have less than five days to submit their request.
The pass allows the aforementioned groups to assess possible damage to their property after the passing of a hurricane.
For the 2010 season, the application form as well as information sheet can be downloaded from the Fire Department's website www.brandweersxm.net under the link "Hurricane Information."
The hurricane pass application procedure is only intended for businesses and vital organizations with respect to their key personnel receiving an exemption to a curfew.
The application form has to be completed and submitted to the offices of the Fire Department & Disaster Management, located at Jackal Road 5, Cay Hill (behind the Sint Maarten Medical Center) before May 21, 2010, with all necessary documents attached.
Marigot: ---- Scores of gendarmes dressed in their riot gear secured Rue du Low Town on Tuesday night as the investigating judge as well as the lawyers representing the two murder suspects conducted the reconstruction of the gruesome murder of 21 year old Christopher Williams better known as Bicko. Williams was found dead in a house on Friday January 30 2009.
Information reaching SMN News states that the young man was shot with a shot gun while he was sleeping in a house belonging to the Segrado family. According to information reaching SMN News the victim was involved in a gang fight at the time he was killed.
The following day after the slaying the gendarmes arrested two men whom it is understood is from the island of St. Kitts. At the time of the arrest the gendarmes had conducted a house search and confiscated two guns and several cartridges.
...
Philipsburg: --- Four and a half months into the year 2010, the status of the island territory's budget must be classified as uncertain to say to the least. The Democratic Party does not subscribe to the notion of a handful of persons in the community, that the reason the government of Sint Maarten is acting so unprofessional and ad hoc is due to the pressure applied by the Democratic Party.
The National Alliance (formerly SPA) has been part of the government system of our island for-ever, as an opposition party with short stints of governing.
They must understand what is required to govern our island in these trying times and they have the government apparatus at their disposal.
Governing clearly takes more than the NA gave as an opposition party in the island council and the people are tired of hearing what the Democratic Party did or did not do as the No's motto for its failures.
One responsibility that the NA/Heyliger government cannot pin on the Democratic Party is the budget 2010, although even the representative on the CFT for Sint Maarten seemingly tried to defend (t) his government by alluding to the budget 2010 not having been prepared before the government changed in June 2009.
Of all people, this representative should know better and should make it clear that what governs the budget process of the island territory is the General Kingdom Resolution (AMVRB) # 512, which clearly stipulates that the island territory should submit its draft budget to the CFT by August 15 of the preceding year and have an approved budget by December 15th of that year as well.
The budget process was started in November 2009 with the handling of the draft budget as presented by the NA/Heyliger government to the Central Committee of the Island Council.
We do not want to at this time, go into the inaccurate account by government of their communication with the CFT as far as the budget is concerned and especially government's allegation that the CFT went along with them, only to pull the rug from under their feet midway the process.
When this correction was made to the budget and matters pertaining to Sint Maarten's country status were deleted from the budget on advice of the CFT, the government found a creative financing tool, which would have brought in 33 MILLION guilders additionally in taxes, so-called not collected.
The government that insisted they had hard evidence to substantiate this claim, has up until the day of today refused to divulge this hard evidence to the island council or the CFT. It is our belief that the government never had this substantiation to begin with.
As a result, the CFT disapproved of the budget after following the process of consultation as prescribed by the same AMVRB # 512.
We heard the story of 3 "wise men" coming to St. Maarten's assistance. Then information was leaked about government's alternative plan, an important component of this plan being the increase of the TO Tax with 1% and several cuts in the budget, from all indications primarily cuts in the tourism budget.
The CFT gave its nod of approval to this proposal it received from government, albeit with reservations. In a meeting with the island council and the CFT on May 12th, the government stressed the feasibility and the thoroughness of their proposal to increase the TO Tax; the government stressed the feasibility of making this increase only applicable to Sint Maarten (and not Saba and St. Eustatius). The Government stressed the central government's commitment to make this increase possible by June 1, 2010.
The Democratic Party:
1. Advised government from day one that their inclusion of items on the budget that related to country status lacked motivation.
2. That their assessment that 33 million guilders additionally could be collected in uncollected taxes was unsubstantiated and unrealistic.
3. That imposing an increase in TO Tax in such an ad hoc manner in these trying economic times tolls the death bell for business and consumers on St. Maarten.
4. That the central government is actually operating on a surplus presently that grows as the central government dismantles its operation.
5. That this surplus is also fed by St. Maarten through the collection of TOT, Transfer Tax, Foreign Exchange Fee (1%), gasoline excises etc., not to speak of the semi-government institutions such as BTP and SVB.
6. That this matter need not be complicated by suggesting St. Maarten gets an advance on its share of assets from the Netherlands Antilles.
7. That there are budget posts in the 2010 budget of the island territory that can be cut and or postponed, lowering the cost for government.
8. That incremental salary costs can be spread out more evenly.
Rather than bring this discussion to the island council where the representatives of the people can deliberate and come to a balanced decision, the government seems hell bent on making error after error and in the process embarrassing the people of Sint Maarten big time.
Again, the Democratic Party makes the call to government that before submitting any amendments to the budget, to sit with the island council and together come up with a plan that shows government's seriousness and comprehension of the complexity of fiscal and financial management of our island.
Philipsburg: ---- Prosecutor Rienk Mud confirmed the arrest of one person for the murder of Angie Georges. According to information reaching SMN News the suspect is the brother of the deceased woman identified as Riviere George.
Mud said police have in custody a man identified as R.G. However, the public prosecutor made clear that he is not commenting on the ongoing investigation. Mud also did not confirm if "R.G" is related to the now dead woman whose body was found in her Sucker Garden home on April 23, 2010.
Police at first said the woman had died of natural causes but shortly after they launched a full scale investigation into the woman's death they subsequently said Georges was murdered.
SMN News learnt that Georges was arrested earlier this week and he appeared in court on Friday afternoon.
Philipsburg: --- The third motion of no confidence presented by the Democratic Party against finance commissioner Xavier Blackman has been accepted by the island council unanimously on Monday.
The motion against Blackman was the first agenda point on Monday's Island Council meeting, since the motion was presented some weeks ago and the council never got around to voting on it.
While Leader of Government William Marlin apparently said no to individual voting by members of the island council mistakenly as he was busy reading a document when the motion was read out by the island council chairman. Marlin said he is prepared to live with the consequences in order to respect the rules of order. When asked if his government has any intention of reinstating Blackman, Marlin said Blackman was never fired by the National Alliance/ Heyliger and Laveist government. He said the motion on Monday starts a procedure which has to be followed through.
According to Article 50 (A) of the ERNA rules of order the Democratic Party now has to file a motion to continue the process. That motion to vacate Blackman's seat has to go before the island council. It is understood that the National Alliance would then take the necessary steps to correct the situation facing Blackman then.
Marlin indicated to the island council that he responded by mistake thus they are prepared to live by the consequences for his error. At one point Marlin said he had said there would be individual voting. But Chairman of the island council Franklyn Richards told him that if he replayed the tape he would hear that he actually said no then he ratified the voting.
The other members of the National Alliance were shocked and embarrassed by the error especially since they all waited on Island Council member Louie Laviest to arrive at the A C Wathey Legislative hall prior to signing in for the meeting.
Even though the motion has been accepted Blackman can be re-appointed as commissioner of finance by members of the National Alliance and its supporting members Heyliger and Laviest.
In the meantime, Blackman would remain in his office to carry out his daily duties on behalf of the executive council.
Later the Democratic Party members raised several points of concerns when the council voted unanimously for the articles of incorporation for TELEM.
Again when the proposal came up voting the chairman asked if there were going to be individual voting and Marlin again responded by saying no, immediately after that the chair ratified the voting. Island councilman Roy Marlin said he was not given the opportunity to respond since he wanted to elucidate on the proposal prior to voting and idea supported by island council lady Sarah Wescot Williams and Maria Buncamper Molanus.
Leader of government William Marlin at that point attempted to explain what took place and supported the chair for the decision taken. He made clear that if the chairman was willing to make changes to accommodate the Democratic Party faction then he would have had to do the same thing with the motion and voting of no confidence against Blackman.
Philipsburg:----- The public prosecutor, judge of instruction and police officers of KPSSS conducted a house search at Back Street number 117 on Saturday between 4 and 6 pm. Police have arrested four persons while an arrest warrant has been issued for another suspect.
In a press release from Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson identified those arrested as A.F., K.C.F., S.G., J.P.S., while a warrant has been issued for M.N. Henson said police acted on information that came in to them concerning illegal activities at the location.
Henson said the five suspects were at the house when the search team reached the location but somehow M.N managed to escape the long arms of the law. Police confiscated three fire arms, several large packages of compacted marijuana, and three motorcycles.
Marigot:--- The 26 year old man who opened fire on residents of French Quarter last Tuesday night injuring four people was condemned to a psychiatric institution on May 23rd confirmed the gendarmerie.
A specialist evaluated the man's condition prior to him being transferred to the Guadeloupe institution. The gendarmes stated that the suspect was hospitalized until Saturday nursing a head injury.
The suspect was identified by neighbours as Calix Monton who lived in the neighbourhood since birth.
MARIGOT—Relatives, friends, villagers co-workers, taxi drivers and many persons on St. Martin/ St. Maarten is mourning the lost of Laurel Richards (55) better known as Yaya. The island's people were shocked beyond comprehension on Wednesday morning when the news broke of her sudden passing. Many of them rushed to the Emerald Funeral Home where the body was taken. Her body lay in the chapel for hours so that mourners could see for themselves that she is indeed gone to be with her maker.
The island has lost a cultural icon, and one that will be greatly missed. Several persons in the community have lost a role model and woman they considered as their very own mother. Those that knew Laurel would know that she loved people, cooking island food and maintaining St. Martin's culture was her passion. Her village and its people was the closest thing to her heart. Youths in the area and even those she met anywhere could depend on Laurel's motherly advice.
Laurel made sure she passed on the island's culture and cooking to several younger people who wanted to learn. There are times when she would just head for the hills with relatives and friends just to cook some island food. Her dumplings were everyone's favourite. Laurel would attract all hundreds of persons during the St. Louis fete which is always held under the tamarind tree.
Shaken by the sudden lost is her sister Anita Flanders- Richards who could hardly hold herself together. She said her sister was always careful and even though she would take care of everyone else she also took great care of herself. Flanders-Richards said only on Monday they were at the beach and Laurel had a good time, she showed no signs of illness.
According to Priscile Figaro, Laurel went to work at the La Samanna Hotel where she worked for years in housekeeping. Figaro said they were told that Laurel began feeling unwell and was preparing to return home when she collapsed in the hotel's office. Figaro said Laurel probably died of a massive heart attack and despite the efforts from the staff she passed away before the ambulance reached the hotel.
Just last year on Valentine's Day the Richards family was struck with tragedy when Laurel lost her son Luther was also died suddenly at the family home. It was clear that Laurel was still mourning the lost of her son who was a fire fighter at the time of his passing.
SMN News wishes the family strength in their time of bereavement.
GREAT BAY:--- The St. Martin folklorist Laurelle Richards, affectionately known island-wide as "Yaya," passed away on May 26, 2010 and will be laid to rest in Marigot on June 4. She was 55 years old.
Laurelle Richards was born on April 28, 1955 in Freetown, the first of nine children to Alvira Bryan and Albert Richards. At age 14, while she was attending elementary school, Laurelle obtained her sewing diploma from Clara Mingo. At age 16, she left the Girls School of Marigot to help her parents raise her brothers and sisters—which included making the family's clothes. At the time her father was a construction sub-contractor, and her mother worked in housekeeping at La Samanna resort.
In 1972, Laurelle began what she called her "first job training," making pizza and serving as a waitress at the Portofino restaurant/guesthouse at Mt. O'reilly. When her mother passed away in 1974, Laurelle found employment in housekeeping at La Samanna.
In 1988, after the death of her husband and now a mother herself, Laurelle obtained her taxi license. (She was still an independent taxi driver and worked at La Samanna at the time of her death.) In keeping with a deathbed promise to her mother to "always" keep her "brothers and sisters united," her family would gather "once a week" for dinner at each other's homes in Freetown, a hamlet of St. Louis.
In 1990, Laurelle founded the Cultural Women Association of Rambaud-Saint Louis to promote domestic knowledge of traditional cooking, folk and carnival costuming; and how herbs, ground provisions, and fruits were used in both villages and generally on the island. Around 2006, Laurelle became a founding member of the Rambaud St-Louis Fête Association, a cultural promotion group of which she was the president. On May 17, nearly 10 days before her passing both associations joined forces to hold the annual cook-out of traditional foods that Yaya was famous for organizing under or around an ancient tamarind tree in St. Louis. She called that "tamon" tree the "community center."
Schools and cultural organizations from both parts of St. Martin regularly invited Laurelle Richards to exhibit and talk about the nation's folklife. In 2002, with the recital of "The Frock," Laurelle's poems began to evolve out of what may be called her "Spoken Word" presentations. The story-filled dress that she wore also became more characteristic of her public performance persona. In 2009, she was a special guest poet at the Poetry in the Garden series, organized in Marigot by the arts and culture department of the Collectivité Territoriale.
In April 2010, Yaya appeared at Miss Ruby's cultural retreat in Friar's Bay and stunned audiences with her "modeling" of the "pantylette," stitching humor and sensual elements into an original vignette. Audience members who had seen her in Clara Reyes' record-attendance Vagina Monologues in 2007 and 2008, were already prepared for her style of dramatizing the "private" and "ordinary" parts of traditional St. Martin with extraordinary personal affect. Essentially, as a folklorist she projected the folklore aspect of the nation onto modernity, with pride and confidence.
Carnival, UNESCO Mother Language presentation, Fish Day, Boardwalk Mas on Great Bay Beach, Christmas fête at the Waterfront, like a village chief welcoming folks to the annual St. Louis food fair, our Yaya was there ... with us, for us. When we saw her coming, her eyes finding us in the crowd, looking upon us with a warm livingroom smile, we smiled back ... to memory, not in mockery nor mimicry but in that modest way of oldtime S'maatin people.
In her presence we did not have to find our way home, home came looking for us, found us, and never judged what we had become. And by the time she passed on in the procession or picnic, we knew, if only for a moment, that we came from far more grounded places than we've been made to believe, that we could be better than who we wanted to be when that solitary "want" was less than our best solidary selves.
Before her passing Laurelle Richards had collected her poems into a manuscript for publication by House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP) as her first book, which will be called The Frock & Other Poems. The team coordinated by HNP that has been working on various aspects of the Richards book include Minerva Dormoy, Rhoda Arrindell, Lenny Mussington, Roland Richardson, Sundiata Lake, Shujah Reiph, and Laura Richardson. A number of family members and friends that assisted Yaya typing the draft manuscript are acknowledged by her in the book.
When leading Caribbean Impressionist Roland Richardson painted Yaya's image on a larger-than-life canvas a few months ago, the village griot told the painter how she came to fashion her frock out of strips of colored cloth. The pieces of cloth reminded the artist of dolls as he painted Yaya's story about her own family and village life. The painting will grace the cover of the posthumous title.
In Yaya's upcoming book Richardson concludes his impression of the "culture woman" like this: "I saw that Laurelle had been transformed, had become a living embodiment of these generations of tiny dolls. Enrobed in this living fabric, nourished by the stream of multiple lives, she has become a living doll, mother to them all."
Many of us are so saddened by the sudden passing of Yaya, one of the nation's beloved cultural mothers. O "Death be not proud" with his one.
Rest In Glorious Peace, Laurelle "Yaya" Richards.
Philipsburg: --- Attorney at law Reynold Amando Groeneveldt took the oath on Monday afternoon as he was sworn in the presence of Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards as the next acting Lt. Governor for the island territory of St. Maarten. Richards is expected to leave the island on June 1 for a conference in the Netherlands as well as his vacation. Last week the executive council advised Richards to take his vacation leading up to his pension as he would be making his 60th birthday on August 10.
It is expected that Nilda Arduin Lynch, the second acting Lt. Governor would be sworn in as soon as Friday as she would be replacing the current acting Lt. Governor Millicent De Weever. SMN News learnt that De Weever's last day in office will be Thursday June 3rd.
After Groeneveldt took the oath, Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards presented him with the 'black book" containing the Islands Regulations of the Netherlands Antilles and rules of order of the island council and other rules that has to be upheld as he managed the island in the capacity of acting Lt. Governor. Richards also advised the in coming months Lt. Governor to make sure he upholds the law of the land. He said at times it will be different especially knowing how the politicians think compared to his way of thinking. Richards said while the politicians look at matters in a broader way the Lt. Governor has to make sure he maintains the law. He said for him he compared his governing as the Sherriff and the cowboys, since in his opinion the Sherriff has to abide by the laws of the land while the cowboys are free to do anything. He also advised Groeneveldt to make sure he works hand in hand with the island secretary, and the head of his cabinet.
Richards said St. Maarten is its transition phase and that the island needs all on board to build country St. Maarten.
In his short address Groeneveldt said he is honored to be selected and took the oath for one of the highest functions on the island, he said he is humbled as well as cognizant of the fact that there is an enormous task ahead to build a new country. He also pledged with God's help and those involved in government, the opposition and the population including the business community and civil servants to work together and do what is necessary for St. Maarten so that the island could achieve the new country status which everyone desire.
Groeneveldt said he is no stranger to government as he worked for 22 years for the island government prior to moving to the private sector where he served as an attorney. He said based on that the Lt. Governor can rest assure that he will uphold the laws of the land as he serves as acting Lt. Governor.
Leader of Government William Marlin said Groeneveldt was selected by the executive council and not by him as indicated by Groeneveldt. Marlin said they called the new acting Lt. Governor just half an hour before the swearing in and he managed to gather his supporters and to make it to the government administration building. Marlin said that very soon the second acting Lt. Governor will be sworn in the person of Nilda Arduin Lynch who was also present to witness Groeneveldt swearing in.
As for the incoming acting Lt. Governor he said the candidate is no stranger to government as he spearheaded many battles as he defended civil servants who were not happy with certain decisions taken against them. Marlin also indicated that Groeneveldt is also an educator and former head of the department of education.
PHILIPSBURG - The University of St. Martin(USM) recently showed its appreciation to the USM Ambassadors for representing the university at various functions over the past academic year. The group wished Mary Bary (President 2008-2010) (4th from r), Leandra Edwards (Secretary 2008-2010) (l), Shanira Illidge, Lakhsmi Hathiramani (2nd from left, font), Sharleen Dickenson (3rd from left, front), and Angelique Webster farewell, at a luncheon at Gong Fu Tea Restaurant. The above mentioned students will be either graduating on June 12, 2010 or transferring to another university to complete their studies.
Philipsburg: --- Former Chief Commissioner of Police Derrick Holiday remains a sad and disappointed man on Tuesday when he received the verdict from the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court upheld the verdict of the lower and appeals court of the Netherlands Antilles which now paves the way for the Federal Government to proceed with his dismissal from the police force KPSSS.
Holiday has been sentenced to one year suspended sentence and was banned from holding any position within the police force for the next three years, and 180 hours of community service.
Holiday was charged and convicted for forgery, and fraud mainly with re-entry permits that was not from the regular NAVAS system. Holiday signed at least 43 of the forms that were created by former and convicted commissioner of police Marcel Loor. Holiday was also convicted for collecting his rent subsidy fraudulently since he purchased the house he once rented from his uncle and landlord.
The St. Maarten Futsal Association (SMFA) recently received a cheque from NAGICO Insurances to help cover expenses for the upcoming Futsal Competition which will commence in the week of the 27th of June.
The Executive Board members Johnny Shing (President), Norbert Graves (Treasurer), and Steven Tjin Aton (Secretary) commenced preparations for the 4th tournament – an annual sports event that usually has excellent support from spectators and the public at large. All participating teams were recently reminded during a meeting to with organizers to finalize registration for the upcoming tournament.
Various press announcements will follow to keep the public abreast of tournament dates and other developments. Eight teams have registered thus far and the organizers anticipate that another 8 prior to the start of the tournament.
GREAT BAY (GIS) — Young parents enrolled in the Youth Development program will receive fundamental parental training during the next coming weeks. The Youth Development Program is a second chance educational program for youngsters between 16 and 24 years who were unable to complete secondary education. The young parents are enrolled in the Active Parenting course for early childhood which caters to parents of children 0 to 4 years of age.
The Youth Development Program currently has 32 young parents (male and female) in the program. The idea behind the Active Parenting workshops is to promote positive parenting amongst the target group and to assist them in raising their young ones using the right parenting tools.
The program received a generous donation from TDC (the Training and Development Center) which donated their facilities for the workshops. TDC was happy to assist the Youth Development Program with facilitating the workshops as TDC is proud to support the educational needs of the local community and is especially proud to sponsor these Active Parenting Workshops. TDC firmly believes that of all careers, parenthood should rank at the top of the list.
The Youth Development Program has enlisted SIFMA to conduct the Active Parenting workshops as the organization specifically deals with early childhood development. The Youth Development Program is funded by USONA and executed by the Department for Educational Research, Policy and Innovations (DERPI) of Island Government. For more information on the program or workshop, contact Janelle Presentacion at 543-0497.
Philipsburg:---The public prosecutor's office on St. Maarten are urging relatives of Kevin Duggan Woods, born in Nevada U.S.A. on April 10th 1978 to make contact with them to identify his body. Persons wishing to contact the office of the Public Prosecutor could dial 0059954- 22243 for further information said Prosecutor Rienk Mud. Mud also confirmed that an autopsy was conducted on Wednesday and so far the cause of death has not been determined.
He said while there were some internal swelling the pathologist has to continue with toxicology testing to determine the exact cause of death. Mud said right now they need people who know the victim to shed some light about him so that police could tie up some loose ends in their investigation. Police found the body of Kevin Duggan Woods early Monday morning in a bushy terrain in Mary's Fancy. Residents in the area told police they heard someone calling for help in the bushy terrain but they could not see anyone due to the rain and darkness. Police with the help of the fire department managed to recover the man's lifeless body around 02.00 am Monday morning. His identification and credit card was found later the same day in the said location.
When the body of the American man was found it bore some bruises and scratches police said. They also said the man's death seems suspicious.
Philipsburg:---Due to international developments the price of unleaded gasoline has decreased, which will result in a change in the prices charged at the pump. The last price change was on April 10, 2010, where the prices were set at 203.50 guilder cents per litre for Unleaded gasoline (ULG) and 169.00 guilder cents per litre for Gasoil (diesel). The new prices as of Tuesday June 8th, 2010 is ULG 189.00 guilder cents per liter and 157.00 guilder cents per litre for gasoil.
Product Current Price (guilder cents per litre) New Price (guilder cents per litre) as per June 8, 2010 Difference in price
Unleaded Gasoline (ULG) 203.50 189.00 - 14 cents
Gasoil (diesel) 169.00 157.00 - 12 cents
Philipsburg:--- Chief Commissioner of Police of the KPSSS Peter de Witte took the oath of office on Tuesday in front of Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba and host of invited guests while head of the Algemeen Division Carl John received a surprise promotion from Chief Inspector to Commissioner of Police.
Departing the police force after some years is Acting Chief Commissioner of Police Ademar Doran who is expected to head the Federal Detectives. Doran is expected to undergo some training before he takes up his new position in St. Maarten. Doran in an invited comment said he was supposed to take up his new job since November last year but could not due to the fact there was no one to manage the local police force on St. Maarten.
Almost all of the speakers including Chief Inspector Anthony Rogers gave Doran lots of credit for the work he did while managing the Police force for the past year without the necessary material, finances and human resources. Rogers said while many have not realized that St. Maarten is making history since Carl John was promoted and Doran is leaving. He said in life destiny plays a great role and while Doran has entered the police force at a tender age he has reached the top and is moving forward.
Rogers said the conditions under which Doran took over the police force a year ago was not ideal for him to function since he inherited a boat that was rock bottom and he became a master to do things with nothing. "Those in authority had expected you to lift up this boat without any soldiers, no equipments and staff and to take it to an unknown destination. All of which he did amongst much turmoil." Rogers said.
Acting Lt. Governor Reynold Groeneveldt said the police force on St. Maarten was confronted with challenging times in recent years despite the fact they have a task to protect and serve the community of St. Maarten. Groeneveldt also expressed thanks to former chief of police Derrick Holiday and Deputy Chief Commissioner of Police Richard Panneflek for the years of service they dedicated towards St. Maarten. He said Doran managed the police force under difficult circumstances. He said everyone is aware of the challenges the police faces for example the structural shortage of manpower, insufficient financial means, lack of equipments and materials while the crime rate increases. Groeneveldt thanked Doran for holding the fort during these turbulent times.
Groeneveldt reminded the gathering that it is stated in the final accord that before St. Maarten obtains its country status the police force has to be improved and the island is experiencing a period of change, he also welcomed the new chief commissioner of police Peter de Witte whom he said is charged with a difficult task. Groeneveldt also called on the members of the police force to work closely with De Witte for the betterment of their country.
Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos said St Maarten now has a chief commissioner of police, one which he knows and worked with for over two years in Aruba. Mos said De Witte is man who is an officer among his police core. He is known to be the first on crime scenes and one that is always seen in the community. Mos said he admired De Witte for his calmness, straight forwardness, and respectfulness under all circumstances. He said de Witte will bend when necessary to achieve his goals, a man to be admired for his patience and the way he would discuss matters even with those that disagrees with him. Mos said building bridges is one of the requirements a Chief commissioner of police is required to have and De Witte possesses that quality. Mos said his office supports de Witte's plan which is to restore the image, trust, integrity of the police force through training of the police officers on St. Maarten.
Mos said his office discovered that the people of St. Maarten would refrain from giving information to the police due to the lack of trust, this he said was discovered when conducting several heavy investigations.
The Chief Prosecutor said his office is receiving too many complaints of unacceptable behavior of the police officers, by the use of violence and firearms in situations when not necessary. He said De Witte has the ability to restore trust in the community so that the police force can function better. He said De Witte is always known to be the first on crime scenes and he always takes the lead. While De Witte maybe the Chief of the Police Force he knows very well that the Chief cannot function without his Indians, Mos said.
Mos also saluted Doran for the job took over a year ago to manage the police force, one without the necessary manpower and materials.
De Witte in his address said while he is motivated to be working on St. Maarten an island he fell in love with he was given three weeks to have an action plan for the police force of St. Maarten as well as a strategic plan for the next three years for the KPSSS. This he said was told to him by former Lt. Governor Dennis Richardson. De Witte said the demands shifts the normal procedures up side down while he is in the process of making acquaintance he has to also write his plans all of which are important to St. Maarten.
De Witte said while he is honored to be the Chief Commissioner of Police, trust of the community is important to maintain while respect and integrity of the police organization are fundamental values for the existence of the police force. He said currently the police organization is working 24/7 with limited capability and under difficult circumstances. He said safety and security is the business of the police and they are not only doing it for the community but for the thousands of visitors that visits the island on a daily basis. De Witte made clear that even though he is called to make plans the changes will not be seen from one day to the next, however the police has to achieve this change by working together.
In the meantime, Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba said the federal government in her person has been working on putting the puzzle together to build a resilient and capable police organization for country St. Maarten. So far the federal government has erected and purchase new buildings, purchased computers, automated systems while investments were also made in intelligence gathering. Personnel she said was upgraded while they are still busy with the recruitment for more manpower. Jacoba said while the federal government is doing all it can they are also receiving assistance from the Netherlands to enhance the KPSSS. So far the BTA has been executed which reduced the amount of illegal immigrants on the island. She again promised that she would not standstill until St. Maarten receives its new status.
Jacoba also thanked Doran for the managing the police force during turbulent times. She said he shouldered his responsibilities even though there were moments of stress. Jacoba said during his leadership he gained valuable experience which should help him to further enhance the justice chain. Jacoba also warned John who is now part of the management team to lead by example. She said with the appointment of Peter De Witte will bring about some stability within the police force. His main task is to complete the action plan for the police force when St. Maarten takes up its country status. He is also charged with transforming the organization to a vibrant and healthy police organization which would effectively tackle the crime situation and to restore the feeling safety to the community while ensuring there is trust in the police organization.
Chief of Police Franklyn Richards who is currently in the Netherlands on a working visit and vacation also sent his wishes and gratitude to Doran who schedule to leave the police force. Expressing the same sentiments was Leader of Government William Marlin who thanked the Minister of Justice for the work she is currently doing with the KPSSS. Marlin also expressed gratitude to former Chief Commissioner of Police Derrick Holiday and his deputy Richard Panneflek who is currently at the disposal of the island government.
Philipsburg:--- The Immigration and Naturalization department is in the process of officially inaugurating its new location and recognizing its newly appointed status of a brand new collectively functioning department.
This new department called the Immigration and Naturalization Department previously co-existed in two separate departments namely; the Local Chief of Police Affairs department located at the Sun Color building and the Immigration department located at the Police Station. For years these two separate departments have been performing tasks which are adjacent and or directly related to each other, thus the idea to bring them together under one roof.
The minister's vision is basically to have these once separate departments function as one new and improved collective department. This will facilitate the entire immigration registration process by joining forces and tackling the forth coming issues, in a unified manner. Although, the new building has been opened and in operation for a few months, this inaugural ceremony was designed to officially recognize the start of this entirely new department, at a new location and the using an entirely new and up to date foreigner management system.
The inaugural ceremony is scheduled to take place on Tuesday June 15, 2010 at 5:30PM – 7:00PM, and the office located at A.T. Illidge rd #8. The office will be opened up to 11:00AM, thereafter will remain closed for the rest of the day. The general public is therefore kindly requested to take note of this announcement, as we do apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
GREAT BAY– Presently Angela van Keulen of College of the Dutch Caribbean (CDC) is here to assist Ramonda Hanze, SBO coordinator of FAVE, with the pre-registration of 32 interested students.
CDC will provide supervision in the first study year to share their 16 years of experience in providing top class SBO education to FAVE.
In September FAVE, St Maarten Academy will offer graduates from PSVE PKL and TKL the possibility to become professional bookkeepers and secretaries in the SBO/ASVE (Advanced Secondary Vocational Education) courses Bookkeeping level three and Secretary level three.
These three-year programs are SBO courses of the renowned College of the Dutch Caribbean, an SBO school in Curacao with approximately 700 students in level three and four SBO programs.
College of the Dutch Caribbean (CDC) has tailored their recognized courses into an English work-learning program that suits the Sint Maarten labour market.
The secretarial course will for instance provide the possibility to specialize in becoming a legal secretary or medical secretary.
The programs will start with full weeks in school, but after the first semester traineeships will start and will gradually form the main part of the program.
Currently SBO Service Center, the government facilitator of the set up of SBO on Sint Maarten, is working on a proposal to enhance the programs with CDC's so called "top years", which will enable the students to reach to a level four and become full fledged financial administrators and office managers.
Students with an SBO level four diploma can decide to enter Bachelor programs.
These courses are an addition to 16 Advanced Vocational Programs that SBO can provide to train youngsters into professions that have been indicated by Sint Maarten businesses and organizations that are of a necessity for the labour market.
Youths of Saba and Sint Eustatius are welcomed to participate as well. The development and set up of SBO will continue up until 2012 and is stimulated and financed through Dutch Education Development Funds.
In 2010 there will be seven SBO courses that youngsters can choose from. For more information on the Bookkeeping and Secretary Courses, call Ramonda Hanze (548-4821). For other courses you are invited to visit the SBO Service Center, above Carl's and Sons on the Pondfill.
Marigot: --- The director of the Tourist Office Corrine Picaut walked off her job some two to three weeks ago SMN News has been reliably informed. The source said while the director is skillful and had potential to improve tourism on St. Martin she allegedly did not set her priorities right.
It is understood that Picaut and the President of the EPIC Ida Zin Ka Ieu could not see eye to eye because the director it is alleged was looking at her own interest rather than that of St. Martin.
SMN News further learnt that Picaut's contract will be up in August and she was aware that the EPIC board would not have renewed the contract.
The source said that Zin Ka Ieu confronted the director on several occasions regarding her performance on the job but nothing changed. It is further understood that when other employees of the tourist office submits projects to the director it is thrown out of the window if there is nothing in it for her. Efforts made to contact Picaut and Zin Ka Ieu for a comment proved futile up to press time.
While some are speculating that there might be some sort of court procedures SMN News learnt that the director would receive her salary for the next three months and would be given the necessary documents to seek unemployment benefits at the end of her contract.
Illidge Road: --- Several elected officials, police and immigration officers from both sides of the island gathered at the newly built Immigration and Naturalization Department (IND) for the official inauguration on Tuesday afternoon.
Acting Lt. Governor Reynold Groeneveldt said the IND plays a very important role when dealing with illegal immigrants who chose St. Maarten as their home or temporary home. Groeneveldt called on everyone to adhere to the rules of law since it is the basic principle for everyone. He said several thousand of persons made use of the opportunity to regulate their status which was provided by the Minister of Justice.
Leader of Government William Marlin said St. Maarten had been shortchanged and neglected over the years causing the influx of illegal immigrations to become unbearable. Marlin also called on employers to do the honorable thing and regulate their employee's documents.
Marlin said because employers have exploited foreigners over the years the island government has budgeted monies to hire some controllers that would visit these businesses in the near future. He said in the past St. Maarten had several departments dealing with immigration issues but they were either under-manned or under-equipped. Marlin said it is necessary for government to establish the various departments as St. Maarten approaches country status. He further said that this department should not be considered a place where illegal immigrants regulate their statuses but it should be a place that offers services to people who chose St. Maarten as their home. He said the situation that was created is immense and St. Maarten is forced to pay the price for what it was not responsible for. The island leader said while he is not interested in playing any blame game he would however, look forward to the day when the tasks of justice that is in the hands of the central government will be handed over to St. Maarten.
Marlin said everyday he is confronted with people whose request for the BTA permit was denied asking for assistance but St. Maarten he said can only do so much and no more. He said St. Maarten intends to play by the rules and the business people who made use of the opportunity that presented itself with the large amount of undocumented persons on the island will be controlled and called to order.
Marlin said due to the years of neglect, the justice system will have to have a plan of approach before the island passes the test to become country.
Also addressing the gathering was Chief of Police Peter de Witte and Interim head of immigration Robert Barbeij.
Just prior to cutting the ribbon to declare the department open Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba in her speech made sure she indicated that she is a true Antillean woman who loves each of the islands equally. Jacoba said it took a lot of hard work to bring them where they are today. She thanked the Dutch Government for making the funds available through the Safety Plans Netherlands Antilles and USONA for their role.
She said in 2007 the Antilles embarked on the reform on immigration in the Netherlands Antilles. One of the approaches was to confront the situation that relates to illegal immigrants on the islands, and that she said brought them to the signing of the Brooks Tower Accord. This program she said allowed thousands of illegal immigrants to document themselves and become legal residents. The Minister said while doing things right will be challenging they are committed to doing so. She said one of the requirements of the BTA was the establishing of an Immigration and Naturalization Department. The objective of the IND is to process residency permits in the most transparent and objective manner with a secure system that is effective and efficient. This new building has brought an end to the long lines of people waiting in the sun or rain to conduct their business. Jacoba said very soon the long waiting of residency permits would also end with the new system in place.
At the end the Minister handed out the first permit that is issued by the FMS system.
MARIGOT—The Gendarmerie has announced that their annual vacation plan would begin on July 3 to September 2, 2010. This year's program is called the Relaxed Vacation. For the past few years the gendarmerie has been offering home protection service during the summer vacation since residents on St. Martin normally leave their homes unprotected to go on vacation.
Home owners who plan to be away for more than a week can register for the service by filling up a form at the Gendarmerie in La Savane. A Gendarmerie patrol will check their property regularly to make sure all is well while they are away.
Homeowners must give the address of their property, departure and return travel dates, an emergency contact number, and address and telephone of a trusted neighbour, among other details.
The service helps to prevent burglaries at a vulnerable time of the year.
PHILIPSBURG: --- GEBE has begun a specialized project to repair five water tanks between the period of June 1 to July 15, 2010. A taskforce was established comprised of the GEBE Maintenance, Water Distribution, Water Quality Control and Safety and Environmental Health departments to coordinate taking the tanks out of service, preparing the tank for new liners or repairs, cleaning and disinfecting the tanks, controlling the water quality, and then once approved by all departments, putting the tank back into service.
The Guana Bay tank was the first tank to be repaired by the team. The Mullet Bay tank was second and will be followed by the Monte Vista tank, the Jail tank and the Concordia tank. A team from the liner supplier in the United States will be flying in to place new liners in the Jail tank and Monte Vista tank as well as to check the Concordia tank.
The water to the tank is bypassed with a frequency regulated pump to minimize any effects for the clients in the area while the repairs to the tank and the tank liner were taking place. However, clients may experience low pressure at peak demand when many people in the area are using water and since the frequency regulator pump is dependent on electricity, clients may experience a water outage during electricity outages.
GEBE would like to apologize to its clients in these areas as these important repairs are being made.
MARIGOT— Acting Lt. Governor Reynold Groeneveldt paid a courtesy visit to Prefet Jacques Simmonet on Wednesday. The two heads of state also used the opportunity to follow up on three pending files which are being worked on jointly. The files are the common border control, the joint policing and cooperation treaty which will go before the council of ministers in the Dutch Kingdom on July 9th and the current situation of the oyster Pond Border.
Both sides' representatives have decided to have an ad-hoc committee installed to study each file and to find practical solutions which can be adapted by each side.
Another issue discussed during the orientation visit is the current issue regarding travellers from France to St. Maarten. Recently the Dutch side has adapted the IATA regulations which stipulated that all air travel passengers must travel with a valid passport. According to a press release from the prefecture the prefet Jacques Simmonet indicated to Groeneveldt that while he respects the rights and sovereignty in the decision, he wished this new measure could have been put in place progressively to permit information to be disseminated adequately.
Simmonet it is said made it abundantly clear that France should not be ostracised in this context if it is true that certain countries, such as Canada, are exempted from the passport requirement according to information brought to his attention.
A response to the Préfet's concerns was promised as soon as possible.
Cay Hill:--- The Education department of the St. Maarten Medical Center in the person of Tony Pantophlet reacted to articles published on Thursday regarding EducaRRR and the St. Maarten Medical Center. The following is the full text of the release from Pantophlet.
Be hereby informed that Educarrr in no way had any working or learning agreement with St. Maarten Medical Center Education Department, or with Mr. Tony Pantophlet Manager Patient Care / Education.
Educarrr offers a nursing assistance course as a private "school"
Tony Pantophlet provided the Director of Educarrr Ms. Yvon Dick, with the necessary advices, when Ms. Dick informed Mr. Pantophlet in writing on June 12th 2009 ,
that she had 25 students she wanted to place at the St. Maarten Medical Center for nursing internship.
Ms. Dick was advised to provide SMMC Education Department with the curriculum of her nursing program, as well as the students' accomplished theoretical / practical learning objectives and activities, so based on that information we can decide if we can support her program by allowing students into the SMMC as interns.
From June 2009 to March 2010 above request by the SMMC Education Department was never honored.
On request of Ms. Dick, Mr. Pantophlet sat with her and provided her with following advices with regards to permitting her students to intern in the SMMC and to obtain a valid / accredited certificate at the end of the program which will enhance their opportunities to get into the healthcare/nursing work field.
Advices to Ms. Dick
- Present Mr. Pantophlet with the curriculum from current program
- Present the practical training book with learning objectives.
- Present the actual practical training hours in other nursing/healthcare fields
This request is normal procedure from SMMC when admitting interns from Holland, Curacao, and St. Kitts, USA. St. Maarten.
On 26-4-2010. a document referred to as the curriculum, was forwarded to
Mr. Pantophlet.
Ms. Dick was immediately informed that the document received in no sense met the criteria of the SMMC for an acceptable curriculum.
Mr. Pantophlet as well as 4 other Nursing/Healthcare Educators on St. Maarten advised Ms. Dick on the prerequisites of internship and nursing program accreditation.
For the nursing assistant course Level 2. It is expected that the student completes at least 600 practical training hours in the nursing field.
Seeing that there are students with a maximum of 20 to 27 practical training hours, Ms. Dick was informed that these students should not and could sit any exam.
Only 3 students are allowed to sit the exam and obtain a valid certificate. These students are already working in the nursing field and thus obtaining the required practical skills.
The other students who are full time workers in non nursing institutions, and only do practical nursing training on weekends ( 4-6 hours day) could not qualify to sit the exam in 2010 and if they do, their certificate will not be recognized by the SMMC and therefore they will not be allowed to work in the SMMC nor follow any advanced courses with the SMMC and other accredited nursing school on St. Maarten.
This information was given to Ms. Dick on several occasions by Mr. Pantophlet, and 4 other certified Nursing Healthcare educators on St. Maarten.
The Director of Education from IFE (nursing school Netherlands Antilles on Curacao) also informed Ms. Dick of the challenges that lie ahead and the way to go about solving them.
On June 15th 2010.
Mr. Pantophlet informed the students of Educarrr of his participation in this whole event.
Mr. Pantophlet and colleagues outlined the areas to the students in which Educarrr has to work on in order for them to achieve the right certificate. A valid and recognized certificate.
The Education Department of SMMC has and will maintain its responsibility to the people of St. Maarten.
Ensure that education level of nursing remains at the highest level and is comparable with national and international nursing education standards.
And if there are institutions that insist in operating below level, they will be denied any learning/working agreement/ relationship with the SMMC.
Tony Pantophlet's relationship with Ms. Dick was based on personal advice to Ms. Dick on how to improve the standard of her nursing program.
Philipsburg:--- The Social Insurance Bank (SVB) it is understood will be taking over all BZV cards on July 1 based on a request from the island government of St. Maarten.
Head of SVB Reginald Willemsberg confirmed that the island government made a request to SVB St Maarten to take over the BZV contract which ends on June 30th. SVB will be taking over the functions BZV as well as the BZV employees until St. Maarten is able to install its National Health Scheme.
Already SVB in Curacao has taken over all BZV cards in Curacao as well as the employees. Ever since then St. Maarten and SVB were in discussions. According to information reaching SMN News SVB and the island government has reached an agreement.
GREAT BAY,–Sector Public Health, Social Development & Labour (VSA) Inspection Pharmaceutical Department, is calling on the population who have obtained Tylenol and Benadryl medicine from establishments other than the local pharmacies, to stop usage immediately.
McNeil Consumer Healthcare (Johnson & Johnson) has expanded a January 15, 2010 recall to include certain Tylenol and Benadryl products.
The local supplier of Tylenol and Benadryl on the island never received the lot of contaminated products in question; however Inspection VSA Pharmaceutical Department is taking this proactive measure to ensure public safety.
The expansion involves four product lots of BENADRYL® ALLERGY ULTRATAB™ TABLETS, 100 (Lot Nos. AJA008, ADA194, ABA022 and ABA264) sold in the United States and one product lot of EXTRA STRENGTH TYLENOL® Rapid Release Gels, 50 count (Lot No. ASA202) sold in the United States, Trinidad and Tobago, Bermuda and Puerto Rico.
The product lot numbers for the recalled products can be found on the side of the bottle label.
The original recall was initiated as a result of consumer complaints of a musty or mouldy odour that has since been linked to the presence of trace amounts of a chemical used to build wooden pallets that transport and store product packaging materials.
Persons can contact the Inspection VSA Pharmaceutical Department on 542-2059 for more information.
Philipsburg:--- Island council member Roy Marlin is miffed at the daily newspaper that made it their business to publish a story about his attire on their front page as well as writing an editorial about it. The council man said he did nothing wrong when he did not wear his coat during the opening session of the island council meeting on Monday. Marlin said no one paid attention to what assistant Lt. Governor Ryenold Groeneveldt told him when the meeting was closed off. The councilman said on many occasions he sent articles to the newspaper and it is hidden in the back of the newspaper. Marlin also draws critism the Editorial that was written in the same paper.
The councilman said while the Democratic Party is being criticized and accused of playing political games because they did not provide the quorum for Monday's meeting the reporter or editor who chose to write the article should have done some research to see how many times the Democratic Party faction had to give the current coalition the quorum when they called meetings.
He said whenever the Democratic Party faction called meetings and they did not have the quorum the coalition would not give it to them. Marlin gave examples about the meetings they called to discuss the budget which had to be postponed for a lack of quorum.
PHILIPSBURG,– "Bureau Ziektekosten Verzekering" (BZV) has reacted positively to a request by the Executive Council to extend the current execution agreement with the Government of the Island Territory of St. Maarten.
As a result of many ongoing deliberations between Health officials and the Executive Council, the interim Director, drs. M. Smith-Petronella, of BZV stipulated in a letter dated June 23, 2010 that it is important to safe guard the continuation of Health Care services.
In order to achieve this objective BZV will extend the contract, under auspices of SVB, for one month until July 31, 2010.
It is noted in the letter that BZV will continue their services for this period and proceed with deliberations as to what the transition will require.
Commissioner Hyacinth Richardson stated on behalf of the Executive Council late Wednesday, as a reaction to the received letter, that this development is welcome as the additional time will allow the Executive Council to carefully consider all viable options before making a decision as to the future of Health Insurance for Country St. Maarten and its relevant services.
The Commissioner indicated that he is grateful to all persons who offered their assistance, especially Minister Omayra Leeflang and Drs. M. Smith Petronella who provided their support in this matter and he noted once more that when we work together all things are possible.
The Health Care Providers will receive a letter stipulating the details of these BZV payment related matters.
Philipsburg:---On Wednesday June 23, 2010, the judge of the local court of first instance ordered the immediate release of two of the leading cooks from renown Indian restaurant Shiv Sagar on the Front Street after they spend more than a week on the floors of the local police station.
The two cooks were apprehended by local police after a traffic control on Tuesday June 14.
They were held for immigration reasons for they could not produce any valid resident papers. As a result they qualified for free government room and board on the concrete floors of the local police station.
It was discovered that the two were the main chef cooks of St. Maarten well known Indian restaurant Shiv Sagar on the Front Street. The restaurant was forced to close its' doors because of the arrests. The owner was summoned to the police station and was told to bring passports and one way flight tickets.
The restaurant owner fully complied with the demands of the immigration-department, but found his and his personnel's' treatment by authorities very rude and unjust. The owner retained the services of the law office of Attorney Remco M. Stomp who immediately filed an injunction at the local court of first instance against the detention and the plan of the Governor to deport the two cooks back to their native India.
Stomp pointed out to the judge that the two gentlemen already remained on the island for more than 10 years with the necessary documentation. Their boss had, for the many years that they worked at the restaurant, always filed his requests for the work permits on time after which they were granted by government. The cooks therefore were always in the possession of a valid resident paper.
The fact that they could not produce their documents for 2010 was due to the fact that their employer retained the services of a new legal services provider in the Frontstreet area, which did not perform as was promised to the restaurant. As a result the restaurant did not receive its work permits on time, for the first time in a period of ten years.
"For this reason the Governor could have applied different measures instead of immediately detaining and deporting the two cooks and forcing the well known and law abiding restaurant to close its doors. The measures taken by the Governor are disproportionate and therefore illegal", Stomp argued.
The judge agreed with Stomp and judged the detention unlawful. The judge, consequently, ordered the immediate release of the two cooks.
GREAT BAY,– Sint Maarten was represented at the Hands across the Sand event by Executive Director of the Tallahassee-Sint Maarten Foundation (TLH-SXMF) Arthur (Arturo) Lugisse and several Sint Maarten students studying in Tallahassee.
The event took place on Saturday 12.00pm, June 26 at the Lake Ella Gazebo in Leon County and it attracted more than 700 people including some of Tallahassee's leading politicians. Some of those present were Representative Rehwinkel Vasilinda, Commissioner At-Large Akin Akinyemi, County Commissioner District 5 Bob Rackleff, and Florida House of Representative Curtis Richardson.
The objective of the event was to bring together Americans and the World to join hands in the largest gathering against offshore oil drilling in history. The image is powerful and the message is simple, NO to Offshore Oil Drilling, YES to Clean Energy.
"I am very pleased that we could take part in this very important event. Our students are a part of the Tallahassee community and we recognize that we should play a role in community efforts that can better the quality of life for all.
"The TLH-SXMF can play a key role as well especially with the sister-sister city relationship that we have developed over the past 10-years. I appeal to Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) as well as businesses on the island to get in contact with us with respect to exploring and developing sound sustainable environmental development policies/products/services for Sint Maarten," Executive Director of the TLH-SXMF Arthur Lugisse told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Sunday.
The event brought people together to join hands on beaches and in parks and cities against the dangers offshore oil drilling present to our oceans and marine wildlife, fishing industries and coastal economies.
The mission of Hands across The Sand is to change energy policies away from its dependence on fossil fuels and into the light of clean energy. The aim is to convince leaders of countries and those in particular of the United States to abandon expanded offshore oil drilling and adopt policies that encourage clean and renewable energy sources.
Hands across the Sand was founded by Dave Rauschkolb in October 2009. He organized a statewide gathering on February 13, 2010 where over 10,000 people joined hands on nearly 100 beaches along the entire coastline, to send a message to Florida's legislators and Governor Crist that Floridians did not want them to lift the bans on near and offshore oil drilling in Florida's waters.
Rauschkolb in a media statement says that the Deepwater Horizon disaster currently unfolding in the Gulf of Mexico is a wake-up call.
NGOs and businesses seeking to explore and develop sound sustainable environmental development policies/products/services for Sint Maarten can contact the TLH-SXMF at 850 212 2914 or via its website www.tlh-sxmf.org
Belvedere:---The clean-up campaign held by BHOTA in the Belvedere community this past week end was of great success.
Organizer and coordinator Elston Fos and Patrick Brathwaite said they received help from Caribbean youth Foundation and the Seventh Adventist Adventures Club and Pride Foundation on Sunday 27 June.
BHOTA pulled 10 truckloads of debris out of Belvedere; they could have done a better job if they had got the amount of promised heavy equipment that was promised by public works.
By this sort of events residents should participated more and come out and give a hand in their community. The BHOTA said refreshments for the clean-up campaign was provided by the Indian Merchants Association.
Philipsburg: --- Police shot one of two suspects that were caught red handed in a jewelry store on Front Street on Tuesday. According to a police report the suspects were caught inside Jogesh Perfumes. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said at least two robbers were inside the building when police responded. Henson said while police was on the scene one of the robbers stuck his head through a makeshift hole on the roof of the building. Police tried to arrest the suspect but at some point the suspect grabbed an arresting officer's revolver. A struggle between the officer and the suspect took place causing the weapon to go off.
Henson said the suspect was shot in his upper right arm. He was treated on the scene and at the St. Maarten Medical Center. Henson identified the suspects as A.R and M.B from St. Maarten. He said a third suspect was also arrested and they would all remain in custody as the investigation continues.
Police also confiscated a sum of money and the equipments that were used to cut a hole on the roof of the building.
Oyster Bay Beach Resorts New GM Ricardo Perez Introduces Five-Star Perks at Two-Star Prices
ST. MAARTEN, New general manager, Ricardo Perez, is already bringing his five-star service to guests at Oyster Bay Beach Resort in Sint Maarten. His first week on property, Perez introduced refreshing cold towels to guests lounging in the hot Caribbean sun beside the resorts pool or at Dawn Beach.
"Ricardo, is without any doubt one of the most proactive managers I ever met", said Pedro Fabregas, President American Eagle, Caribbean, Bahamas and Florida.
Most recently, the Chief Financial Officer at the world-renowned, five-star property Cap Juluca Resort on Anguilla, Perez plans to increase the resorts already high level of hospitality with first-class perks and pampering.
"I want to increase the resorts already great level of hospitality and further enhance the guest experience", Perez said, during his first week at Oyster Bay.
Under Perezs management, employees are recognized for their role in creating an ideal Caribbean experience for each guest. Staff can be found offering assistance to newcomers, helping beach-goers set up towels, chairs and umbrellas and taking drink requests from sun bathers at the beach or beside the pool.
Until recently, the resort was under the guidance of general manager Jan Brosje who brought the resort from a small 40-room hotel to its current status as a well known and well-respected, multi-use resort during his 17-year tenure.
Oyster Bay Beach Resort, a multi-use property with full-ownership, luxury condominiums and timeshare units, offers the total resort package with an ocean-front hotel and full-service spa, two on-site restaurants and resort amenities like snorkeling at Dawn Beach. In addition, the property recently underwent a massive renovation and development project, positioning itself as a major contender on the St. Maarten resort scene.
Perez plans to capitalize on the resorts recent developments, including the iconic Lighthouse property and room upgrades, to help design a five-star resort experience without the five-star price tag.
Josh Gold and Mike Dolente, owners of the resorts developer Pearl Development, hired Perez to usher the resort and its multi-use properties into a new era. They feel his energy, enthusiasm and experience will help boost the resort and its dedicated staff to a higher level of achievement in the very competitive hospitality industry.
GREAT BAY:--- Disaster Coordinator Fire Commander Winston Salomon says that the National Hurricane Center (NHC) has made some adjustments to the issuing of watches and warnings for tropical storms and hurricanes along threatened coastal areas.
In the past these have been issued 12 hour earlier than in previous years. Tropical storm watches will be issued when tropical storm conditions are possible along the coast within 48 hours.
Tropical storm warnings will be issued when those conditions are expected within 36 hours. Similar increases in lead-time will apply to hurricane watches and warnings.
Another adjustment being made by the National Weather Service and the NHC is to use the term, "post tropical," referring to a system that no longer possesses sufficient tropical characteristics to be considered a tropical cyclone.
Post tropical cyclones can continue to carry heavy rains and strong winds. Another post tropical cyclone is the "remnant low," a weak system with limited thunderstorm activity and winds less than tropical storm strength.
The forecast for this hurricane season is up to 23 named Tropical Storms of which eight to 14 could develop into a hurricane. Of those, three to seven could become major hurricanes of category three or higher with sustained wind speeds of 111 miles per hour and above.
The season has already experienced its first storm system, Hurricane Alex which formed in the Western Caribbean Sea and travelled into the Gulf of Mexico last week.
The system which later developed into a category two hurricane, dumped heavy rains on parts of North Eastern Mexico leaving seven persons dead.
The Mexican Interior Ministry on Friday declared a state of emergency in 21 towns, allowing the use of federal government funds to help cover the initial costs of the disaster.
More than 10,000 people were left without electricity and water due to collapsed electrical cables. Another 11 persons were killed when the storm passed through Mexico's Yucatan peninsula, Nicaragua, Guatemala and El Salvador.
The 2010 Hurricane Season list of names are: Bonnie, Colin, Danielle, Earl, Fiona, Gaston, Hermine, Igor, Julia, Karl, Lisa, Matthew, Nicole, Otto, Paula, Richard, Shary, Tomas, Virginie and Walter.
The 2010 hurricane season officially runs from June 1 through November 30.
Philipsburg:--SHTA is of the belief that this summer will be an especially difficult one for residents and businesses and feels that the need for relief and stimulus still remains. Therefore the SHTA appreciates the Executive Council's decision not to increase TOT as a measure to balance their much disputed 2010 budget. It shows that the recommendations of the private sector stakeholders don't always fall on deaf ears.
Furthermore it is partially in line with recommendations made during the Economic Summit 2009 where the SHTA proposed a complete removal of the tax that was introduced as a temporary measure 13 years ago, as a measure of attaining real economic stimulus in the local economy.
Now that the Executive Council has presented a 2010 budget with a surplus, in which no claim is laid on the portion that remains at the Federal Level (2%), we believe that as of October 11, 2010 the Executive Council should reduce the TOT to 1 % (the portion that remains on St. Maarten) for the remainder of 2010.
Furthermore as of January 1, 2011 the SHTA expects the Executive Council to completely remove the TOT. First and foremost because time has now certainly run out on this temporary measure. Secondly because the devastating multiplier effect of the TOT can certainly not be denied after all this time. And last but certainly not least because it will be the only/one economic stimulus that the Public sector has initiated to alleviate the burden on the private sector and ensure that future economic activity doesn't fall back even further, leaving Government no-one to tax.
Young Bloodz Boxing Gym will for a second time host a night of amateur boxing at the L.B Scott Sports Auditorium this Friday, July 9th. The event which is sponsored by NAGICO Insurances will feature boxers from neighboring islands of Saba and Anguilla, with local boxers representing Dutch and French St. Marten. It will start at 7:30 PM to include six boxing matches and five exhibitions.
The organizer of the event Mr. Shawn Blair of Young Bloodz Gym: "We invite the public at large to come out and support the event. It is an opportunity to see and experience amateur boxers in action. We are also pleased to have NAGICO Insurances as a sponsor and thank the company for their support for a second time in row."
Mr. Shawn Blair received a cheque from NAGICO Insurances Marketing Assistant Sandya Jiandani to help cover the costs of hosting the event.
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, July 8th 2010 - At a landmark address before the 45th Annual Convention, July 4, 2010, Political Leader of the People's Action Movement, Mr. Lindsay Grant, highlighted problems in the proposed Value Added Tax (VAT), and outlined a further concern to food security in the Federation.
Grant recalled that, "During the run-up to the election the Government denied the fact about VAT introduction. Make no mistake, it is not a global financial crisis that hit St. Kitts-Nevis, it is 15 years of recklessness by Denzil Douglas."
Mr. Grant explained, "The truth is that each one of the taxes the Prime Minister today says the VAT is set to replace has a rate – So why is it that up until now, we cannot know the VAT rate? Yet the Government has the gall to introduce a 150-page VAT Bill into Parliament this past Wednesday, but not put in the most important piece of information, the VAT rate."
The PAM Leader registered very strong concern over the high-handed manner that the Labour Government has taken to impose VAT upon the people of the Federation, and went onto express caution to the matter of food security.
Grant continued, "Our daily needs are too great to be left to the last minute whim of Denzil Douglas and we cannot be left dangling while this Government toys with the VAT rate. This is why we have said that the People's Action Movement would remove all duties on food. We are certain that the Peoples Action Movement policy for duty free food would provide much-needed relief to the citizens, residents and people of St. Kitts and Nevis ."
Mr. Grant concluded, "Government ought to reconsider VAT on food for a Country that imports 75% of its food. VAT charged on food will cause an unacceptable increase to the cost of living for Kittitians and Nevisians."
The 45th Annual Convention was held at PAM Headquarters under the theme 'The Agenda For Change Continues' which is set to identify the policies, strategies and programs required to safeguard our families in the Federation.
SANTIAGO DE CUBA, Cuba—The Cuban release of Pelican Heart – An Anthology of Poems by Lasana M. Sekou edited by Emilio Jorge Rodríguez took place at the 30th annual Festival del Caribe (7/5/10) in Santiago de Cuba. "Among the people in the audience at the launching of the anthology was Abel Prieto, Cuban Minister of Culture," said Rodríguez (L). According to Rodríguez, the launch took place "at the most important space of the Festival, the International Colloquium 'El Caribe que nos une' (The Caribbean that joins us." The Cuban scholar is promoting the bilingual book as a way of introducing the St. Martin writer to Spanish language audiences. The outstanding Cuban poetess Teresa Melo (R) introduced the Spanish-English book at the popular festival organized by Casa del Caribe and which was this year dedicated to Curacao and Pernambuco, Brazil. Melo concluded the book party by reciting the Spanish translation of the poem "On Caribbean Aesthetics," which is originally from Sekou's collection Born Here (1986) and is one of the poems in the anthology published at the end of May 2010. The 428-page Pelican Heart / Corazón de Pelícano with its critical introduction, notes, and poems selected by Rodríguez from each of Sekou's previous poetry volumes, is available at Van Dorp and Arnia's bookstores. The title is now available in Cuba, at Amazon.com and other online bookstores.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—On Monday, July 12, Erno Labega reported back to work at the Department of the Government Information Service after serving as a member of Parliament and State Secretary.
Labega indicated that he is pleased to be back. "I am glad to be back at GIS, it is a department that is important to the government, the people of St. Maarten and the region. I am ready to take on the task."
While a Member of Parliament, I represented St. Maarten in all aspects of the law making process. The experience was very worthwhile in developing knowledge and expertise in public administration and governing.
Now that Labega is no longer in Parliament, he will resume his tasks at the Government's Information Service ending his period of Leave of Absence which was granted to serve in the elected position. It is stipulated by law that, unless a different job is obtained, the same job is guaranteed and would be available.
There are several projects that are ongoing, and I have some ideas of my own. Along with the team at GIS, we will continue our work to provide the public with up to date information from government on issues of policy, projects, events, and general information.
While serving as a Member of Parliament, as well as the State Secretary of Justice in the Council of Ministers prior to that, Labega was helpful to many in areas other than his direct line of duty. As he stated, "no one should have to take a plane to Curacao to regulate certain documents as long as our St. Maarten representatives in Curacao can assist. It's simple and the right thing to do."
With the changes of government and the moving from our present political structure to the new structure of a Parliament and Council of Ministers for Country St. Maarten, it means that much information, awareness, advice and direction must be offered to the public, says Labega. The population must have a clear understanding of how things will change and how they will be affected by any new procedures. GIS will continue to work with all departments to ensure their messages are clear, concise and timely.
Philipsburg:---The Executive Council of St. Martin is scratching its head as it ponders the reason for the lackluster support government is receiving for its efforts to make 10-10-10 a reality.
Where-ever one turns, however one turns, the same tune is heard. What awaits us on 11-10-10? Leader of the Democratic Party Sarah Wescot Williams said in a press release.
The government of St. Maraten seems oblivious to the fact that we are too close to this watershed in our political history to be content with government's apparent closed door handling of matters that will have a profound effect on every resident of this island.
At least, we hope that there is some action, some attention, some plan for these important areas by the members of the NA/Heyliger/ Laveist government.
The time left until 10-10-10 is shorter than the credit line most businesses apply.
How can we not be pre-occupied when less than 90 (ninety) days away from 10-10-10-, we are yet to hear government unequivocally state that:
For the time-being we will continue to operate as part of the Antillean Monetary Union (Central Bank of the Netherlands Antilles), in other words, we will continue with the Antillean currency (guilder) as the official currency ........ Or not.
In a recent interview on Curacao, the president of the Bank of the Netherlands Antilles, Dr. Emsley Tromp, stated that for a monetary union between Curacao and St. Martin to work, these islands must have agreements as far as financial-economic policies and budget discipline are concerned. Does the Executive Council of St. Martin have such agreements in place and if so, what do these agreements entail?
Are St. Martin's representatives on the Supervisory Board of the Common Central Bank to be appointed on the basis of their expertise or on the basis of political affiliation, as seems to be the norm of late?
Marigot:--- Undertakers were called on Tuesday afternoon to a home in Sandy Ground to remove the body of a man known to the residents of that area as Martin. SMN News learnt that the man was dead for least five days and the body was already decaying when it was recovered.
The sources said Martin originated from Marie Gallant and he was a well known bus driver in the area. Commandant of the gendarmerie Stephanne Brunet confirmed the discovery of the body. Burnet said it has been confirmed that the man died of natural causes and that the body was released to the family of the deceased.
MARIGOT—The gendarmes have arrested a suspect they believed is involved in an armed robbery which took place on Sunday May 30 at a grocery store. The suspect is will be summoned to court later this year.
The gendarmes also controlled a 27 year old woman who was in possession of 80 grams of marijuana. She too will be summoned to court later this year.
In unrelated news the gendarmes reported that three cars were damaged after a car accident which occurred on the Cripple Gate road last Thursday. Two persons were injured and they were transported the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital.
The gendarmes also responded to a call from a young woman who told them that her ex-boyfriend had entered her home without her permission. The boyfriend she said was drunk at the time.
The gendarmes also arrested a 32 year old man from Dominica who was residing on the island illegally. The man will be deported to his native country. It should be noted that said person was once deported by the French authorities on December 17, 2009.
Philipsburg:--- Heavy rainfall left several motorists stranded as most of the streets were flooded. Motorists and passengers were seen pushing their stalled vehicles out of the road way.
Traffic had to divert from St. Peters through Betty's Estate, A T Illidge Road was blocked due to the height of the water. In most areas the drains were severely clogged and workers from Public Works were not visible. The pump station in Sucker Garden was closed most of the day yesterday.
Residents expressed their frustration on the social networking site Facebook at the island government and mostly the civil servants working at the Public Works department. Some said these civil servants are using government vehicles to go to the night clubs and casinos instead of performing their duties.
An advisory was issued by the meteorological center of the Netherlands Antilles states that a small craft should exercise caution in open waters as there is a cloudy overcast with periods with light to moderate rain.
During the past few hours a total amount of 72mm of rainfall has been registered at the Juliana airport.
Head of Maintenance Claudius Buncamper in an invited comment said based on the system the water would take about 15 to 20 minutes before all the water would run off the roads. Buncamper said St. Maarten was well prepared to handle the amount of rainfall and there was absolutely no need to turn on the pumps because Great Bay was open. Buncamper further explained that the flood gate was also open so that there would be no overflowing of the Salt Pond. "We even open the Ring Road to avoid any type of major flooding. But one has to understand that when there is a lot of water in a short period of time there would be water on the roads." He said Dutch Quarter and A.T Illidge Road were inaccessible at one point because of the amount of water that was flowing down the hills.
Buncamper further explained that his team was on the road from 6 am and remained on the road monitoring the situation. He said he was also on the French side of the island and water was gushing down the hills. "We still have to remove some rocks from Cole Bay Hill but that will be done later in the evening."
The Maintenance head of Public Works said the residents of St. Maarten know they are in a hurricane season and the overcast was hanging over St. Maarten since Thursday. He said in such weather people who do not have to work should stay off the road.
Philipsburg: --- Police on Friday searched a hotel located in the Pointe Blanche area and confiscated a scale, crow bar, bullet proof vests and 17 live ammunitions for a .38 calibre revolver. Police Spokesman Humphrey Giterson said the hotel search was sparked after the patrols saw a vehicle parked in the area with marijuana smell emanating from it.
Giterson said when police approached the vehicle P-5670 which had very dark tint it appeared to have at least three persons inside but one of them managed to escape.Giterson further explained that the driver of the vehicle identified as C.R.C try to dispose of a plastic sack he had containing marijuana but he was caught. Police based on their suspicions and what they discovered searched the vehicle and found a loaded pistol under the seat of the vehicle. The suspect told police he was at the hotel nearby and he also gave police permission to search his room where the items were found. The two remaining suspects in the vehicle were arrested.
In other news early Saturday morning a resident of A.T Illidge Road identified as R.L.M woke up when he heard a strange noise in his yard. R.L.M went outside to have a look what was going on. Upon inspection the victim was confronted by two masked men who were busy stealing his motor bike. When the suspects noticed that they were caught, they threatened R.L.M with a fire arm. R.L.M went back into his house, took a machete and went behind the two men who at that time were trying to get away with his motor bike, a blue and white Yamaha, 225 cross bike. Giterson said the thieves managed to push the bike until it stopped with them nearby a book store in the vicinity .When R.L.M went to get his bike; he was attacked by three other men. One of the men was carrying a cut off shotgun. The police spokesman said the victim tried to run away but was chased by the armed thieves. According to R.L.M he managed to defend himself with his machete and even injured two of the thieves, but he could not avoid being shot in his leg.
The incident occurred close to the Zoo in Arch Road the victim was transported to the St. Maarten Medical Centre for treatment. The detective department is busy investigating this case.
MARIGOT—The gendarmes have arrested a 22 year old man who fired four shots at a 45 year old man injuring him in his arms and ribs. A press release from the gendarmerie stated that the two men were having an argument on Saturday night in Colombier when the younger man took out a gun and fired the shots. The victim it is said is not in danger. The suspect then escaped on a scooter but he was later captured in a house where he was hiding out.
In an unrelated incident the gendarmes apprehended two bandits on Friday after they robbed three tourists on Grand Case boulevard. The culprits threatened the visitors with a weapon when they forcefully took away their personal items including monies. The two suspects 18 and 26 years old would have to appear in court later this year while the stolen items were recovered and turned over to the visitors.
Philipsburg:--- Commissioner of finance Xavier Blackman made clear that one of the reasons he sent a letter to the Minister of Finance requesting information as to how much monies were withheld from St. Maarten was to make sure the people's money is properly managed. Blackman said the central government withheld monies from St. Maarten's share of the turn over tax without any form of agreement. He said St. Maarten has one agreement with the Central Government and that agreement states that the island would be receiving 1% of the 3% turn over tax levied on the people of St. Maarten. He said the explanation given by the Central government to say they are withholding the monies to cover the island's payment to the SVB insurance is not valid since there is no agreement with the island government and the central government.
Blackman said government should make sure there agreements and are made in writing including questions which would provide clarity in the future. The finance commissioner also argued that if the central government has 13 cents or 13 million guilders for St. Maarten they need to pay it back. He said there is a court case pending regarding the withholding of St. Maarten's money and that shows that St. Maarten never agreed with the Central government. He cautioned that deals and agreements were made in lobby of the Marriot Hotel and that those in office should have made sure proper administration was done when dealing with public funds.
The commissioner also took blows from members of the Democratic Party faction who believed that the commissioner did not conduct proper research prior to sending the letter to the Minister or even speaking to the media. Island councilmember and former commissioner of finance Roy Marlin said the commissioner's statement has created the wrong impression. He asked if the commissioner made contact with the Windward Island Bank to see if monthly payments were made since the records show that no payments were made for July and December 2007. It turned out that the payments were indeed made but proper administration was not conducted. Marlin also asked if the commissioner verified his figures with the civil servants who are dealing with government finances for years now.
Island councilmember Leroy De Weever also took a turn on Blackman reminding him that he was appointed to work for the island council and that he should not meddle in politics. "Commissioner Blackman once appointed can also be disappointed" and while he commended Blackman for making clear that he did not suggest that any member of the island council was fiddling with government money he felt that Blackman was out of place with the statements he made to the media saying that 13 million guilders were either missing or unaccounted for.
While members of the National Alliance defended Blackman's position on the letter sent to the finance Minister independent member of the island council Louie Laveist made clear that the question posed by Blackman is a win win situation for St. Maarten. He said the council should wait on the response from the Central government and not jump to conclusions. Laveist said that he felt the meeting called was unnecessary because the commissioner is only trying to do his job when he ask for queries on St. Maarten's finances.
Senator and Island councilmember Rudolph Samuel said the only reason the Democratic Party called the meeting is because they are afraid their names were going to get dirty. Samuel said politics is in the air and there are people in this council who are former finance commissioners who are sitting on edge since they did not challenge the central government with written answers while in office.
Philipsburg:--- Independent member of the island council and the coalition partner of the National Alliance Heyliger and Laveist government Theo Heyliger has officially submitted a letter to acting Lt. Governor Reynold Groeneveldt on Monday informing him that he has resigned from the executive council with immediate effect. Heyliger's resignation would not affect the current government because he did not pull his support from the National Alliance/Heyliger and Laveist coalition.
A copy of the letter was provided to SMN News states "I, the undersigned Theodore E. Heyliger hereby tender my resignation as a member of the Executive Council of St Maarten with immediate effect. I am grateful to have been able to serve St Maarten and its people as a member of the executive council of the island territory of St Maarten."
Chairman of the island council Reynold Groeneveldt informed the council of Heyliger's letter on Monday at the end of the island council meeting. The announcement prompted island council member Roy Marlin to ask if Heyliger also pulled his support from government since the political agreement signed on Saturday June 6th 2009 was signed between the National Alliance and Heyliger with Independent member of the island council Louie Laveist giving his support to the National Alliance.
Groeneveldt said Heyliger would remain as a commissioner even though he resigned with immediate effect until a new commissioner is appointed by the executive council.
SMN News learnt that the executive council will be dealing with the resignation of Heyliger and the appointment of a new commissioner in their weekly meeting on Tuesday. SMN News further learnt that one of the two persons that might be appointed as Commissioner is Rudolph Samuel or George Pantophlet.
While Heyliger made clear that he resigned to prepare for the upcoming elections which are slated to take place on September 17th. Heyliger is yet to launch the green party which he said would be called the United People's Party".
Philipsburg:--- The eleven member island council unanimously approved the draft constitution for country St Maarten after an amendment is made to the constitution which is to delete the article roman 7 which deals with the removal of a politician that has been convicted or suspected of a crime.
The council first voted on the amendment which was proposed by the executive council to delete article roman 7. Members of island council began debating the draft constitution from 9am on Wednesday while they voted on the constitution just after 9:30pm.
Members of the Democratic Party faction placed much emphasis on the article which they said was sneaked in by government. Some members even alluded that leader of the National Alliance and government probably made a deal with convicted island councilmember Louie Laveist to have the clause inserted in the draft constitution. Constitutional Affairs commissioner William Marlin disputed the allegation saying that the clause was added based on the advice of the legal experts. Marlin said during one of the adjournments he caucused with the leader of the Democratic Party as well as the advisors who told them that it was necessary for the clause to remain in the draft constitution but the executive council was willing to remove the clause in order to prevent any type of speculation that a deal was made between him and Laveist. It must also be noted that Laveist himself proposed that the clause be removed if any member of the council feels it was added because of him.
Leader of the Democratic Party and former commissioner of constitutional affairs Sarah Wescot Williams said there is no need for this clause because every man, woman and child including politicians are protected under the treaty of the human rights as well as in article 28 of the draft constitution.
Marlin further informed the council and in particular island council lady Maria Buncamper Molanus that it is of uttermost importance that the constitution be voted with a two third majority because it is one of the requirements for them to attend the next RTC meeting to change the Kingdom Charter to dissolve the Netherlands Antilles. Marlin said for St. Maarten to do that they must have a draft constitution in place that was approved by a two third majority of the council. He said that Curacao did not meet this criteria as such they are having early elections which would allow the new council to vote on their constitution prior to the next RTC meeting which is scheduled for September 9th. "If we do not have this in place then the constitutional process would have to come to a halt until after elections on September 17th and this would also leave St. Maarten hanging in space come 10/10/10 since provisions are already in place for the smaller islands to become BES islands and Curacao a country within the Kingdom.
The executive council also agrees to hold a PCCA meeting some two weeks from now which would allow members of the public to give their views on the draft constitution, this was based on a request by the members of the Democratic Party namely Sarah Wescot Williams who said leaving out the people would be an injustice to them. Constitutional Affairs commissioner William Marlin explained to the council that St. Maarten already has two sets of English translations but the draft constitutions has several changes since then and the executive council has decided they would only translate the final draft. He said his council has also decided they would have a number of mini-series explaining each article of the constitution. This he said would be done in layman's term so that everyone would have a fair idea as to what the constitution means for them. As for adding all information and discussions on government website as requested by the leader of the Democratic Party Marlin said the executive council has decided to make one general website for government which would have all the different sections and layers of government. He said when that is done then all discussions and signed agreements will be posted on the website on constitutional matters. This he said will serve for those persons interesting in the proceedings or students who are conducting research.
At the debate on Wednesday President of the St. Maarten Pride Foundation and EPIC foundation showed up with a sign saying the beach is our patrimony and it must be protected in the draft constitution. Marlin said discussions were held with the concerned parties namely Jadira Veen and Ruben Thompson and they were informed that the beaches and the environment is already been regulated in the constitution which states public properties will be regulated via an ordinance. Marlin said the beaches will remain public beaches with accessibility to them.
Other issues raised and what members believe should be added to the constitution is "who is a St. Maartener"? Marlin said while St. Maarten does not have the competency of granting passports he does believe that this issue needs more discussion before it is regulated. He suggested that a committee be put in place where St. Maarteners would debate the issue and advice government how to determine who are St. Maarteners. He said when this discussion is raised it opens up a Pandora box because many persons who are from St. Maarten ancestors were born elsewhere.
Philipsburg: --- A search team comprising of co-workers and family members discovered the body of a 21 year old girl in the Oyster Pond area early Thursday morning. The body was recovered on the French side about 20 meters away from the border and in close proximity of Border Bar. According to information reaching SMN News the body was found in the bushes baring severe marks of violence, it is also believed that the victim was raped before being murdered.
The victim has been identified as Clemencia Josie-Ann Julot, (21) born on July 31 1989 on St. Maarten and she is of Haitian descent. Police spokesman Geronimo Juliet said the victim disappeared early Tuesday morning when she went jogging; she is also an employee of Blue Point Store.
According to information reaching SMN News employees of Blue Point and family members including the deceased father formed a search team to look for the missing girl. The team searched most of Oyster Pond on Wednesday and resumed the search early Thursday morning when the gruesome discovery was made.
In an exclusive interview with SMN News the victim's father and best friend said they are suspicious of someone who was calling the victim threatening to beat and kill her. Clemente Zepher father of the victim said his daughter told him some time ago that a woman called her on several occasions threatening to beat and kill her if she does not leave her man alone. Zepher said his daughter told him that this person was the girlfriend of her teacher at Educa bureau RRR. "My daughter told me the teacher also tried to seduce her but she was not interested in him. The teacher went to her job and told her to choose which laptop she wanted and he will pay for it and my daughter refused it. She was a church going girl who believed in God and did not want anything to do with men who were not part of the church" Zepher said.
Mackson Jean, the victim's best friend said Josie-ann told him on a number of occasions that she is fearful for her life because of the constant phone threats. "Josie-ann told me the person on the phone said they were going to use one of her cousin's to kill her. When that happened Josie-ann filed a complaint with the police on the Dutch side but nothing came out of the matter." Jean said sometimes he was with Josie-ann when this person would call her and each time she would tell him she is scared.
Jean said Josie-ann and her teacher whom he said is from Africa were friends because Josie-ann would translate the teacher's work for him. He said because of the translations and friendship the teacher had Josie-ann's phone number in his phone which his girlfriend found and she (the teacher's girlfriend) believed that the two people were having an affair. The best friend said he knew his friend and she had nothing personal with this African man who called the family on Tuesday night and told them he and his girlfriend has nothing to do with Josie-ann's disappearance. The family said they are becoming more suspicious of the African teacher and his girlfriend because when they first called him he did not answer his regular phone and ever since her disappearance he has been calling them with private phone numbers each time telling them that he does not know what happened to Josi-anne. One of the calls came in while SMN News reporter was at the family's house on Thursday.
Another cousin who also attended Educa Bureau where the teacher was working said she also knew the teacher because he taught both of them. The cousin who preferred to remain anonymous said she told police about these calls and the teacher in question.
The family also believes that the system has failed them because when they went to report Josie-anne's disappearance they were told by the Dutch side police that they have to return in 24-hours since the young lady is not a minor. The family said they also reported the disappearance on the French side and the Gendarmes told them that they would begin looking after 48 hours. "I think if they (police) had started to look before they would have found her alive. When she was found her body looked fresh and blood was seeping out of the wounds. She was found naked and her clothing was next to her. While the killer or killers raped her they also shot her and the bullet shells were recovered on the scene." Said one family member.
The distraught and angry father said his daughter along with two friends normally goes jogging every morning but on Tuesday the two friends were late and his daughter apparently went alone. He said his daughter began exercising some six months ago after a doctor on the French side ordered her to lose weight in order for her take a surgery. The man said his daughter had multiple cists in her abdomen which had to be removed and the doctor placed her on weight loss medication and also instructed her to exercise daily.
Public Prosecutor Rienk Mud in a press release confirmed the gruesome discovery of the young girl's body. Mud said the body was found on the French side of the border and the gendarmes are leading the investigation with the cooperation of the Dutch side. The public prosecutor said police are also looking for witnesses of the gruesome murder and they are urging persons with information to contact the police at 0059954-22222 or 911.
Several efforts made to contact the French prosecutor on Thursday proved futile. SMN News could not reach the commandant of the gendarmerie either for a comment.
Philipsburg:--- Members of the Zero Tolerance Unit hit jackpot on Thursday night when the began their road controls as announced by police spokesman Geronimo Juliet. Juliet said that 11:15pm the team of officers noticed two persons in a grey Toyota Yaris carrying a rental number plate R-288.
Inside the vehicle were two suspects that the French authorities are looking for in connection with the ongoing murder investigation which claimed the life of Chinese cashier at the Popular Supermarket in Concordia.
The alleged suspects are identified as Roy Fabia (14) from St. Maarten and Kevin Gumbs (19) from the French side of the island. The police spokesman said both suspects are wanted for a number of armed robberies which was committed on that side of the island. Currently the authorities are working on extraditing the two suspects to the French side of the island where the killing and robbery took place. Juliet said both persons are alleged suspects in the brutal murder of the Chinese cashier on June 30th 2010.
Juliet said when police stopped the vehicle to conduct the necessary controls the two suspects could not identify themselves, reason why they were arrested and taken to the Philipsburg Police Station. Further investigation he said showed the suspects are wanted for a number of crimes committed on the French side of the island.
In unrelated news the police bicycle patrol arrested a youngster who was caught stealing from a tourist on the boardwalk. Juliet said the youngster in question was trying to get away with a wallet he had stolen from a bag belonging to a tourist. The tourist it is said was swimming at the time when the young thief went into his bag.
GREAT BAY:---The five-day training camp of the United Volleyball Club opens Monday, July 26 and will run until July 31, said veteran volleyball sports organizer Rhoda Arrindell. The UVC camp participants will train at the St. Maarten Academy PSVE campus and will be housed in style at the Oyster Bay Resort. The camp director is Patricio Bridgewater from the Olympic Committee of the Territory of the Netherlands Antilles. Cleophas Arrindell is the UVC trainer and coach. The age range for this year's camp is 13 - 19 for non-members (though there are UVC members up to age 22 in the current youth program). UVC accepts young people from the age of 5 in its Mini-Volleyball Program (MVP), which will be open for registration at the start of the upcoming school year, said Arrindell, organizer of the 2010 camp. For the more immediate time, the campers are already looking forward to the volleyball knockout competition, scheduled for July 29 - 31 at the L.B. Scott Auditorium.
Malou Carty-Vialenc of the St Maarten Inner Wheel Club presented a check of USD $ 1200, - to the Nature Foundation Office Manager Marisa Brandy to assist with the Lionfish Education and Outreach Program. The venomous Lionfish have arrived in St. Maarten Waters and the Nature Foundation will be holding various lectures on the impact the lionfish will have on the island. With the funds donated by the Inner Wheel Club the Foundation will be able to significantly broaden its outreach and information campaign.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—The Census Department, also known as the Department of Civil registry, is asking the public to register all changes of address in a timely manner, in order to beat the late and last minute rush at the Census office in regards to the upcoming election.
If you have moved, you need to change your address or if you need to verify your current address, please pass by the office or call the office for further information, according to the Head of the Census Office, Leona Marlin. Thus the community is asked to come in on a timely manner and provide their correct address, to ensure proper delivery of voting cards.
In this regard, the Post office and the Census Department have been working together in order to be more efficient in delivering the voting cards
According to Ms. Marlin, there is better categorization on how the cards are printed, and in turn, the Post office will able to deliver the voting cards more effectively.
There is a lot of work being done behind the scene in reference to the elections, from preparing the suit cases, to the budget, to the ordering.
At this point in time, there are approximately 19,365 persons registered to vote. The voting registry has not been yet been closed, and there was a backlog for the month of June, waiting for specific registration numbers. So what is being processed are persons with Dutch Nationality, then children, then persons related to the Brooks Tower accord.
After these items are processed in conjunction with the resolution of addresses from the public, and with the pending closing of the registry for the up coming elections, the public is urged to come in early to check on, and or resolve any issues they may have.
This time around as well, Marlin-Romeo said, the period is condensed, so there is much work to be done within a short period of time. Therefore, it is absolutely critical for the community to come in early, and not wait until the last minute.
For further clarifications on the election process, the public can tune in to Channel 15, St. Maarten Cable TV, on Monday July 26th, at 7 pm, where Ms. Marlin will be featured on the Government's Information Bulletin.
Bush Road:--- A building stop that was issued some thirteen days ago to the developers that are constructing behind Discount Furniture was re-enforced on Tuesday. SMN News learnt that the inspector from ROB Henry Ellis issued the stop thirteen days ago when the developer who was busy constructing did not pay for his building permit, neither did he pick it up from the department. Ellis said when the stop was issued the developer made the necessary payments and picked up his permit.
However, some neighbors in the area have been calling section ROB saying that the building is too close to their properties. "We received threats from a number of persons in the community who told us they are going to the media." Ellis said the persons complaining thought that ROB granted the developer a favor since he managed to get in permit days after the stop was issued.
Ellis said when he visited the site he site on Tuesday morning he asked the developer whom he identified as Mufid Mustapha Masood for his building permit as well as the drawing but the developer was unable to provide him with the drawings. Ellis said the developer told him the only reason the building was so close was because the owners of Celebration Palace built their wall on his boundary. Asked what type of building the developer is constructing Ellis said the developer got a permit for a two-floor apartment building.
The ROB inspector said that he did not feel too comfortable with the explanation he was given and as he decided to go back to his office where he pulled up the entire file. "When I looked at the drawing the developer presented to ROB it does not match the size of building currently under construction. So I had to re-enforce the building stop that was issued almost two weeks ago." Ellis said.
The ROB inspector said the developer was not quite happy with the decisions he took and there was some arguments on the scene. The ROB inspector said after a while the developer admitted that he submitted a smaller plan(drawings) to ROB in order to get the permit.
Philipsburg:--- The board members and leader of the United People's Party has to remove their bill board and posters that were placed at several locations on the island. The UP Party placed a poster on a 40-foot container next to Air Lekkerbek on the Pondfill while another one was placed on Sucker Garden road.
The party went as far as placing two flags at the side of the container on Sucker Garden Road. SMN News learnt that the party leader was requested to remove his posters since he is far ahead of postulation day. Normally the Lt. Governor of St. Maarten would announce the dates when political parties are allowed to put their bill board and posters alongside the public road. Postulation day for country election is scheduled to be held on August 18th 2010.
In the meantime, several persons have contacted SMN News stating that the UP Party labeled the "new kid" is looking for political mileage or free media coverage by placing the posters up so early. "Theo is not a new comer, neither is Frankie Meyers and for them to pull such a stunt is because they want to be in the newspaper for free." Said one angry politician.
Philipsburg:--- Education commissioner William Marlin in reaction to statements made by island council member Roy Marlin about his daughter being victimized with her request for study financing said the councilmember daughter's request was never denied.
Marlin said it is unfortunate that the councilman would drag his daughter into his personal political campaign, hoping to get mileage out of his ranting and raging under the disguise of a concern parent.
The education commissioner explained that the young lady in question was granted study financing at the University of St. Maarten but she appealed. He said when students applied for study financing they have two choices and in the case of the councilman daughter she was granted her second choice but she appealed the decision. He said the appeals committee had some nine (9) files to deal with but three of them were not ready when his office received the advice on Monday.
Marlin said he enquired about the missing files and found out it was delayed due to administrative mishaps.
Marlin said on Tuesday when he got the complete batch of files they were all signed off and the education department was given immediate notification.
Marlin said when dealing with these files he does not look at the names of the applicants. The commissioner said he is of the opinion that when one applies for study financing they expect to get it and he is not in the business of victimizing anyone. Marlin further explained that if there is anyone who could speak of victimization was his son who applied to government for a job when he returned to the island with his degree. Marlin said when his son applied for a job and he waited over a year before turning to the private sector for work.
Marlin said government has on a daily basis deadlines to meet despite they are called to unnecessary island council meetings. Marlin gave an example of the meeting that was called by the opposition to discuss the letter sent by the finance commissioner to the finance minister. He said when things like this happen the commissioners neither the support staff is not able to do their work efficiently and the work is piled up causing delays.
Marlin said the Democratic Party has embarked on what he describes as the "stall tactics" by calling these meetings. Marlin said when the Democratic Party calls these meeting and holds their press conferences for popularity one would think they are doing their work. He said however, had they done their work while in the executive branch St. Maarten would not be at the eleventh hour rushing through the constitution and the more than 30 organic laws which still has to come to the island council. Marlin said these things could have been done before while they the Democratic Party were in government.
GREAT BAY:--- Executive Director of the Tallahassee-Sint Maarten Foundation (TLH-SXMF) Arthur (Arturo) Lugisse is encouraging businesses and educational institutions to make use of the offer of King Arthur's Tools.
King Arthur's Tools is not new to Sint Maarten. In 2009, representatives of the company met with business and educational leaders with reference to the available opportunities for the island.
The company offers a unique range of carving and finishing tools and is actively committed to developing innovative products.
King Arthur's Tools has established and developed diverse proven markets that include: professional and amateur word workers, wood carvers, and sculptors, wood turners, builders and electricians, flooring and general construction, home and boat re-modellers, and musical instrument makers.
Lugisse says the island could become a distribution point for tools and products made on the island – "Made in Sint Maarten".
"I foresee a multiple number of opportunities for the island. The company has been experiencing an increase in their market share globally. Considerable investments have been made in the Tallahassee and the company is now looking at Sint Maarten based on the sister-city agreement that exist between the city of Tallahassee and Sint Maarten.
"Besides Sint Maarten businesses acting as a dealers for the tools that this company sells, our own carpenters can consider pursuing the avenue of making handmade wood work tourist souvenirs 'Made in Sint Maarten' to sell to tourists and even for export. The potential is there, but we need the entrepreneurship spirit to get it moving.
"King Arthur's Tools also donated tools and materials for two schools to re-institute their wood working programs for students. Here again is another opportunity where students can make souvenir items and other furniture and sell it besides gaining the technical experience," Executive Director of the TLH-SXMF Arthur Lugisse told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Thursday.
Businesses and educational institutions seeking to explore and develop programs/projects/policies/products/services in conjunction with entities out of Tallahassee for Sint Maarten can contact the TLH-SXMF at 850 212 2914 or via its website www.tlh-sxmf.org
(Willemstad, Curacao) This afternoon, at the Marriott Hotel, Minister Duncan signed two covenants with the unions representing civil servants, confirming agreement with regards to Social Charters for emerging countries Curacao and Sint Maarten. These documents were signed in the presence of Prime Minister, Mrs. Emily de Jongh-Elhage, Commissioners Mrs. Zita Jesus-Leito (Curacao) and Mr. Xavier Blackman (St. Maarten).
The Social Charters contain the conditions under which the civil servants of the respective island territories Curacao and Sint Maarten, as well as of the federal government will be transferred and enter into the employment of the new countries Curacao and St. Maarten. The signing of the covenants is required under the new federal ordinance on collective bargaining for civil servants, which went into effect in 2008.
The basis for the social charters was established in a conference at the Maho Beach Hotel in December 2007, chaired by Minister Duncan and attended by representatives of the aforementioned unions and island territories as well as the Netherlands, for the BES-islands. On December 8, 2007 a document containing the points of departure for the transfer of the civil servants to the new entities was initialed by the participants and Minister Duncan.
By Administrative Agreement of November 24, 2008 signed by representatives of the island territories of Curacao and Sint Maarten with the Government of the Netherlands Antilles the aforementioned points of departure were ratified and agreed upon with the governments involved.
While the negotiations for the social charters occurred under the auspices of Minister Duncan as Minister of Constitutional and Home Affairs, the actual negotiations were conducted by Commissioners Jesus-Leito and Blackman for their respective island governments, thereby insuring that all concerned parties were involved and in agreement. This consequently provides full guarantee to all civil servants in this constitutional process.
We congratulate the unions ABVO, STrAF, NAPB and WICSU with their accomplishment in representation of their membership as well as all civil servants, who are now guaranteed protection and fair treatment in their transition to their new jobs in the new entities. Congratulations and gratitude is also extended to Commissioners Jesus-Leito and Blackman for their outstanding work on behalf of their Executive councils.
We make use of this opportunity to thank our support staff, all experts and the presidency and secretariat of the CGOA for their assistance, expertise and advice, without which the documents executed, would not have been created.
The social charters now go to the Island councils of Curacao and Sint Maarten for approval and convergence into island ordinances -- legal regulations governing the transfer of civil servants into the service of the new countries. We shall, in subsequent notes, discuss the contents of the social charters.
Marigot:--- The suspect involved in the shooting incident in Grand Case will have time to think about his actions now that he is in prison in Guadeloupe.
A press release from the gendarmerie states that the suspect that was apprehended shortly after the shooting was given a 12 months prison sentence, six months suspended.
The culprit fired shots after an argument leaving two persons seriously injured. In an unrelated incident which occurred in French Quarter where another shooting incident took place, the suspect was charged with attempted murder was also sentenced in a Guadeloupe court to 12 months, six of which are suspended.
Philipsburg:--- NAGICO Insurances made a donation to PA-Ben's Productions to assist with the making and promotion of the first set of PA-Ben look-a-like dolls. These dolls which will be presented as special collector's items to both tourists and locals will be displayed on various airlines and other key points of contact for visitors to the island. NAGICO Insurances strongly supports the preservation of St. Maarten's heritage, especially now on the eve of 10.10.10 and as such saw it fitting to assist in the production of this collector's item. An item that portrays the image of a man who has consistently and proudly promoted St. Maarten's culture and way of life for many years.
Mr. Roland Bryson accepted the donation on behalf of his organization with much appreciation and expressed this by stating: "NAGICO Insurances gave a prompt positive response to the request for financial assistance to get this project off the ground. I am very grateful and look forward to presenting the dolls in the near future."
Philipsburg:--- It appears as if the invasion of the venomous Lionfish is on the rise. The Nature Foundation has been busy responding to every reported sighting of lionfish in St. Maarten waters after the first specimen was captured on July 24th. "We have one additional specimen that was captured on the Fu Sheng wreck on Monday and reports of three additional specimens, including one at Divi Little Bay and by the Simpson Bay Bridge reported to us by fishermen. These two sightings are a little more alarming as they were reported in very shallow water and can pose a threat to swimmers and bathers. They are also different species to the one that was captured on the 24th. The ones we are collecting now are the red lionfish, which is more aggressive and breeds much more prolifically than the black lionfish which we caught last week," commented Tadzio Bervoets, Nature Foundation manager.
Nature Foundation staff are attempting to collect the specimen reported at Divi Little Bay and will continue to monitor for any additional specimens. If a lionfish is seen the general public is urged to report the location and activity while the lionfish was spotted to the Nature Foundation at 5444267 or on 5270490.
Lionfish were introduced by humans through the aquarium trade and can inflict a venomous sting that can be harmful to humans. They also voraciously eat the juveniles of many ecologically and economically important fish species including snapper and grouper. "The main challenge that we face now is the lack of legislation which would make the controlling of the infestation much easier. If we had the Marine Park Ordinance in place we would have more resources, including international help, to combat the infestation. But because we are lacking legal backing we have to struggle to control this issue, in additional to all the other issues, which our marine ecosystem is facing," concluded Bervoets.
La Savane:--- The Gendarmerie has just recently received at least four new persons to fill some main positions that were left vacant after the persons holding them returned to France. Replacing Captain Arrousseau is Captain Jouault Sylvain (29). Captain Thuriet Pascal (49) is the new commandant for the brigade in Marigot and Quartier d' Orleans, Adjudant Francoise Cantie (51) has joined Rougier Yann in the brigade prevention of delinquents.
Three of the new officers were presented to members of the media on Thursday while the head of personnel and detectives was not presented. Commandant Stephanne Brunet said that fourth person is never presented to the public due to the type of work this person has to carry out. Two of the three came directly from France to take up their new post while Cantie left the island of Martinique to work on St. Martin.
Cole Bay:--- Close to 100 persons who received their Brooks Tower Permit have submitted the necessary documents to have their BTA permits extended for the next three years. Project leader on St. Maarten Valerie van Velzen told SMN News that even though they saw a lot more people over the past four days just about 100 of them had all the required documents for the extension. Van Velzen said the current registration process is for those persons in possession of a BTA permit and not those persons whose applications are still pending in the 'steering group." Van Velzen is also urging BTA permit holders to make sure they follow the guide lines as to what are the documents needed for the extension.
On Tuesday a Haitian national was arrested by police at the Salvation Army building after she was caught with a false passport, while on Thursday police escorted a man to the police station because he apparently did not have his BTA permit. SMN News further learnt that the man applied for a BTA permit and was rejected but he later appealed to the steering group. It is not clear up to press time if the man will be deported or if the BTA steering group would issue the permit as promised. The BTA extension registration began on August 2nd and it is expected to end on September 18th. During this first week the BTA team is accepting applications from persons holding a BTA Category 1 (A). Category 1 (A) are persons working for a company or someone. Persons falling under category 1 (B) would be able to submit their application after August 9th. After that period persons holding the BTA category two permits would be able to submit their application for extension.
Sandy Ground:--- The grandparents of three and half year (3 1/2) old Damien Paulino Adams who was beaten to death by his father is now seeking financial assistance from the public to bury the young victim. In an exclusive interview with SMN News Adams Paulino, the child's grandfather said that he was informed by the gendarmerie that they have released the body to the family for burial. "I was told by Monday or Tuesday I can arrange for the funeral."
Adams said his grandson met his demise on July 7th and only now the gendarmes released his body for burial. Adams who is currently not working and residing in Sandy Ground said he is in a financial predicament and is unable to find monies for the burial. He said since the tragic incident friends donated blocks and other materials for the grave which was completed on Saturday but he cannot come up with the monies needed for the funeral. Adams said the Social Services of the Collectivity of St. Martin will be paying for some of the expenses, such as the hospital. The bereaved grandfather said he was also informed that the Social Services would also pay part of the funeral expenses.
"I met with the lady from the funeral home and she told me I have to pay at least half of the amount before they pick up the corpse and prepare it for burial. I do not have fixed job, I do odd jobs to put food on the table and to pay my bills." Adams who was obviously distressed when SMN News interviewed him said despite his financial problems he is also seeking custody of his two other grand children who were placed in protective custody since the killing. "I have two other minor children and my wife and I am prepared to feed our grandchildren. So far I did not get any assurance as to when my grandchildren will come home, but I know with the help of JESUS I will get them."
SMN News contacted Managing Director of Emerald Funeral Home and the number 13 candidate on the United People's Party (UP) Sylvia Meyers to see if the funeral home is willing to assist the family. Meyers who hails from the French side of the island said management of Emerald Funeral Home would provide the assistance and take care of the funeral. Meyers said she wished the family or anyone else dealing with this tragedy had contacted her or her husband Toochie Meyers before going public. "Even though we are there to do business we also assist the people in our community who are in financial distress." Anyone who is willing to make donations to the Adams family are asked to contact Paulino Adams at 00590 690 22 85 47.
Who Killed Baby Damien?When the community of St. Martin learned of the killing of the three year old, several people expressed disgust at the parents and the immediate family of Damien Paulino Adams. Many persons in the community wanted to take revenge, saying adults should not take advantage on little children. In an effort to learnt more on how the youngster died and to know who the allege killers are we questioned the grandparents.
Paulino Adams said his daughter and her boyfriend was not living at his house when the father and alleged killer killed his grandson. Adams said some fifteen days before the killing he asked the man to get out of his house and his daughter who is currently in jail in Guadeloupe left with the man she claimed to love taking with her the three children. Adams said his 27- year old daughter has a 7-year old who is partly handicap, the three year old who was killed, and an 18 months old child.
About the Children's Father and Alleged Killer.Adams said the children's father is known to be aggressive and abusive especially when he uses illegal drugs. The man whom he identified as 32 year old L.B from France is constantly in fights. He said L.B and his daughter were not living together all the time. Many times they broke up, they were not a serious couple. Every place that man lived he had problems with his neighbors and he had to move out. He said when he asked L.B to leave his dwelling he went to stay with some people in St. Louis and shortly after that they had to move because of his behavior. At the time of the incident the couple was living in a car. "I heard they had paid for an apartment and was waiting for it, but I don't know if that is true."
The grandfather said he was in the Dominican Republic with his wife and two of his minor children when they received a phone call from one of his daughters telling him to return to St. Martin because the "man" wanted to beat all the people living in his house. At the time Adams said he had two daughters in his Sandy Ground home and his three grandchildren. "That man was not on the island when I left he was in France and the minute he came back we had problems at our house. Look at that hole in the lattice wood, he took a rock and pelt after my daughter leaving that big hole on it."
Asked if they ever witnessed the man beating the children, Adams and his wife said they never saw him beating the children but he was always punishing them. "The man was always very harsh with the children, they were always on punishment."
Asked who beat little Damien and why he was beaten to death, Adams said based on the information he got, since he was not there is that little Damien had peed his pants and his father got into a rage and began beating him. Asked why the gendarme arrested his daughter if she did not take part in the beating and the killing of her son. Adams said the gendarme told his daughter that she did not do anything to help the infant. She could have called for help and taken him earlier to the hospital they said.
Adams explained that his daughter was in complete fear of the man. "My wife spoke to her before they took her to Guadeloupe and we asked her that and she said that she was afraid to leave the baby and the 7 year old that is partly handicap with the father. My daughter said she wanted to take the child immediately to the hospital but the father stopped her. "She was so afraid it is as if the man was holding a gun at her head and she feared leaving the other two children because he might have beaten them to death too."
Currently both parents are held in Guadeloupe as the investigation is ongoing. It is not clear at this time what charges would be laid against the mother or if she would be released. Efforts made to contact Prosecutor Jacques Louvier proved futile. SMN News will continue to monitor the developments of this case.
Philipsburg:--- Rotarians of St Maarten/St Martin/Anguilla and St Barth's are seeking four outstanding professionals from the Hospitality and Tourism sector to visit the Devon region of England in May, 2011 as part of the Group Study Exchange program of The Rotary Foundation.
Through the program, teams of professionals exchange visits between paired areas in different countries. The exchange involves four- to six-week visits, during which team members share personal knowledge of their own country and experience the customs, vocations, and lifestyles of another.
The purpose of a Group Study Exchange is to promote international understanding and good-will through person-to-person contact. While abroad, team members stay in Rotarians' homes and have the opportunity to meet their professional counterparts. They will also give presentations to Rotary clubs and other groups about our islands.
The Rotary Foundation provides a round-trip air ticket, and local Rotarians in the host country provide meals, lodging, and group travel in their district. Team members pay for personal and incidental expenses.
People interested in applying should be employed full-time in the hospitality/tourism sector. Young professionals within the age range of 25 to 40 are encouraged to apply. Applicants must live/be employed in St Maarten/St Martin/Anguilla and St Barth's and also be citizens of their respective countries.
For an application form, please contact Rebecca Low, GSE Team Leader at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Pierre DeCelles, GSE Coordinator at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit www.rotarysxm.org. Please note the deadline for application is Monday, September 6, 2010.
Colebay:--- School Manager of the Charles Leopold Bell Primary School, Ms. Alice Samuel, is pleased to announce the launching of the school's website at www.charlesleopoldbellschool.org. It's just in time for the start of the new school year and is created to facilitate communication between the school, parents, staff, PTA members and the community.
Ms. Samuel deems it necessary for the school to launch a website of its own, as it would serve as a valuable asset to the school and an important extension of its services. We are living in an age when people want to be and stay informed and our website offers all relevant information pertaining to the school and its activities, says Ms. Samuel. The website is user-friendly, boasting smooth navigation, advanced functionality and engaging content intended to help site visitors quickly find what they are looking for.
The website will provide site visitors with general school information and answers to most frequently asked questions. Basic school forms can be conveniently downloaded. A school calendar, Kids Corner, photo gallery and a news section for press releases, school bulletins and special announcements are added features of the website. The website will also serve as a platform to showcase major school projects done by the children throughout the school year. A Facebook page has also been created for the school and has been incorporated in the new website. This greatly enhances the school's outreach efforts, especially to parents.
Mrs. Patricia Williams-Carty who is a teacher at the school, has worked tirelessly with the developers in providing all pertinent information for the development of the website. The website has been developed by Swaby Academy, a United States based non-profit organization. Swaby Academy has committed to sponsoring the school's website for a period of five years by financing domain registration, hosting, design and maintenance services.
Philipsburg:---"Not showing up for meetings of the Island Council can be considered neglect of your responsibilities for which Island Council Members have been elected by the people" say DP Councilmember Maria Buncamper Molanus after the rescheduled Island Council meeting once again could not get started due to a lack of quorum.
The DP councilmember continued to state that contrary to the opinion of at least one member of the NA lead Executive Council, public transportation, as well as matters related to the transition to country St. Maarten such as, BZV card holders, Joint Currency/Central Bank, Social Charter for government Employees and Post (bank) Services, the Democratic Party strongly believes that these issues directly affect the lives of the people of St. Maarten.
Wednesday's Island Council meeting which once again did not get started because only the DP faction signed up for the meeting clearly illustrates who is taking the people's business seriously.
Buncamper-Molanus said that while it is not surprising, the constitution for Country St. Maarten which was approved by the Island Council on July 21st , still has not been translated into the English language and made available to the public of St. Maarten. During the debate of the draft constitution the DP faction in the Island Council insisted on having Government commit to translating the document into English as well as having public forums organized within the shortest possible time. Three weeks later there is no evidence of either of these commitments made by Commissioner William Marlin on behalf of the Executive Council, having been lived up to.
One can only wonder what else is in store for us. We continue to await government's explanation as to which language will be considered official when it concerns laws and policies, especially when it pertains to their legal interpretation.
And as we continue to call upon government to give account for their actions or a lack thereof, the people remain in the dark about what will happen in among others, the area of the pension, health insurance, healthcare and specialized care if not available locally. And with respect to the currency that will be used and how that affects the economy, every day transactions when we buy goods and services or the sums of money small or large that the people have in local banks, remains an even bigger mystery.
The Democratic Party will remain prudent in seeking information in an effort to inform the people; concludes Democratic Party Councilmember Maria Buncamper-Molanus.
Lowlands: --- The gendarmes are busy investigating a gruesome rape, robbery and car accident that took place in Lowlands on Wednesday night. SMN News learnt that the female victim is an intern of the Nature Foundation and she was scheduled to finish her three month internship on Friday.
Sources say the young lady who is in her early twenties left the Tantra Night Club with a male companion and another female who was dropped off some distance away from Tantra. SMN News further learnt that the victim and the male driver of the car were on their way to Marigot where they both live, when four men in another vehicle slammed into their car. It is understood that the culprits intentionally hit the car so that the occupants would stop. SMN News learnt that when the car stopped the culprits dragged the young woman out of the car and took turns in raping her. It is further learnt that the young lady suffer severe damages but spent most of the day at the gendarmerie in La Savanne giving investigators information on her ordeal. It is not clear at this time if the victim who was picked up by the gendarmes from the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital on Thursday will return to the institution for further treatment.
SMN News further learnt that the student is from Guadeloupe and she was scheduled to leave the island after she completed her internship. Sources say the young lady is currently studying in France and she was exploring other ideas which would aid her in completing her studies. "The young lady was of great help to Nature Foundation especially when it comes to turtles."
The St. Maarten Nature Foundation closed its office on Thursday when they learnt of the gruesome rape. It is further understood that the workers at Nature Foundation were emotionally distraught and they needed time to cope with what happened to their colleague.
On July 21, at least eight men in two vehicles committed a similar act in Grand Case, where two visitors who were staying at Baie Nettle were attacked and allegedly raped. When SMN News learnt of the incident we also learnt that the female victims left the island the following day out of disgust and fear. At the time commandant Stephane Brunet of the gendarmerie said while there were an accident and robbery the victims were not raped. Brunet said the suspects attempted to fondle one of the victims during that incident. To date no one has been arrested for that robbery and attempted rape.
SMN News contacted the commandant Stephane Brunet on Thursday about the rape and robbery that was committed on Wednesday night. Brunet said several gendarmes from the brigade are currently investigating the rape of the young student. However, the commandant said he has no authority to give out information on the current investigation and that members of the media must contact Prosecutor Defirmas in Guadeloupe for information. Several attempts to contact the prosecutor proved futile on Thursday.
Philipsburg:---The St. Maarten Lions Club donated five computers to the Philipsburg Jubilee Library to support the organization's efforts to upgrade its computer network system, in particular the internet café currently located in the reading room. Director, Mrs. Monique Alberts accepted the generous donation on behalf of the Philipsburg Jubilee Library. President of the St. Maarten's Lion Club stated: "This Lionistic Year's focus is on "Empowering the Youth". As such, the club's board found it fitting to make this donation to help guarantee that our youths are empowered through the acquisition of knowledge. Today, computers play a vital role in retrieving and storing of valuable information. We hope that through our contribution we inspire more young people and adults alike, who currently have no access to a home computer, to visit the library and make use of the internet and other educational materials."
Maria Buncamper-Molanus, through the Sky Is The Limit Foundation, assisted the St. Maarten Soccer Education Foundation with a financial contribution towards the foundation's annual soccer camp.
As the former Commissioner of Sports, Buncamper-Molanus has never underestimated the value of sports in a young person's life and said she took great pride in assiting the foundation with the good work it continues to perform annually.
"The benefit of sports in a child's life is immeasurable, especially in the development stages. It instills discipline, character, respect and the value of working with others. I commend the foundation for its dedication towards this annual event, all in the benefit of the youth of St. Maarten," she said.
The camp attracted approximately 100 youngsters from Dutch and French St. Maarten, Emphasis was placed on teaching the fundamental components of soccer and fostering a positive, enjoyable learning environment.
Philipsburg: --- The Concordia Political Alliance (CPA) has released the candidates that will be contesting the September 17 elections under the CPA slate. The CPA is headed by Jeffry Richardson, with three other candidates, Leo Richardson, Natasha Chumney, and Denicio Wyatte. While agreeing that this would be difficult for the new party Jeffry said his party is determined to move forward since their party is the only one that would be looking out for the native people's interest. One of their goals is to give content to the identity of the St. Maarteners.
Richardson said right now there are constant discussions on who is a St. Maartener and even the elected officials have failed to safeguard the interest of its people in the constitution. "We want to make sure St. Maarteners come first in their country while we would not be excluding anyone" Jeffry said it makes no sense having a country when the people of that country is not identified, he further explained that politicians are going out there looking for St. Maarteners abroad yet they need a committee to define who is a St. Maartener. "For us this makes no sense and a consensus is needed because St. Maarteners are becoming an endangered species."
Jeffry Richardson ran on the Democratic Party slate on at least two occasions where he said he gained a lot of political experience even though he was never elected to serve. He said he wants to serve his people and at one point decided he would have stayed away from politics but after speaking with many people he felt there is a need for someone to step up to the plate and defend the interest of the people. Richardson called on voters to elect at least one person on his slate to be the voice of the people. He also threw punches to those politicians whom he said are engaged in vote buying and are being financed by large organizations. One of the main reasons why the island is over built with concrete jungles.
"When those organizations support you and you are elected then it's payback time at the end of the day. He said the CPA will ensure that the St. Maarten people do not become extinct in their own countries. "We don't want our grass root people to become like the Amerindians and Caribs who are no longer here. We also do not want the St. Maarten people to be a minority in their country." Jeffry said if these issues are not addressed then the people will see the explosion of the social time bomb. "Crime is exploding on the island and the people are now demanding that they come first in their country. This has a very strong energy and if not properly constructed and harness then the island would find itself in major problems.
Jeffry said he is also prepared to face his critics and those who would say negative things about him. He said he knows that the CPA will be labeled as anti foreigners even though that is not the case. Jeffry said he knows that there will be people who would ridicule and attack them but they are prepared for it and if that is what it takes for the island natives to be counted then so be it.
Jeffry also signed the covenant the St. Maarten Nation Building Foundation presented to politicians on May 15 when the discussion was held on the treaty of Concordia. He said while politicians were asked to sign the document that states they are going to protect the island ancestral interest none of them signed it. Jeffry said the other members of the CPA will be signing the document in order to show their loyalty to St. Maarten.
Jeffry is also concerned with the one day time frame the two new political parties have to gather 134 signatures to qualify them to contest this election. "The island council made the changes to keep out other parties."
Philipsburg:--- Leader of the National Alliance William Marlin introduced four new candidates that will be running on the National Alliance slate on September 17. The new candidates are Jacinto Mock, Martha Simmon Thewet, two new comers to the political arena along with former members of the People's Progressive Party Christopher Emanuel and Herbert Martina. The two candidates who came from the PPA expressed their disgust as well as disappointment in the former PPA leader Gracita Arrindell who teamed up with care taker commissioner Theo Heyliger for the United People's Party. Herbert Martina describes the fusion as a hoax, a sham and a ploy to sway the voters of St. Maarten. Martina reminded the gathering of how Arrindell criticized Heyliger for his work ethics in the past, yet she chose to have him as her leader now. He said the marriage between Heyliger took place without the approval and consent of the former PPA members, and in fact his views do not coincide with that of the United People's Party.
Martina said he can be considered a reflection of St. Maarten's younger generation thus he will be focusing on sports, education, and crime. Firing shots at Arrindell also was Christopher Emanuel who said politics makes strange bed fellows and that him being on the National Alliance slate should not be a surprise to no one. Emanuel said he simply returned to his fold because he left the National Alliance to form the PPA in 2003 because he wanted something new or different. He said when the time came for him to choose where to go he had no difficulty because he knew what is right for the people of St. Maarten. Emanuel called on the voters and supporters of the National Alliance to make sure they campaign hard because he felt the National Alliance should have nothing less but ten seats for 10/10/10. He said the members of the National Alliance is not afraid neither are they scared. He spoke of some of the achievements of the National Alliance since they took office such as the implementation of compulsory education and the fact that the leader of the National Alliance and now leader of government was the only one who was able to pin point a date when St. Maarten would become country.
Jacinto Mock a Chinese national who was born in the Dominican Republic but grew up on St. Maarten surprised many with how he analyzed the situation St. Maarten and its people are facing daily.
Mock said declared that he will not tolerate financial crimes if elected, neither environmental negligence, or any other recklessness that can harm the people of St. Maarten. "Negligence and recklessness have torn our conscience, destroyed our cultural and historical sites, and endangered our environment and the people, acts which that have created economic loss and those responsible for this must be brought to justice." He called on the people to remain vigilante and look out for white collar and computer crimes which can further harm this society. Mock said the new leaders would be challenged with will have a host of work before them such as the escalating crime rate, the influx of immigrants, educational reform, health care, price control, and closing the gap between the rich and the poor. All of which must take place within the framework of human rights, equality and respect of religion as well as cultural freedom. His message for the youths is that they should live a meaningful life, and be imaginative, creative and learn to innovate. Mock warned that he will not leave without a fight to get into government.
"As for those that say that they are more experienced I need you to tell us what you did with the more years of experience, was it used to go in the wrong direction? More experience doing wrong things? Or more experience doing things wrong. Was the more experience used to lie to the people and to betray and sell them out? More experience foreign consultants?" He said even if someone has 30 years of experience as a cook they only have to poison one person to be prosecuted. While the fourth candidate introduced by Marlin holds a bachelors degree in criminal justice, and is ready to assist with the current crime situation that is plaguing St. Maarten. Simmon Thewet, a former employee of New York mayor's cabinet Rudy Giuliani and USM. She is the section head of the Bus and Taxi Drivers and advisor to the executive council. Thewet said she also developed a love for education and is concerned about the students who are not able to achieve a full academic education. Her intention if elected is to write policies that would accommodate students that are not academically strong.
Philipsburg:--- The judge of the local Court of First Instance ordered the immediate release of a young woman of Guyanese descent. The young mother had obtained residency last year through the Brooks Tower procedure. The young lady had lived on St. Maarten for ten consecutive years and had obtained legal status in 2002. She lost her status but got it back via the Brooks Tower procedure. When she filed for the renewal of her permit on August 10, 2010 she was apprehended and immediately incarcerated by local police after it was discovered that her passport was false.
One day after the arrest she was handed over to the immigration department for instant deportation. Her family was ordered to immediately provide a one way flight ticket to Guyana.
An order they felt could not be ignored without serious repercussions. As a consequence the ticket was handed over by the family and the young lady was scheduled to be put on the Saturday, August 14 flight back to Guyana. The fact that her young daughter, who grew up on the island, her husband, her mother and aunt had to stay behind (for they are all legal residents of St. Maarten), was of no issue to the local authorities.
The family contacted local Attorney Remko M. Stomp, who did not waste time filing an immediate injunction at the local court of instance. During the hearing the attorney representing the Governor pointed out that it was the full responsibility of the young lady to present the correct documents. By presenting a false passport she deserved nothing better than instant deportation. Setting her free would create a very bad precedent the attorney claimed who went to great lengths to explain his point of view. Besides she was only holding a Brooks Tower permit, she was illegally residing on the island for many years the attorney stated.
Stomp on the other hand commenced his pleadings explaining that the young lady had her passport recently renewed and was not aware of the fact that it was no good. The lady had put her trust in someone who was going to take care for the renewal of her passport. This person turned out to be a criminal of which my client has become of victim, Stomp stated. My client does not need a false document for she can proof her Guyanese identity easily with her valid birth certificate and had no problem getting original documents. Stomp presented a copy of the young lady's old passport to the judge which was perfectly original, Stomp explained.
Stomp told the judge that his client got so desperate in the notorious holding cells at the local police station that she begged the immigration officers to put her on the plane back to Guyana. The Governor's lawyer swiftly reacted to Stomp's statement stating that there actually was no case, for the lady wanted to leave the island completely voluntarily! This reaction created widespread laughter in the courtroom with Stomp complimenting his colleague for his sense of humor. The case then regained its seriousness with the governor's lawyer stating that setting the young mother free would leave the authorities with the hands in the air with similar cases in the future.
Stomp reacted stating that this was nonsense for the authorities could have indicted her or could have given her a fine. In addition the Governor could have revoked her resident permit instantly. Nothing of the likes had been done Stomp said. Stomp concluded that based on the file his client's resident permit was still valid and that the Governor therefore had detained a person that was legally residing on the island, this was a clear breach of jurisprudence and the legal guidelines for Lieutenant Governors in the Netherlands Antilles, Stomp explained.
Stomp demanded the instant release of his client. The judge ruled accordingly.
GREAT BAY:--- The Government of St. Maarten in association with the Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU) launched the St Maarten ICT Week on Sunday 15th August with a grand Opening Ceremony where speakers emphasized how fundamentally the world has changed as a result of the rapid evolution of information and communication technologies (ICT).
The first activity of St Maarten's ICT week, the 6th Caribbean Internet Governance Forum has as its theme: Designing a Caribbean information society. The theme was chosen in response to the recognition by Caribbean governments that competitive advantage must be built on the basis of knowledge and the effective use of information and communication technologies as enablers for social and economic development.
The programme commenced with Mr. Rodney Taylor, Business Development and Operations Manager of the CTU, who gave a global perspective on Internet Governance (IG) and its genesis in the World Summit for the Information Society. "The issues associated with IG are numerous, wide and complex, encompassing such matters as infrastructure development, legislation, economics, privacy and security" stated Mr. Taylor. He emphasized the tremendous potential of the Internet to positively impact the lives of every citizen of St. Maarten and the wider Caribbean.
Ms. Bernadette Lewis, Secretary-General, of the CTU then gave an overview of the work of the CTU in advancing the Caribbean Internet Governance Agenda which includes facilitating the establishment of Internet Exchange Points, encouraging the adoption of IPv6; building public awareness and educating all stakeholders on the power and potential of the Internet and its resources.
The reasons why the dream information societies has been eluding Caribbean countries was explored by Mr. Bevil Wooding Chief Knowledge Officer of Congress WBN. He pointed to the need to define the construct of an information society and then to identify the mechanisms by which it could be established. This required the formulation of strong policies to address specific issues pertaining to the information society such as education, access and legislation and the political will to implement them.
The power and value of information were discussed by Dr. Steven Bratt CEO of the Wide Web Foundation who presented the limitations of e-government and the paradigm shift to o-government, an emerging model which advocates making government data available to the public. In this way, interested stakeholders are able to develop the services that are of benefit to them, by using the raw data.
The issues of intellectual property and rights, trademarks and copyrights were also discussed in the context of the design of an information Society. Attorneys at Law, Messrs. Teni Housty and Warren Cassell from Guyana and Montserrat respectively presented erudite perspectives of how the legal issues pertaining to intellectual property should be addressed.
The first day St. Maarten ICT Week was overwhelming success and St. Maarteners are encouraged to attend the remaining sessions which are designed to explain many of the issues pertaining to information and communication technologies and innovation and entrepreneurship. All of the events are free.
The activities for the rest of the St. Maarten ICT Week are as follows:
18th to 20th - Caribbean ICT Roadshow: 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
18th to 19th - Caribbean Network Operators' Group (CaribNOG):1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
18th to 19th - ICT Camps: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
19th to 20th - Innovation and Entrepreneurship Workshop: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Philipsburg:--- On Sunday August 22nd Dutch Antillean Storyteller Wijnand Stomp will perform for the first time in St Maarten.
Stomp, in Holland better known as Mr. Anansi is a highly creative, multi-talented performer who captivates children as well as adults with his Anansi stories. The energetic mixture of physical, musical, visual and textual elements determines the strength of his performances.
The first performance of Mr. Anansi in St Maarten this Sunday will at the same time be the launching of the 'It takes a story to raise a child program" on our island.
It takes a story to raise a child is an educational program developed by Wijnand Stomp which aims at stimulating storytelling and reading. The goal is to familiarize teachers (in training), group workers and parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles with the basic principles of theatrical storytelling and tot teach them how to best make use of the power of storytelling. Only if a story is told with passion, courage and dedication does it have true impact.
In early African tradition, the griots were responsible for sharing the African history with the people and singing about the African heroes, always infusing their stories with humor. And although the griot serves the king, the king in turn cannot rule without the approval and wisdom of the griot.
In many oral traditions, and certainly in Africa, the spoken word has tremendous power.
Teachers are the present-day griots; they are the ones to tell the stories that will inspire our children. Who doesn't remember their brilliant teacher who captured the attention by telling a gripping story?
In St Maarten a group of 15 storytellers will participate in a four day "It takes a story" workshop. The program which is organized by the Philipsburg Jubilee Library and the Ark foundation will be repeated in 2011 and 2012.
The Library and the Ark foundation invite the general public to come to the Belair Centre on Sunday August 22nd for this very special storytelling event with Mr. Anansi.
Time: 4.00- 6.00 pm
Entrance: Free of charge
For more information call the library 542 2970 or send an e-mail to
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Philipsburg: --- A friend of mine recently posted on his Facebook page that he was identifying two candidates from each party of his choice in a distinct attempt at garnering support for candidates that he felt can do the country very good if they are elected to serve. When told that as a journalist he should not engage in such campaign owing to what is regarded by many as our noble profession, he defended himself by firmly pointing out that "... I am a photographer and this is my country so I have a right to endorse whoever I want," While this popular photographer/journalist whatever he wants to call himself (he interchanges the position to suit whatever point he is trying to make) wants to do he must understand that as a journalist the power of influence and command is significant as many persons from the public depend upon us so as to make vital and in many cases very critical life changing decisions.
However much more of a burning issue is the recent disclosure by very popular and veteran journalist Bibi Hodge Shaw's demand on Facebook?? that journalists /of a leading newspaper in St Maarten cease immediately their bandwagon endorsements and soft story writing which as she said evidently demonstrates their political bias and affiliation. I have deliberately decided to follow the controversy as it is my opinion that no journalist while serving actively in the profession should:
- Be involved in such practice
- Should be allowed by his/her media house to do so if that media house wants to be seen as being independent.
The journalists and their newspaper which has been able through its hard working staff and good management to build a very reputable image within the North Eastern Caribbean must know that there are rules governing print journalism and reporting in general that ought to be followed I rush to point out that the particular media house must be very cognizant that the public is looking on and more and more is becoming aware of the unprofessional and unethical behavior of some members of its staff.
Jagdish P. Sukhu quoted from the Wikipedia online: "Journalism ethics and standards comprise principles of ethics and of good practice as applicable to the specific challenges faced by professional journalists. Historically and currently, this subset of media ethics is widely known to journalists as their code of ethics or the canons of journalism."
This clearly demonstrates that the three journalists from their writings are hiding behind the cloud of freedom of speech to assert that they are doing no wrong by clearly on a regular and sustained bases writes article for three candidates that are contesting an election. Examining the writings I am very confident and certain that the three journalists are involved as over the years I have been able to ascertain their writing style and ability thus knowing that the candidates that they represent.
The United People's party headed by Theo Heyliger, the National Alliance headed by William Marlin, the Democratic Party headed by Sarah Wescott Williams and the Concordia Political Alliance (CPA) headed by Jeffery Richardson are fiercely contesting for political office and while it is every journalist's right to vote for, or to support whoever he or she wishes, there is a thin line that should be respected in terms of his or her public pronouncements, endorsement and political writings – especially if working for an independent media house.
The question that one has to ask - especially of the editor and management team - is in what capacity are these journalists employed as it is evident that some of them are mouthpieces for some of the political parties and their candidates.
I specifically ask this critically important question taking into consideration recent observations by several members of the public. The newspaper in the interest of preserving its own image and that of its reporters should explain why the Guyanese media couple (man and woman) that works there has been seen on a number of occasions entering and engaging in closed-door meetings of the UP.
The Guyanese couple referred to should publicly indicate whether they are working as journalists or as mouthpieces for the UP. To make this point much clearer recently when the UP held a closed-door meeting at the Westin Resort, the only media people allowed were this couple. Not even another media colleague who, very inappropriately chaired the UP launching was allowed to sit in at the meeting.
I also call on Theo Heyliger in the fairness of public disclosure, honesty and transparency to explain if he is engaging the services of a journalist while that journalist is performing journalistic duties full time for a local media house.
I must state that we must recognize that as journalists we should guide our lives by basic ethical principles which include principles of truthfulness, accuracy, objectivity, impartiality and public accountability. I stress that like many broader ethical systems, journalism ethics includes the principle of Limitation to harm. While I will not judge the esteemed newspaper I would state that if it is aware of the current situation and has not taken any action against the individuals who are causing it to lose its credibility and also causing the public to lose its high respect for journalists, in general, then I would say that the media house is acting irresponsibly. I am sure that the editor of this media house knows the destruction irresponsible journalism can cause.
In closing, I urge all media practitioners working with independent media houses to ensure that they pursue the truth and do not allow themselves to be used by any politician or by any special interest. Their conduct should be professional and beyond suspicion and their reporting should be fair, balanced, honest and accurate.
Philipsburg:--- "It is commendable how Insel Air has been able to offer students attending the University of the Netherlands Antilles (UNA) a discount to the over ten destinations the Curacao airline travels to," remarked Stuart Johnson President of the Youth Link Foundation. The entire board of the Youth Link Foundation believes that WINAIR should follow suit by offering students of the University of St. Martin (USM) a similar discount. Johnson is a former student of USM and the former student government association president.
"It will provide further incentives for our students as they embark on their educational journey toward completing their university studies," Johnson said. We must not rely on Government alone to take initiative but let us collectively as a community take a stand. "I would like to urge more businesses locally to follow suit by giving back to the community which can only yield positive results for everyone," he said. "As we approach our new country status it is imperative we get the involvement of everyone, because only united and together can we truly achieve our goals," he concluded. The board of the foundation has submitted a letter to the management of WINAIR requesting their consideration in this matter.
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Philipsburg:--- Last month, NAGICO Insurances introduced its revamped Corporate Newsletter
NAGICO Life Lines to its employees, agents and brokers at the company's mid-year conference.
Marketing Officer, Jimmy Challenger: "The name NAGICO Life Lines was based on three things: First NAGICO, a name that has stood strong for over twenty-five years. Secondly Life: the air we breathe, the water we drink, the fruits from the earth that we eat, the sharing and love we give and receive from our family and friends in the communities we serve, are all needed for life. NAGICO protects lives. Whether it may be through Life Insurance products or protecting our homes, cars, boats and businesses, NAGICO insurances is here to cover our lives and most valuable processions. Thirdly Lines, NAGICO extends lines of communication to all, in order to better understand internal and external challenges to ensure that NAGICO's goal to become the most highly respected insurance company of choice is not only attained but maintained through open lines of communication and an understanding of what it takes to stay ahead."
The NAGICO Life Lines Newsletter is a quarterly publication, available to the public at any NAGICO Insurance Authorized Agent or the main office on Cannegieter Street. To commemorate the launch of NAGICO Life Lines, the company made a contribution to the St. Dominic High School's participation in the European Union's Comenius Project: "The Way we were, the way we are". The Comenius Project is a school partnership where students and teachers originating from schools located in different European Countries work on common topics. Small publications on their project results are made and presented at exhibitions and on the internet. The St. Dominic High School is the only school in the Netherlands Antilles participating in the project. The students are heading to Sweden to meet their German, Italian and Swedish counterparts under the theme: Communication
NAGICO Insurances Managing Director in charge of Information Technology Mr. Vincent Haakmat presented a cheque to the students stating: "We are proud to make a contribution to help cover the costs of this project as it allows students to develop their research techniques and project management skills, while at the same time get exposure to international relations. The key to any regional or continental exchange of ideas or projects for that matter is communication."
Each student received a copy of NAGICO Life Lines and was encouraged to continue to do good work on the Comenius Project during their visit to Sweden.
Philipsburg:--- The United Task Force Against Crime (UTFAC) is applauding the police and control unit with the recent surge in controls on the roads and in the districts.
UTFAC is happy to see that police officers and members of the control unit are more active stopping vehicles while checking for weapons, stolen items, tools that can be used for robberies as well as necessary documents that includes vehicles insurance and driver's licenses.
The Community Councils Task Force Against Crime would like to remind the general public that the battle against crime is everyone's business. The police has their job to carry out and as a responsible society we should be mindful and respectful towards their tasks.
UTFAC urges everyone to remember to walk with their ID card, it is the law that everyone should be in possession of an ID card in order to show to authority when asked.
UTFAC is also asking all those that use their blackberries to send info on road controls to their mass mailing list, to refrain from doing so. The criminals also have blackberries and can plot new ways to avoid road controls and police interventions.
The community is urged to call the police anonymous tip line 108 whenever they have information on robberies and sensitive information relating to crime.
Together as a community and partnering with our police force we can take a bite out of crime.
Philipsburg: --- The College Financieel Toezicht (CFT ) has informed the executive council by letter on Wednesday that they have rejected the 2011 budget that is prepared for country St. Maarten as well as the plans government had sent them.
SMN News learnt that the executive council of St. Maarten submitted the budget on August 13 to meet the August 15 deadline with 100 million guilders in deficit and they also submitted a plan as to how the government intends to fill in the deficit.
Reliable sources say that the CFT made clear in its letter that the budget will not be accepted with such a huge deficit. SMN News further learnt that the federal government over the years has been providing St. Maarten with bogus figures as to how much it costs to maintain the police department, the prison and the other departments that are being transferred to St. Maarten when the island gets it country status on October 10 2010.
Spokesman for the CFT Gert Bergsma confirmed to SMN News that they indeed sent a letter to the Executive Council of St. Maarten on Wednesday requesting more information. The spokesman said the budget presented to them did not meet the necessary requirements laid down by law when it comes to income and spending. The CFT spokesman also confirmed that the 2011 budget that was presented to them by St. Maarten has a 100 million guilders deficit but crucial information on the budget was lacking.
He said when St. Maarten presented the budget two weeks ago they acknowledged there was missing information and that it will be sent to them within two weeks, which expires on Friday August 27th.
Even though commissioner of Finance Xavier Blackman received the official letter from the CFT on Wednesday he told members of the media on Thursday that the 2011 budget was balanced and that there were wild stories circulating about the 100 million deficits, one he considers to be humongous. Blackman said one has to understand that budgets are work in progress because the minute they receive an additional expenditure or income everything changes. However, Blackman acknowledged they encountered some issues regarding the expenses coming to St. Maarten from the federal government transfer.
It is understood that when the finance department and its staff did the calculation they realized that St. Maarten would find itself in a hole financially. The source further explained that government decided they would have made budget cuts by shifting monies around. An example given was that government felt removing part of the operational cost and cutting expenses would have done the job but the CFT said that was impossible while saying these cuts are more like wishful thinking since it is not realistic neither is it well documented.
SMN News learnt that with the new development country St. Maarten or 10/10/10 is in real jeopardy because Holland can well say that St. Maarten is not able to shoulder her expenses and such delay the constitutional process. One of the questions politicians now have to answer is how are they going to sustain the new country without enough money. One political figure said that the new development can well throw a monkey wrench in the entire process even though the island is gearing up for early elections to be held on September 17th. "This new information can be considered as political dynamite but none of the political parties that are contesting the election have a solution as to how they would remedy the situation." "While the opposition would want to jump on this for political mileage they too do not have inkling or plan to deal with a situation such as this one. They are all like children playing in a garden innocently." The focus for politicians right now is for them to say how they would finance country St. Maarten because the island definitely cannot afford it. Efforts made to reach commissioner Blackman on Thursday afternoon proved futile as he did not answer his phones.
Philipsburg:--- Leader of the Democratic Party Faction Sarah Wescott Williams expressed her concerns about the lateness in which government is delivering the drafts copies of the organic laws to the island council members which is scheduled to be discussed on Tuesday at a central committee meeting. Wescott Williams said the meeting that was supposed to be held on Monday just after the passing of hurricane Earl had to be postponed because government could not muster a quorum to start the meeting, she said a member of the DP faction was present and he waited until after 5 pm to see if that meeting would take place. While there are about eight laws to be discussed the island council lady said they have not received the draft copies for all of them. Another concern for the DP leader is the question of dollarization and what type of currency will be used in country St. Maarten.
Wescott Williams said her concern however is with the fact that only on Monday evening copies of some of the organic laws were distributed and the agenda for Tuesday's meeting has been extended. She said her faction abhors the fact that government is seeking to handle this matter in such a rush, rush fashion. Wescott Williams said her faction is between a rock and a hard place because if they come to the meeting and seek to engage a discussion they are told they are drawing out the process, and if they stay away from these meetings they would also get flack for it. Wescott Williams said while her faction is willing to cooperate and to pass the laws and if changes are to be made at a later date then can be done at a future time however, when government is going to call a meeting for Tuesday and documents relating to matters like the central bank have not been distributed and the law for governing civil servants and the law that establishes the organization for country St Maarten then they cannot allow such to pass because government is racing against time. Wescott Williams said government has said their backs are against the wall but they are not going to allow such matters to be accepted as routine procedures. The Democratic Party faction leader said her faction is willing to draw the line since they would not be able to explain the people on matters pertaining to the central bank and the civil service and the organization for country St. Maarten. Wescott Williams said while her faction will be attending the meetings they will make their point extremely clear to government and they will take the position where government cannot expect them to be at a meeting for the sake of being present.
Wescott Williams said government is saying they are being pressured by Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende who apparently told St. Maarten that if the organic laws are not passed then there will be now Round Table Conference (RTC) on September 9th. She said this type of excuse would not persuade the DP to vote for the laws if they are not comfortable with what is presented to them. However, she said her faction will be seeking the entire story on what exactly the Prime Minister said during his visit here on Sunday.
In an invited comment Leader of Government William Marlin said that St. Maarten had ten years in which to prepare these draft laws for country St. Maarten but none of it was done over the years. Marlin said one of the main reasons the draft laws are late is because the island is having some serious problems with its advisors most of whom are working part time outside of St. Maarten. Marlin said government is not withholding any documents or draft law intentionally but as soon as they get them they have to approve it in the executive council prior to sending them out to the central committee and island council.
Marlin further explained while the island secretary sent out the draft laws digitally when they were ready he personally drove around the island and delivered the hard copies of the draft laws to the members of the Democratic Party on Monday afternoon. Marlin said the only faction member who did not meet him to collect his package was caretaker commissioner Theo Heyliger. Marlin said he informed Heyliger that he was on his way to deliver the documents but Heyliger waited until he reached in front of his gate to inform him that he was unable to get out of his house because a tree had fallen. As for the cancellation of the central committee on Monday the island leader said five members from the National Alliance including island councilman Louie Laveist was there and Leroy De Weever while the other members chose to stay away. He said he tried calling some of the island council members to the meeting but somehow there were phone problems while one of the island council members informed him they did not have water or electricity and thus they were not able to make it to the meeting.
Marlin said St. Maarten has a serious deadline to meet if not there would be no RTC meeting in the Hague on September 9th. Marlin said if the factions want to postpone the RTC meeting and run the risk that St. Maarten would not become country on October 10th then these faction members should spell that out for the people of St Maarten. Marlin said when the Prime Minister came to St. Maarten some years ago and gave his famous lecture in the court house it was basically to give the island a message which was that the Dutch government and its politicians were not satisfied with certain developments on St. Maarten. Marlin said during that lecture the Prime Minister cited the WODC report and nepotism in government and several other things that the Dutch parliament and government were not happy about and if changes were not made in certain areas then the Dutch government would not support St. Maarten in becoming country. Marlin said it is almost a year ago (September 30th) since he signed the agreement with the Dutch and Antillean governments that by October 10th 2010 St. Maarten will become country. Marlin made clear that he placed all his energy and time went over the past year since he took over the leadership of government into achieving country status. "I have been attending meetings and signing agreements and getting the legislation through the different layers and channels so that St. Maarten could be ready for 10/10/10."
Marlin said these organic laws were never brought to the island council but they were submitted to the Kingdom Council of Ministers and the vetting committee who made their observations and because of this certain adaptations had to be made to the draft laws and this he said is where the issues of the advisors came into play. He said because of all of the scenarios government is running a tight schedule. Marlin said one of the things the island council members want is for government to make a schedule but they cannot do so because government has no certainty as to when these draft laws would be ready. Marlin said right now government is racing against time and they began receiving these drafts over the past 48 hours. Marlin said St. Maarten voted for a new status some ten years ago and no preparation was made. He said if the island council members are serious about becoming country then they would stop the bickering about receiving documents late because no one sent these documents late intentionally. Marlin said they have to have all these drafts laws by Friday to send to the preparatory committee for the political steering group meeting on September 6th in the Hague in preparation for the September 9th RTC meeting.
Marlin said despite the weather conditions government and its staff decided to work on Monday because they have to meet some critical deadlines. Marlin said if there are people in the council who wants to take their time they need to make that known so that government knows where they are standing. Marlin said when Prime Minister Balkenende visited St. Maarten on Sunday he informed them that the Dutch government is ready to go all the way and complete the process for St. Maarten to become country on October 10 but while they are happy with the progress the island has made there are three areas of concern which is Aruba must vote on the Kingdom Charter which is one of the requirements for St. Maarten and Curacao to get its country status. Curacao island council must vote on the constitution and it must be approved even by a simple majority while St. Maarten must have all its draft organic laws in place for the Round Table Conference to take place. Marlin said all three of issues must be addressed by each island before the process could move forward. Marlin said he was not able to send out any official notification as to what the Prime Minister said because the Prime Minister had to be rushed off of St. Maarten before the passing of Earl on Sunday evening. Marlin said the PM had to cancel his meetings with Saba and Statia and he went straight to Curacao and Aruba to address the three main concerns of the Dutch government.
Asked about the currency issue Marlin said he did not take a decision on what currency the island would use. He said if one should read the final declaration of November 2006 and they would see that it was decided at that meeting that Curacao and St. Maarten would have a common central bank and a common currency. Marlin said he did not take that decision neither is he promoting the issue however he is busy executing the decisions that were taken by the former constitutional affairs commissioner Sarah Wescott Williams. "To dollarize or not is a position that St. Maarten took several years ago when St. Maarten establishes its position on central bank and on currency." Marlin said people are telling him that the other political parties are saying that he is against the dollarization in an effort to intimidate and scare the people from the National Alliance. He said as far as he can see is that while he had nothing to do with the dollarization and currency for St. Maarten the politicians are playing politics and causing confusion over nothing in order to gain votes on September 17th.
Basseterre:--- Trinidad and Tobago celebrated its 48th Anniversary of Independence on Aug. 31, 2010. People's Action Movement Leader Mr. Lindsay Grant on behalf of the St.Kitts-Nevis Opposition party sent aletter of Congratulations to the Honourable Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar .
In his congratulatory letter to Prime Minister Persad-Bissesar, the Opposition Party Leader said, "On the occasion of the 48th anniversary of independence of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, I wish to extend, on behalf of my party and on my own behalf warm congratulations and best wishes to you and the people of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.
The congratulatory message also highlighted the prominent role Trinidad and Tobago continues to play in the development of the Caribbean Community.
Grant indicated , "There can be no doubt of the special leadership role that the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago has played within the Caribbean Community from the very beginning of the anti colonialist struggle and continuing to the present day. As we join in this celebratory moment as brothers and sisters across the Caribbean Sea, we feel confident that the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago will continue to serve as a major force in the continued development of the entire region."
The message concluded with a special expression of goodwill and solidarity to Prime Minister Kamla Persad – Bissessar and it encouraged the recently elected Prime Minister to proceed to implement the historic vision of fundamental change for the betterment of Trinidad and Tobago and the wider region.
The PAM Leader Lindsay Grant concluded, "On behalf of my Party the People's Action Movement it is my pleasure to be able to share this august moment with you at this historic crossroads in the development of both the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and the CARICOM as a whole."
Lindsay Grant and members of the People's Action Movement executive were among the specially invited guests and dignatories at the historic swearing in ceremony of Mrs Persad-Bissesar earlier this year. Mrs Persad-Bissessar was a member of the Legal Team that fought Prime Minister Denzil Douglas and the Labour administration in the landmark boundary cases of 2009.
Philipsburg:--- The hurricane exercise is schedule to begin on Thursday and will last until Sunday September 5 the 32nd infantry company of the Netherlands Marine Corps participates in the yearly Hurricane Exercise on St. Maarten. During this exercise, realistic scenarios are presented to train the marines for any kind of emergency or disaster during the 2010 hurricane season.
The first two days of the exercise the marines will conduct surveys of the shelters, their reachableness and possible alternative routes. Also they will set up a command post that will need to maintain contact with the shelters, re-establish contact with governmental institutions directly after the hurricane and coordinate the actions the marines have to take after the passage. As of Friday various serials will take place all over the island. During the simulated passing of the hurricane, the marines will spend the night in the shelters to maintain order, dealing with injured and scared people. The days following the marines will conduct foot patrols to do damage assessment and will be confronted by a group of angry citizens demanding food, water and shelter in a riot control exercise.
During the Hurricane Exercise also the St. Maarten Voluntary Corps VKS personnel, members of the Aruba Militia, Red Cross medical personnel and the fire-department are part of the different serials.
We would like to invite the press for the coverage of this important exercise. This is possible at Friday September 3, 13.30 PM at Mullet Bay.
Philipsburg:--- On Friday four new officers took the oath at the swearing-in ceremony in the presence of Acting Lt. Governor Mrs. Rachnilda J.A. Lynch-Arduin at the Government Administration Building. The names of these officers are Andrea D. De Jong, Carlos W. Muller and Juan F.J. Tromp who are coming from Aruba and are in Sint Maarten to assist the KPSSS in several ongoing criminal investigations.
Theodorus J. M. van Deventer is also one of the officers that have been sworn in. He is the Forensic expert from the Netherlands and is here to assist the Forensic Department for a period of two years. Also present during this ceremony were the Chief of police Commissioner Peter de Witte and the Acting Chief of police Commissioner Carl John.
The Hague:--- Below is the full text issued by the leader of the Democratic Party and former Commissioner of constitutional affairs Sarah Wescott Williams after the conclusion of the RTC meeting in the Hague on Thursday.
"The weather on the drive from Schiphol to the Hague on September 8th was depressing. It rained and the traffic was slow. The trip was a short one and I had traveled the day before the final RTC of the constitutional process which started in 2000. The impulse in 2000 was the referendum held on June 23, 2000 on St. Martin.
The weather in the Netherlands on the day of the RTC however was appropriate and promising. It matched the mood of all delegation members in the Hague, hopeful and expectant.
10 years, 2 months and 17 days later, here we are, awaiting only the final signing of the declaration that will herald the birth of country St. Martin.
After 10 years of hard work, incessant travels, feats and defeats, delegation members from St. Martin need to mentally adjust themselves now that this process is over. The relief of a major accomplishment is however short-lived. For all, the sights and minds are now set on the job ahead.
For me personally, there is relief and probably some unbelief until faced with the consequences of this watershed occasion in the political history of our island.
We have undone ourselves of the classification of island territory. We are not a marked territory belonging to a bigger unit any longer.
We are willing partners in a political constellation called the Dutch Kingdom.
This feat is –in my opinion- no less than the charter declaration of 1954.
Now suddenly, 10 years seem like only yesterday, as scenes of the process flash by.
I look at the signatures affixed to the many declarations and agreements signed since 2000 and then again those in 2005, the year of the first RTC of this process and there-after. I see the different Dutch ministers and state secretaries responsible for Kingdom Affairs who have been part of this process. I see the representatives of the 4 other islands and I look back at the time we have all spent together on this process. I remember the euphoria of November 2006 and the disappointment when July 2007 was not achieved as the date for the new entities.
I remember the RTC of December 2008, and the recognition that there was no turning back.
I remember the meetings, some which went on for longer than 24 hours on a stretch. I see the faces, tired, happy, disappointed. People who came and went.
I still hear the reproaches leveled at St. Martin, but also the acknowledgments of the efforts by St. Martin to fulfill the promise of constitutional change to the people of St. Martin.
I remember the times, when compromise seemed to the detriment of the St. Martin people and we refused to budge. For years we lead the charge of constitutional change.
And regardless of what we were sometimes accused of, one thing is certain, we commanded the respect of all in the Dutch Kingdom.
This RTC is for me nearly a feeling of: "What do I do with myself now?" after giving the last 10 years or so to this process.
Maybe the criticism is somewhat justified that I did all of this to the detriment of other developments on our island and of other areas that needed my attention as well. Maybe I left too much of what else was to be done up to others.
But after having been part of St. Martin's renewed attempts at constitutional change in the late eighties, when St. Martin went in search of full independence; in the mid-nineties, when attempts to restructure the Netherlands Antilles failed, it was clear that we needed to complete this process once and for all.
I thank the people of St. Martin for their confidence and critique.
What do we do with ourselves now? Now, the work has started. On the horizon remains my conviction that this status of country within the Kingdom is a means, not an end.
Another station in our development as a people.
At this station, we have to build our country, starting at the very foundation. The future of our nation will fall or stand with the foundation we provide today; with the way we lead our country; the examples we set for our youth and the images we portray to the world around us.
Our foundation begins with the strengthening of our democratic institutions, the promotion of social unity and a fair and open government.
Even as an island territory we were part of the global reality, as a country this will be even more so.
I have answered the question: "What will I do with myself." We have a country to build; a people to unite and a government to establish.
I thank all the Kingdom partners who have been part of this process throughout. The successive Dutch Parliaments and Kingdom governments, the successive Antillean governments, the governments of Aruba, the governments of Curacao, Bonaire, Saba and St. Eustatius.
I salute the strong women of the Kingdom, a relationship, born out of the Constitutional process. Ladies, it was good working with you for all our people in the Kingdom.
And in a special way, I thank the teams of St. Martin, starting in 2000. Here too we saw people come and go, but a core remained constant and committed.
Ten years of our lives have gone into this process and today, the sacrifices seem small in the face of finally having succeeded.
We stood our ground. We did not know where it would end when we started, but we knew we would not give up, could not give up.
I thank God Almighty, for our nation and its people. I thank him for his guidance and his plans for our country. And I thank him for things yet to come in his infinite wisdom.
No-one ever said it would be easy, but no-one really knew the resilience of the St. Martin people and those called to lead them.
God be praised."
GREAT BAY:--- Executive Director of the Tallahassee-Sint Maarten Foundation (TLH-SXMF) Arthur (Arturo) Lugisse, and PEECC (Progressive Educational Experiences in Caribbean Cultures) Director Sara Stone, are inviting architectural firms and professionals in the field to participate in a cultural exchange program in the area of architecture.
The joint project of the TLH-SXMF and PEECC is promoting to connect University age students from the Netherlands Antilles and in particular Sint Maarten and those studying in Florida, to come together for a series of workshops instructed by various academic scholars, historians and architects.
"The purpose of the exchange is to examine varied contextual projections of contemporary Caribbean spaces. Participants will exchange ideas and observations of the island and design an architectural drawing of an urban island community suitable to replace one of the select groups of debilitated building(s).
"The plan must consider the surrounding architectural characteristics and respect the preservation of any historical properties and or environmental areas. I believe this is a great opportunity and a great experience for students culminating into the presentation and design being put forward to the public.
"I look forward to the support and collaboration of local stakeholders on the island such as architectural firms, students and former architectural students who are now working and any interested persons," PEECC Director Sara Stone told the Government Information Service (GIS).
Architectural students, graduates, historians, cultural icons, monument preservationists, architecture firms and other interested persons can contact Sara Stone at 5871636 or send an email to
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Philipsburg:--- Commissioner of Finance Xavier Blackman at a press conference on Thursday told reporters that dollarizing St. Maarten would not be in the island's best interest since the monies that are in government coffers would have to be used to buy USD stocks to start off with, something that would run down the new country's foreign reserve. Blackman said while the topic of dollarization has become a debate over the past weeks no one seems to remember what Sir Courtney Blackman said when he gave his lecture here in 2002 at the public forum.
"To start off with the United States currency St. Maarten would have to invest about 120 million dollars to buy the initial stocks of US dollars while there will be a recurring cost of about 45 million per year which would result in the lost of all profits made by the central bank which is about 33 million dollars." Purchasing US currency he said at a 5% would also cost about 6 million USD and another 6 million is lost interest.
Blackman said the monies that is purchased (initial stock does not bear interest) and for countries that dollarize they end up with a never ending loan at 0% from the US government, owner of the United States Currency. The finance commissioner said these are only some of the financial effects of dollarization.
Blackman said while there will be a new currency the exchange rate would remain the same and people would still be allowed to have their dollars accounts and the ATM will still be distributing dollars. The commissioner said no one would lose financially because the island has not dollarized. Blackman said buying US currency is like buying cars any other products they have to export and people simply would have to pay for it. Important to note is that when becoming a country one has to have its own identity. The commissioner gave examples of the British Territories in the Caribbean whose economies are based on tourism have teamed up and has kept Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC). He said those islands do not have much of a natural resources yet their currency has remained stable against the US dollars since it was introduced in 1971. Blackman said that based on Sir Courtney Blackman's conclusion dollarization is only for countries that have lost confidence in their capacity to conduct their own affairs. Blackman said over the years St. Maarten was told repeatedly by the Netherlands that they do not believe the island is ready to manage their own affairs. "It was only on Thursday September 9th, ten years after the island voted for separate status St. Maarten managed to fully convince the Netherlands Kingdom partners that they are ready and prepared to move forward. He said giving away ones monetary authority to a foreign nation and having one's own currency is part of national pride.
Dollarize is risky business and it is not something any nation can do from one day to the next.
Blackman said lots of research was done and the decision taken both by St. Maarten and Curacao was to have one common currency. The finance commissioner said even though the Caribbean guilder will be introduced on St. Maarten nothing will change regarding businesses and the tourism economy.
Philipsburg:--- It was a joyful moment for every St. Martiner who attended the welcome ceremony and to witness the nation's address by leader of government and commissioner of constitutional affairs William Marlin who returned from The Hague on Friday with a signed Kingdom Charter that allows St. Maarten and Curacao to become country on October 10th 2010.
A motorcade by members of the National Alliance and some supporters followed the delegation to the Government Administration Building where the live address took place. Several persons supporting the National Alliance and persons who were simply overjoyed that the mission has been accomplished greeted Marlin with hug in front of the government administration Building. Among them was the leader of the Concordia Political Alliance, Jeffry Richardson.
Members of the island council were also invited to attend the ceremony but island council member and caretaker commissioner Theo Heyliger did not show up.
While supporters of the National Alliance wore their white tee shirts with the logo of the National Alliance that says "Forward Together" and members of the Democratic Party also clad in their party's red tee shirt the UP party and its supporters were no where around to witness the historical moment as St. Maarten celebrate the victory the island managed to score after ten years of hard labor.
The island leader and commissioner of constitutional affairs William Marlin made sure he acknowledged all the persons who worked tirelessly to make sure the process is completed. Among those celebrating and witnessing the nation's address on Friday was the widow of the late Vance James Jr. and his children and grandchildren. Unfortunately Denis Richardson the person who spearheaded the process of separate status was not at Friday's celebration as Richardson stayed in Holland for medical reasons.
Marlin also presented each member of the island council, former Minister Richard Gibson Sr. Governor Eugene Holiday, Acting Lt. Governor's Reynold Groeneveldt, Nilda Arduin Lynch and the Chief of Police Peter de Witte with hard copies of the Constitution of Country St. Maarten.
Following is the entire address with was transmitted live on cable television and simulcast on radio by the island Leader William Marlin.
Fellow St. Maarteners, residents of St. Maarten, friends,
On April 23rd, when the delegation returned from the Hague, I stood right here to address you, and at that time I said to you, ain't no stopping us now, we're on the move. But today, I stand before you, filled with joy, but yet humbled, and say to you: Mission Accomplished; St. Maarten will become country on 10-10-10. Another promise made, another promise kept!
Yesterday, September 9th, 2010 together with other representatives of all the Kingdom partners I signed on your behalf, the decisions of the Round Table Conference held that same day in The Hague. At that historic Round table Conference it was agreed upon and signed off on, that St. Maarten will become country on 10-10-10, October 10th, exactly one month from today.
Ten years ago they said it could not be done! Some thought it could not happen. Others didn't want it to happen. Some jumped off the train, before it even got moving, while others jumped off the train, saying 10-10-10 was not attainable! We have proved them all wrong!
Reality had always been that you the people had spoken loud and clear on June 23rd, 2000, just over 10 years ago, and we the leaders were given a mandate. A mandate to take St. Maarten out of the Netherlands Antilles and establish the autonomous country in the Kingdom – St. Maarten.
We, the political leaders of 10 years ago, the late Vance James Jr, Mrs. Sarah Wescott-Williams and your humble servant, William Marlin, had our work cut out to lead you the people to destination country St. Maarten.
Our dear brother, Vance James, did not see the promise land. In loving memory of him, I propose we hold a moment of silence.
Immediately, a work group constitutional affairs was established, several sub-groups made up of technical advisors appointed. The political steering group, made up of all the political leaders and the Permanent Committee on Constitutional Affairs of the Island Council made up of all 11 Members was also established.
It was all hands on deck. We predicted that it won't be easy, but we also said that we won't give up. But we also, never expected it to take 10 long years, but it did. It was a rough journey, but I never lost faith, I never turned my back on you, and was there at every meeting to speak up and defend our case.
When others thought it could not be done because the Dutch was constantly moving the goal posts, I stood alone in The Hague, backed by our advisors, and defended you the people of St. Maarten before the Dutch Second Chamber. And yes, I was able to convince them that their perception of St. Maarten was a wrong one.
I convinced them, that we were ready to become country and take on the responsibilities previously held by the Central Government on Curacao. We were ready to run our own affairs.
So, history was made, and will be made again, one month from today when we swear in the first Parliament of St. Maarten, with its own Chairman of Parliament elected from among the 15 Members of Parliament. History will also be made one month from today, when we swear in the first Council of Ministers and the first Prime Minister, when we have the swearing in of the first governor of St. Maarten, Drs. Eugene Holiday.
We will also have our first Council of Advice, headed by Mrs. Mavis Brooks-Salmon, and our first Audit Chamber, headed by Roland Tuitt. Yes, history will be made! But what will all of this mean for you the people of St. Maarten. How will you benefit from all this history making?
On October 10th, 2010 St. Maarten will become like a new born baby, but must also be ready to take on the responsibilities of an adult. And it cannot be left up to our leaders alone, to raise the new born St. Maarten.
We must all contribute, we must all ad our block, no matter how little it may be, or appear to be, towards the building of our new nation. A nation for the next generations to inherit.
Yesterday, after the signing of the Round Table Conference resolutions, I presented on behalf of the people of St. Maarten an English copy of the Constitution of Country Sint Maarten, to the chairman of the Round Table Conference, Prime Minister Balkenende, to the Prime Ministers of the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba, to the State Secretary Bijleveld, and to every delegation leader at the Conference and to several top advisors, from the Netherlands Antilles, the Netherlands, Aruba, Curacao and St. Maarten, who have played a role, some of them for the past 10 years, in helping guide this process to a successful end.
The constitution of Country Sint Maarten, unanimously approved by all 11 Members of the Island Council of Sint Maarten was drafted 8 years ago. It had been discussed at several public hearings and workshops and in meetings of the political steering groups and in the Central Committee of St. Maarten.
In 2008 the draft constitution was sent to the Vetting Committee, without any mention of the St. Maartener.
During the recent Central Committee meeting, we all acknowledged that no mention was ever made in the constitution, of who is a St. Maartener, not 8 years ago, not 6 nor 4 years ago and neither in the draft I met a year and 3 months ago when I took over as Constitutional Affairs Commissioner.
And during the last debate held in the Central Committee several weeks ago, just days before all 11 Members of the Island Council voted to approve the Constitution as it is today, it was agreed upon that one of the first orders of the first Parliament of St. Maarten, would be to establish once and for all who a St. Maartener is and take this up in our constitution.
I call on all St. Maarteners, those born here, those whose parents, grandparents or great grandparents were born here, and all other citizens and residents of St. Maarten, to embrace our constitution and live by it, day by day, step by step, and we will together move forward, and build St. Maarten into the strong nation we all dream of it to be.
The preamble of our Constitution reads:
We the people of St. Maarten
Confirming that we recognize the guiding principles of the Almighty God as the core of our values;
Inspired by the exercise of our universal right to self-determination as manifested in the referendum of June 23rd, 2000, when we freely opted for the status of country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands;
Being determined to work with each other, with our partners in the Kingdom of the Netherlands, with our neighbours in French Saint Martin and with all peoples of the world on the basis of freedom, equality, peaceful coexistence and international solidarity;
Declare that we are a people that believes in the principles of democracy, the rule of law, the principles of separation of powers, the dignity and value of the individual, and the entitlement of all individuals to the fundamental rights of freedoms;
Being determined to care for the perpetual maintenance of nature and the environment;
Declare that we wish to create a constitutional order based on an open and approachable government;
And therefore, in order to record these objectives and convictions, the following provisions shall enjoy the force of law as the Constitution of Sint Maarten.
Chapter 2 of our Constitution lists the fundamental rights of the people of St. Maarten, including the Freedoms, Equality, Solidarity, Citizenship and the Administration of Justice.
This is the constitution we must all live by and abide to. And once that happens, we will create the Country St. Maarten, we all dream of. But in order to achieve this, we must believe in the Constitution of Country St. Maarten and live by it.
Fellow St. Maartiners, residents of St. Maarten, friends,
Exactly one week from today, the voters of St. Maarten will be called upon to go to the polls to elect those persons who will serve as the first 15 Members of the Parliament of Country St. Maarten, who will support the first Government – the first Council of Ministers of St. Maarten.
And therefore, for just one more week, it will look like St. Maarten is divided, but we are not. We may have our political differences, which may continue to exist for years to come.
But as soon as the polls are closed on Friday Sept. 10th, we must burry our political hatchets.
I call on all leaders, to put aside our differences on October 11th, 2010, and rally round the common cause we have been struggling for all these years. This is the time to remember that we are in this together – no matter what option you voted for or what party you support.
This is the time to really put St. Maarten first – Country above self - and demonstrate our love for our island by standing shoulder to shoulder to complete this project of building our new nation – St. Maarten.
We have our work cut out for us. There's still a lot to be done. We have new structures to build and new institutions to develop, institutions that we have never had before. We have to continue to increase and improve our human resource capacity at every level. We have to prove to ourselves that we are capable of building a modern, responsible and responsive democracy.
We have come very far; we have traveled for over 10 years now, on this long and winding road, but we are not altogether there as yet. All of us must redouble our efforts to reach the destination we all have been clamoring for, for so long.
10-10-10, When we become country, is not the final destination. 10-10-10 Is a New Beginning.
We have laid the foundation for what we believe and desire to be - a strong, virile, progressive and new Caribbean nation, home to a free, God-fearing, hard working, enterprising, resilient and proud people. It is a well-known fact, that the stronger and deeper the foundation, the higher the building can rise.
The day, has already arrived when the government of St. Maarten will respect its people and be proud of its people and the people will respect their government, and be proud of their government.
We are poised at the gates of a new day that is about to dawn. But make no mistake about it; the thrill of victory we all share now is only a signal for greater commitment, dedication, and determination to the cause, a cause that is greater than any one of us.
Each victory, each step forward, is meant to actually encourage us to give our all - for the sake and benefit of St. Maarten, until the ultimate glory is achieved.
October 10, 2010 is just one month away, and yes together we will march through the gates of the promised land. But we cannot stop there, the journey is not complete unless, all of us, the government and the people, work together, hand in hand to live our Constitution, each and every article of it.
We must all ensure that:
- The hopes dreams and aspirations of all are realized
- Constitutional human rights and privileges are guaranteed, respected and protected under the law
- Our institutions of democracy are jealously guarded
- The governed and our government respect the law
- We enjoy personal safety and public peace and order
- We enjoy the right to secure work in safe conditions, on fair terms, and for just reward
- We enjoy liberty, equal opportunity and equal justice
- The human dignity and self respect of all is honoured
- Our young people enjoy opportunities for growth, prosperity and individual achievement
- Our natural resources are resolutely protected
- We respect, celebrate and find strength in our cultural heritage and in our religious diversity
- We protect our children, respect our women, venerate our elderly and care for our vulnerable
- All enjoy access to premium education, fulfilling employment, adequate and affordable housing, quality health care, effective police services, compassionate public assistance and people-based policies that propel total development, without exclusion
- We make St. Maarten an intelligent island, technologically driven and a centre of excellence in education and new media
- St. Maarten is a preferred, year round tourism destination and international travel and transport hub, and shopping Mecca, where
- St. Maarteners are involved in and benefit from all sectors
- St. Maarten is a society of ever increasing prosperity for all who want to work
Government cannot do it alone, we need all hands on deck! I therefore, take this opportunity to urge all of you, all of us, civil society and civil servants, elected and appointed officials in government, the private and public sectors, laymen and clergy, young and old, those who were born here, those who were brought here and those who have chosen to come here, to join hands together in this undertaking.
And yes, it is only when we all move Forward Together and work together, respecting each other, we will be able to really reach the promised land of Country St. Maarten.
Fellow St. Maarteners, Residents of St. Maarten, friends,
It will be remiss of me again if I do not single out the outstanding and selfless contributions of people such as Dennis Richardson, Drs. Eugene Holiday, Island Secretary Joane Dovale-Meit, former Minister of Constitutional Affairs, attorney Richard Gibson, who will go down in history as the Man who got the Constitutional Train moving when the National Alliance appointed him as Minister in 2005, also our present Deputy Prime Minister of the Netherlands Antilles and Minister of Constitutional Affairs, Roland Duncan, and several others in getting us to the gates of the promised, which will be thrown wide open for all of us to step in, as we step out of the Netherlands Antilles and embark on the journey of a New Beginning as Country Sint Maarten.
It is an honor and a privilege to have worked with you and I look forward to continuing on the same path of hard work and unselfish service to St. Maarten, with all of you.
Congratulations once again to Mr. Eugene Holiday, who has been appointed to take up office as the first Governor of Country Sint Maarten. Congratulations also to Dennis Richardson, who was recently appointed by the Island Council to serve as one of the first Members of the Council of Advice for Country Sint Maarten.
After the return of the delegation from The Hague on April 23rd, Dennis Richardson was not with us when we celebrated in this Hall, as he was still in a hospital in Colombia getting treatment following an accident he had on Holy Thursday, 3 days before, a small but determined delegation, consisting of Eugene Holiday, Richard Gibson and my person left for The Hague to take on the Dutch 2nd Chamber, during the debate on the Consensus Kingdom Laws.
And today again, Dennis could not be with us; this time he had to stay on in The Netherlands to undergo some medical tests and exams because of his April accident. Dennis, the thoughts and prayers of all the people of St. Maarten are with you, and all of us look forward to welcoming you back home soon.
In closing, I want to once again publicly thank, on behalf of the people and Government of St. Maarten, all civil servants, particularly those who work in the Secretariat for their hard work and dedication the past two months. Without their support, working long hours, seven days a week, even until 3:30 one day.
And on the day Hurricane Earl passed St. Maarten, these young women were out by 2 in the afternoon to continue working for their country, leaving their homes and family behind, some of them without water and or electricity.
Thank you, Cassandra, thank you Angelique, thank you , thank you thank you , thank you , thank you.
A big thank you also to the legal experts, Robert Vennix and Iliana Pasman-Schotborg who put in days of long hours to finalize the Constitution of St. Maarten and all the Organic Laws and Legislation needed for us to pass the Kingdom Test to become Country.
Let us be grateful to the Almighty for allowing us to reach this milestone, and pray that he will continue to crown our efforts with success. Indeed, with God on our side, we shall continue to move forward together to 10-10-10, to Country St. Maarten, to the Dawn of a New Beginning.
God bless St. Maarten.
It is now my distinct pleasure and honour to call on the members of the Island Council and Executive Council to accept a hard copy of the English translation of the Constitution of Country St. Maarten.
Council Lady Wescott-Williams and Councilman Rodolphe Samuel received their copy in The Hague during the Round Table Conference on Thursday.
Cul de Sac:-- Sportsman and cricket pioneer Imran Macsood along with Commissioner of Sports Frans Richardson unveiled the plan for the new state of the art stadium that government intends to build if re-elected. Macsood said hundreds of thousands of dollars were spent on getting the technical drawings and conducting the necessary studies to build the stadium next to the Little League Stadium on Pond Island. Commissioner Frans Richardson said the stadium would have more than a well lighted cricket field, instead it will have a seating capacity of 10,000.
Marigot:--- The Board of Administration of SEMSAMAR met on September 10, 2010. A motion was put during this meeting, requesting the dismissal of the President in office of the SEMSAMAR, Mr. Louis Constant FLEMING, elected in December 2009. This motion was adopted by a majority.
Following the adoption of this motion, Mrs. Annette PHILIPS was elected to the post of interim President of the Board of Administration of the SEMSAMAR.
"I thank the Board of Administration for entrusting me with the interim presidency, declared Mrs. PHILIPS. I shall convene the Board of Administration of SEMSAMAR within the time prescribed by our Articles of Incorporation for the election of the new President of the Board."
Semsamar administration reminds the community that Mrs. PHILIPS has been an administrator of SEMSAMAR for three years and that she has always defended the interests of Saint-Martin in this company where the Collectivity holds 51% of the shares. Mrs. PHILIPS is a Territorial Councilor of Saint-Martin.
Airport:--- On Sunday, Customs Officers at Princess Juliana International Airport during their regular checks of the incoming passengers from Curacao confiscated approximately 2 kilos of cocaine from a male passenger.
Customs detected a passenger who was acting nervous during the routine controls. The Customs Officers on duty decided to control this male passenger more rigorously. Control was done on his body, nothing was found. During the control of his suitcase, the Officers noticed that the suitcase was heavier than usual. Due to a more rigorous inspection of the suitcase in question, Customs officers found out that the suitcase consisted of a so-called double bottom and double sides. The drugs were planted in a very professional and ingenious way to the sides and bottom of the suitcase.
The passenger in question with the initials J.L., born and resides on Curacao was detained by the officers and brought to the Customs station (ward) for further interrogation.
J.L. is currently going through a series of interrogations at Customs to find out if the drugs that was found in his possession, were intended for the local market or the European Continent. After testing the white substance that was found hidden in the sides of the suitcase, it was proven to be Cocaine. Head of Customs Anthony Doran said due to the investigation more information cannot be released.
Strasbourg, France—Today the Grand Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights unanimously held that media premises are exempt from police searches, marking a major victory for press freedom across the continent.
"This ruling was an acid test for the Court and for media freedom across Europe," said Geoffrey Robertson QC, counsel for a coalition of intervening organizations. "It sets a high benchmark for protection of journalistic materials and will force police and prosecutors across Europe, from Russia to France, to change their practices."
In its decision in Sanoma v. the Netherlands, the Court reversed an earlier ruling and held that police cannot search media premises or seize journalistic materials unless they can show it is absolutely necessary in the investigation of a serious crime and have obtained a judicial warrant.
"A number of recent judgments had raised questions about the European Court's commitment to the original principles of its Article 10 jurisprudence," said Darian Pavli, legal officer at the Open Society Justice Initiative. "Today's ruling reaffirms the vital importance of free media as a cornerstone of any democratic society."
The judgment upholds and builds on earlier rulings such as Goodwin v. UK, which established the right of journalists to protect their sources.
"In this judgment, the European Court lays down a clear marker for the protection of journalistic materials," said Peter Noorlander, legal director at the Media Legal Defence Initiative. "This will force a change in law and practice across Europe, not only in countries like Russia and Romania but also in France and the Netherlands, where new legislation is now required."
"The Court today said in the clearest terms that all European nations must have strong laws that protect the media's fundamental right to confidential sources in order to ensure the public's right to know. Every country must now review their laws and ensure that these rights are fully respected." said David Banisar, Senior Legal Counsel for ARTICLE 19.
The Media Legal Defence Initiative, ARTICLE 19, the Committee to Protect Journalists, Guardian News and Media Limited, and the Open Society Justice Initiative intervened jointly in the lawsuit, with support from the Associated Press, Bloomberg News, Index on Censorship, the European Newspaper Publishers Association, Condé Nast Publications, Hearst Corporation, the National Geographic Society, the New York Times Company, La Repubblica, Reuters, Time Inc., the Washington Post Company, and the World Association of Newspapers and News Publishers.
(SW Radio& Philipsburg Broadcasting)
Philipsburg:--- NA Candidate #7 Patrick Illidge has pledged Fls. 1000.00 monthly to social causes if elected to Parliament, this pledge has come about based on the many requests by many persons in need within the different districts in St. Maarten.
Illidge said "While on the campaign trail I have encountered many persons who are facing many different social hardships, it is somewhat overwhelming but I am committed to bring about solutions to these problems, you can lean on me." The NA Candidate is of the opinion that taxpayers money will be paying his salary so it is only fair to contribute part of his salary to the people. Once elected the funds will be dedicated to social concerns affecting single parent homes, elderly persons living alone, foundations that assist the community on a yearly basis, youth development and scholarship assistance for youngsters who excel in their academic studies.
Additionally, the NA candidate in collaboration with Prime Distributors in Cole Bay has donated over 300 boxes of basic food item to families in need. The recipients have have expressed much surprise and gratitude for the donation.
Philipsburg:--- With the contributions to the final product of the Constitution of Country St. Maarten fresh in the minds of the Christian Community, the St. Maarten Christian Council, The St. Maarten Ministerial Foundation and the Seven Day Adventist Churches embarked on meeting with the political parties involved in the September 17th 2010 early elections.
The first meetings were with the UPP & CPA and NA while the DP could not participate because of scheduling problems. The UPP had as a redline during the discussion that they were of the opinion that the Christian Community has been too passive and should more take on the profiling of e.g. SHTA.
On the separation of church and state the party upheld that principle but felt too much authority has been given to government to dictate how things should be done. They were of the opinion that the churches must be prepared to get involved. The UPP envisaged the church via Culture and Education introducing Christian principles. As for Prayer at the start of all meetings, the party will encourage this as well as legislating the need for a chaplain.
The UPP wants to have all stakeholders engaged in a discussion on nudity on the streets and carnival.
The healthcare is the most expensive element in government, however the UPP felt the Medical Centre should be brought the standard of state of the art with telecasting operations. A conscious push will be made to emphasize the programmes during the terms of Commissioners Meyers as far as preventative methods and using generic drugs to reduce the cost of healthcare. We were further referred to the manifesto of UPP that would be brought to the Christian community.
In education the party would emphasized the programmes of no child must be left behind.
In economy the emphasis would be to invest in trade and they will make sure the labour law is applied and Seven Day Adventist will not be discriminated. The UPP is against same sex marriages, and euthanasia.
The CPA stands for a close working relationship with the Christian community, but believes in the separation of church and state. They believed that the persons chosen for Parliament must be examples.
A chaplain must be definitely appointed for Parliament as this also avoids corruption in Government.
The CPA will call for more consultation between clergy and government.
A cabinet minister of Ecclesiastic Affairs is something they will certainly support and implement prayer, while supporting the on going annual events financially.
The CPA is against same sex marriages while they feel that government and the Christian community must set up offices to counsel those wanting to go into this. On abortion the CPA feels it is something one should be very careful with, while the party has not yet looked into euthanasia. But the party is contra hanging.
On education, the party has no problem with compulsory education, but feels it should be tied to a strong immigration policy.
The party feels that on healthcare much collaboration should be sought with the French side and other islands in the vicinity, especially to reduce the costs of healthcare.
The manifesto was not yet ready but as soon as it was complete copies will be forwarded to the Christian community.
The National Alliance was the third party to individually sit with the churches. On the matter of separation of church and state, the party said that while there are and must be clear lines of responsibilities between Church and state, there cannot be a total separation of both, since they both need to work together in order to fulfill their responsibilities.
On the philosophy of prayer before meetings, National Alliance believes that while the idea of prayer at the annual opening of parliament is a good idea, implementing this will need to be properly discussed for its application.
The National Alliance further believed that the Public Religious services are important and that they have played an important role in the spiritual life of the nation in the past. The N.A. Government will continue to support these ventures in every way it can.
While individuals cannot be forced to take part in these activities, the N.A. Government will encourage and ensure as much as possible that its Government leaders support these services.
On the cardinal points of Same- sex marriage, abortion and euthanasia as social ills, the National Alliance Party does not have an expressed corporate stand on the matters; members of the N.A. Government do have their own personal views. The matter will be more centered on.
The morals of the country that are being trampled on and the N.A. believes that there are laws which regulate these issues, and these laws must be looked at and the necessary steps taken to enforce these laws.
The National Alliance feels that St. Maarten is a signatory to the International Human Rights treaty, and so all persons when taken into police custody must be treated with dignity and availing their rights to them. The N.A. Government will continue to ensure that good practices are upheld. The N.A. Government believes that every child should be and must be afforded the right to an education, and so they will continue to implement this program. Finances have been and will continue to be made available for this program. There must be a proper system to ensure that issues concerning immigration and the compulsory education work hand in hand.
Philipsburg:--- The police department will be taking on the responsibility of safety and security on Election Day Friday September 17th 2010 announced police spokesman Ricardo Henson.
The police spokesman said the police will be responsible for the transporting of all ballot boxes to the various polling stations prior to the opening of these stations on Friday morning. Henson said the police would also transport the ballot boxes at the end of election-day to the main voting bureau which will be at the government administration building.
Henson said police would be busy providing security around all polling stations and they would also stop persons who are engaged in holding car rallies without the necessary permits. Police would also take legal measures against those persons who did not obtain a permit from the chief of police to hold these rallies.
GREAT BAY:--- Civil servants from several Ministries and the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) on Wednesday concluded three-days of attending the DevInfo User and Database Administration Training Workshop that took place at the UTS Training and Development Center.
The workshop is part of the Island Government's commitment towards the implementation of the Millennium Development Goals (MDG). The main objective of the workshop is to train participants in the administration, maintenance and the usage of the database.
DevInfo will be used to support the monitoring of progress towards the achievement of the MDG, the results of which will be directly applicable to the strategic planning of the Government of Sint Maarten.
It is a database system that is used to compile and disseminate data on human/social development.
The trainees were enthusiastic and have spoken very positive about the multi-usage of the DevInfo, for more purposes than MDG issues alone. At the end of the third day, the trainees received DevInfo certificates from the organizers.
The DevInfo workshop forms part of the activities of the project, "Capacity Development for Nation Building of the Netherlands Antilles."
It is a partnership agreement between the Government of the Netherlands Antilles and the United Nations Development Program in Trinidad & Tobago, Suriname, Aruba and the five Dutch Antillean islands.
The workshop provided participants with hands-on expertise and comprehensive knowledge in setting up the DevInfo application software as another tool to support the CBS. By making DevInfo available to the civil servants in the various government ministries, employees can access a centralized data source and use this data for reports, proposals and policymaking.
DevInfo was developed by UNICEF in cooperation with the United Nations System to assist the UN and Member States in tracking progress toward the MDG.
In 2002, DevInfo was proposed as a standard software package for the whole UN system. Its specific purpose is to store existing data, identify gaps in the MDG indicators, provide a single entry point for data on the MDG indicators, and disseminate information simply and attractive.
The workshop was organized by former Directorate Department of Projects & Programs (DPP, now BAK, Department of Internal Affairs and Kingdom Relations) in collaboration with the Federal Government Department of Development Cooperation (DEVCO) and the UN.
Cole Bay:--- Unknown persons for no apparent reasons have been ripping off the hand-made wooden star of "David" that is on top of the Bethel shack at the look-out point on Cole Bay Hill. Owner of the wooden building and food truck on the hill Harold Jack said this is the third time persons have been tearing off his star and throwing it on the side of the building. Jack said he nailed on the star with huge nails but whoever is behind the vandalism does not seem to care about his personal property.
Philipsburg:--- The committee heading the main voting bureau was surely not happy on Monday when the number two candidate on the National Alliance slate Frans Richardson requested that all the ballots that were casted on Friday be recounted.
Richardson and the number three candidate George Pantophlet delivered a letter to the chairman of the main voting bureau prior to making his request known orally during the verification process. Richardson said the request to recount the ballots is on behalf of the National Alliance and the reason they gave was because of the high number of invalid votes.
After making his request the committee members were heard saying they could have looked at the invalid votes and not all the ballots but Richardson insisted that he wants a total recount. This of course did not sit well with the committee members some of them were heard saying that the recount is a total waste of time.
However, election expert Louis Duzanzong said that the recount can change the outcome of the election if they find mistakes. Duzanzong said should the National Alliance get about 100 votes then they would have been able to get the other residual seat that was given the United People's Party which would give the National Alliance the eight seat majority ruling out any coalition. "Right now we have to see if this recount would change the quota."
As soon as the committee began the recounting several mistakes were found. There were invalid ballots counted as good ballots for the leader of the United People's Party, while a ballot belonging to the number 13 candidate on the UP slate Silvia Meyers was counted for Heyliger. Another error found Monday morning is the 15th polling station had awarded 30 votes for the 23rd candidate on the UP slate Octavio while the votes belonged to the number 22 candidate Jesus Richardson. Johan "Janchi" Leonard also lost one vote from polling station number two as they counted an invalid vote for a good vote in favor of Leonard. Leader of the Democratic lost one vote since it too was an invalid vote, while Frans lost one vote which was also invalid.
The recount is continuing and might end early Tuesday morning. In an invited comment chairman of the main voting bureau Reynold Groeneveldt said that the committee is finding some discrepancies and it has to be corrected. "Our aim is to make sure the final results are 100% correct" Groeneveldt said.
In the meantime it must be noted that the committee consists of the father of UP candidate Jesus Richardson and the brother of DP candidate Leroy De Weever.
SMN News has been reliably informed that the UP party was informed since Saturday that an error had occurred with Jesus Richardson's and Octavio's votes at polling station number 15. SMN News further learnt that due to the notification the UP party held a meeting early Monday morning to discuss the findings before the verification process and recounting. If the error was not found then Octavio could have become a parliamentarian based on a mistake made during the counting of the votes.
SMN News tried to obtain verification to see if the relationship with the two candidates and members of the committee would create a situation of conflict of interest. However, the chairman of the main voting bureau was busy during press time with the recounting process and he could not elaborate on the relationship of the committee members and the candidates.
Philipsburg: --- An unconfirmed report has reached SMN News indicating that an official from the VNA (Dutch Secret Services) was on the island during Election Day. The source said the official is behind the investigation of a politician. SMN News understands that the VNA official visit to St. Maarten has nothing to do with the illegal phone tapping that has been reported in Curacao.
SMN News is trying is secure more information on this story and we will publish it as the information becomes available.
In June 2010, the consumer price index for St Maarten has increased by 0.3 percent compared to April 2010.
Over the period of twelve months ending with June 2010, average consumer prices have increased by 3.0 percent compared to the same period one year earlier.
This appears from data presented by the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) today.
Price changes between April and June 2010
In June, consumer prices in St Maarten were 0.3 percent higher than in April.
Food (-0.3%), Clothing and footwear (-0.3%) and Transportation and communication (-0.8%) dropped in price, whilst Beverages and tobacco (+1.7%), Housing (+1.0%), Household furnishing and appliances (+0.5%), Medical care (+0.1%), Recreation and education (+0.1%) and Miscellaneous (+0.1%) became more expensive.
The three largest consumer categories, Food, Housing and Transportation and communication, together forming almost 70 percent of total consumption, accounted for the most noteworthy price changes of specific products.
First of all, expenses for own transport vehicles (consumption category Transportation and communication) decreased by 2.7 percent, caused by the price fall of gasoline with 7 percent.
Secondly, energy expenses (consumption category Housing) increased by 3.6 percent due to the fact that electricity (+4.0%) became more expensive.
Finally it is remarkable that the consumption category Food showed a price decrease in June, albeit by less than half percent. The main factor of influence here was the price of potatoes, vegetables and fruits dropping 3.5 percent, mainly caused by the prices of cabbages (-19%), cucumbers (-19%), tomatoes (-28%) and paprika's / sweet peppers (-32%) tumbling down.
Long-term inflation
In June 2010, the twelve-month average of prices for St Maarten was 3.0 percent higher than in June 2009. This development implies that the inflation on the island has reached the highest level since April 2009, when an inflation of 2.9 percent was registered.
According to the CBS, the twelve-month average of prices is a good indicator for long-term inflation. Thus the increasing trend of inflation in St Maarten continues, albeit in an ever slowing pace.
Great Bay:--- The Molasses restaurant at the Great Bay hotel was packed to its capacity on Tuesday evening with mostly members and supporters of the Democratic Party, dressed in red to witness the historic signing the "Country St. Maarten Accord" to form the first coalition government for country St. Maarten.
Members of the Democratic Party including its leader Sarah Wescot Williams waited more than an hour before the leader of the United People's Party Theodore Heyliger and his elected candidates and supporters could arrive for the signing.
President of the Democratic Party Michael Ferrier told the gathering that the accord took four long and hard days to negotiate and it was done by Andy Wescot representing the Democratic Party and Joseph Richardson representing the United People's Party. The Accord reads that the United People's Party and the Democratic Party have agreed that the Democratic Party would have the positions of Prime Minister, General Affairs, including the responsibility for Article 2 sub V1 Community Development, Minister of Plenipotentiary in The Hague, Public Health, Social Development and Labour and the Deputy Chairperson of Parliament. While the United People's Party would have, Deputy Prime Minister, Deputy Minister of Plenipotentiary in The Hague, Chairperson of Parliament, VROM and infrastructure, Tourism and Economic Affairs, Traffic and Transportation and Telecommunication as well as Finance, Justice, Education, Youth Affairs, Sports and Culture.
The United Peoples Party will be appointing the shareholder representatives for EDC, PJIAE group of companies, GEBE NV, and the harbor group of companies. While the Democratic Party would appoint the shareholder representatives for Post NV, TELEM group of companies, and Winair NV.
The two political parties that would be forming the first coalition after Friday's historic election have also agreed to jointly appoint the appointees to the government entities such as the Central Bank, Foundation Land Registry, Supervisory councils—SER, General Auditing Chamber and the Council of Advice.
The Dutch Embassies and consulates will also be appointed jointly for those mentioned and not mentioned, Dominican Republic, Washington, Cuba, Trinidad, Venezuela, and Miami.
Should parties encounter differences of opinion then an arbitration committee will be appointed consisting of two members one from each of the parties.
A governing program along with the parties political programs will form the basis for a governing program, which shall be drafted within sixty days after they take office.
The historic accord was signed by the leaders of the two parties Theodore Heyliger of the UP party and the Democratic Party, and co-signed by the other elected candidates from both political parties, signing as witnesses were Michael Ferrier of the Democratic Party and Franklin Meyers of the UP party.
President of the UP Franklin Meyers took a quote from the President of the United States that said when people have worked and sacrificed together all things are possible. Meyers said the people that have voted for the UP and the DP have voted against the National Alliance and that must be respected. Meyers said the two parties would also work to make St. Maarten what it should be. While the president of the DP said they have a job to do and they will do it well.
Leader of the United People's Party Theodore Heyliger in his address has guaranteed all persons living on St. Maarten especially those persons who did not vote for the UP party full representation. Heyliger said he is not a vindictive person and he wants to assure those persons that did not vote for the UP or DP that they will be represented, they will get the best in education, health, justice and in every other field that they can portray on St. Maarten. Heyliger also put to rest the constant rumors that spread like wild fire on Tuesday that states that he was either arrested or questioned by police. "I want to assure you I have not been any place else except driving around in my car." Heyliger said that putting together the accord has taken quite some time. He said the negotiations started even before the polls closed on Friday. He said they took governing St. Maarten very seriously.
Heyliger said he is refreshed after a very bitter campaign, a campaign he said that has shown new levels of participation in all different fields however, they are there to bury all differences and to work toward the interest of the people of St. Maarten. Heyliger said that the UP is the youngest in the coalition and they have signed an agreement with the oldest party on the island thus they now have all the levels of experience the UP party did not have. Heyliger said he is thankful for the candidates that would be joining him in parliament because there are those that were looking to divide those elected on the UP slate.
Leader of the Democratic Party Sarah Wescot Williams in her speech said the team that worked on the accord was small but they are motivated by securing that the future of St. Maarten is at the heart in everything they do. Wescot Williams said governing is not going to be an easy task and maybe that is the reason the UP and the DP has joined to form the next government for country St. Maarten. The DP leader also said that they began the negotiations before the polls closed on Friday simply because the people needed to know that serious people are committed to making sure the foundation for country St. Maarten is a solid one. Wescot Williams said she also hated to disappoint those who thought the agreement was signed before Election Day. After the signing the signatories held a toast to celebrate what they described as a historical moment.
Philipsburg:--- The police department is calling on members of the public to assist them with information pertaining to a shooting spree in the St. Peters area. According to police spokesman Ricardo Henson at approximately 9am on Thursday police and the detective department responded to Apricot Road St. Peters where it was reported that a number of shots were fired. Henson said police believed the shots were fired by the occupants of a small vehicle. However, police did not locate the vehicle neither did they receive any reports from anyone who might have been shot.
The police spokesman said that evidence was found at the scene which showed that a number of shots were indeed fired. He said so far no one was taken to the St. Maarten Medical Center for treatment of gunshot wounds. The police and forensic department are continuing with the investigation in this case.
Philipsburg:--- Caretaker commissioner Theo Heyliger and leader of the United People's Party was the only member of the island council who did not attend the official farewell ceremony held on Thursday at the government administration building for Governor General of the Netherlands Antilles General, Fritz Goededrag. In an invited comment to SMN News, Heyliger said he called the governor general to wish him all the best even though he did not attend the ceremony.
The governor general is currently visiting the islands saying goodbye to his colleagues now that his term is about to end when the Netherlands Antilles is dismantled on October 10 2010. The farewell ceremony was held at Maho Sonesta on Thursday evening.
GREAT BAY:--- The Collective Preventive Services (CPS) is advising persons at risk at the onset of the annual flu season, to get their flu shot from their family doctor.
It is documented that one of the best ways to protect against the flu is to get vaccinated each year. Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses, and people of any age can get it.
It can be a mild to severe illness which at times can lead to death. One of the best ways to reduce the chances of getting seasonal flu and lessen the chance to transmit it to others is to get a 'flu shot.' Other ways are to take preventive measures or good health habits.
The influenza vaccine protects against seasonal flu. Influenza is not just a common cold. The 'flu shot' is given with a needle, usually in the arm.
Like with all vaccines given, the body develops antibodies when one gets the flu vaccine. These antibodies provide protection against infection with the only viruses that the vaccine is made of.
Persons who are at risk and should take their seasonal flu vaccine include: person's 65-years and older; pregnant women, persons with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease, and persons with immune compromised conditions.
Persons who live in nursing homes and other long term care facilities and health care workers should also get their flu shot.
Good health habits that are essential and protect against the flu include covering your cough and washing your hands often which can help stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses like the flu.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick, and keep your distance from others to protect them from getting too sick. Follow your doctor's advice; stay home when you are sick. It helps prevent others from catching your illness.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or cough in your elbow, when you need to cough and sneeze, it may prevent those around you from getting sick.
Germs often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
Practice other good health habits such as getting plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage stress, drink plenty of fluids, and strive to maintain a nutritious diet.
Persons are recommended to check with their family doctor concerning the flu vaccine and any additional information that you are interested in receiving.
Philipsburg:--- A man is now behind bars for beating one of his female relatives with a 2x4 wood. Police spokesman Ricardo Henson in his police report said police responded to Virgin Gordia Drive on Monday for a case of ill treatment. Henson said police encountered a woman at the scene identified as J.M.P with severe injuries to her right ankle. She was taken to the St. Maarten Medical Centre for treatment.
The victim told police her relative took a piece of wood and beat her which resulted in the injuries to her ankle. The police spokesman said shortly after the suspect identified as V.S.L surrendered to police. He was immediately arrested. The investigation is currently ongoing.
Philipsburg:--- A man identified as S. E, resident of Tangerine Road has filed a complaint with detective department stating that early Monday morning he caught a man in his house with a loaded shotgun. The victim told police that he was awakened when he heard noise from shattered glass coming from his front door area. S. E told police that when he approached his door he saw a young man whose face was covered with a mask armed with a shotgun. He said the suspect aimed his gun at him threatening to shoot.
The suspect further explained to police that he ran away from the scene fearing for his life, while running away the culprit fired two shots both of which missed him.
The man said later two other persons showed up at his house in a blue vehicle and they stole his 125cc scooter. Currently the special armed robbery unit is investigating the case.
GREAT BAY:--- The Frock & Other Poems by Laurelle "Yaya" Richards has just been released by House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP).
In the book, "Richards grounds her verse in the history and culture of St. Martin," said the Jamaican/US author Geoffrey Philp.
Yaya Richards had completed working on The Frock with her publisher at the time of her death at age 55, on May 26, 2010, said Jacqueline Sample, president of HNP.
The St. Martin folklorist hailed from St. Louis where she organized annual food fairs and promoted knowledge of folk-life, said Sample.
The folk, modern, and personal elements are reflected by Richards in poems such as "Silk cotton grow," "Value of a woman," and "Abandoned salt pond," which is dedicated to the last generations that picked salt in the Grand Case Salt Pond.
Yaya's poems, like her signature piece, "The Frock," grew out of her Spoken Word presentations at schools and cultural shows throughout the island. "The poems celebrate the island and the proud heritage captured in the traditions and music of her people," said Philp, who is also a lecturer at Miami Dade College.
Gracing the book's cover is a larger-than-life painting of Yaya wearing her colorful folk persona frock. The oil painting is by leading Caribbean impressionist Roland Richardson.
The art link of the collaboration that produced the slim volume of verse inspired art gallery director Laura Richardson to say that, "As an emerging nation, St. Martin's cultural consciousness is also growing in leaps and bounds."
"House of Nehesi's role as a publisher, Roland's role as an artist, Laurelle's role as a writer, all work in unison as beacons of light, reaching out to the universal society that hungers for new fresh thoughts from all points on the globe that perpetuates growth and evolution," said Richardson.
"Miss Yaya serves as an actual and symbolic cultural nexus from the villages of St. Louis, which includes Freetown, and Rambaud, ... a depository of the oral tradition and collective memory," wrote educator Lenny Mussington in the book's introduction.
The Frock & Other Poems is "At times playful, sometimes stern, the poems do not avoid the conflicts that plague her home and by wider implication the Caribbean," wrote Philp in his review of the new seminal collection.
Linguist Rhoda Arrindell was the language editor and Sundiata Lake designed the cover and illustrations for Yaya's book.
"The Collectivity's government in Marigot provided a cultural arts sponsorship for the title as another concrete investment in the nation's literature," said Sample.
The Frock & Other Poems is available at Roland Richardson Gallery in Marigot, Van Dorp in Simpson Bay and A.T. Illidge Road, Arnia's bookstore at Bush Road/Zagersgut Road, Philipsburg Jubilee Library, and www.houseofnehesipublish.com.
Airport:--- Upon arrival back from the Netherlands from his swearing-in as the First Governor of Country St. Maarten by Queen Beatrix, Governor Eugene Holiday was welcomed by staff of the Princess Juliana International Airport Operating Company, and immediate family members. Two students from the Oranje School, where he started his education, were on hand with their teachers to present the Governor and his wife Marie Louise with a plaque and a bouquet of flowers. Obviously surprised by the welcome, Governor Holiday, in a short, impromptu speech, said that it is this type of support from family and friends that would make his "honorable task" possible. PJIAE has planned an elaborate farewell ceremony for drs. Holiday, who has been at the helm of the company for twelve years, leading the execution of multiple important projects for airport and island. Airport personnel was working tirelessly up to late last night, making preparations for a ceremony befitting their pride of the fact that one from their midst was chosen to be Country St. Maarten's first Governor.
Philipsburg:--- Employees of the federal tax receiver's office on St. Maarten gathered at the government administrative building on Monday morning hoping that the commissioner of finance and personnel affairs Xavier Blackman could meet with them to discuss their statuses.
Ingrid Romney of the Inspectorate of taxes and WICSU told SMN News that they are six days away from 10/10/10 and while the workers of the tax department would fall under country St. Maarten they did not receive their lands besluit for them to know their statuses neither did they get their back payment and other adjustments that are due to them.
Romney said the workers were promised this, that and the other but there was nothing on paper meaning it was not rectified. Romney said it has been a few weeks now they were told that the lands besluit would have been ready and it was not. She said the date for Country is fast approaching and no one from the island government neither the federal government has seen it fit to meet with them to update them on their statuses. Romney said because the workers were not getting what is due to them and answers they decided to go to the government building to seek out the information.
Alicia Barry representative of ABVO told the workers that the Minister De Lannoy had informed the ABVO that she was going to fax the lands besluit to the St. Maarten and it would have been distributed to them on the spot. Barry said the workers of the Federal Tax Department did not get their re-evaluations since 2002 while the other federal civil servants working in other departments on the island have received theirs, and as such the workers she represents wants to get their evaluations and they are also demanding that Curacao pay them out before St. Maarten takes on its country status. "We want to know how much money is owed to us, and we also want to know how and when our monies will be paid to us."
The workers and their representatives were received by head of Finance and future Minister of Finance for Country St. Maarten Hiro Shigemoto who eventually made contact with the Minister was able to get the Lands Besluit which was distributed to the workers while they were staging their silent protest.
Barry said Shigemoto has promised the union and the workers to get the monies that are owed to them from Curacao so he could make their payments. "Now we have our Lands Besluit we are going back to work but we are going to be here again to get our monies," she concluded.
Airport:--- Custom officers have successfully arrested a 35-year-old Jamaican passenger with initials J.W.G on Saturday, October 2nd.
J.W.G. tried to smuggle about 2 kilo's of marijuana to St. Maarten via Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIA).
The almost 2 kilo's of marijuana was packaged and stashed in soft drinks which were boxed in a case.
Local Chief Customs Officer Anthony Doran states that once again the drugs were stashed in "an ingenious way". Mr. Doran also mentioned that lately the drug smugglers are using complicated and professional methods to try to smuggle drugs via our airport and harbor.
Despite the fact that the department consists of very little staff, the staff is giving their maximum effort to capture those, who are trying to pass through the controls with illicit drugs. Customs are working diligently to keep illicit drugs off our streets and out of the lives of our children.
Due to the ongoing investigation, further information on this case cannot be released at this moment.
Philipsburg:--- Prosecutor Jan Bart Develing surely did not have a good day in court on Wednesday when he appeared before judge H.H.M Van der Leur to answer charges of hit and run. Judge van der Leur ruled immediately after hearing the arguments that Develing is guilty as charged and sentenced him to pay a fine of Naf750.00 rather than sending him away as requested by prosecutor Angela Leomar.
Prosecutor Develing notified the court that he had already submitted a letter of resignation to the attorney general at the end of September. Develing also admitted to the hit and run charges but said he felt that he was under attack by some robbers. Prosecutor Leomar told the court that if the suspect Develing had only taken the time to look at the vehicle he slammed into he would have seen that it was a man and woman in the vehicle and not a bunch of gangsters as he presumed.
Develing was involved in the accident on August 28th. He was arrested shortly after the accident and taken to the Philipsburg Police Station where he was kept for more than five hours. The investigating report was sent to Aruba for analyzing before being sent to Curacao where the decision was taken to prosecute Develing. Develing was sent on leave a few days after the accident occurred pending the outcome of the investigation and court case.
Philipsburg: ---The executive council has approved Naf500, 000 for the 10/10/10 celebration announced commissioner Roy Marlin on Thursday. Marlin told reporters that the executive council decided to make the monies available since the former executive council had abandoned the activities that they were expecting for 10/10/10. Marlin said a project coordinator Denis Richardson and a small committee are busy organizing a number of activities which will begin on Saturday evening at Holland House. The descending of the Antillean flag and rising of St. Maarten flag will take place at the court house while the location for the church service is yet to be named.
The commissioner said a number of dignitaries from the neighboring islands have been invited to attend the planned ceremony which will take place under a tent across from the government administration building. The members of the executive council informed the media that while they were told that the parliament building that is presently being prepared for country St. Maarten will not be ready for Sunday.
New EXCO looking to new bus and taxi licensesIn the meantime, Commissioner Michael Ferrier told reporters that the five day executive council is busy reviewing the bus and taxi licenses that the former executive council were processing to issue. Ferrier said the current executive council was informed that there are about 40 bus and taxi licenses which were to be given out. Ferrier said the executive council wants to see if proper procedures were followed before a decision is taken on the issuance of the permits.
Another challenge Ferrier said is that the executive council has to establish an organization to receive St. Maarten's share of the Post NV. He said a decision has been taken to establish the Postal Services St. Maarten NV to accept St. Maarten shares. The commissioner said the executive council also found a letter from the shareholder representative of WINAIR Minister Roland Duncan requesting that St. Maarten accept the shares of WINAIR to the Windward Islands. Ferrier said upon seeing the letter the executive council has responded to Minister Duncan informing him that he can now proceed with the transfer of the shares of St. Maarten, Saba and Statia as the island government is now willing to accept its shares.
Philipsburg:--- Former director of the University of St Martin and commissioner Josianne Fleming Artsen who resigned from the establishment to enter into the political arena is the mostly likely candidate to take up the position of ambassador in Washington.
SMN News learnt that Fleming-Artsen will travel to the United States where she will take on her new job.
When Fleming-Artsen resigned from USM many thought she was going to be a candidate on the United Peoples Party list but that did not happen. Fleming-Artsen opted to be one of the board members who worked behind the scenes hoping that she would have been appointed Minister of Education, Youth and Cultural Affairs.
Sources close to the UP party said that one of the elected candidates who are also part of the educational system did not agree to give up the Ministerial seat to Fleming-Arsten whose intention was to champion education and mainly to make sure the University of St. Martin gets the necessary attention from government.
Fleming-Artsen at a press conference on Thursday told reporters that she is currently working on the financial crisis facing the USM. Fleming Artsen said that the appointed members of the executive council are looking into ways to help USM and to ensure country St. Maarten does not treat USM as step child in the future but that it is treated as an entity that is cared for and she is sure that the in-coming Minister of education would make sure that happens. Fleming-Artsen said they are looking at the "waardering" significant funds that is currently in the UNA coffers be transferred to an association on St. Maarten. Fleming-Artsen said these monies belong to the students of USM. Fleming Artsen said the executive council hopes to complete the process before Sunday October 10th.
In the meantime, SMN News also learnt that the United Peoples Party has selected Johan Janchi Leonard as the ambassador in the Dominican Republic. Efforts made on Thursday to contact Leonard for a comment on his appointment proved futile.
Airport:--- Customs officers stationed at the Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIAE) were forced to fire at least two warning shots at a Jamaican national who came in with his luggage filled with illicit drugs on Monday evening.
Head of Customs Ademar Doran said the suspect came in from Kingston Jamaica on BWIA flight 417 around 6pm. The head of said custom officers at the Airport noticed the suspect later identified as W.M Thompson (27) was struggling to carry his suitcase because of its weight. At that point the officers decided to do a random control to determine why the suitcase was so heavy. Doran said the officers immediately noticed that the suitcase was made from fiber glass and as such they were forced to use heavy tools to cut the suitcase to see what was inside. Doran said when the officers informed the passenger that he was detained pending the inspection of his suitcase the suspect ran out of the arrival hall and began running in the direction of WINAIR building. Doran said at the custom officers were chasing the suspect on foot but they were forced to fire two warning shots in an effort to stop the suspect who managed to hide for a period of time.
Police back up were called and a thorough search was conducted on the Airport road. The suspect was found hiding in a yard next to Best Deal Car Rental. The customs department is busy investigating the case.
Doran said this is not the first time the suspect visited St. Maarten, but it is yet to determine if he has smuggled drugs to the island before.
MARIGOT:--- The gendarmes have arrested a 19 year old man from Rue Lowtown on Monday.
For drug possession, according to a press release the young man was caught with two plastic bags containing 250 grams of marijuana. The suspect will have to appear in court for drug possession charges.
Philipsburg:--- On Tuesday morning Minister of Justice Roland Duncan met with the Director of the Point Blanche Prison Rudsel Ricardo and staff to discuss his vision with respect to the national prison complex. A number of outstanding issues were discussed and Minister Duncan promised that they will have his full attention.
Philipsburg:--- Some twenty employees of the Eastern Caribbean Cellular (ECC) have decided they have had enough and it's time for them to clear the air on their employment situation after the company's trustee walked into the building and decided it was time to close down operations on Wednesday.
According to the trustee representative from Lexwell law firm the employees were paid their salaries up to October 7th and they were asked to go home, but the employees have decided that they will not leave unless the company's trustee gave them a dismissal letter in writing. Asked if the employees were paid out for their years of services to the company, the trustee representative said they are busy conducting an assessment and if the company has enough monies in their coffers then the employees will receive their dues. However, he said no final decision has been taken on how they would deal with the employees. On Wednesday afternoon the company's managing director Beulah Jonis visited the company to deliver a letter to the employees informing them that they no longer needed to report to work. The letter states that the employees must provide the company with their contact information just in case they have to work or be given information on the bankruptcy procedures. SMN News learnt that the employees did not accept the letter and Jonis left the company promising to return with the relevant authorities to evict the company's workers.
Linden Powel, Operations manager of ECC for the past 21 years told SMN News that the employees learnt of the bankruptcy via the news and that just recently they were told by their managing director that the company is closing down.
The obviously upset employee said they are upset and this should not be allowed to happen on St. Maarten. "Companies come to St. Maarten and they make loads of money and then they would walk away leaving their employees stranded months before the holiday season without income." Powel said while he is the operations manager for the last eight years he served ECC for the past 21 years while some of his colleagues have been with the company 19, 20 and the least is 10 years.
Powel said over the years the employees were told by local management and the management on the corporate level that the company would have made the necessary investments to keep the company going while they will safeguard the employment of the employees. The operations manager said while they were aware that the company was going downhill they were not privileged to the financial status of the company. The employees said that while they had a managing director in the person of Beulah Jonis that person never visited the company or informed them of anything regarding their employment or status of the company. Most of the employees blamed the managing director for their current predicament.
Powel said the employees have sought legal advice on how they would proceed with their dilemma while their union representatives are also involved.
SMN News learnt that ECC filed bankruptcy when they learnt that island receivers were moving in on them for unpaid taxes. Reliable sources say the company has not paid its taxes for a number of years, and that they were negotiating with Digicel to sell their business license.
GREAT BAY:--- The Government official website www.sintmaartengov.org is currently offline to be revamped and reflect country status.
The site will feature the new country structure such as the Office of the Governor General, the Council of Ministers and Parliament.
Other government institutions to be featured are the Ombudsman, Council of Advice, General Audit Chamber and Standing Advisory Committees.
The responsibilities of the seven Government Ministries will also be featured along with the portfolios of the seven members of the Council of Ministers.
The site also carries the latest news developments within government besides links for residents, business, visitors and students.
The site also features a civil servants corner, health update, government information page news, as well as employment opportunities within the civil service corps.
The site is managed and updated by the Government Information Service (GIS) webmaster Jeanelle Mardembrough on a daily basis.
It will also feature weekly news and special video programs of the government news service. The site is still in development and additional information will be added in the coming weeks and months.
The site will also feature the various organic laws for country Sint Maarten along with the country Constitution.
The site has been established to facilitate information and news in a timely accurate manner to internal and external publics on the policies, programmes and projects of the Government of Sint Maarten.
Pointe Blanche:--- Several police patrols were seen in the Pointe Blanche area on Thursday after police received a phone call from a young woman telling them that she and a friend were abducted from a night club by four men and taken to a house in Pointe Blanche and are being held against their will.
Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said that the police dispatch centre received the call about 06:50am from the caller but the young lady was unable to give police a precise location where they were being held. Henson said immediately after receiving this information several police patrols and detective patrols were mobilized and sent into the Point Blanche area to try to locate the house where they young ladies were possibly held. The police spokesman said the most intense part of the search for these young ladies started at approximately 07.00 a.m. and lasted till about 11.00 a.m.
However, the officers had no luck locating the house or location where the two women are held. Patrols up the time of this press release were still patrolling the Point Blanche area. Since that phone call in the morning the police have not heard from the young lady. The police and detective are still on the look-out for any suspicious actions/movements with regard to this case. When additional information becomes available the media will be informed.
Pointe Blanche:--- At least three prisoners at the Pointe Blance Prison suffered from stab wounds and had to be taken to the St Maarten Medical Center for treatment late Friday afternoon confirmed the director of the institution Russell Ricardo. The prison director said at the time of the incident he was not at the prison but he was informed that three inmates left their quarters and went to another area and attacked two other prisoners. Both prisoners Ricardo said suffered from stab wounds while one of the attackers was stabbed when one of the victims fought back.
Four of the inmates that were involved in the stabbing incident are from St. Maarten while the fifth inmate is from Bonaire.
Public Prosecutor Rienk Mud confirmed the stabbing incident. Mud said all of the injured prisoners were treated and they were taken back to the prison on Friday evening."All I can confirm is that there was a stabbing at the prison and none of the inmates are going die. They were all treated and taken back to the institution," Mud said.
Basse-Terre:--- The Collectivity of St Martin and its communications directress Collette Erivan has been condemned for the second time by the appeals court in Basse Terre on October 4th 2010. The COM and Erivan filed two lawsuits against SMN News for articles that were published on this website.
The first court case was initiated by Collette Erivan after her photograph was published on SMN News. Erivan asked the court to award her damages of Euros 25,000 claiming defamation for the use of her photograph without authorization.
On November 3 the court of grand instance condemned Erivan to pay SMN News reporter Bibi Hodge Shaw the sum of Euros 1,500 as well as the expenses endured during the process. On November 17th Erivan and the Collectivity of St Martin filed an appeal against the decision. However, the two parties did not follow up on their appeal case forcing SMN News to ask the appeal court to throw the case out based on the statute of limitation. SMN News reporter also asked the appeal court to award her the sum of Euros 6,000 as well as the expenses endured for these procedures.
However, on October 4th the three panel judges consisting of Monsieur's Dominque Francke, Jean De Romans and Jacques Fouasse in their ruling confirmed the first ruling of November 3rd while they imposed a sanction of Euros 2,500 against the Collectivity of St. Martin and Collette Erivan for the appeal case they initiated.
The appeal judges also ruled that both the COM and Erivan must pay all the expenses Bibi Hodge Shaw/ SMN News endured during these procedures. Giving their grounds to the decision the judges said that no new elements were submitted and the court of appeals approved the first judge's ruling. The appeal court also believes that the grand instance ruling was accurate in stating that the President of the Territorial Council, the legal representative of the Overseas Collectivity, must be authorized through a motion of the Council to act in a court case; now, no motion was produced; the writ served on his behalf is null and void.
The court further rules that under the terms of article 53 of the law dated July 29, 1881, it appears that the writ does not refer to the accusation charge and the judicial district indicated is POINTE-A-PITRE and not BASSE-TERRE; the writ is therefore null and void in matter of the invalidity of the main issue and of public order.
Based on article 700 of the civil code procedure the court further rules it would be unfair to leave at the charge of the defendant the irrecoverable costs which she had to incur in these proceedings for the defense of her rights. Therefore the court confirms the order of the first ruling and adding to it, condemns jointly Mrs. Collette Erivan and the Overseas Territory of the Collectivity of St Martin to pay Mrs. Bibi Hodge Shaw the sum of 2,500 Euros under article 700 of the code of civil procedure. In addition to the entire costs with severance for the benefit of Me Jan-Marc FERLY, a lawyer to with ex-officio lien for costs, in application of the provisions of article 699 of the Code of civil procedure.
The following is the decison issued by the court of appeals in Basse Terre.
Maho:--- The police are busy investigating the death of man whose body was found the Maho area. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said the identity of the victim is not known to police. The victim he said is of Caucasian decent, his body was discovered shortly after 03.00 am on Saturday morning.
Henson said it is not clear if the man died as a result of a traffic accident, but authorities are calling on eye witnesses to come forward and tell them what they have seen or know about a gold or grayish Japanese looking vehicle.
The police spokesman said the injuries the victim sustained are not consistent with that of a traffic accident and homicide has not been ruled out. Henson further explained that the investigations are in its early stages and as soon as more information is available it will be released including the victim's identity.
GREAT BAY:--- Vanessa Blanco from Johnson & Wales University will be visiting the island from October 20 to October 22 on a working visit.
Johnson & Wales concluded an agreement with Sint Maarten where study financing recipients can study for US$15,000 per year while residing on any of the Johnson & Wales campuses. Vanessa Blanco represents the North Miami Campus in Florida.
The educational institutions offers over 45 programs if study in the areas of Business (Accounting, Advertising, Criminal Justice, Financial, International Business, Marketing etc.); Technology (Computer Graphics/New Media, Electronics Engineer, Networking & Robotic Engineering etc.); Hospitality (International Hotel and Tourism Management, Sports/Entertainment/Event Management etc.); and Culinary Arts (Baking & Pastry, Culinary, Culinary Management, Nutrition etc.).
Blanco will be staying at Divi Little Bay Resort from October 20 through October 22 and can be contact at 542-2333 on those dates or via email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Persons interested in meeting with Blanco should bring along with them for their appointment: official transcripts/diplomas, examination results if applicable CXC, CAPE, etc or equivalent, proof of financial support, and a photocopy of your passport showing your name, date of birth etc.
Blanco during her working visit to the island will be meeting with school counsellors from Milton Peters College, St. Dominic High School, Learning Unlimited, Sint Maarten Academy, and Caribbean International Academy.
Former Commissioner of Education Sarah Wescot-Williams was the one responsible for signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Johnson & Wales on March 13, 2009.
The negotiations that led to the MOU were started a year before and coordinated by Head of Study Financing Calvin Mardembrough under the premise of seeking out additional and affordable educational opportunities for the islands young people who graduate from high school.
Philipsburg:--- The police have decided to withhold the identity of the dead man whose body was found in Maho early Saturday morning. A press release from police spokesman Ricardo Henson on Sunday states that police was called for a serious traffic accident early Saturday morning in Maho where the victim died as a result of his injuries.
However, on the scene the investigating officers and traffic department were not able to determine exactly what happened and to classify the man's death as the result of a traffic accident. The detective and forensic department were then called to assist in the investigation. The cause of the death of this man is still unclear and his identity is temporarily being withheld. The investigation is still ongoing.
The police department is asking anyone who may have any information in connection with this case to call the police department as soon as possible and pass on this information. The information you give might just be that what the police department needs to shed some light on how the man died.
Philipsburg:--- Many people showed up for the Book Sale held at the Library last Saturday. The hall of the Library was crowded with book enthusiasts looking for their favorite titles. Especially the children's books were in high demand among children and their parents. The proceeds of Saturdays book sale, ANG 1115 will be used to buy new books, equipment and materials, and to help fund library programs . The Library would like to thank the community for their attendance and participation in the book sale.
PHILIPSBURG :--- The General Education Development (GED) exams for the fall term will be held on October 27, 28, and 29 at the University of St. Martin (USM).
Persons interested in taking the exams have until Thursday, October 21st, 2010 to make payments for such.
The exams consist of a battery of tests in five subjects namely English reading, English writing, mathematics, science and social studies. Students need to pass exams in all five subjects to qualify for the GED Diploma. The exam fee for all subjects is US$300 and registration fee of US$35. The exam fee for each individual subject is $60. International checks or money orders for the exams should be made payable to the GED Testing Service.
The University of St. Martin is the only recognized GED Testing center on St. Maarten.
The GED Tutorial Program, at USM, for the Fall semester at USM has started. Registration for GED Tutorial Program for January 2011 is on-going.
Persons interested in more information about registering for the exams or tutorials can contact Patricia Arrindell at 542-5171 ext. 1002 or visit the GED Tutorial Program's office at USM.
Mullet Bay:--- An American couple were involved in a car accident on Thursday morning when an animal was roaming on the Mullet Bay road. The couple was not injured, however, the rental car they were driving suffered severe damages.
GREAT BAY:--- The Collective Preventive Services (CPS) would like to inform the community especially persons traveling to Haiti, that there is a cholera epidemic in the Artibonite region of Haiti.
There have been 138 deaths and more than 1,500 are ill, according to reports received by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).
Cholera is a bacterial infection spread through contaminated water. It causes severe diarrhea and vomiting that can lead to dehydration and death within hours.
About 75 per cent of people infected with V. cholera do not develop any symptoms, although the bacteria are present in their faeces for seven to 14 days after infection and are shed back into the environment, potentially infecting other people.
Cholera is transmitted through fecal contamination of water and food. In places where there is infrastructure damage, the lack of safe drinking water and poor sanitation and hygiene can increase the risk of cholera, as well as numerous other diarrhea diseases.
Cholera is easily treatable, and if patients are given oral re-hydration salts promptly to replace lost fluids, and they can nearly always be cured.
In a small percentage of people, cholera can cause very severe dehydration potentially leading to death. To minimize the number of people infected, frequent hand washing, personal hygiene, safe water use and food preparation are a necessity.
The reported cases and deaths have come primarily from areas where there was no direct damage from the January 12 earthquake, but where there are vulnerable populations living in impoverished situations.
By taking a few basic precautions, cholera as well as most other food and water-borne diseases can easily be prevented. The main rule is, always be aware of the quality of what you eat and drink when you are traveling.
Philipsburg:--- The Caribbean International Academy emerged the winners of the Windward Islands Bank's Treasure Hunt.
The treasure hunt was organized as part of WIB's 50th anniversary series of activities targeting youngsters on the island. In collaboration with the United Student Government Front (USGF), several coordinators were on hand to encourage the youngsters.
The youngsters were all excited about the Treasure hunt and solving the clues, while learning more about the history of the island, monuments etc. Armed with a special WIB 50th anniversary backpack, a WIB water bottle and clues, they were given an hour and a half to hunt and at the end, they gathered at the Bank's main office in Philipsburg for the tallying of the results and announcing of the winners. While the results were counted, WIB's Managing Director Jan Beaujon entertained the youngsters by going over the answers to the questions. He expressed surprise at the amount of answers some of the Youngsters knew. "I was quite impressed with the performance by the Youngsters and believe this is something that WIB can do on annual basis; Beaujon stated.
At the end CIA came out the overall winner with the St Maarten Academy coming in close second followed by the Sundial School in third place. Each member of the winning teams received WIB moneycards with cash balances. All participating students received certificates of participation and vouchers to attend the movie of their choice. WIB Management Team members, Jan Beaujon, Kelvin Bloyden and Alfred De Windt were on hand to do the presentations. In appreciation of their collaborative efforts, USGF received a cash donation of U$ 1.000.00 for the construction of a website for the group. The main coordinator of USGF, Sinatra Rouse was also presented with a certificate of Appreciation by Jan Beaujon for her role in getting the youngsters together on short notice. Appreciation was also expressed to the other coordinators who assisted with the youngsters.
The Treasure hunt is the second event organized by WIB as part of its 50th anniversary celebrations. The celebrations started on the Bank's "Employee Appreciation Day" with a "Name that Tune" contest amongst Staff. The next event will be a bike-a-thon for children this weekend.
GREAT BAY:--- Minister responsible for Economic Affairs & Telecommunications Franklin Meyers, says that the effective use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) holds the potential of boosting economies, improving health care delivery, enhancing education and learning processes, and strengthening democratic processes for country Sint Maarten.
"On World Development Information Day, which is observed globally on October 24 annually, every nation is committed to build a people-centered Information Society, where everyone can create, access, utilize and share information and knowledge.
"This enables communities to achieve their full potential in promoting sustainable development and improving the quality of life based on the use of ICTs.
"My vision is to establish Sint Maarten as an advanced information society in which Information and Communication Technology tools are the key drivers of economic and societal development. I would like to commend all those who already work in the ICT area. From this day on, we need to collaborate as a Sint Maarten nation to create a better future and well-informed nation by promoting economic growth through information technology," Minister of Economic Affairs & Telecommunications Franklin Meyers told the Government Information Service (GIS).
The United Nations (UN) General Assembly in 1972 instituted World Development Information Day to draw attention of world public opinion to development problems and the need to strengthen international cooperation to solve them.
The Assembly decided that the date for the Day should coincide in principle with United Nations Day, 24 October, which was also the date of the adoption, in 1970, of the International Development Strategy for the Second United Nations Development Decade.
The Assembly felt that improving the dissemination of information and the mobilization of public opinion, particularly among young people, would lead to greater awareness of the problems of development, thus promoting efforts in the sphere of international cooperation for development.
Dutch Quarter:--- The sister of the late Radford Seaford aka "Skinny" said her family and those of her late brother will do everything in their power to make sure they get justice for the untimely death of their brother and father.
Kimelia Austin who arrived on the island on Wednesday told SMN News that she is yet to meet law enforcement and the public prosecutor to discuss her brother's murder. Austin said she has faith in the justice system. However, she wants to signal to the police force of Country St. Maarten that this case will not be an "open and shut" case since they are doing all that is in their power to make sure justice is served. Austin said since she arrived on the island several persons who know the killer and her brother came forward with information regarding the relationship her brother had with Sandra Hall.
Austin further claimed that no one in her family knew her brother had a relationship with her brother's murderer. Austin said her brother Radford Seaford was preparing to leave St. Maarten to join his other siblings in the USA and she believed that this has something to do with his slaying. Austin said her brother had lots of jewellery that he received from older relatives and so far none of the jewellery can be found. She said already someone told her that the killer wanted her brother's gold chain, wrist band and his rings to travel to Jamaica with as she too was scheduled to leave the island. Other shocking information that reached the bereaved sibling is that the woman who killed her brother stabbed two men in the past. She said while she does not know this person there are people here who said that Sandra Hall stabbed her children's father while in Jamaica and another man with whom she had a relationship with here on St. Maarten. She said she wants to know if the police have this information because that would show that Sandra Hall has a violent behaviour.
Austin said if she is given the courtesy to meet with law enforcement prior to leaving with her brother's body she would request that her brother's killer be charged with premeditated murder and not manslaughter. Austin said she also learnt that her brother received two stab wounds from behind while his killer stabbed him multiple times when he turned around to block the stabs. Furthermore, she said it appeared that her brother was trying to run away from Hall when he noticed that she grabbed a knife but because he was somewhat intoxicated he did not make it to the door.
Neighbours and friends of the now dead man said Hall and Skinny were not in a permanent relationship as they would make up and break up constantly. They said the woman was living in Nazareth Road Dutch Quarter and she only moved in with Skinny after the recent flooding. Another close friend of Skinny said her 21 year old son was with Skinny until after 10pm that fatal night drinking at his apartment. The woman said her son is still in shock because his friend was drinking that night and he was intoxicated and could not have escaped his killer even if he wanted to. The woman said her son told her that while he was at the house Skinny tried to do some weight lifting and the equipment fell because Skinny could not balance the weight due to the alcohol.
Who is "Skinny"?Kimelia Austin said her brother was very fun loving, jovial and one who would do anything to make other people happy. "My brother is not a violent person and he would run from trouble because has never had problems with the law."
Austin said they came from a family of 10 siblings and their father was a police superintendent prior to him going on pension. Her brother Skinny was also a police officer in his native country Guyana. She said the last place her brother worked as police officer was at the Parliament Building in Guyana prior to him migrating to St. Maarten 20 years ago. Radford "Skinny" Seaford is the father of two children ages 20 and 14. Their aunt said the two children who are studying in Holland will be travelling to Guyana where the burial will take place.
Candlelight Vigil
Scores of friends, co-workers and mere acquaintances who knew Skinny gathered next to his home in Christiansted Drive Dutch Quarter on Saturday night where they held a candlelight vigil in memory of Skinny. Despite scattered showers and high winds the friends and neighbours did what was necessary to light their candles as they payed their respects to a man who they said was a neighbourhood confidant.
They described him as being one of the most friendly and helpful persons in the Dutch Quarter community. Friends said Skinny was always at their homes when he was not working, while he is known to drink, and sometimes loud he was not a troublemaker.
His sister Kimelia thanked those who came out to show their support for their loss, she distributed candles and made sure they were lit saying this is the first sign that justice will be served. Kimelia said that the person who snatched her brother's life away is nothing more than a devil and while they gathered there to mourn his loss, they must be assured that his family will ensure justice is served and that no other man meets the same fate.
The memorial service for Radford Seaford better known as Skinny will be held at Royal Funeral Home on Sucker Garden Road on Monday from 3 to 5pm.
Philipsburg:--- President of St. Maarten Youth Beat Foundation Mr. Emmanuel York received a cheque to the value of US$ 5000.- from NAGICO Insurances in support of the AND 1 Street Ball legends live event that will be taking place this Friday 29th October at the LB Scott Sports Auditorium. The president of the foundation commented: "On behalf of the Youth Beat Foundation, I hereby thank NAGICO for once again coming forward and maintaining its Good Corporate Citizen status in our community. We encourage all to come out in support of this event that will bring a message against gang violence and drugs and promote good behavior amongst our young people. It also will highlight the importance of sports in the development of any child."
The organizers have indicated that the event will be a family oriented one in the sense that parents and children alike will benefit from not only the educational message but the overall basketball entertainment. Price per tickets are $15.- in advance and $20.- at the gate, and can be bought at Van Dorp Eddine or at PJD2 Radio Station in Philipsburg. Administrative Clerk for NAGICO Insurances Julie Mc Cormack, presented Mr. Emanuel York with the cheque.
Dutch Quarter:--- In keeping with their firm stance against violence, the Peace is Foundation has found new ways to spread their message to students across the island's schools, the latest being the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Primary school in Dutch Quarter.
Yesterday the foundation presented one of the schools Cycle 2 year one class with forty copies of a coloring book entitled "Gangs are not for me". The book depicts several situations in which people can be friendly to each other and ways to handle confrontations.
Teacher Bell and Teacher Gumbs were among the group of children who accepted the books, presented by Mrs. Lisa Brown; the Public Relations officer for Peace Is.
"Keep away from trouble, be kind to everyone you meet," she told the class. "Keep away from all forms of confrontation and remember gangs are not for you."
The teachers and students extended a big thank you to the foundation for the books and eagerly promised to stay violence free.
According to Brown this is just one of the events the foundation is undertaking before they wind down to their annual St. Maarten's Day Breakfast.
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Philipsburg:--- The Eastern Caribbean Cellular has a debt close to 10 million guilders revealed Minister of Telecommunications Franklin Meyers on Wednesday during the weekly press briefing. Minister Meyers said while ECC owes government (island receiver) 9 million guilders they were given the opportunity to pay 3.6 million guilders with an agreement but yet they defaulted.
Listen to the meeting:
The Minister said the agreement with ECC and the Island Receivers was if the company did not pay the 3.6 million guilders then the debt would go back to the original figure. Meyers said the company paid 1.5 million guilders and they still owe the sum of 7.5 million guilders. Besides that ECC owes TELEM and TELCEL 1 million guilders and approximately 600,000.00 to UTS. "Roughly ECC has debt of about 10 million guilders and that is only what I am aware of" Meyers said.
The Minister said the company was operating on St. Maarten for the past 14 years and they were the first cellular provider on the island however, their plug was pulled on October 4th when the company declared bankruptcy.
The Minister said the trustee proposed to government to have the concession license sold, however, the equipments are obsolete. Meyers said ECC still has TDMA equipments while the other companies here and around the world has gone GSM. Minister Meyers said the only thing that ECC holds that has value is the concession which actually does not belong to the company. Meyers said ECC breached their concession when they filed for bankruptcy since they are no longer able to provide the services of telecommunication on St. Maarten. The Minister said while it is said in media reports that government has a responsibility towards the employees of ECC he believes that government has an obligation to all of its inhabitants. The Minister said he has no intention to run from his responsibilities but ECC also has a responsibility, however, they bankrupted their company which did not come because of government's policy or unfair competition. "ECC had a level playing field like the other providers that are currently operating on St. Maarten." Meyers said the proposal that was sent to him by the trustee is not one that he is in favor of simply because he does not know who is the third party interested in buying the concession.
The Minister said St. Maarten is a brand new country and they have been bitten by the bug where the foreign investors invested in something that was viable at the time and when it stopped working the strains falls on the local government. Minister Meyers said he is not saying that foreign investment is not good but in this particular case it did not work out for St. Maarten, thus he sees no reason why government should go back to the same scenario. The Minister said he already communicated to the trustee and the chamber of commerce that government's intention is to revoke both the concession and the business license of the Eastern Caribbean Cellular. Meyers said even though these notifications were sent out he will be holding meetings with the parties to further discuss the matter. Meyers said if the company provides a tangible solution on Thursday when they are being heard then government will still give it consideration.
The concession license for ECC was scheduled to expire in 2011 but due to the transition to country, the license now has a life until 2013.
In responding to questions pertaining to ECC financial status and its debts the Minister said ECC was no small company instead their mother company was ICC and they first purchased St. Maarten Cable TV and ECC however, it is clear that the monies generated from the company did not stay on the island. However, the Minister said despite that government is not the one that pulled the plug on ECC even though they are in arrears with their taxes.
The St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) has started the process of putting its various sub-committees in place to coordinate the various shows, parades and other Carnival related festivities.
The foundation's board recently met with its general membership to apprise the members of actions undertaken thus far in preparation for Carnival 2011, to introduce new members and to designate responsibilities for next year's festivities.
The SCDF is also looking forward to meeting with Minister of Culture Rhoda Arrindell to apprise her of the state of affairs surrounding St. Maarten's largest cultural event as well as hear her vision with regards to Carnival. Contact has already been made with the Minister and a meeting will be scheduled sometime soon.
Committees were formed last week to coordinate the Junior Calypso & Road March shows, the Senior Calypso Eliminations & Finals, the Band-O-Rama, the Youth Extravaganza, the Junior and Senior Queen Shows and the Junior & Senior Parades and jump-ups. Other committees formed included financial, marketing and security committees.
Each committee is supervised by a designated lead coordinator who now has to convene meetings to plan the various events. Prior to that, the various sub-committees have to present a budget for their respective event to the board for approval. The SCDF will announce during the course of November when persons can start registering for the shows, parades, booths etc.
"We are rolling with or preparations for Carnival 2011," President of the SCDF Stuart Johnson said. "We released our tentative schedule in July of this year, earlier than ever before. We have been focusing on getting our financial house in order and that process is ongoing. But despite identifying the financials as our priority, we still have to prepare for Carnival in other aspects.
"We are fortunate to have a group of dedicated volunteers who decided once again to be back on board and have welcomed new, culturally minded people aboard as well. During our meeting we told our membership that SCDF members do what we do because of love for Carnival, no monetary gain. It takes dedication, long hours away from family and sacrifice. We are happy with the drive and ideas shown so far," he said.
Johnson added that the SCDF hopes to see record participation for Carnival 2011. "This is our festival. It can only grow with participation from all. We hope to have that next year because the ball is really rolling now," he concluded.
GREAT BAY:--- The Civil Registry Department would like to announce that as of November 1, the Section Driver License will be open to serve the general public.
The driver's license will be printed in the original credit card format and carry the signature of the Minister of Justice of country Sint Maarten.
The office hours remain the same from 8.00am to 12.30pm and in the afternoon hours with appointment.
Management of the Civil Registry Department conveys its sincere apologies for any inconvenience that this may have caused.
PHILIPSBURG--- President of Parliament Drs. Gracita Arrindell would hereby like to inform the general public that the first public working session of the Parliament of Sint Maarten is scheduled for Monday, November 8 at 2.00pm.
The meeting will take place in the Dr. A.C. Wathey Legislative Hall in the Government Administration Building.
The two agenda points are the establishment of the Rules of Order for the Parliament of Sint Maarten and the election of the Vice President of Parliament.
The meeting is open to the general public.
Philipsburg:--- Police have arrested the messenger boy of Westin Resort who called police from the trunk of his car claiming that he was attacked and robbed by unknown armed men who locked him in the truck of his car before making their escape.
Police spokesman Ricardo Henson said that the detectives from the Special Armed Robbery Unit discovered some inconsistencies with the victim they identified as J.A from Grenada statements while investigating the case.
Henson said police confronted J.A with what they found and he later confessed to fabricating the robbery which he planned himself and he in fact stole the monies and checks given to him by his employers and put it to his own use. The culprit was arrested on the spot on November 1.
Philipsburg:--- The Honorable Minister of Health Social and Labor Affairs Maria Buncamper Molanus has been holding a series of orientation meetings with Department Heads within her Ministry. During these meetings the Government's declaration of cooperation forms an important basis for further development of policies and the setting of priorities. With the 2011 budget reaching its final stage the policies attached to this budget are fundamental instruments to be used in the decision making process in the coming year.
Pointe Blanche:--- A fight that broke out at the Pointe Blanche Prison has left one prisoner injured confirmed press prosecutor Rienk Mud. Mud said a fight broke out at the prison on Sunday afternoon and one prisoner was stabbed.
SMN News learnt that a host of police cars, medical personnel and members of the prison management were seen driving up to the Pointe Blanche house of detention to calm the situation down.
Director of the institution Rudsel Ricardo said that the fight broke out around 5pm. Ricardo said two prisoners managed to get out of a secured area and began fighting. The prison director further explained that the prisoners in the Beaver section managed to break down a wall and they too got out of the area and attacked the two prisoners that were fighting. Ricardo said while one of the prisoners were injured during the ordeal he was treated by the prison nurse. The police officers and the prison guards quickly restored order.
Philipsburg:--- Senator Louie Laveist has sent a letter to the chairlady of Parliament of St. Maarten Gracita Arrindell requesting a public central committee meeting to gather more information on the contract that was signed by the CEO of the Harbour Holding Mark Mingo and Volker Stevin on the bridge project.
Laveist said that members of parliament were not given any information on the bridge project yet the harbour management found it fit to make such a commitment with an overseas company. The Senator said the Minister of Harbour Affairs Theo Heyliger and CEO Mark Mingo totally disrespected parliament when they notified their French counterparts and they did not notify the highest legislative body about a project of such magnitude. Senator Laveist said he has no intention to be used as a government rubber stamp and those in government are in for a rude awakening if this is how they intend to conduct the people's business. The senator said should parliament reject this project then St. Maarten would have to prepare for more lawsuits. The senator warned that during these meetings he expects both the Minister and CEO of the harbour holding to come clean regarding this multi-million dollar project. The contract for the bridge across the Simpson Bay lagoon was signed on Thursday last week. While no publication was not made on the bidding process SMN News learnt that several companies were invited to bid on the project at the Spetjens notary.
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Philipsburg/French Quarter:--- Officers from the "Team Grootschalige Opsporing" (TGO) RST and gendarmes went to a home in French Quarter on Monday morning and arrested a well known person as a suspect in the murder of Clemencia Josianne Julot. The individual in question is known as R.G.B who already served time in prison for murder.
Prosecutor Rienk Mud confirmed that someone has been arrested but the public prosecutor has refused to confirm the identity of the suspect. Mud said authorities are busy questioning the suspect and that his arrest was extended.
Julot's body was recovered on July 1 in Oyster Pond. While her body was recovered on the French side of the border the Dutch side is leading the investigation. Well placed sources say Clemencia's body had over 87 stab wounds when she was recovered and this is the reason why the prosecutor's office felt it was necessary to put a special team together to solve the case. Julot was a Haitian national who attended school on the French side of the island, she was also an employee of Blue Point. The young woman was on her routine morning exercise when she was abducted and murdered.
A special team consisting of 25 officers was put together to solve one of the most gruesome murders committed on the island. Even though St. Maarten recorded numerous murders many of which are unsolved this is the first time the TGO has been established.
The team investigating the death of Clemencia Julot consists of detectives from the local police force (KPSSS), the Recherché Samenwerkingsteam (RST), the Royal Marechaussee (both from Sint Maarten and Curacao), the police force of Curacao (KPC) and the police force of Aruba (KPA). This team works in close cooperation with the French Gendarmerie.
GREAT BAY:--- The Collective Preventive Services (CPS), a health authority body linked to the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, continues to urge the community to take preventative measures in order to avoid a dengue fever epidemic.
The increase in the mosquito population is attributed to the heavy rainfall the island has been experiencing so far for the year. Continuous rainfall is only making matters worse and therefore the CPS is appealing to the population to remove or eliminate mosquito breeding sites/places.
Decreasing the mosquito population calls for a combination of two strategies, firstly, the removal of breeding places and fogging. However, considering the environment and the life cycle of the mosquito (aedes agypti), emphasis is being places on the strategy of eliminating mosquito breeding places.
CPS continues to emphasize that home and business owners should check around their properties right after a rain shower and take immediate measures.
Dengue fever is caused by a virus, transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected aedes aegypti mosquito. Dengue symptoms include high fever, severe headache, backache, joint and eye pain, nausea and vomiting, and a rash. Once a person has developed a fever, the infectious period lasts for about a week. Most people recover without any complications, using pain relievers and bed rest.
Contractors on job sites are advised to take immediate steps by checking around the work site for containers and other items that could hold water. Check around for any stagnant water in yards that could become a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
CPS strongly recommends that open lots owned by private individuals should be controlled by them and monitored for mosquito breeding. Overgrown vegetation should be cut away. If a mosquito breeding site is discovered, it should be destroyed.
Residents are therefore strongly advised to take action making sure that there is no stagnant water in their yards and roof spouts; and disposing responsibly old tires, empty drums, buckets, jars, birdbaths, boats, plant containers, paint cans and other items that can collect water around their homes and businesses. Wear appropriate clothing and mosquito repellent.
PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Drs. Gracita Arrindell announces that the Central Committee of Parliament will be meeting on Tuesday, November 16 and Wednesday, November 17.
Parliamentarians will receive a presentation from Professor J. de Boer related to the national ordinances leading to changes in the Civil Code of Law.
Some of the issues are labour agreements, inheritance law and paternity.
The meeting will take place in the conference room of the old parliament office building on Back Street at 9.00am.
Both central committee meetings are closed to the general public.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Vice Prime Minister Theo Heyliger and Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto on Monday met with VVD Liberal Party Faction Leader Stef Blok and member of the Second Chamber of Parliament Andre Bosman (VVD).
The meeting was of an introductory nature and an exchange of information with respect to how the island is developing since achieving country status on October 10.
The VVD members of parliament were interested in learning about the current situation of the Sint Maarten economy in light of the global financial-economic crisis and how the island is coping with this situation; the budget and how the country would deal with budgetary challenges in the future.
The Dutch Members of Parliament (MPs) also wanted to know from the ministers if the country would become financially independent from Holland in the future.
Vice Prime Minister Heyliger responded that Sint Maarten was looking for cooperation from Holland and the CFT Financial Supervisory Commission to have more flexibility as it is related to the stringent rules which would facilitate the development of a number of projects that would create employment on the island as well as economic activity.
An example of success was the harbour project formula which resulted in investments being made in many areas of the Sint Maarten community that have contributed to the improvement in the quality of life.
The VVD MPs were also interested in the justice system, immigration and government policies related to the environment.
Both Ministers conveyed to the VVD MPs that Sint Maarten also welcomes more Dutch companies investing in the island.
Accompanying the Sint Maarten delegation are cabinet staff members Veronica Jansen-Webster and Cleveland Beresford.
Philipsburg:--- The police have arrested at least 14 persons on Sunday evening. Five of which are suspects involved in a human trafficking ring. SMN News learnt that Errol Bowling, a well known taxi driver is also one of the suspects. According to well placed sources, Bowling was caught with nine Cuban nationals in his vehicle at the time of the arrest.
Prosecutor Rienk Mud said in a press release confirmed the arrest. Mud said in the evening hours of Sunday, November 14th 2010, acting on received information, the police arrested 9 people of Cuban origin who were illegally transported to St. Maarten.
The police also arrested 5 other persons who are suspected of being involved in human trafficking. One of these suspects is a taxi driver from the Dutch side.
After the arrest the house of the taxi driver was searched.
Police are investigating the case.
With all this lies, deceit and declines in the economic performance of the industry the country has to seriously review and analyze Minister Skerrits proficiency as a tourism Minister, particularly in light of his actions since this most serious incident," says Hon. Shawn Richards.
Minister of Tourism, the Hon. Richard Skerrit, has come in for further scathing criticisms in his handling of the recent tourist robbery fall out. This time from Senior Opposition Parliamentarian and People's Action Movement Deputy Political Leader the Hon. Shawn K. Richards.
Skerrit was blasted by Richards and labeled dishonest and hypocritical as Richards pointed to Minister Skerrits recent statement that his "NO COMMENT" stance on the tourist robbery issue was his policy regarding matters in the hands of the police, as the basis for his scathing comment. Richards referenced an incident that took place in 2009 regarding the vandalisation of an "It's Working" Tourism billboard where Minister Skerrit was quoted in a Press Release published on sknvibes as saying "This is an absolute disgrace. Whoever did this should be ashamed to call themselves Kittitians. This national campaign is designed to sing the praises of St Kitts and Nevis - for all of us."
In the July 2009 release Skerrit further stated "Tourism is fast becoming the lifeblood of this Federation. To burn these boards is an attack on the livelihoods of every decent citizen here; on our jobs; our economy; our entire society. This campaign is about Kittitian pride. Why would these people want to undermine our country in this way?"
The Release went on to indicate that the matter was still under police investigation.
During a Press Conference held on Tuesday, Skerritt confirmed that he did in fact give no comments to two news outlets that approached him. Skerrit said that he gave "NO COMMENTS" because it was his policy not to give comments on a matter whilst a police investigation is ongoing in said matter. However the actions taken by Minister Skerritt in the incident alluded to above and detailed and highlighted in the Press Release shows a stark variance in Minister Skerritts policy then and now. Hon. Richards however is of the view that Minister Skerrit was simply deceiving the country.
"17 tourists robbed and cruise ships pulling out and the best thing the Minister of Tourism has to offer is "NO COMMENT"," said Senior Opposition MP Hon. Shawn K. Richards.
"Minister Skerrits statement that it has ALWAYS been his policy to give "NO COMMENTS" on matters being investigated by Police was a blatant untruth as has been highlighted with the revelation of his comments regarding the vanadalisation of the "It's Working" billboard last year. He is deceiving the country, frankly speaking" said Richards. "When that incident occurred in July last year within hours the Minister came out in the strongest possible language to condemn the act and its perpetrators. Are political billboards more important than the 17 violated tourists, the livelihood of thousands and the very existence of our main economic driver Tourism?" Richards Questioned.
Richards joined colleague Hon. Eugene Hamilton in questioning Skerritts competence. Richards said "In light of the Ministers recent actions or inactions as well as his blatant lie to the country and or convenient memory regarding his personal policy Minister Skerrits competence and ability to properly manage our tourism product must be questioned. Just last week the IMF revealed that tourism has been on a decline in St. Kitts-Nevis since 2006. However the Minister has been telling us different. In fact he has questioned the credibility of the IMF. The IMF is one of the most respected and credible institutions in the world. With all this lies, deceit and declines in the economic performance of the industry one has to serious review and analyze Minister Skerrits proficiency as a tourism Minister."
The local or international press has yet to be given an official comment regarding the robbery by Tourism Minister Skerritt.
Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) and the St. Maarten Hospitality &Trade Association (SHTA) met on Tuesday, November 16 to exchange ideas for the further Development of Carnival as a promotional tool and economic/tourism generator for the island. President of the SCDF Stuart Johnson was joined by Treasurer of the foundation Erno Labega and described the meeting as fruitful with a number of key issues being discussed.
"The SHTA should naturally be a partner for St. Maarten's Carnival considering the objectives and goals of the association. We feel that the relationship with the SHTA was in need of some strengthening and we were pleased with our discussions," Johnson said.
He continued: "It is no secret that Carnival generates visitors to the island right at the start of what is traditionally the slow season. Our festival has the ability to extend our high season with proper promotion, the use of technology and social networking and more. We wanted to hear the SHTA's ideas about all of this and how they think Carnival could develop and grow to benefit our tourism product in general. We took away a number of great suggestions."
Robert Dubourcq of the SHTA said: "The SHTA board members were happy to hear that the SCDF is ahead of schedule in the 2011 Carnival organization and could advise the dates April 25 to May 3rd, 2011. This could open possibilities for the Hotel Industry to come out with Carnival specials for fans." Johnson added that the SCDF hopes to meet again with the SHTA sometime before Carnival 2011 starts and after it concludes.
PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Drs. Gracita Arrindell calls the nation's attention to that "World Day for Prevention of Child Abuse," was observed globally on November 19.
The World Day, was initiated by the Women's World Summit Foundation (WWSF) in 2000, aims to create a culture of prevention around the world by encouraging governments and community/society organizations to play more active roles in protecting children.
Organizations are asked to focus attention and increase awareness and education about child abuse and violence toward children, to promote respect for the Rights of the Child, and to make preventing child abuse a top priority.
The WWSF reports that more than one million children throughout the world enter the sex trade each year. WWSF reached out to governments and other organizations throughout the world to form the NGO Coalition. The latter has committed it to creating a culture of prevention for child abuse.
"Children are very vulnerable. They depend on us to take care of them, to give them love and to protect them. Together as a nation we need to work together to create a culture of prevention.
"I call on the community to help protect children by reporting abuse. It is the duty of every adult to report known or suspected cases of child abuse to the relevant authorities.
"Each one of us, as they say, it takes a village to raise a child, well collectively we have a responsibility to protect our children from all forms of abuse. Educate yourself about abuse.
"Let us be mindful to love and protect our children and continue to guard and guide them," President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell said on Friday.
Child maltreatment includes all types of abuse and neglect of a child under the age of 18 by a parent, caregiver, or another person in a custodial role (e.g. clergy, coach, teacher). There are four common types of abuse: physical, sexual, emotional abuse and neglect.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto and Vice Prime Minister Theo Heyliger over the weekend met with Sint Maarten students in an information session organized by S4 student organization.
Both ministers addressed the students by providing information about current developments especially since the island achieved country status on October 10, 2010.
Information was also provided about public finances, incentives policy, crime, immigration, employment possibilities for students who return to the island upon completion of their studies among other topics of interests.
Students asked various questions in an extensive question and answer session after both ministers completed their presentations.
Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto said he was very pleased with the outcome of the information session as it was very informative for the students as well as Minister Heyliger and himself.
GREAT BAY:--- Pelican Heart – An Anthology of Poems by Lasana M. Sekou was launched in Mexico at the 10th Conference of the Caribbean Book on November 11, according to the Mexican Association of Caribbean Studies (AMEC).
The poetry of the St. Martin author was presented formally by Dr. Margarita Espinosa, president of AMEC, and discussed before a group of scholars, experts, and university professors at the prestigious National Institute of Anthropology and History (NIAH) in Mexico City.
Dr. Margaret Shrimpton, a researcher and professor at the Autonomous University of the Yucatán, wrote the analysis of the book for the presentation, said Jacqueline Sample, president of House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP).
Specialists from Cuba, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Mexico, and the USA presented 14 critical and research titles thought to be important Spanish- language books about the Caribbean and Latin America published in 2010, said Sample.
While focusing on "recent publication activity and historical complexities of the Caribbean," panels also discussed the region's music and theater, stated Repeatingislands.com.
The company of presentations in which Sekou's Pelican Heart found itself included the new Spanish translation of From Columbus to Castro (De Colón a Castro: la historia del Caribe, 1942-1969) by Eric Williams and The Black Jacobins (Los jacobinos negros) by C.L.R. James – both world-class classics of scholarship and Caribbean history.
The Cuban literary critic and scholar Emilio Jorge Rodríguez, who has been busy introducing Sekou to Hispanic audiences, edited Pelican Heart. Each poem selected by Rodríguez from 10 of Sekou's books is translated into Spanish.
The Spanish name of Pelican Heart is Corazón de pelícano – Antología poética de Lasana M. Sekou. The 428-page bilingual volume was released here by HNP in 2010, said Sample. amazon.com, spdbooks.org, houseofnehesipublish.com.
The Conference of the Caribbean Book (X Jornada del Libro Caribeño), with this year's theme of "The Caribbean: History, Culture, and Flavor," was hosted and organized by NIAH and AMEC. The two-day conference opened at the Office of Historical Studies of NIAH on November 11, which is also St. Martin Day.
PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Drs. Gracita Arrindell announces that the Central Committee of Parliament will be meeting on Friday, November 26 at 9.00am in the A.C. Wathey Legislative Hall.
During the public Central Committee meeting, Members of Parliament (MPs) will discuss the establishment of permanent committees for the Parliament of Sint Maarten.
The four factions represented in parliament are expected to submit the names of MPs who will represent the Parliament of Sint Maarten on the permanent committees of Parlatino.
The Parliament of Sint Maarten will meet in public session on Tuesday, November 30 at 3.00pm in the A.C. Wathey Legislative Hall.
The four parliamentary factions represented in the Parliament of Sint Maarten are, namely the United Peoples party (UP), Democratic Party (DP), Independent Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge and the National Alliance (NA).
The three agenda points for this meeting are incoming documents, the advice drafted for MPs who will be members of the various permanent committees for the Parliament of Sint Maarten and a follow-up with respect to the division of MPs to be members of the permanent committees of Parlatino.
Philipsburg:--- SMN News has been reliably informed that Management of GEBE has suspended its customer care supervisor Hubert Pantophlet on November 10th. The source said Pantophlet had a confrontation with GEBE Commercial manager Steve Duzanson which led to the suspension. When contacted on Wednesday, Duzanson said he is not in a position to comment on personnel matters. SMN News further learnt that the confrontation had something to do with Pantophlet's time sheet.
The source said they cannot understand why the two individuals had to discuss this matter since Pantophlet has a department head who is supposed to be dealing with these issues and not the employee that is directly involved. SMN News further learnt that Duzanson has been provoking Pantophlet for very long time now and he used this situation to get at the long time employee.
Pantophlet has worked for GEBE for 32 years and according to a group of frustrated employees the management of GEBE is not doing anything that is beneficial to the utility company. "The management for the past four years has been acting on emotions and not the real issues that affect their employees and the customers."
When contacted on Wednesday Pantophlet confirmed that he has been suspended indefinitely since November 10th. He also confirmed that he will be taking GEBE management to court on the matter.
Philipsburg:--- On Thursday Police conducted controls on school buses, checking for weapons and other illegal items. this control took place at the Jose Lake Senior Ball Park in Cul-de-Sac. The controls started at 05:45 A.M. and lasted until 07:30 a.m. A total of 55 school buses were checked. The amount of items the students are not allowed to carry with them and that were confiscated has dropped dramatically. One machete and a knife were found on a bus coming from Dutch Quarter. Both weapons were confiscated.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Economic & Tourism Affairs, Transportation & Telecommunications Franklin Meyers, met with representatives of Curacao's Meteorological Services to discuss a draft one-year proposal for the rendering of services to the Sint Maarten Meteorological Services.
The Minister also discussed the seat that the former Netherlands Antilles had on the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and how St Maarten will be represented in the WMO in the not too distant future.
"Another issue we discussed is the costs related to aviation meteorology and what costs that would entail for the Princess Juliana International Airport.
"We are interested in a one-year protocol and cooperation agreement in order to ensure continued meteorological services, and I am hoping that the aforementioned can be signed by the middle of December.
"As a Government, we are taking these responsibilities very serious because we know what is at stake. I am looking forward to signing off on these agreements and putting our own infrastructure and resources in place within the short to mid-term," Minister of Transportation Franklin Meyers said on Sunday.
At the end of his working visit to Curacao last Thursday, Minister Meyers met with his Curacao colleague Minister C.F. Cooper.
Meyers briefed Cooper about his discussions and Cooper indicated his willingness for his departments to assist St Maarten in the continued spirit of cooperation and brotherly assistance as opposed to exploitation or seeking to gain from the relationship.
Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten Job Kiosk is the new online employment website that has been recently launched to accommodate the needs of persons seeking employment on St. Maarten and neighboring islands. The need for this type of on-line service is long overdue and we are happy to provide this free service to jobseekers. With Country St. Maarten still in infantile stage we need the diversity of skills, educational background and services of our people in every sector of the community – working together to build our island's economy.
We have graduates still abroad that want to come back home but are afraid of not being able to find a good job once they return home. This is where the Job Kiosk comes in – to bridge the gap between St. Maarteners abroad wanting to return home to work and local employers looking for staff with credentials that cannot be obtained locally.
The Job Kiosk will be working collaboratively with Government, employers and other local entities in a joint effort to alleviate local unemployment, especially among young adults. Our aim is that of getting the right people in the right jobs. Every industry is represented in the Job Kiosk so no person able and willing to work will be left behind.
Job Seekers are encouraged to register, search jobs, get employment tips and submit their resume online for free job matching if they so desire. Employers are invited to register, post jobs and request matching services as needed. All services to employers are temporarily free of charge for a duration of three months post-launch. The matching services for employers consist of pre-screening and matching of suitable job candidates. This service will eliminate or greatly reduce the overflow of job applicants not meeting the basic or specific requirements of a particular job vacancy. Employers may also post jobs anonymously and even opt not to show direct contact information.
The website is currently in a functional "no frills" format, still under development, and will be improved over the next several months. Although this is a local employment website, we are no substitute for the Department of Labor. We strongly encourage persons seeking employment on St. Maarten to register with the Department of Labor. We may be able to provide linkage services with the Department in the future, but for now we encourage jobseekers to make it a point to register as this is the procedure and first step in increasing their chances of legally finding suitable work on the island. The Job Kiosk can be found at www.jobkiosk.org and is the second local project sponsored by the U.S.-based non-profit organization - Swaby Academy.
Philipsburg: --- SMN News has been reliably informed that the leaders of the coalition government formed by the United Peoples Party and the Democratic Party are at loggerheads. The source said the UP leader and leader of the current government Theo Heyliger is not in favor of some of the actions that are taken by the Democratic Party leader and Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot-Williams. SMN News further learnt that the Prime Minister is making decisions that would affect the entire country and is allegedly not informing her coalition partner who has the most seats in government. One of those decisions the Prime Minister allegedly made was to give the Dutch government assurance in Holland during her last visit there that the 2011 budget will be balanced before the December 15th deadline.
SMN News further learnt that the Prime Minister did not inform Heyliger neither the Minister of Finance who travelled to Holland one week later to seek an agreement with the Dutch government to allow St. Maarten to have an unbalanced budget for at least three years.
On Tuesday, the council of Ministers in their weekly meeting discussed the budget of 2011 and the amount of cuts that would have to be made for the budget to be balanced. One source said the budget still has to go to the council of advice for a decision to be taken. They said that the way things stand St. Maarten can be in deep trouble because if the cuts are made then developing country St. Maarten would be impossible. "Cutting monies from all the Ministries will definitely affect hiring and having the various infrastructures in place for St. Maarten to build its country. Furthermore, if the National Alliance was in government they too would have had to deal with this mess the source explained. We are doubtful that the NA would have been able to solve this problem but I would like them to bring forward their proposals on fixing the budget."
SMN News learnt from well place sources that the coalition government has been requesting assistance from the former commissioner of finance Xavier Blackman to see if he is able to find a solution to the budget dilemma. The 2011 budget has a deficit of 130M guilders while St. Maarten has to make the budget amendments from October 10th to December 31 2010 for the 2010 budget.
SMN News learnt that while several persons have approached Blackman in the name of "country sake" the Minister of Finance is yet to contact him personally for advice. Blackman during his term in office as finance commissioner made the news almost every day about the stance he held with the CFT who was dictating what St. Maarten should and should not do with its budget. The constant confrontation with the CFT earned Blackman a vote of no confidence by the Democratic Party in the island council. SMN News further learnt that Blackman would under no circumstance assist the current government with the budget dilemma since they did not appreciate his hard work and diligence in preparing a realistic budget for St. Maarten.
In the meantime, the Parliament of St. Maarten also has to submit its budget to the Department of Finance. While Parliament is making decisions that will have financial consequences for St. Maarten, the President of Parliament is yet to sit down with the MP's to draft its budget. Currently Parliament does not have its own finance department and formulating a budget would have to depend on the expertise of the senators. Senators from the opposition openly expressed their concerns on the amount of financial decisions that are taken by parliament without having a budget in place. One senator was overheard saying that St. Maarten did not need to be part of Parlatino this year. This she said could have waited until 2011-2012 when there is a budget. Another senator agreed saying that St Maarten will be part of ten committees where two members would be in each committee. Parliament also took a decision on Tuesday to send a delegation of two to Saba for Saba day on Friday. While the President of Parliament had taken her own decision to travel to Barbados to attend the funeral of Barbados late Prime Minister. "All of this will affect the finances of parliament and the president of parliament already brought in her campaign manager to work in parliament. The question is who will pay him and from which budget" the senator asked.
The National Alliance faction refused to send a representative on behalf of their faction to Saba saying that it's a waste of monies. The persons that are assigned to go abroad do not represent the factions in parliament instead they are supposed to be representing parliament. SMN News also learnt that the United Peoples Party senators are at loggerheads with the President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell. The source said Arrindell is not following the advice of her faction and that one of the senators already indicated to her campaign manager Terrence Rey who is working in Parliament that the UP faction will replace her in the near future. SMN News further learnt that at least two senators from the UP faction and one from the DP faction in parliament wants Arrindell to get rid of her Public Relations officer and office manager Dorothy Lake fearing that she would leak information to the leader of the National Alliance William Marlin. SMN News learnt that the DP faction wants the position for the Prime Minister's sister Olga Williams who worked in Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles for a number of years. It should be noted that Lake is a civil servant whose salary is guaranteed, she worked under the former commissioner of education and now Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams in the education department and former commissioner of culture now senator Louis Laveist in the culture department before working as special advisor to William Marlin when he led government for 15 months.
SMN News also learnt that the President of Parliament already indicated to the leader of the United Peoples Party Theo Heyliger that he is a Minister and not an MP and that he should not meddle with the affairs of Parliament.
In the meantime, SMN News understands that the current situation has the leader of government and Minister Theodore Heyliger overwhelmed since according to the source Heyliger is not getting anything to move forward. The source said that Heyliger already made open remarks that he regretted forming a government so quickly without thinking about the consequences that follows.
When contacted for a comment the Minister and leader of government Theo Heyliger did not deny neither confirm the statements. He said he did not want to stir up trouble.
Philipsburg:--- The honourable Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams said that the committee that was put together to look into the matters facing WINAIR has submitted their reports and she is expected to meet with the members of the committee to discuss the proposals they offered. Wescot Williams also said besides meeting with the members of the committee she intends to meet with the management of WINAIR to discuss the current situation of the company which she said needed urgent attention.
The Prime Minister promised that when the discussion is over she will release more information to the media on the status of WINAIR. However, she admitted that WINAIR is facing some serious financial problems.
TELEM SEEKING PARTNERS DISCUSSIONS TOOK PLACE---PM.The Prime Minister also announced that she has met with the board representatives of TELEM where she was briefed. The Prime Minister said the company's restructuring can continue and TELEM has already held discussions with possible strategic partners. She said although progress has been made, the process is yet to be completed. The concept of the partnership has already been worked out the Prime Minister said and with that in place the negotiations has taken place with potential partners for them to team up.
Philipsburg: --- Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams responding to questions posed by SMN News on the 2011 budget discussions during the Council of Ministers press briefing on Wednesday confirmed that the Council of Ministers will be continuing the discussions on Thursday. The Prime Minister said that the discussion began on the draft budget. She said there were several proposals which include the increasing of revenues and cutting cost. While not divulging how government will be increasing revenues SMN News learnt that the Turn over Tax will be increased to 5%. Wescot Williams said the finance department made a presentation to the council on the proposals. Wescot-Williams further explained the two coalition partners would have to discuss the budget and they would propose measures pertaining to the budget.
The idea she said is for everybody to understand how they are seeking to have a balanced budget to present to the CFT by the deadline. The Prime Minister said that St. Maarten chose to become a country which brings certain responsibilities that government are prepared to bear. However, these responsibilities require more finances. She said St. Maarten still needs to continue making its case with all of the projections that have been made some which dates back to the year 2000. Some of these matters she said do have financial consequences that St. Maarten could have foreseen. The Prime Minister said based on that alone it is extremely difficult for St. Maarten to present a balanced budget for the year 2011. Government she said was prepared to announce or even discuss if necessary any measures even if unpopular but they would have loved to have the time necessary to negotiate and to look at possible alternatives before a decision is taken. She said whether those measures would have been just cost cutting or generating more revenues. Wescot Williams said St. Maarten is stuck with the law that governs the financial operation of St. Maarten. The Prime Minister said that "government is not letting up on the constant remarks that are being heard." She said that there are issues surfacing now that were made during the financial and constitutional agreements for the island to become country. In a follow up question the Prime Minister when asked to elaborate on the issues that are now surfacing she said that one would expect that when the transfer of services from the federal government took place the books would have also been turned over to the government of St. Maarten. She gave an example of the Postal Services of St. Maarten where a company is now set up here but the agreements are still to be finalized while that service is requiring monies from the government of St. Maarten. Wescot Williams said the matters pertaining to the employees that were transferred to St. Maarten was to have a final agreement where St. Maarten would have taken over the employees starting with a clean slate on October 10. However, she said that is not the situation today since there are several outstanding matters that have to be settled. The employees would have a valid claim and they could only take their cases to their new employer which is the government of St. Maarten.
The Daily Herald reporter Judy Fitzpatrick took top honours in the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Caribbean Populations Award in the print media for 2010.
She was presented with the UNFPA's top 'Platinum Award' certificate during the awards ceremony at the Trinidad Hilton Hotel on Tuesday night.
The award was presented for the four part investigative series: Gambling with life; buying medication on the black market which was published in The Daily Herald in March.
Jamaica Gleaner placed second in the print category with a Gold Award and Trinidad Guardian third with a Silver Award.
Close to 60 entries were received from journalists in Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Grenada, Belize, Barbados, Suriname and St. Maarten.
The entries were judged by an international panel of judges: Chief Judge Director of the Caribbean Institute of Media Communication (CARIMAC) University of the West Indies, Mona campus Dr. Canute James; Director of the Center of Communication Studies at the University of Guyana Dr. Paloma Mohamed; veteran Caribbean journalist Tony Best, who now resides in New York and the Communication Adviser to UNFPA for Latin America and the Caribbean region.
Other journalists honoured were Belizean Jules Vasquez (Platinum television), Jamaican Carol Francis (Gold television), and Janelle Chanona (Silver television). Sheryl Johnson was the only winner in the radio category. She received a Silver Award. Judges felt no other radio entry met the criteria for awards.
The National Women's Commission of Belize, a non-government organisation, won a cash award for its work on gender equality, equity and women's empowerment in that country.
UNFPA partners in Trinidad and Tobago such as parliamentarians and representatives from the Government, diplomatic corps, business community, non-governmental organizations, academia, health service providers, community, religious leaders, and the media attended the ceremony.
Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten Lions Club is finalizing preparations for their Annual Lions Christmas Bingo Spectacular, which is being held this coming Saturday, December 4th at the Celebration Palace on the Bush Road.
According to Bingo Committee Chairman Lion Tony "Toontje" Buncamper, "the evening promises to be very exciting for the public with great prizes which the St. Maarten Lions Club is providing".
The club will call 39 bingo games for overloaded goody baskets, airline tickets on American Airlines, Liat, and Winair along with various dinner vouchers and other constellation prizes. The final grand prize for the evening is the Santa's Bag which is 1000 guilders.
The gate of the venue will opens at 6:30pm in order for the public to obtain their bingo cards and the first bingo game will be called at 8pm sharp by Lion PDG Wally Havertong.
Drinks, food and snacks will be on sale all night and the general public are urged to purchase their tickets as soon as possible from any Lion member or at the door where there will be a limited supply of tickets.
All proceeds raised from the Lions Christmas Bingo Spectacular will be used for worthwhile projects for the community of St. Maarten.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto, announced on Thursday that the Council of Ministers finalized its Deficit-Reduction & Recovery Program," as part of the process for "a better way forward and for a brighter future for all."
The country had a budget deficit according to the Committee of Financial Supervision CFT of Naf.130 million. Based on the Consensus Kingdom Law on Financial Supervision for Curacao and St Maarten, St. Maarten has to present a balanced budget by December 15, 2010. In the past under the status of Island Territory, previous governments missed many deadlines and we do not want to follow that trend as a country, Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto said on Thursday.
"Since October 12, 2010, Government started a review of the national budget and this has been an on-going process. Government must demonstrate that we can handle our own affairs and that we are willing to pay for the services that are required to provide a certain level of quality of life for our people.
"These are difficult times; difficult times are all around. If you have been watching the news of late, you will see that various countries especially in Europe have had to implement austerity measures in order to cope with the impact of global economic-financial crisis. Even in our region (Barbados, St. Kitts and The British Virgin Islands) island nations have had to increase taxes (Barbados increased its Value Added Tax from 15% to 17,5%) in addition to introducing new taxes. We are in the same boat, but our situation is much more difficult. We as country are not able to borrow money to cover our budget deficit (general fund), therefore we have to cut expenditures and increase revenues to balance our budget.
"We do not have anybody to bail us out or give us a loan. Becoming a country has its responsibilities and obligations and we now have to be able to make it work and we can do that as a nation with everybody onboard in this national effort. There is light at the end of the tunnel and things will get better.
"After inheriting a multi-million guilder deficit from the previous National Alliance led-government, we have the responsibility to solve the problem rather than throw up our hands in despair. We have a duty to you the people to fix the wrongs and restore balance to the country's finances," Minister Hiro Shigemoto pointed out on Thursday.
The Minister added that during his and Vice Prime Minister Theo Heyliger's working visit to Holland last month, an effort was made with Kingdom Government representatives and others to seek leeway in having a budget deficit for a certain period that would allow the country to implement cost cutting measures and collect outstanding monies from the former Netherlands Antilles Central Government.
The Dutch Government representatives were adamant that St. Maarten would have to balance its budget. To understand the situation at hand one needs to be able to understand what the budgetary situation was then, where we were, and where we have to get to with the figures, and prior to becoming a Country and what the projected situation looks like now that we are a country.
"If you take the deficit as reported by the CFT at Naf.130 million then you take the corrections that St Maarten has made in rebuttal to the advice prepared by the CFT you get the following picture:
"Naf.130,000,000.00 deficit minus a correction of Naf.9,000,000.00 as revenue from moving the monies from the Capital Investment chapter for Cooperative Economic Initiative (SEI) then one also has to move the income over to the general fund, thereby creating a correction of Naf.9,000,000.00. In its advice, the CFT counted the plan of approach for Justice twice thereby creating a second correction this time at Naf.15,000,000.00.
"The third correction deals with the loans for study financing (Naf.4,000,000.00) being removed from the capital investment chapter and the final correction on the estimation of the CFT on the expenditure side dealt with a typo of Naf.3,600,000.00 whereby the CFT meant to type Naf.400,000.00 but typed Naf.4,000,000.00. The total amount of corrections on the expenditure side brings down the deficit to the sum of Naf.98,400,000.00.
"There were also corrections on the income side of the budget which in St Maarten's opinion were too conservatively estimated. For example, the CFT estimated the collectible amount for wage tax at Naf.11,500,000.00 too low. Our collected revenues for wage tax thus far indicate that for 2010 the amount of wage tax St Maarten collected is in line with what was collected in 2009.
"The estimation of St Maarten for all major taxes including wage tax in 2011 was based on the revenues collected for 2009. So this correction was made thereby increasing the wage tax back to the 2009 levels (Naf.+11,500,000.00). The CFT also estimated the revenues for Turn over Tax (ToT) very conservatively. This again was corrected back to the 2009 level by adjusting the revenues for ToT by Naf.5,000,000.00 upwards. These corrections made by St Maarten then brings the deficit down to Naf.81,900,000.00.
"First and foremost has been the effort of Government to reduce expenditures prior to the consideration of any income-generating measures. Cost cutting measures will impact all ministries of government at this early stage of country status to the tune of close to Naf.36 million. Certain investments and additional personnel will be put on hold for at least a year. In this process, none of the civil servants will lose their jobs or see a reduction in salaries". Government will also focus on creating a safety net and improve services for the public.
"The government decided on several cost cutting measures totalling Naf.35,900,000.00 in the areas of Social Security Bank SVB insurance for family members of employees in the private sector, Education, partial freezing of personnel salaries, and additional measures. This was no means an easy task, yet it was absolutely necessary to be able to balance the budget. These cuts were the absolute amount that could be made in order to trim what little fat there was in the draft budget 2011. It is important to also mention that there aren't any new policies included in this draft budget.
"The governing program is not included either in the present budget. This draft budget can be called an emergency budget which is full of sacrifices we have to make as an emerging country which started with a deficit in human capital, necessary capital investments and other deficits in services.
"St Maarten used to generate as an Island Territory within the Netherlands Antilles approximately Naf.265,649,559 income. The additional revenues that came along with becoming a Country within the Kingdom are Naf.116,266,666, together this totals Naf.381,916,225.00. The total costs of the Island Territory of St Maarten in 2010 stood at Naf.282,000,000. The costs associated with the extra tasks that St Maarten took over as a country was Naf.105,862,832.00.
"In addition to this an additional amount of Naf.22,500,000.00 in personnel costs was added to the budget as a result of the indexation of the civil servants salaries in 2011 and the back service for pension premiums which would be owed if the indexation of 5,3% would be added to the salaries of civil servants in 2011," Minister Shigemoto explained.
The total budget of the Country St Maarten for 2011 stands at Naf. 444,942,925.00 after cost cutting measures of Naf. 35,900,000.00 and income generating measures of Naf.46,000,000.00, and as a result, the deficit of Naf.81,900,000.00 is then reduced to a balanced budget.
The income generating measure of increasing the turnover tax from 3% to 5% is not across the board. Basic commodities such as bread, milk, rice, eggs, sugar, flour, chicken, baby products, grain, beans, flour, fruits, and greens will be exempted from Turn over Tax. At the other side of this increase lies the improvement of government services offered to the public at large. Government has an obligation to improve its services to the public.
"There is no other responsible way than the implementation of a Deficit-Reduction & Recovery Program. It is clearly a time to come together and show solidarity to our new country. For many decades St Maarten has been home to many from all over the world and the country has provided countless economic opportunities for all of its inhabitants.
"Now St Maarten as an emerging country in challenging times needs its inhabitants to be resolute, resilient, steadfast and contribute back to its development into a brand new nation. St Maarten is a unique place and while it is exposed to a common problem throughout the world (World economic/financial crisis), it is also challenged in its new development into a country. St Maarten must build a nation at a time when the economy is down, with sparks of improvement. It must build from scratch its capital, human and otherwise. It must have a balanced budget while not being able to borrow to do so. The light at the end of the tunnel is signified by the resilience of our people.
"Clear and credible measures are needed to deal with the fiscal deficit. Failing to tackle the deficit quickly will lead to serious problems and the possible intervention of the Kingdom Government with "higher supervision," no one desires and certainly not the government.
"We have studied the financial situation of the nation very diligently taking into consideration global economic growth, our own economy at this point in time, and the benefits of taking action, and most importantly measures that won't seriously impact our own fragile economic recovery. We do not want to burden the nation with a whole set of new income-generating measures, however we only have a small window of opportunity to pass our Deficit-Reduction & Recovery Program by the December 15 CFT deadline, and the Council of Ministers is very confident that we will be able to meet the aforementioned date," Minister of Finance Shigemoto said on Friday.
Philipsburg:--- The victim of an armed robbery identified as J.R.P. from Romania residing on the island filed an official report with the detective department stating that on Friday December 3rd while walking on the Welfare road in the vicinity of St Maarten Cars in Cole Bay, he was attacked by two unknown black men riding on a scooter. The passenger of the scooter put a knife to his throat and threatened to harm the victim if he did not cooperate.
Fearing for his life the victim cooperated with the robbers. His wallet containing U.S. $ 140,- and his Nokia cellular telephone were stolen from him. The victim was also stripped of all his clothing and was left naked on the street. After committing this act the suspects took off on the scooter. The Detective Department is investigating this case.
Police on Friday intercepted some robbers who were busy breaking into several homes on Marconi Street Cole Bay.
On the scene the investigating patrols arrested two men from the Dominican Republic with initials Y.C.J and V.V., a third suspect fled the scene when the patrols arrived. The suspects were caught in the act after they had broken into two separate homes. The suspects had prepared to take several electrical items from these homes. The suspects were taken to the Philipsburg police station where they remain in custody for further investigation. The vehicle the suspects used was also confiscated for further investigation.
Holland House Beach Hotel in Philipsburg hosted for the second time Canadian model Rachel Bigras who was two weeks on the Island to do photo shoots with St. Martin based photographer Jean Jarreau for the new French women perfumes "TINTAMARRE Jour ®" and "TINTAMARRE Nuit ®".
The perfumes are fabricated in the French Cote d'Azur fragrance city of Grasse, by one of the most famous perfume houses for Jean Jarreau Cosmetics.
The "Tintamarre ®" perfumes and a line of cosmetic skin care products will be launched in the beginning of December next year (2011) during an International presentation at Holland House Hotel.
Model Rachel announced during a brief appearance at the hotel with General Manager Paul Boetekees that the perfume company decided to donate 1 US dollar from the on line sales of each flacon to the St.Maarten Nature Foundation and 1 US dollar to the French side Reserve Naturelle de Saint Martin.
The cosmetic line products will become available for purchase on the web site www.Tintamarre.com immediately after the official launching in December 2011and in perfume stores around the world.
Contrary to all other perfumes that are currently available, marketing people at Jean Jarreau cosmetics and "Tintamarre ®" perfumes in France will not have one specific model as the "face" of their products but will work with many models to appear in promotion and advertising campaigns.
Some of the models are recognizable "famous" models while others are not yet established in the top or are even "beginners".
Some twenty other models are scheduled to come to St.Maarten/St.Martin to do photo shoots for the cosmetics line.
A video commercial will be produced here on the Island by a local company in the spring and will involve the day sail classic vessel Passaat, helicopter and chase boat filming and underwater shots at the Island of Tintamarre.
Additional information will become available soon in www.Tintamarre.com
Philipsburg: --- Workers of the Eastern Caribbean Cellular are becoming weary and have begun questioning whose interest the court appointed trustee is defending. The workers who were officially terminated on November 18th said they had an appointment with the trustee and its representative on Monday but the trustee they said canceled the appointment without even notifying them.
When the workers showed up at Lexwell law firm they were met at the entrance by an employee who informed them that the meeting has been canceled and new date will be set next week. Carl Richardson said the workers need the six weeks salaries that are owed to them. ECC workers he said received their last salary on October 7th and they were officially terminated on November 18th. Richardson said the trustee has to also make sure they get their severance pay. As for the workers, many of them are without medical and only recently they were able to file for unemployment and other benefits at the labour department.
Richardson said it has been ten weeks now since the ECC workers took home monies and the Christmas season is approaching. He said ECC workers have families and they need to provide for them. Richardson further explained that the workers are asking for salaries they are entitled to. Furthermore, the workers want to see the court appointed trustee and not the trustee's representative. Richardson said while they were told that a meeting can be held as early as Wednesday they are going to ensure they meet with trustee who would have to say when the payments are going to be made.
Asked if the other telecommunication companies on the island have offered ECC workers employment Richardson said the other companies were never interested in ECC workers. He said those companies were interested in ECC customers which they got.
Philipsburg:--- Tax Advisor Mr. Max Pandt recently gave a lecture to the Members and guests of the St. Maarten Lions Club during the club's monthly guest speaker evening at the Lions' Den in Suckergarden.
The topics for the evening were the role of the College Financieel Toezicht (CFT) and direct and indirect taxes.
For years some countries/entities within the Kingdom of the Netherlands have experienced substantial and structural problems in the area of government finances, which have had far reaching consequences. For this reason it was agreed upon between all countries within the Kingdom of the Netherlands to install the CFT.
Mr. Pandt explained that there existed one CFT prior to the dismantling of the Netherlands Antilles. Presently there are 2 CFT, one (1) for Curacao and Sint Maarten one (1) for the BES islands, the latter of which Mr. Pandt is currently a member. Mr. Pandt elaborated on the role of CFT which is to supervise compliance with agreements that were made between the Netherlands and the respective countries/entities within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
The role of the CFT is particularly aimed at controlling the budgetary process and improving financial management of the respective countries of the former Netherlands Antilles. The CFT also ensures compliance with international standard rules regarding performance of members of Board of Supervisory Directors of government owned companies.
CFT is an independent body of all countries within the Kingdom of the Netherlands and periodically reports to the Kingdom Council of Ministers.
On the topic of direct and indirect taxes Mr. Pandt elaborated on the difference between direct and indirect taxes, and the fine line between the two taxes. An example given by Mr. Pandt was the turnover tax which is a direct tax however in practice gained the resemblance of an indirect tax given the fact that this tax is often passed on to the consumer.
Our progressive tax system was elaborated upon by Mr. Pandt. A healthy discussion took place amongst Mr. Pandt and the members and guests of the St. Maarten Lions Clubs with regards to finding a balance between the need to generate more income versus implementation of different taxes whilst maintaining our progressive tax system.
NAGICO's End Year Agent's Conference will be held this Friday at the Belair Community Center, under the theme: "Mine Your Business". Special guest speaker Mr. Garth W. Thomas, a Financial Planning & Customer Relations Facilitator will give a two part presentation to support the theme. The first part will cover the Art & Science of Building a Clientele - mining your business techniques which when applied accurately should ultimately result in increased sales from existing clients and/or attract new business. The second part of his presentation will include a case study.
The conference will commence at 9:00 am sharp and will also include presentations from Underwriting & Product Managers Mr. Dwayne Elgin and Mr. Roger Balkissoon, who together will highlight NAGICO's new product developments. Next year's Corporate Wall & Desk Calendar will be officially introduced at the conference by Marketing Officer, Jimmy Challenger. To close off the day, NAGICO's Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Imran McSood Amjad will lead his team of Executive Directors in an interactive discussion highlighting the future of NAGICO – as a leading insurance company in the North Eastern Caribbean.
Marketing Officer Jimmy Challenger: "Getting the most share of a client's purchasing power set aside to buy a product or service requires companies to "Mine Their Business". In other words, to get the customer's gold and silver value, requires sufficient mining. This includes proper management of client data, listening to the customers to identify their needs, taking initiative towards providing multiple solutions which lead to cross-selling and ultimately increased sales revenues. Friday's "Mine Your Business" Conference will help set the stage for what's to come in the near future to all NAGICO jurisdictions, including: The British Virgin Islands, Anguilla, Antigua, Dominica, Montserrat, the ABC islands, Dutch St. Maarten, St. Eustatius, Saba, St. Kitts, Nevis and soon to be opened French St. Martin Office.".
GREAT BAY (GIS):--- Every year, the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau along with the Florida Caribbean Cruise Association host their annual Holiday Gift Program. This year, the event took place on December 8 at the Sister Borgia Elementary School located on Cannegieter street in Philipsburg.
The Principal of the school and the Tourism department official welcomed the young audience and got them excited.
Teacher Betty warmed up the children by singing Christmas carols with the young students, after which the Disney characters surprised the crowd.
All classes from K1 to the sixth grade students, totaling about 100, came up to the characters, got a hug, a high five, or a fist bump/St. Maarten boops and then were given a gift by one of the Disney staff members.
The students were highly excited and pleased to receive a gift and to spend some time with the Disney characters that were present: Mickey and Mini Mouse, Daffy Duck, Goofy, the Chipmunks, and Stitch.
...
On December 9, the Governor of St. Maarten Eugene Holiday and French Prefet Jacques Simonnet on the French side had a meeting to discuss current matters.
NAGICO has been serving the population of Saint-Martin, French and Dutch for nearly 30 years. At a time when no insurance company were established on French Saint-Martin, NAGICO catered to the needs of the local market by providing affordable products and supporting the population in rebuilding the island after disasters such as Hurricanes Luis, Marie-Line, Lenny...
In addition to its core business, NAGICO has significantly contributed to the local community -supporting educational, cultural and sporting projects, thus creating public value.
In order to adhere to the laws of the Republic of France and offer the required guarantees to French Saint-Martin residents, NAGICO embarked on the process of obtaining an insurance license to operate in France. Since obtaining our license in February 2010, our competitors have attempted to stain our corporate image by all means: press releases, contacting banks, lobbying the local authorities (State, Collectivity, Chamber of Commerce...), Correspondence to the regulatory authority ACP... WE ARE HIGHLY COMMITTED TO PROVIDING AFFORDABLE PRODUCTS AND QUALITY SERVICE TO THE RESIDENTS OF FRENCH SAINT-MARTIN.
We are hereby confirming that our new policies will be written in French and will strictly adhere to ALL legal requirements of the French Insurance Code.
Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association has sent a letter to the president of parliament as well as to all members of parliament and the Prime Minister condemning the increase of Turn over Tax to balance the 2011 budget. The following is a copy of the letter that was sent to parliament and the Council of Ministers.
Further to the announcement of the proposed 66% TOT increase (3% to 5%) in the media, the following:
Based on consultation with SHTA members, the Foundation Tax Committee and government coalition faction leaders, the SHTA finds the proposed increase in tax is unacceptable as a quick-fix method to balance the 2011 budget in order to avoid possible higher supervision without government exhausting all efficiency and austerity measures.
For years the SHTA has advocated that the coming of change to Country St. Maarten offered an opportunity to reengineer government to an efficient apparatus and to get its financial administration in order. In fact the public sector has had 10 years to prepare a new public apparatus and tax system for Country St. Maarten.
Option B of the 2000 referendum was sold to the people as a revenue generating option for the island since the money sent on an annual basis to Federal government was deemed more than sufficient to govern the country.
Since the economic downturn in late 2008, the SHTA has requested some sort of economic stimulus from the Public sector to be put in place and to date no relief has been received, thus leaving the Private sector to manage its own resources in order to survive and unilaterally protect St. Maarten's economic base.
As proposed, this measure at the very least would create spiraling inflation resulting in an increase in cost of living. Furthermore a shift to off-island purchasing thereby damaging local industry and potentially shrinking local tax base eliminating any potential tax increase.
In the event that Parliament would ratify the earlier decision made by the Council of Ministers, SHTA strongly advocates for the additional 2% to be placed in escrow for a period of 6 months only. The funds collected would be released with tri-partite consultation and on the following conditions:
- Reengineer tax system and have tripartite consensus on a draft system by June 30, 2011 for following implementation January 1, 2012
- Activate SER by January 31, 2011
- Improve compliance focusing on unregistered and non-paying businesses and individuals
- Ensure that St. Maarten is legally represented on the CFT and 'Vereffenings committee' by December 31, 2010.
- A review of the current TOT legislation prior to January 1 2011 encompassing at least the following points:
- Make TOT 100% deductable from profit tax
- Reintroduce fiscal unity
- TOT receivables on sales system up to Dec 31, 2010 need to remain at 3%
- Review the present exemptions
- Eliminate the multiplier effect
Over the years, SHTA has been and will continue to be a proactive responsible social partner and will strive to work together with Government and organized labor in effectively addressing the many challenges that face us all as country St. Maarten.
Philipsburg:--- Gynaecologist Dr. Michel Petit has sent a letter to the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams and the media asking that that an independent committee be installed to investigate the discrepancies at the St. Maarten Medical Centre. Dr. Petit is also calling on the Governor of St. Maarten to step in and to resolve the ongoing issue at the SMMC.
In his letter Dr. Petit said 18 months ago he accused management of the SMMC of knowingly allowing someone who is not a surgeon to perform surgical procedures at the Medical Centre. This he said has been going on for the past two years.
He said during the same period he also reported this matter to the local press and when Dr. Scot was asked he responded to the allegation by saying it was an internal matter.
Dr. Petit said he also spoke to former Minister of Health Patrick Illidge who requested an investigation by the health inspector.
The well known gynaecologist said the only person who was contacted on this matter was the medical director Dr. George Scot and no one from the operating room personnel neither Dr. Petit was contacted on his allegation. Yet Dr. Theo Braken concluded there was no wrong doing at the SMMC therefore the situation did not change.
Dr. Petit said two weeks later he made another complaint at the department of public health indicating that the same person was performing operations while he is not a surgeon or doctor.
Dr. Petit said a new investigation was initiated by Dr. Cornelius De Weever, the acting health inspector but his term was short lived since Dr. Theo Braken took over his tasks.
Dr. Petit said based on his knowledge Dr. Braken spoke with Dr. Jack Bocher the orthopaedic surgeon working at the SMMC on December 6th 2010. A meeting was also scheduled between Dr. Braken and Dr. Petit for December 9th which was held in the presence of Dr. Cornelius De Weever.
Dr. Petit said he was surprised when he received a copy of a letter from Dr. Th. Braken which was addressed to Dr. George Scot dated December 8th clearing the St. Maarten Medical Centre of any wrong doing. Based on this revelation Dr. Petit concluded that both investigations carried out by Dr. Theo Braken are biased and he should be disqualified from this task.
The Mental Health Foundation organized an informative session with key health professionals and stake holders in and out of the mental health field on Monday December 6th 2010.
The purpose of this session was to introduce current developments in Mental Health, current developments in Psychopharmacology and the use of medication protocols.
The main speakers for the evening were Dr. Erik Hoencamp and Dr Judith Haffmans who are being hosted by the MHF from November 28th to December 11th in an effort to establish a corporation agreement which would link MHF with Parnassia Bavo Groep in the Netherlands.
"The idea is to keep mental health treatment as simple and efficient as possible within the context of Sint Maarten by collaborating to enhance patient care and financial feasibility" says Dr. Hoencamp.
Dr. Erik Hoencamp is a Professor in Clinical Psychiatry in Leiden Netherlands and also serves as Director of 'New Business' within the Parnassia Bavo Groep. He received his PHD on the basis of his thesis entitled 'Depressed Outpatients, Efficacy and Predictability of Response of Three-phase-treatment strategy'.
Dr. Judith Haffmans is a Clinical Pharmacologist and chronobiologist. She is also a professor at the University of Leiden, a member of the Medical Ethics Review Committee and has published many research articles.
Since their arrival, they have been conducting psycho-education sessions with the clients of the MHF. In addition to that, interactive sessions were held with the MHF Staff on Ambulant Care, Crisis Intervention, Admissions Procedures, e-Therapy and e-Health. They have also given recommendations for safety Measures and Protocols for the MHF's new building.
The new system called e-therapy and e-health, which will be made available by Parnassia Bavo Groep, is an innovative way that MHF can provide optimal care to patients from their home. "This introduces a whole new concept of care by providing basic guided support for specific treatments" says Dr Hoencamp" This would allow clients to receive treatment and encouragements via the web"
This subject also was part of the presentation on Monday at Divi little Bay, where the doctors stressed on the importance of close cooperation between key stakeholders on Sint Maarten.
Organizing mental health care within the context of transition and financial restraint is a challenge with many opportunities to create a simple efficient health care system that suits the needs of Sint Maarten.
"The impression of MHF is positive" says Dr. Hoencamp "It is important now to find a new structure that would benefit Sint Maarten"
The Mental Health Foundation would like to thank the speakers, Dr. Erik Hoencamp and Dr. Judith Haffmans, the participants of the event for their feedback and Divi little Bay for their contributions.
Philipsburg:--- Member of Parliament George Pantophlet has sent a letter to Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto asking questions based on article 62 of the Constitution of Country St. Maarten. The following are the questions sent to the Minister:
- When will the Budget 2011 be presented to Parliament?
- How much funds is owed to St. Maarten by the former Netherlands Antilles government?
- How much funds is owed to St. Maarten by St. Maarten creditors and who are those creditors?
- Were funds deposited on the account of the Central Bank for St. Maarten by the Dutch?
- If so, how much was deposited and what was the amount spent on?
- If no funds were spent, why not?
Philipsburg:--- The Police Special Robbery Unit over the weekend have been quite busy investigating several armed robberies and at least one attempted armed robbery.
A man with initials S.H.P. filed an official report with detectives stating that on Friday evening at approximately 09:00 p.m. while walking on the boardwalk he was suddenly attacked from behind by two unknown men and forced to the ground. A third man came and stole his wallet containing some cash, credit-cards, identification card and his Black Berry Bold II phone.
Another man identified as D.A.Q. filed an official report with detectives stating that on Friday evening at approximately 10:15 p.m. while on his way home from work and walking on the Simpson Bay road he was almost ran over by a white car. The car stopped at which time two young men jumped out. A fight immediately broke out between him and these two men when they demanded money from him. Two other suspects stepped out of the car got into the fight. The victim continued struggling at which time the suspects tried to him push into the trunk of the car, however that did not succeed. The suspects then fled the scene in their car and not being able to steal anything from the victim.
A man with the initials L.M.M. stated that on Friday December 10th at approximately 10:30 p.m. while standing and talking to a friend outside of Carolina Bar on the Soualiga road, he was approached from behind by two unknown men at which time one of the men pulled his gold chain from his neck. The suspects then took-off running through street next to the tennis court.
A man with initials O.T stated that on Sunday December 12th at approximately 01:30 a.m. while driving through Mullet Bay in his car, his path was suddenly blocked by another car. Four men jumped out of the suspected car and attacked him. He was pulled from his car, thrown to the ground and severely beaten by these men. They robbed him of his Cellular telephone, his vehicle and U.S. $ 400 in cash. The vehicle was later found abandoned.
On Tuesday afternoon December 14, 2010, the board of the Sint Maarten Seniors and Pensioners Association (SMSPA) met with Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Mrs Maria Buncamper-Molanus. The meeting was held at the request of the SMSPA, to introduce the boardmembers of the legally established association and to request the support of the Minister to end the discrimination that senior citizens and pensioners in Sint Maarten are experiencing.
The old age pensions for instance in Sint Maarten are still under poverty level. Poverty is a violation of the human right to a descent standard of living. When we look at the old age pensions on the French side of Sint Maarten and the old age pensions in the Netherlands (1000 Euro), the poverty pensions in Sint Maarten of 800 ANG are in violation of the non-discrimination principle, the equal rights that the Kingdom government has to guarantee citizens throughout the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
The health care level and the health care packages in Sint Maarten are still not equal to the basic health care level and the health care package of the Netherlands. This is a violation of the right to the highest attainable standard of health care that the Kingdom government has to guarantee throughout the Kingdom, so also in the Caribbean part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. SMSPA has commended the St. Maarten Government however, as a step in the right direction has been taken with respect to the plans to establish a basic health care package which is equal to that of the Netherlands as part of the National Health Insurance system.
Furthermore the sickness insurance premium that retirees of private and public sector in Sint Maarten have to pay to be insured with SVB and FZOG (10% of their monthly pension) is still five times higher than what non-retired workers insured with SVB or BZV (2%) have to pay from their monthly salary. This is also a violation of the non-discrimination principle among workers based upon age or upon their activity status.
The board of the SMSPA has all understanding that the government of country Sint Maarten only now is responsible to help the seniors to realize all their human rights, but made it clear that government of Sint Maarten has now become part of the Kingdom government with their representative the Minister Plenipotentiary in the Hague.
To realize all human rights of the seniors before 2012, is a commitment made by the Kingdom government delegation in Madrid in 2002 by signing the International Action Plan on Aging.
The board of the SMSPA recommended the government of Sint Maarten to demand from the Kingdom government all the necessary political, economical, social, cultural and financial support to achieve this objective before 2012 and to comply with the human rights guarantee that is the responsibility of the Kingdom government.
Referring to the International Action Plan on Aging (Madrid 2002)and the Regional Strategy to Implement the International Action Plan on Aging for Latin America and the Caribbean (Santiago de Chile 2003) the board of the SMSPA urged the Minister to formalize and implement a National Action Plan on Aging for Country Sint Maarten and to guarantee the involvement of the SMSPA in preparation, decision making and implementation of all policies which could affect seniors living in Sint Maarten. The board of the SMSPA will submit their proposals to be included in such a National Action Plan on Aging for country Sint Maarten and will come up with suggestions for a structured dialogue to guarantee the bottom up approach which governments have adopted in the aforementioned intergovernmental meetings.
The board of the SMSPA requested for a policy that government should make more use of the knowledge and the experience of the seniors and pensioners in the society. Pensioners for instance can still contribute to the development of society. Especially now that Sint Maarten has become a country, a lot of human resources to build up the country are needed.
The minister committed to a follow up meeting with the SMSPA in the beginning of next year to respond to the issues brought up by the SMSPA.
GREAT BAY:--- Youth Health Care (YHC) whose offices are located at the Vineyard Office Park, is encouraging parents to visit the office during the school holiday season to see if their child's vaccinations are up to date.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to visit the YHC during office hours every day in the afternoons or during school breaks to keep track of the status of their child's vaccination schedule.
YHC has changed its vaccination schedule and all children between four and nine-years of age will now get their second Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine at four years of age.
The DTPolio vaccination will continue to be given when the child is nine-years of age.
Other changes in the vaccination schedule apply to children between two and 12 months of age.
Parents are reminded to make sure that their children between the ages of 0-17 are up to date with their vaccinations which are necessary in order to reduce the risk of vaccine-preventable diseases.
DTP, MMR and catch-up Hepatitis B vaccines will be given to children who are not up to date.
Immunization is a way of protecting children against serious vaccine preventable diseases. Once a person has been fully vaccinated, their bodies can fight those diseases if one comes into contact with them.
Parents should bring along with them their child's vaccination booklet/card. If you are not sure of the status of your child, you should contact your general practitioner, paediatrician, or YHC for children up to four years of age.
GREAT BAY (GIS):--- On December 16, the Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic, and Telecommunication, staff members of the Secretariat of the Council of Ministers and the Staff members of Minister Meyers' office were given a presentation by former State Secretary and Member of Parliament in the Antillean parliament, Mr. Marcel Gumbs, in the Claude Wathey Legislative Hall.
Acting Secretary General of the Ministry, Mr. Miguel de Weever, said that the intention is to provide the Department Heads, policy advisors, the Secretariat of the Council of Ministers and staff members of Minister Meyers' office with information about the new legislative system of Parliament so as to assist in their work.
Gumbs provided information on the specifics questions: "What is parliament?" and "How does it work?"
Gumbs explained the details on the Parliament, Legal instruments, Charter of the Kingdom, Cooperation Regulation, "Staatsregeling" Constitution, Voting Regulation, Organizational Structure, Secretariat of Parliament, Rights of Parliament, and Leadership of Parliament. There was a question and answer session afterwards.
Gumbs has served in parliament in one capacity or another, from Observer to Member of Parliament to State Secretary of Justice, since 1983.
Philipsburg:--- On Friday December 17th a three man delegation from Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police force consisting of Deputy Commissioner Stafford Liburd, Inspector Franklyn Belgrove and Seargent Travis Rogers paid a courtesy visit to the Sint Maarten Police Force. The Acting Chief of Police, Commissioner Carl John received the delegation open heartily and together with the Head of the Detective Department Miss Denise van Geertruij-Jacobs and other management team members sat down for talks. During this visit a presentation was given by the delegation with regard to drugs, gangs and other serious criminal related activities taking place on those islands and how these situations are being dealt with.
The presentation given was very informative, after which Commissioner John also gave an explanation of the present situation on Sint Maarten and expressed his concern about crime on Sint Maarten. The talks ended well and both parties are definitely looking forward to a very close working relationship in the future to combat any type of criminal activities in the region.
On Saturday the delegation left for Anguilla to pay the authorities there a courtesy visit.
Philipsburg:--- Three members of parliament from the National Alliance faction, namely faction leader William Marlin, George Pantophlet and Dr. Lloyd Richardson have dispatched a letter on Sunday evening to chairlady of parliament Gracita Arrindell. A copy of the letter sent to SMN News states that on December 9th, the faction of the National Alliance requested for a public meeting of Parliament to be convened to discuss:
The decision of the Council of Ministers to increase the Turn Over Tax to 5%.
In accordance with the Rules of Order the meeting has to be convened within 14 days, as such, no later than December 23rd upcoming. Also, Members of Parliament are to receive the notification for the meeting at the least 4 days prior to the meeting. Today is Monday December 20th, and we have not received any convocation as yet.
The undersigned, members of the National Alliance faction, hereby request for another point to be added to the agenda of said meeting.
- The involvement of Minister Maria Buncamper Molanus in the sale of the Economic Rights of a parcel of Long Lease land.
The members further request that both Minister Maria Buncamper Molanus and Prime Minister Sarah Wescott-Williams be invited to the meeting to answer questions.
Philipsburg:--- The Zero Tolerance team of the police force of St. Maarten is making headway in cleaning up the island of criminals while providing a safer holiday season. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said the Zero Tolerance Team were busy with intense traffic controls last weekend.
Henson said between Friday December 17th and Sunday December 19th a total of 172 fines were given to traffic offenders. Six persons were arrested in connection with the drug laws, four persons for their illegal status on the island and three persons were arrested for public violence. Illegal gathering on the so called "blocks" were broken up and a total of 30 vehicles were towed. These controls will continue indefinitely.
Philipsburg:--- Minister of Labour and Heath Maria Buncamper Molanus held her grounds on Monday evening when she met with the board of the Democratic Party to discuss the sale of the economic rights of a parcel of land she obtained by long lease. Sources close to the DP board said that Buncamper Molanus maintained that she did not do anything illegal when she made the three million dollar deal with ECO GREEN N.V which was established three days prior to the transaction that was done on December19 2008. SMN News has been reliably informed that every member of the DP board told the Minister that she has to resign since the so called land deal has left a bad image on the Democratic Party and their coalition government. According to our sources if the Minister remains persistent, then the Democratic Party would have take the matter to parliament for the Minister's dismissal from office.
Shortly after the meeting on Monday evening the president of the Democratic Party issued a press release stating that the Democratic Party has concluded its internal discussions and has agreed to discuss the matter with their coalition partner. It is expected that the coalition meeting will take place on Tuesday December 21st. The party president said the Democratic Party also reserves the right to further comment until after their coalition meeting.
Philipsburg:--- On Tuesday morning between 09:00 and 10:00 am police and detectives responded to the Philipsburg landfill after they received a call informing them that a woman identified ad Patricia Brooks (41) years of age who collects empty bottles on the dump had accidentally been ran over by a garbage compacter and as a result had suffered severe damage to both legs. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said the paramedics were sent to the scene where the victim was given first aid, after which she was immediately transported to the St. Maarten Medical Center. Henson said the victim succumbed to the injuries she sustained from the accident.
The police traffic, detective and forensic department are busy investigating this case to determine exactly how this accident took place.
Press Prosecutor Rienk Mud said the victim in question was warned on several occasions to stay away from the dump (landfill). Mud said based on information his office received the victim was chased away on a number of occasions but she kept going back to look for items that are of value to her. Mud said the victim died of internal bleeding.
Philipsburg:--- The prosecutor's office is conducting an exploratory investigation into the facts of what really took place on December 19th 2008 between Minister Maria Buncamper Molanus, her husband and ECO GREEN N.V. According to press prosecutor Rienk Mud, the prosecutor's office needs more information and documentation to get a clear picture of what took place. Mud said this is necessary for them to ascertain if there are enough grounds of suspicion to start a criminal investigation.
The documents already presented to the prosecutor's office still leave some questions unanswered.
Depending on how quickly the needed information is presented, thereby taking into account that the holiday season is near, the prosecutor's office expects to be able to draw conclusions by mid January 2011.
In the meantime, the Democratic Party and its coalition partners from the United Peoples Party met on Tuesday to discuss the Buncamper affair. President of the Democratic Party Michael Ferrier said they indicated to their coalition partners that the DP has asked the Minister to do the honorable thing and resign. However, the Minister felt that resigning would be an admission of guilt while insisting that she did nothing wrong.
Ferrier said that right now the matter has been placed in the hands of the collation partners who would have to take the next step. That next step is to take the matter to parliament where a motion of non-confidence will be presented against the Minister.
Philipsburg:--- The Managing Director of Windward Islands Airlines Edwin Hodge responded to an article that was posted on SMN News earlier this week. Below is the letter:
Management took notice of the article on your website published on Thursday December 16, 2010.
As the managing Director, part of my duty is to travel for business meetings and to attend certain conferences, hence said trips are justified. I do not travel first class or stay in the luxurious hotels. Moreover, for the traveling I mainly use company business tickets with the airlines we have agreements with, solely for the purpose to keep cost as low as possible.
WINAIR's financial performance has been poor for quite some time, which is due to low fares and high operating cost which is known to all. Further to the high operating cost, no one is mentioning that is we hadn't raise the employee salaries to a standard they should be, we could have been profitable and not able to maintain employees. Management had no help from its owners and consequently made decisions, such as reducing destinations and again increasing same, to improve the company's financial performance, however this did not materialize positively.
With regards to the victimization and discrimination, this is absolutely not true. No matter who the employee is they are permitted to speak their mind. I would have had several entities on my case if this was indeed the case. However, I must say that of course management cannot and will not please all the employees all the time. If I was pleasing everybody then it is prudent to say that all employees have their way, be it that they are wrong or right.
Concerning the pilots, this is also far from the truth; hence I strongly believe this is also manufactured by a disgruntled pilot or another employee.
Routes: WINAIR has grown to 11 destinations over a period of 50 years, some routes more successful than others, but with competition and the general economic conditions in particular periods, WINAIR has decided to cancel certain routes and consequently restart same if necessary. However, this is not done in an ad-hoc manner. This is done taken the traveling public into consideration. Based on the advice from a consultant hired by the Dutch Government and follow up discussions, WINAIR shall cut back on the new routes, Montserrat and Barbuda.
Regarding the Prime Minister's comments, the company needs restructuring but this is not only now. It has been a long time in the making that WINAIR needs restructuring; hence there is a mandate from, the new owners to definitely restructure the company to make it stringer and consequently expand or work with a larger group to keep cost as low as reasonably possible. What this means? Could be several ways, but it is too early to elaborate as the committee is not yet finished with their plans.
Management is doing everything in it power to improve the company's performance.
GREAT BAY:--- The Civil Registry Department is low on Identification Card (ID) materials. The department won't be issuing anymore cards unless it's an emergency.
The department regrets this inconvenience and asks the general public for their patience and cooperation. Persons who need additional information can contact the Civil Registry Department at 542-2457.
PHILIPSBURG:--- The judges for the GEBE Christmas Lighting Competition will soon be visiting the participating Christmas Displays this evening to determine the winners of the 2010 GEBE Christmas Lighting Competition.
This year's judges are radio and television personalities that will be judging their interpretation of Christmas. Judging for St. Maarten will be Elektra from Laser 101, DJ Biggers from SOS Radio, Fernando Clark, Samuel Allen of St. Maarten Island Time and Altagracia William of AVS News.
A total of 12 homes are participating in the lighting competition on St. Maarten and 11 in Saba. The panel of judges will judge the displays on five different criteria, namely creativity, first impression, special effects, traditional display and use of energy saving technology. The winners will be announced in January 2011.
GEBE is also encouraging her residents to go out and enjoy the many lighting displays. Plus they can help to determine which display is most popular. You can vote for your favorite display and one prize will be determined solely by the popular vote. The popular vote prize is $500 shopping certificate at a supermarket of your choice will be given to the display that receives the most votes either in the online poll at www.nvgebe.com/christmas. Voting closes December 31, 2009 at midnight.
NAGICO INSURANCES hereby informs all residents of French Saint Martin whom hold a NAGICO Insurance Policy that as of January 2011 new insurances policies will be issued in the name of NAGICO Insurance Company Limited. NAGICO will automatically deliver a provisional cover note from January 1 to January 31st to all policy holders whom will subsequently receive a new policy with respect to all French legal requirements.
IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE YOUR NEW COVER NOTE BY FRIDAY DEC 31, 2010 PLEASE VISIT OUR FRENCH SAINT-MARTIN BRA NCH OFFICE AT 17 RUE DE
LA REPULBIQUE MARIGOT.
COMMUNIQUE DE PRESSE
LES ASSURANCES NAGICO, PAR LES PRESENTES, INFORMENT TOUS LES DETENTEURS D'UNE POLICE D'ASSURANCE NAGICO N.V. QU'A COMPTER DE JANVIER 2011, UNE NOUVELLE POLICE D'ASSURANCE LEUR SERA DELIVREE AU NOM DE NAGICO INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED. AUTOMATIQUEMENT IL SERA REMIS UNE ATTESTATION
PROVISOIRE COUVRANT LA PERIODE DU 1ER JANVIER AU 31 JANVIER 2011 A TOUS LES DETENTEURS DE POLICE QUI RECEVRONT, PAR CONSEQUENT, UNE NOUVELLE
POLICE AUX NORMES LEGALES FRANCAISES.
SI VOUS NE RECEVEZ PAS VOTRE NOUVELLE ATTESTATION PROVISOIRE AU 31 DECEMBRE 2010, VEUILLEZ BIEN NOUS CONTACTER A NOTRE AGENCE DE LA PARTIE FRANCAISE AU 17 RUE DE LA REPUBLIQUE A MARIGOT.
Philipsburg:--- The board and leadership of the Democratic Party should get the person they intend to replace Minister Maria Buncamper Molanus with and send them for screening says Minister of Justice Roland Duncan. Minister Duncan in an interview with SMN News said his professional opinion is that the Democratic Party should make sure they have a replacement person on hand so that when Minister Buncamper Molanus submits her resignation she would not have to remain in office until a replacement is found. Minister Duncan said he met with Minister Buncamper Molanus on Tuesday in the council of Ministers Meeting and that he would personally like to meet with the health and labour Minister once more this week or early next week to finalize their discussions on the synchronization of the labour and residency permits.
Minister Duncan further explained that while the people may want Minister Buncamper Molanus to leave immediately he felt she must be given the opportunity to finalize what she was working on while being able to work on a report to pass on to her successor so that government can continue, "Screening can take a week or more depending on who the candidate is that will replace Minister Buncamper Molanus and if the intention is to remove the Minister as fast as possible then the best and most intelligent thing to do is to have the candidate ready so that person too can have a meeting with the ousted Minister who would say what she has been working on these past two months." Minister Duncan said if that happens then the incoming Minister can hit the ground running because he or she knows where Minister Buncamper Molanus left off.
SMN News has been reliably informed that the incoming candidate for the position is Dr. Cornelius De Weever the nephew of Member of Parliament Petrus Leroy De Weever. SMN News also learnt that members of the Democratic Party have contacted Dr. Lloyd Richardson and offered him the position but Dr. Richardson who is also a member of parliament has declined the offer.
In an invited comment, President of the Democratic Party Michael Ferrier said his party is awaiting the promised resignation from Minister Maria Buncamper Molanus before they would begin recruiting a new candidate for her position. Ferrier said up to late Tuesday he was not informed if the Minister has resigned and as such he has nothing new to report.
Minister Maria Buncamper Molanus has been making the headlines for the past three weeks when it was uncovered that she and her husband, a senior civil servant has sold the economic rights to government long lease land for a whopping three million dollars. The Minister once denied ever selling any land when the scandal first broke but on Thursday evening during the parliamentary debate she said she has made her position available even though she does not know what crime she committed. Thursday's motion was the second presented against Buncamper Molanus. The first was presented in 2008 when it was also uncovered by the media she accepted $25,000 donation from TELEM for her foundation the Sky is the Limit, at the time Buncamper Molanus was the commissioner in charge of telecommunications while she was the president of her political foundation Sky is the Limit. Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams interpreted the Minister's public statement 'where she made her position available" as her resignation during the meeting on Thursday. A motion of no confidence was presented against the Minister by the National Alliance faction that was later withdrawn by faction leader William Marlin. In a follow up interview, Marlin said the reason he withdrew the motion of no confidence was because the Prime Minister's statement when she said Minister Buncamper Molanus has reconsidered her options and has resigned. Marlin said motions of no confidence are a last resort that is used to remove sitting ministers.
Fellow St. Martiners,
Residents of our beloved island,
The year 2010 brings to an end the first decade of the 21st Century. It will go down in history as a year of transition and transformations, particularly in the political and constitutional spheres. It is a year in which we have witnessed significant transformational shifts in our political constellation and a whole new constitutional structure which has brought with it additional responsibilities for St. Martin.
Taking stock of what 2010 has meant for us, we can all be thankful first of all, for health and being alive to witness the dawn of a new decade. This was a year that started with a bang, literally and figuratively. The earthquake that destroyed Haiti not only took thousands of lives and inflicted millions of dollars in material damage, but continues even on the eve of its first anniversary to have lingering effects of gigantic proportions.
Disaster was not far from us in 2010, but it eluded us, I believe by some Divine intervention. But as we count our blessings, we must also be mindful of the challenges we face as an emerging nation.
2010 has been a mixed bag in terms of our successes and failures. In the educational field, while we can bask in the exemplary performance of our students in the CXC exams, with the St. Dominic High scoring 97% pass rate while the St. Maarten Academy recorded a 100% pass rate. Why then, with this kind of results, does the notion persist that our educational system is in shambles? The answer or answers may be in the perception of a significant drop in the level of discipline of our students as well as in the much-publicized increase in youth violence both on school premises as well as on school buses.
These are real issues which go beyond the school grounds and open up a critical window into what may or may not be happening at home. Parental responsibility and involvement in the educational process is crucial to finding lasting solutions to these behavioral problems. In the New Year, my ministry will focus even more on how to enhance this involvement by seeking ways to make the PTAs more active participants in the process through a stronger collaboration with the private sector, particularly employers.
Fellow St. Martiners, residents of our beloved island:
One of the priorities of the ministry in the New Year will be to undertake a comprehensive study of the root causes of violence among our youth—including gang violence—with a view to tackling the issue from a scientific and holistic point of view.
But as bad as the situation might be with regards to violence in our schools, I am convinced that we do not give enough credit to the majority of our students who do not have behavioral issues. To them we owe words of encouragement; for their sake, we need to bring the necessary balance to our perspective. They are the ones who make us proud during graduation ceremonies. They are the ones who make us believe in the glorious future of our island nation. What I am saying is that we should not allow the few bad apples to dampen the light of the many good ones.
Teachers hold the key to the success of our students. Professional, dedicated teachers who see their job as a vocation. Molding the minds of our young ones is one of the greatest tasks we are called to perform in the development of our nation. I admit that not all is well with our teaching corps, but in conjunction with the WITU, we are working on improving not only their working conditions, but also their performance and professionalism.
The physical state of some of our schools requires upgrading. The learning environment needs to be brought up to standard in order to produce the kind of results we all desire. Priority attention will be given to improving the physical conditions of our schools, and where it is deemed necessary, new schools will be constructed. However, my focus will be on programs rather than on buildings; programs which will transform the minds of our young ones more than buildings where they will be confined to antiquated methods and the same ineffective approach to learning.
With regards to culture, 2010 has been indeed a year of transitions and transformations. We have had to bid farewell to several leading performers and cultural workers—Playwright/actor/director and film-maker Sir Ian Valz, young dancer Khimouy Antoine, choreographer and dance instructor Cees van Dolderen, poet and folklorist Laurelle "Yaya" Richards, and others who have passed on to greater glory. Their legacy lives on and will surely follow us into the New Year and beyond.
Our cultural workers continue to demonstrate that talent is not bound by size or political status. Dancer Nicole de Weever has spent the entire year on Broadway as a featured star in the Tony Award-winning hit musical FELA! Nicole is not only a delight to watch on stage, alongside the likes of Patti Labelle, but is also on the marquee of the Eugene O'Neil Theater, where the show has been attracting stars and VIP guests such as Denzel Washington, Oprah Winfrey, and Michelle Obama, to name a few all year long. Nicole has already been named a Cultural Ambassador of St. Martin and is surely destined for greater stardom.
On the literary front, Lasana Sekou continues to dominate St. Martin, nay, Caribbean letters like a colossus. His works have not only been translated into Spanish and French, opening up new readerships in places like Mexico, Cuba, and French Guiana, but also have become study material at universities in the UK, Canada, the US, and all around the world. He has taken his poetry to places as far-flung as Turkey, South Africa, and China and continues to produce first-class books through his House of Nehesi Publishers Foundation, one of the leading publishing houses in the region, thus contributing to the development of literature and the discovery of new writers, not only on St. Martin but throughout the Caribbean!
Of course, there are others, like Deborah Drisana Jack, who continue to make a name for themselves in literature and the arts, with little or no government support. Names such as Ruby Bute, Max Phelipa, Mosera, Cynric Griffith, Roland Richardson et al. have turned St. Martin into a center for the Plastic Arts through their dedication and commitment to excellence. I salute them and hold up their exemplary spirit as a banner that distinguishes our artists and our island.
Music is a universal language which St. Martiners speak fluently and with flair. The versatility of our musicians who can play any genre of music with the same artistry and perfection as they dish out calypso or soca numbers is the envy of the whole Caribbean. Isidore "The Mighty Dow" York, the creator of the St. Martin Rumba, moves with ease from singing his popular soca compositions to playing pan and directing the island's premier steelpan orchestra. Dow has taught over 700 St. Martin youth how to play the steelpan, and the fruits of his labor are evident in the stellar achievements of the group "Chrome Tone," currently in The Netherlands where they have been flying the St. Martin flag very high in a musical competition in which our youth continue to excel.
What can be said about the enduring work of the ever so young Tanny & the Boys? They have become musical icons of legendary longevity. King Beau Beau, Emperor Brat, King Timo, Fish the Boss, Mighy Greg, and Mighty Calix, and all the other calypsonians, not to mention such great musicians like Anastacia Larmonie, Connis Vanterpool, Carlyle Barriteau, Nigel Williams, Funk Gumbs, and several others who are offering their talents professionally in distant shores, are all cultural workers bringing fame and glory to our island. Their work, as is the case with the works of multi-talented artists such as Clara Reyes and others show the dynamism of our culture and that the only thing constant about it is change.
In the words of Lasana Sekou, "Culture is borning change/change is borning culture culture/ is borning we is/borning culture culture is borning/we is borning change is borning borning/is borning us."
Fellow St. Martiners:
No nation has ever achieved any meaningful development without this being based on its culture. To develop culture is, therefore, to develop ourselves because culture is who we are. And we are builders, nation builders, laying solid foundations for a St. Martin nation that dares to be more than its geographic size may suggest; that dares to be greater than the sum total of its component parts; greater even than what our forefathers dreamt of. We are builders of a new Caribbean nation who defy the limitations imposed on us by our history because we embrace a destiny that is beckoning on us to rise above the expectations of those who know little about our resilience, and doubt our determination to be much more than they think we can be.
A lot may not seem to be happening in the field of sports, but the potential is there in abundance, waiting to be tapped. And now that we don't have to depend on others for the opportunity to develop our sports, we can indeed look forward to a new era in which the necessary foundation will be laid that would yield sporting champions nurtured on this 37-square-mile nation.
Fellow St. Martiners, residents of our beloved island:
In less than a hundred days in office, it is impossible to bring about all the necessary changes we all are looking forward to. I wish I could wield a magic wand that would transform this island into the nation we are now more conscientiously engaged in building. But block by block, floor by floor, we shall construct this new edifice, each of us contributing his or her own share, until a new St. Martin emerges where we shall be free to pursue our individual dreams with creativity and resourcefulness, with pride and dignity, in peace and unity, with love and dedication.
St. Martin is indeed my home, as Lino sings so beautifully. I'm sure it is yours too. It is an island bubbling with energy and full of promise. We are St. Martiners not only because we were born here, but because we love this island and want to see it becomes a beacon onto others. A beacon of hope; an island of peace and harmony in a tumultuous world. Together, I'm sure; we can make it shine even brighter for our children, and our children's children.
I wish to take this opportunity to wish each and every one of you a very happy and prosperous New Year in good health, and ready to work for the good of our beloved island.
I thank you.
Philipsburg:--- Member of Parliament George Pantophlet will be sending a letter to government, in particular the Minister of Finance Mr. Hiro Shigemoto with regards to the possibilities of the paying of dividend by government owned companies to government. The Draft Budget 2011 has been sent to the CFT for scrutiny. The time period given is two weeks and In the mean time it is only appropriate that government still look at other options whether the Committee for Financial Supervision approves the 2011 Draft Budget or not. We don't have to wait a whole year to ease the burden on the people. The proposed increase of the turn over tax from 3 to 5% and now the recent upcoming hike in gasoline prices slated for Friday are not making matters any easier on the people of St. Maarten. Not forgetting the threat of layoffs at Pelican Hotel. In this regard the following questions will be submitted on Friday today December 31, 2010 to government. Is it true that the executive council of the island Territory of Sint Maarten has established a dividend policy for all government owned corporations? If so, can government provide us with a copy of that policy and share with us the status of that policy? If not, why not? In the event such a policy has never been established, can government inform us if they intend to introduce legislation in an attempt to see to it that dividend will be paid to the coffers of government? Are there otherwise any agreements between government and the government owned companies on how these companies will contribute to the coffers of government? I do hope that we will not have to request a meeting of Parliament in order to have these questions answered. After all it is the people's patrimony.
Philipsburg:--- Several persons gathered at the Island Labour Department to receive either a number or document to make their payments at the Island Receivers office on Thursday for their BTA working permit.
Police were called to the scene when the crowd began getting out of control when they were told that the people who received their numbers on Thursday morning would not be attended to and that they needed to go home.
Several angry immigrant workers at the Island Labour Department told SMN News that they submitted their documents at the IND Office (BTA Department) and were told that they must visit the Island Labour Department for another document before they can make their payments for the processing of their permits.
A large crowd of people was also seen at the IND office on Illidge Road on Thursday as several immigrant workers who are working and residing on St. Maarten were trying to legalise their status on the last day of the BTA process.
In selecting ‘Leopold’s top persons for the year-, we looked at a number of criteria such as consistency-, courage-, informative-, empowering-, transcending.
All of these-, in our opinion-, individually-, and certainly collectively contribute a significant ‘added value’ to our community in a variety of ways.
Especially-, when in making this contribution-, the persons took risks of going up against the ‘status quo’-, politically-, and or socially.
History shows,- that people-, who normally take on the established society-, based on a strong principle-, and belief-, never receive any recognition.
Certainly-, they do not ‘receive their flowers’-, while still alive.
That distinction is mostly-, reserved for people-, who obediently conform with the established order,- even when injustice is committed by-, or are condoned by the powers that be.
These men-, and woman of the Year-, with due respect to those who truly are deserving-, are selected based on their ‘popularity-ratings’
In coming to the selection of ‘Leopold’s top 5 persons-, the fact that whether or not the candidate was a supporter-, or critic of Leopold JAMES-, was irrelevant.
Needless to state-, that not everyone will necessarily agree with our selection-, but that can hardly be considered surprising.
Still-, the selections were not easy-, and it is very well possible-, that we might have overseen others-, who otherwise would have deserved our recognition in ‘Leopold’s top 5.
Our number one selection is the ST.MARTIN PEOPLE.
They fall in a category all by themselves.
No one can deny that our St. Martin people-, are transcending to a ‘next level’ of awareness-, and political maturity.
As such-, it is an extremely hopeful sign that St. Martin people no longer accept being taken for granted-, or being governed by incompetent-, corrupt politicians.
Never before-, have we seen-, nor heard St. Martin people confront their political leaders as during this year.
Consequently-, politicians are learning that if they do not properly represent the people-, that there will be consequences.
The disgrace surrounding former minister of Health, Mrs. Maria BUNCAMPER-MOLANUS-, is a clear indication-, that politicians will be held accountable for abusing their office for self-enrichment.
If this trend continues in 2011-, and there is no reason to doubt that-, we might see a new ‘breed of politicians assuming office.
All of this would not have been possible without a very courageous media.
In recent times-, the people of this island-, have been truly blessed by excellently investigative reporting-, on a level never seen before on the island.
With respect to the other media-house on the island-, which really did its job-, without an shadow of any doubt-, both Bibi HODGE-SHAW and Hilbert HAAR, have done an immense service to the St. Martin people-, by having gone ‘beyond ’good reporting
For that outstanding and professional reporting-, for us Bibi and Hilbert are ‘Leopold’s number one persons of the year.
Bibi HODGE-SHAW-, is a very well known-, and recognized hardworking-,investigative journalist-, who is not easily intimated by officials in high positions-, when it comes to get to the ‘bottom’ of the story.
In order to be able to bring first breaking news-, Bibi has taken lots the risks many of her colleagues avoid.
In doing so-, she has for being on the ‘mark’ in most cases-, in terms of the credibility of her report.
Bibi’s website has become one of the most important medium for information relevant to local-, native St. Martiners-, residing on the island-, as well as abroad.
As such-, her site-, is the most accessible-, and sought after platform for those with views not necessarily in line with the socio-economic and political establishment.
By allowing for bloggers to respond to issues-, Bibi has given the common man a very potent means to voice his opinion-, which politicians take very seriously.
Sharing the number one spot with Bibi is-, Mr. Hilbert HAAR-, managing-editor of the TODAY newspaper.
Mr. HAAR and Mr. Leopold JAMES-, have never seen ‘eye to eye’ on most issues in the past.
In addition-, there was no ‘love lost’ between the two of them.
However-, after having been interviewed by Mr. HAAR in connection with St. Martin Day, 2010-, both gentlemen have learned to understand the motives-, and driving forces of each other.
Consequently-, without now being the best of ‘buddies’-, a mutual respect has developed between both of them.
They realize that they both in their own ways-, mean well for this island-, but they acknowledge that they do such from different social-, and cultural background.
Despite their many clashes in the past-, Mr. JAMES, would not be the person he really is-, if he would not have the professional ethics to publicly acknowledge the tremendous contribution Mr. HAAR has been making towards the empowering of the people of the island-, by exposing corruption in Government in a very courageous manner.
In return for dong what few media-houses have ever done-, especially as non-St. Martin professionals-, it is our privilege to select both Bibi and Hilbert as Leopold’s number persons of 2010.
Coming in as number two-, is Mr. Eldrige van PUTTEN-, the island’s most undisputed-, and outspoken activist.
Despite having being consistently ridiculed -, and undermined by certain talk show-hosts-, Eldrige never stopped calling in to get his points across.
In particular-, more than any other person-, Eldrige warned about the financial consequences of the new status for the island’s budget-, when few people believed him.
During the final debates between the political parties-, in the Cultural Center-, Eldrige directly confronted the leaders with deceiving the public on the real financial status of the island. Most people in the audience-, felt that Eldrige was out of place-, and creating fear for the new status.
Recent reports on the humongous budget deficit have proven him right.
Our number three-, is none other than Mr. Gerard BIJNSDORP also known as the ‘driftwood artist’-, and ‘Unpaid adviser’ to so many within our community.
Undoubtedly-,Gerard is blessed with a great-, and natural talent to use satire to brilliantly expose what he considers to be wrongdoings within our community.
As such-, he has spared no-one, including Leopold JAMES-, administrator of this site.
Gerard must be credited for having been extremely consistent-, and un-intimidated by his critics.
In particular-, Gerard stands out above most letterwriters-, by having the courage to always identify himself.
For taking responsibility- and accepting accountability for his articles-, Gerard can be considered a ‘role-model’ for many within our community.
Should Gerard-,manage in the future to become more constructive in offering solutions-, as opposed as to mainly ridicule-, nothing will prevent him becoming a real contender for the number one position.
‘Leopold’s number 4 pick-, is Charles, Jeffrey RICHARDSON, leader of the CPA.
For standing up against all odds (money, ridicule, starting from scratch, being abandoned etc) for St. Martiners to come first-, and to preserve the traditional way of life of St Martiners-, which is the embodiment of the spirit of the Treaty of Concordia.
Jeffrey has proven to have enormous political potential as one of the leaders for this island.
Had he been more consistent -, and more reliable as a true transcendental political alternative-, to the many people who sought his continued leadership after the elections-, he would have been a serious contender ‘Leopold’s number one person of the year 2010.
The fact is-, that never-, has there been a more urgent need for a transcending native St. Martin political leader that presently.
A leader-, able to create a completely new ‘paradigm ‘in terms of carving out a very clear-, and compelling direction for a unified island-, and to take the Treaty of Concordia to the ‘next level -, for instance as the very basis for the constitution of a unified St. Martin.
Many thought-, and still think that Jeffrey has the potential to fulfill that role.
Time will tell.
Our number five person of the year 2010 is Mr. Olivier ARRINDELL.
Whatever one might think of this young man-, his potentials-, intellect can not be denied-, and should not be under-estimated.
To his credit-, it must be also admitted that Olivier has matured tremendously-, allowing for his potential to manifest itself-, as opposed to trying to impress people-, ‘ad nauseum’, as he did in the past
As a young man-, Olivier has a great knowledge-,creative intelligence-, and vision of the modern world-, which-, if properly managed can be of a great asset to development of the island.
Should Olivier be able to keep on track-, and to control his ego-, nothing will prevent him from becoming a very powerful factor to deal with.
In ending we refer our readers to our editorial ‘The value of Leopold’s Person of the Year recognition.’
Philipsburg:--- Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC) will be continuing its annual environmental education program by offering free educational presentations for schools, clubs, and community groups from January to March 2011 as part of the Love the Lagoon program. Participants may choose from a wetland themed presentation featuring St. Maarten's pond and lagoon ecosystems or a discussion regarding ocean pollution, otherwise known as marine debris.
Visiting environmental education specialist Linden Rayton will provide hands-on, interactive learning experiences for audiences of all ages. Ms. Rayton is currently an ecology teacher in the United States where she works with a variety of age groups. Her extensive experience both in the classroom setting and in the field will be of great benefit to all participants.
Classroom presentations may be complemented by field trips to nearby wetlands or to conduct marine debris clean-ups. To schedule presentations, call Love the Lagoon Project Manager Rueben Thompson at 545-3009 or email the foundation at
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Cape Bay:--- On Tuesday afternoon at approximately 1:45 pm, several police patrols were directed to Accordian Road in Cape Bay for a shooting incident. On the scene the investigating officers learnt from witnesses, that the victim of the shooting had already been transported to the St. Maarten Medical Centre for treatment. The officers also concluded that a shooting did take place at the residence of the victim by the three bullets holes that were left in an aluminium window of the house. The victim from Jamaica with the initials J.S.S. was not injured seriously during the shooting and had only slight bruises to his body. The detectives and Forensic Department are busy with an investigation to determine what exactly happened, why it happened and who are the culprits responsible for this shooting.
In other un-related news, the Police Bike Patrol area conducting some itense controls in the Maho area. As part of the intense controls presently going on with regard to the very busy holiday season and the many visitors to the island, police bike patrols will not only be seen patrolling the Philipsburg area, but also the areas of Maho Reef, Mullet bay, Cupe Coy and Low Lands.
The presence of these officers created an atmosphere of safety and tranquillity for many coming out with their families for the evening.
The putting in of the bike patrol has thus far been very effective. On Monday evening a hit and run accident took place in the vicinity of Sun Set Beach bar. The police dispatch was notified of the accident who immediately informed the bike patrol. Within minutes the suspects of this accident was stopped by the bike patrol. The accident was handled and the suspect had to stand responsible for the damage he caused.
Philipsburg: --- The head of the Census office Leona Marlin is furious about an article, which appeared in one of the daily newspapers on Wednesday. In the article Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards has been quoted as saying that the Civil Registry (census office) does not have the mandate to shred passports that were not picked up on time or out of circulation. Marlin in an interview with SMN News said she is in possession of the St. Maarten Safety Plan "Beveilingsplan Reisdocumenten" which gives the civil registry the authority to shred these passports based on article 77.
Marlin refered SMN News to the "Beveilingsplan Reisdocumentn" under article 33, which gave the Civil Registry authority to shred these passports. Copies which we managed to obtain to verify the facts.
Marlin said shredding of these passports are customary both on St. Maarten and the Dutch municipalities where she was trained. However, someone she said gave a reporter some information on the administrative procedures on the shredding of these passports. Marlin said the information published was erroneous and ever since then the matter is being discussed. Marlin said some days ago she had a meeting with the Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards who informed her that the Governor General of the Netherlands Antilles never gave St. Maarten the mandate to shred passports, however, the census office got their mandate from the Lt. Governor of St. Maarten.
"I am not going to jail for anyone and I will do what is necessary to make sure my name is cleared. If the Lt. Governor did not get the mandate from the Governor General he should say that, and explain the people why he gave Civil Registry the mandate to shred passports instead of turning them over to the governor general." Marlin said she gave an interview to another reporter but she did not have the documents at the time in her possession to prove her point. "This is unfair and I refused to take any blame for anyone. I already contacted the office of the governor general and copies of the "Beveilingsplan Reisdocumenten" including the newspaper article that was published on Wednesday was sent to him." Marlin said.
Marlin said the Census Office was audited more than once and if they were not mandated Holland would have taken the necessary steps against them. Marlin said the shredder is at the Census Office
SMN News managed to secure a copy of the "Beveilingsplan Reisdocumenten" for 2007, which was also renewed in 2008. Both documents were signed by Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards.
Quizzed on how the department was shredding passports prior to 2008 Marlin said there was some sort of mandate in place but she would have to search the records for it. She said when she took the helm of the department she had to reorganize and get several things in order since that department was in total chaos. Marlin said that is how the Safety Plan St. Maarten came about and is being renewed. She said the Census Office is the place that issuance and shredding of passports are done and not at the Governor's Office.
Marlin said with the governor's statements it would appear as if she is committing a crime and that is far from the truth. Marlin said she don't know if the Lt. Governor forgot about this plan but she is calling on him to apologize as well as to conduct an investigation to see who leaked the information to the media and what was their intention.
For the sake of clarity, we have decided to publish the "Beveilingsplan Reisdocumenten" for 2007/ 2008 as well article 77.
Efforts made to contact Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards for a reaction on these developments proved futile on Wednesday.
GREAT BAY:---Governor Franklyn Richards says that our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Haiti at this point in time after the country just suffered a devastating earthquake according to preliminary reports.
Late Tuesday afternoon, Haiti was struck by a 7.0 magnitude earthquake followed by a number of aftershocks measuring over magnitude 5.0.
"The prayers of the nation and government are with the people of Haiti. Reports on damage and loss of life are not fully known and would become more apparent on Wednesday."
"Our hearts go out to the people of Haiti first and foremost and to the St. Maarten/St. Martin Haitian community. We expect that many of our brethren have friends and family members living in Port-au-Prince and surrounding neighbourhoods. We are in solidarity with you and you are in our prayers," Governor Richards told the Government Information Service (GIS).
The earthquake was centered about 10 miles west from Port-au-Prince and had a depth of approximately five miles.
PHILIPSBURG - In view of attaining Country St. Maarten, Commissioner Hyacinth Richardson has embarked on a mission to attract local professionals where ever they may be to fulfill all available vacancies in Government service as well as Private sector.
"The commissioner stated that this has always been one of his dreams even before taking office and now as a commissioner he is following through with his commitment to the people."
Today he is happy to inform the people of St. Maarten that he has been successful in acquiring Drs. Miliane Bienvenue who started working on January 5th, 2010. This aspiring young lady will be working primarily in the section of Youth Health Care affairs.
After accomplishing her elementary school education Drs. Bienvenue did six years of 'Voorbereidend Wetenschappelijk Onderwijs' at the Radulphus College. She ended her prominent high school career by going to holland to study medicine at the Rijksuniversiteit in Leiden and completed this endeavor successfully in six and a half years in May of last year. After accomplishing her studies, Drs. Bienvenue worked seven months in an intensive care unit in the Netherlands.
Directorate of Public Health has secured an active role for Drs. Bienvenue in the vaccination programs, which involves the vaccination of all school children and also helping with the development of a screening program for youth visual, hearing problems and growth development.
"Drs. Bienvenue stated that she will also have an active role in the development of programs concerning certain groups within the population of St Maarten such as elderly workers."
She hopes to use her knowledge to help make improvements in the health of the youth of St. Maarten, and also the health of other groups within the population. Drs. Bienvenue is 25 years of age and hopes to specialize further in the field of medicine. Her mother, Ms. Eliane Thomas who hails from the Cole Bay district, has indicated that she is very proud of her daughter. Mr. Milton Bienvenue her father is also very proud of her accomplishments as a person but foremost as a young professional.
Commissioner Hyacinth Richardson will continue to work diligently in trying to bring young ambitious persons back to St. Maarten to assist in strengthening country St. Maarten.
Philipsburg:---17 year old Miss Carnival St Maarten, Shanouelka Hodge did her country and family proud when she represented the island at the first ever International Queen Pageant. The pageant which attracted other beauties from Brazil, Mexico, Tenerif, Venezuela, Isla de Magarita, Suriname, Aruba, Curacao, Barbados, India, Colombia and Puerto Rico among others was held in Curacao.
The captivatingly beautiful Shanouelka stunned those in attendance as despite her dominance of the pageant she was rewarded with the first runner up position. The pageant which was attended by a large crowd was held on January 9th and saw 13 beautiful young ladies vying for the coveted title.
The Miss Carnival St. Maarten will return to the Island on January 17th, 2010 at 11:30 AM from Curacao and is expected to be greeted at the Princess Juliana airport by several of her fans and officials along with family members. Commenting on her performance, an elated Shanouelka said, "I am very grateful and thankful to almighty God for allowing me the golden opportunity of representing my country and secondly for doing so well," she said.
She noted that she is very pleased with her performance noting that while she did not win the title she is satisfied that she did her best at this very important pageant. She added that she has laid the platform for other beautifies from St Maarten to emulate. "I am hoping that from this other young ladies like myself can build on what I would have started and hopefully next year we can bring home the crown," a confident sounding Hodge said via telephone.
She expressed thanks and appreciation to her parents for what she described as their overwhelming and continuous support which she noted has helped her significantly in the build up and execution of the pageant. She also expressed similar sentiments to her sponsors, Windward Islands Airways N.V., Insel Air B.V. who ensured that Shanouelka was able to keep her pageant date.
Hodge also said that her sponsors were very gracious in their sponsorship of her dancers and costumes to and from Curacao. She also pointed out that the support and assistance that she got from Carol Tackling and Alberto Brooks for her costumes, Miguel Alexander for her preparation, her dress and her makeup and Clara Reyes; her choreographer was significant thus enhancing her performance.
Shanouelka said that the valuable experience that she gained participating in this pageant will enhance her confidence and dreams of aspiring to achieve her childhood dreams. She noted that a lot was learnt from the pageant while she was able to make friends who came from different parts of the world. "I learnt a lot and as such, I am grateful for the experience and would like to reiterate my thanks and appreciation to my parents for their support and confidence in me as hadn't it not been for them I may not have been able to attend such a prestigious pageant," the St. Maarten Queen noted.
She also thanked her dancers stressing that they played a pivotal role in her performance adding that everyone played a meaningful role thus she is forever grateful to her entire contingent.
Great Bay --In keeping with the 2010 slogan of the [RED] Campaign, which is Act [RED], Go Test, the HIV/AIDS Programme Management Team had new posters designed bearing the message "Positive? Negative? Not Sure? Act [RED], GO TEST."
These posters were distributed to all 12 plus [RED] businesses along with signature Act [RED], Go Test pens.
The [RED] Campaign is in its third year, and this year the campaign will be encouraging the community to know their HIV status by getting tested. With the assistance of the established [RED] businesses who will encourage their employees to get tested, designate every Friday as [RED] day to encourage customers to Act [RED], Go Test and have their employees wear their [RED] Campaign t-shirt every Friday during their designated month.
Philipsburg:---The Island Government, similar to any organization or for that matter a household can have many plans to achieve its objectives and carryout its obligations but to do so, one of the tools it needs to be effective and efficient is a budget. A budget that has been explained to all the members will without a doubt garner even better support, and may even result to all hands on deck during inevitable challenges we will face.
It is in this light of "clarification" that Island Council Member Mrs. Maria Buncamper-Molanus submitted a letter to her fellow Island Council Member and Chairman of the Central Committee, Mr. George Pantophlet, with a list of questions on St. Maarten's draft budget 2010. Her questions cover important sections of the budget, including expenditures on General Governing, Public Order and Safety, Education and Economic Affairs and Tourism, the latter being the heart of our revenues. Answers to over eighty questions were neither received nor an explanation given for the delay. For this reason, Mrs. Buncamper Molanus followed up via another letter, only this time, to the Chairman of the Execuctive Council, Lt. Governor Franklin Richards.
While she understands that the task of preparing and finalizing the budget is challenging, Mrs. Buncamper also wants her colleagues to understand that questions posed by members of the island council are done so for the sake of being prudent in their responsibility as representatives of the people of St. Maarten in general and for the sake of actively participating in what is often considered the most important legislation that is dealt with annually by the island council. The process of possing questions also functions as an instrument to be used by the Executive Council to make necessary adjustments that would have otherwise gone unnoticed. The people also need to know how much of the tax payers money has been set aside for various projects and programs including upkeep of government buildings and sports Centers, recruitment of government personnel, and the set up of new departments such as a functioning Research and Statics Bureau. A Research and Statistics Bureau garners information that allows for better planning and execution of all government tasks to the people. As crusial as this department will be, Mrs. Buncamper does not see any provision being made for it. Island Council Member Buncamper stated: "This budget is key to the successful execution of many responsibilities of the Government towards Country St. Maarten, in fact it forms the basis upon which the Government must carryout its work. I look forward to answers to the questions posed prior to the continuation of the debate. My hands were on deck as a Commissioner and they still are for the people of St. Maarten, as an Island Council Member."
Philipsburg: --- Members of the ST. MAARTEN UNITED MULTIPURPOSE EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION (S.U.M.E.F.) told reporters on Friday that there are over 600 to 800 children who are supposed to be attending school but they are not attending school. Vice president of SUMEF Claire Elshot said most of these students could be found in the hilly areas of St. Maarten.
Elshot said there are cases where children are registered in schools but they simply do not attend school, she further explained that the undocumented schools on St. Maarten are housing close to 600 students and they are not receiving any subsidy from the island government.
Elshot said a research was conducted and a panel discussion is scheduled to be held this week where owners of the undocumented schools would know if they qualify for government subsidy.
Carmen Hodge director of the Starlight Foundation said they believe that government should use the undocumented schools rather than building more schools immediately. She felt re-opening Lionel Connor school was a bad idea because the undocumented schools have lost some of their students. "We are not receiving subsidy and the school fees that are paid by the parents is what runs the school. Government have taken away some of our students so we are hardly able to meet our over head expenses at the end of the month" Hodge said.
Elshot said if the government is serious in implementing compulsory education then they are going to make sure they crack down on parents. The schoolteacher said they are often faced with parents who would take their children in the middle of the school year on vacation. "There are times when some parents would pick up their children and leave and they would come back whenever they feel like. When this happens the child loses out." Elshot explained. Government has to make sure the school aged students does not travel during the semester. She said in Holland and other islands students who travel during the school year are stopped at the airport. Parents wishing to travel during the school year should have good reasons and must obtain permission from the department of education. Elshot said that is the only way parents would abide by the laws of the island.
MARIGOT—Three persons who were suspects in several armed robberies during the last quarter of 2009 were sentenced to serve prison time in Guadeloupe. The bandits were condemned for an armed robbery in Marigot on November 22. The oldest of the three suspects were sentenced to 4 and half years behind bars, of which 18 months are suspended, while the youngest was sentenced to 3 years with 18 months suspended. The third was given a two-year prison sentence with 12 months suspended.
The investigations also determined that the oldest suspect had stolen a cellular phone on July 27, and he also committed four other armed robberies. All four of the robberies took place in the Marigot area.
The investigation was conducted by detectives and the armed robbery unit the VAMA.
The team conducted an operation on Monday January 25 where the suspects were arrested. The oldest was arrest in Concordia he is 24 years old. While the other suspect is a 19 year old and the third 23 years old, the third suspect was also found with crack cocaine, and marijuana. The gendarmes also arrested the girlfriend of the first suspect after she rebelled and insulted the gendarmes. She is expected to appear in the juvenile court later this year.
Philipsburg: --- Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba in a press release late Tuesday night said that she would like to make some clarification on an article we published regarding Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police Richard Panneflek. Minister Jacoba said after several discussions with Mr. Panneflek to reach to an accord regarding his position, an agreement was reached on October 7th, 2009. Said agreement, was formalized according to the normal procedures that Government requirement. All decisions related to Mr. Panneflek were taken together with him; on the same table we all sat and shared.
Panneflek was supposed to return to work at the Philipsburg Police Station on February 1 2010 when the agreement he had with former Minister of Justice David Dick ended. SMN News learnt that Panneflek was given an additional year to be at the disposition of the Island government even though he completed the project he was working on.
Members of ABVO and NAPB arrived on St. Maarten on Wednesday and they are scheduled to meet with Panneflek on Wednesday where they are going to discuss his current working situation. SMN News also learnt that Panneflek met with his legal representatives earlier this week and they would be reacting to the decision taken by the Minister.
Philipsburg: ---- The police arrest team transported a Jamaican national to the Princess Juliana International Airport on Wednesday confirmed Prosecutor Rienk Mud. Mud said the US authorities requested the arrest of Mr. Hanson who is suspected drug trafficking. The public prosecutor said the suspect waived his rights to extradition and went to there voluntarily.
Philipsburg:---Gracita R. Arrindell, Founder of the Peridot Foundation stated; they are happy to announce the donation of 23 official NBA basket balls to the official Sint Maarten Basket Ball Association and its President Mr. Daniel Berry. The Foundation which caters to the eradication and awareness of domestic violence and violence in general in our society thought it fit to approach a close friend who is one of the owners of a well known NBA basket ball franchise in Charlotte and ask for the donation in the form of basket balls. This request was honored immediately in November last year. However the balls requested only reached Sint Maarten in its entirety last week due to the fact that they got lost in shipment to Sint Maarten during the Holidays"
Ten of the 23 balls were given to St. Maarten Youth Baketball Association confirmed Arrindell.
Gracita said; like many in our community Peridot Foundation shares the concerns about the increase of violence among our young people. Every opportunity the association get to positively impact young people, they will happily do so. There are many youngsters out there including other basket ball fans in higher age brackets that love the game and make use of every opportunity to play in their free time. But they need the active support of the community especially the business community to keep this favorite sports game accessible to the players and to the Association. The Peridot are also aware of the fact that the local basket ball association is facing financial hardship. This is regrettable and the situation should be rectified as soon as possible. "Our Foundation encourages the business sport minded community to step up to the plate and 'play ball' by assisting the Sint Maarten Basket Ball association to jump start its program again."
"We take this opportunity to say a heartfelt thank you to the donors, in support of sports in general and specifically to Basket Ball on Sint Maarten. Peridot Foundation is looking forward and welcomes all future support to the sports in this regard. Let us keep our young people active in the sports and off the streets and 'Guard the loved ones You May Lose".
Great Bay--- Many modern masters made the artistic pilgrimage to Africa seeking rejuvenation, searching for a new way of "seeing". Picasso found it in the African masks and gave birth to cubism. Others, especially in the so-called "New World" drank from its wellspring to produce what is now referred to as "magical realism." Without placing him on the same pedestal, Mosera, has let the Africa he has been carrying within him emerge in a different way on his canvas.
In his new exhibition titled "Linkage", Mosera returns to a familiar space, a well-known terrain to him, where he feels at home, and where his work acquires the dimension of a "seer" who knows his medium.
Seeing is an essential aspect of the plastic arts. However, what the inner eyes see may make the naked eyes seem blind. The true artist sees with his inner eyes, where the real and the surreal are sometimes wedded through "magic"; where "reality" is not what is real, but what you make real, and hence does not have to conform to existential facts.
In "Linkage", which opens Thursday, February 11, 2010 at the Tropisme Gallery in Grand Case, Mosera's works are shown alongside a number of "ancient" African sculptures in the private collection of art connoisseur, J.C. Huet. The combination is an invitation to compare Mosera's paintings with these sculptures from the Motherland.
It is a tantalizing proposition given the fact that we are being asked to compare apples and oranges. But the closer we look, the clearer we see what Mosera has been trying to make us see for a long while through his inner eyes: that as descendants of Africans in the New World, Africa has never left us.
The African mask represents a combination of spiritual, cultural, ceremonial and traditional values of a people who treasured communal life. How are these values reflected in Mosera's paintings? The answer can be found on the walls of the Tropisme Gallery in Grand Case.
Mosera, who donated his painting, "Judas Kiss", sold recently for some Naf. 7,000.00 in an exhibition in Curacao that raised about Naf. 119,000 in aid of the victims of the Haitian earthquake, last showed his works here in December 2008. He, however, took part in an exhibition held in November 2009 to officially open the Inner Gallery in St. Lucia in which Nobel Laureate Derek Walcott was one of the featured artists.
The new exhibition, "Linkage" is open to the public from February 11 – February 21 from 10:00AM until 1:00PM and 5:00PM to 9:00PM daily. The official opening will start at 6:00PM Thursday, February 11. Admission is free.
Philipsburg: --- Police have arrested two persons for the murder of Saliba Absalon whose body was found at his Middle Region home on December 11. Prosecutor Rienk Mud said the two suspects were arrested on Tuesday and are currently being questioned by authorities. Those in custody are one female identified as J.W from Jamaica and a male suspect identified as B.B from Dominica.
SMN News has been reliably informed that the two suspects in custody were living together and are the neighbors of the now dead man.
The body of Absalon was found in his home with severe injuries. Police are currently investigating the murder of David Eustace Priest, Eric Yuan Sam, Haresh Dayalani, Christian Lloyd, and Saliba Absalon.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—The Sector of R.O.B., department of New Projects and Maintenance would like to inform the general public that the recapping of the LB Scott road will start on Thursday the 25th of February 2010 from 20:00 hours / 8.00 PM.
The upgrading of L.B. Scott Road, including the Texaco Round-a-bout, will be a continuation of the upgrading projects. The last of such projects was that of the AJC Brouwer Road.
All road works for this project will in general be executed at night. Trenching works alongside the L.B. Scott road will not affect the traffic flow.
During working hours the various alternative routes will be indicated and advised.
The L.B. Scott road will not be closed completely in both directions. Traffic measures and signs will be installed to allow a smooth flow of the traffic at night. Vehicles can use the indicated alternative routes depending on their direction and destinations.
With the upgrading of the L.B. Scott road, the restructuring of the driveway asphalt layers will be in place, including new road markings, drainage upgrade, among other improvements.
For more information about the repair work interested persons can contact the Sector of R.O.B. department of New Projects and Maintenance. Project management will be executed by Mr. Benjamin Ortega.
The department would like to request the general public and motorist to exercise caution and patience during when using the L.B. Scott road during the upgrading phase.
St. Maarten: --- The sailboats are in, the weather is right, the sailors are ready to sail and party – it is the weekend of the Heineken Regatta. Many people are looking forward to the races and the live entertainment. They are also looking to party, have a great time and nothing should get between this – except a male or female condom. That is why Heineken and Think [RED] Do Safe are teaming up to make sure that everyone stays safe during this wild and wonderful weekend.
Promo bags for the participants and the media are stuffed with material to promote St. Maarten, businesses on St. Maarten and even material from the [RED] team to keep everyone safe. Keep your eyes out as well for the beautiful Heineken Promo Ladies who will be distributing Heineken promo goodies with a little [RED] in between.
GREAT BAY (GIS) — The Business Outreach & Placement Program was initiated in the summer 1998/1999. The main objective of the program is to provide students within the secondary education system who are 16 years and older and are in pre-exam or exam class as well as students in tertiary education with the opportunity to apply and be employed in Government Services or the Private Sector for a period of six weeks during their summer vacation.
The program has evolved over the years to the extent that it now includes trainings, interviews, monitoring and evaluating of not only the student workers but the program as a whole.
The evaluation of the 2009 program has determined that the expansion of the BOPP program has reached the stage where the program needs structural partners in order to ensure that it meets the goals and the growing needs of our youth.
An invitation is hereby extended to representatives of your organization/business to attend a presentation on the BOPP program on Tuesday March 9th 2010 at 4:00pm in the AC Wathey Legislative Hall, Government Administration Building.
For further information, please contact Mrs. Shermina Powell-Richardson or Mrs. Elmora Aventurin-Pantophlet at tel. 542 2056 fax 5431172.
Philipsburg:--- St. Maarten has to take a decision as to how they would proceed with the category two Brooks Tower Permits said Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba in an interview with SMN News on Monday.
Jacoba who is currently on St. Maarten on a work visit said she met with Leader of Government William Marlin whom she told that St. Maarten has to take an urgent decision as to how they would proceed with the category two permits if not several hundreds of people will get hurt.
Jacoba said Marlin promised her that he will discuss this matter on Tuesday with his executive council and would notify her of the decision taken by his council. The Minister said she also asked the island Lt. Governor to look into the linking of the labour permit and the BTA.
The Minister said that St. Maarten is the only island that decided they wanted to have the labour permits regulated before the category two Brooks Tower Permit is granted to anyone. She said while the other islands have agreed that the recipient of such a permit must only provide a receipt to show they paid the processing fee prior to picking up their BTA permit. St. Maarten has chosen to regulate the labour permits first.
Jacoba said the team handling the BTA has received 2,680 requests some 1,600 were signed off by the Lt. Governor of St. Maarten. However, she said she is not aware of the number of people that did not pick up their permits for the lack of payments or insurances. Persons who were granted their permits also have two more months to pick up their permits. The Minister is also urging those that were qualified to pick up their permits prior to the controls that are set to begin. She said she is hoping that all BTA permits will be picked up by the end of April.
Jacoba said so far the BTA team rejected some 51 files since they did not meet the necessary requirements, while the steering group received 1,015 letters that they are still working on.
The Minister said she is currently discussing with the St. Maarten as to how they would grant Haitian nationals some sort of amnesty during the planned controls. Jacoba said prior to the registration of these nationals the discussion with the island government has to continue since they need to have more information on how the procedure is going to take place. Haitians living on St. Maarten illegally must register when the registration begins so that they can be considered Jacoba said. "When the controllers begin their work they would have to see something to shows that they registered, however, none of this has been finalized since the discussions are still ongoing." Jacoba said it is expected that the registration will begin on March 15 and it will last a short period.
Dongor Will Not Receive an Extension--- Francessca Pending.
Police coach Ronald Dongor will not receive an extension of his contract confirmed Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba. Jacoba said that the police coach would work until May 15 since his two-year contract ends then. She said the KPSSS should have the necessary re-enforcements in place and there would be no need to have Dongor any longer. Currently a selection for a police chief, heads of legal and general affairs candidates are being selected. Interviews she said are scheduled to take place as early as this week the Minister said.
The Minister said these persons are supposed to take office by April 1 while four persons from Holland will be joining the police force. Jacoba said the Lt. Governor sent in a request to give Dafnis Francessca an extension on his contract since he is scheduled to go on pension on May 15 but no decision has been taken on whether or not Francessca will be given an extension.
Jacoba said she did not meet with Martina neither Francessca but confirmed that neither of the two candidates did not ask her for an extension of their contracts.
Philips Saga Continues --- No final Decision Taken
While the Minister of Justice has met once more with Detective Carlton Philips, yet no decision was taken on how the KPSSS would deal with the Philips case. She said currently she is busy collecting information from all parties and when that is completed then a decision will be taken. "I have to balance the information I received and all I am asking is for some more time before I take a decision." Jacoba said.
Detective Carlton Philips requested from the KPSSS to conduct an investigation to clear his name since he was accused of destroying evidence while he was head of CID. Philips also accused the management team of enriching themselves. Since then the prosecutor's office has refused to work with Philips even though he is showing up for work everyday and taking complaints from several people who are victims of crimes.
Philipsburg:----Former Student and basketball player of the University of St. Martin Robenson Gassant has earned his way on the starting line at the University of the Virgin Islands. The University of the Virgin Islands Men's Basketball Team is off to a great start posting a 2-1 record in the Intercollegic Athletic League (LAI) for the 2010 season. St. Maarten native Robenson Gassant has earned a spot in the starting line-up and has brought tremendous energy to the team. "Robenson has such a positive attitude and is a hard worker," said Head Coach Sean Georges. "He started off slow but has really earned his opportunity to be in the starting line up." Gassant was inserted into the starting line-up after the Bucs lost their season opener to the University of Puerto Rico Humacao campus 70-59. "I needed to shake things up a bit," Georges said. Robenson has been really doing well in practice so my staff and I decided to give him a chance." "I'm just glad for the opportunity," said Gassant who credits his strong start to his coach's encouragement and team support. "Coach Georges has really challenged me and my team has been very supportive. I've truly been blessed." Robenson also thanks the USM Intercollegiate Sports Exchange Foundation for allowing him to show case his love for the game during his time here in St. Maarten." He also thanked Paula Gordon, President of the USM ICSEF for pushing him and allowing him a chance to be apart o the Foundation. "Paula Gordon was that pushed me and be on the USM team, and later I played a major role as the PRO for the Foundation" Gassant stated he added that Sports in SXM definitely has a chance but the love for the game(s) has to be strong. The Foundation did many fundraising throughout the years and has earned it name here in St Maarten and thought-out the Caribbean.
President of the Foundation stated that Robenson is just the beginning, she hopes that more students from USM will follow in his footsteps and become ative in the community. This can lead you to high places. Should anyone be interested in joining the foundation can contact the President Ms. Paula Gordon at the University of St. Maarten.
Philipsburg: ---- Police were once again battled with stones in Union Farm on Sunday when they went to intervene into an incident where a resident of Union Farm and his daughter were battled with stones. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said the police from Philipsburg and Simpson Bay responded to the scene and a warning shot was also fired when the culprits began battling police. The police spokesman said due to the darkness in the area police was not able to locate the culprits who were battling them as well as the resident who ran into a house to seek shelter.
The police spokesman said a fight took place on Brazilia Road Union Farm between a man identified as T. and other unknown youngsters who battled the man with stones and bottles. Henson said during the battling several items in the home where the man sought shelter were destroyed and the man's little daughter was injured since she was struck by one of the stones. Henson said when police arrived the culprits turned on police but they were not able to see where the stones were coming from due to the darkness.
The investigating officers have received information on the identities of the possible suspects and will within short start a case against these persons. The daughter of T. was treated at the police station by the paramedics and then transported to the hospital for further treatment.
Philipsburg: --- Two members of the bicycle patrol managed to capture a robbery suspect on Tuesday shortly after he and another accomplice robbed a well-known jewel store on Front Street.
Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said that police were called shortly after 10:30 on Tuesday telling them that two young men had entered the store and requested to see two diamond rings. When the rings were given to them, they both ran out of the store. The bicycle patrol was informed of the incident and they managed to locate one of the get away robbers in the vicinity of Afoo supermarket. Henson said the suspect was arrested and the following day the armed robbery unit managed to locate the second suspect and arrested him. The two robbers Henson said confessed to the robbery and they also returned the diamond rings that value more than $3,000.
PHILIPSBURG - With great pride and honor the Commissioner of Labour, Social Affairs and Public Health is happy to introduce to the people of St. Maarten, Mrs. Carmelita Smits-Rombley as the newly appointed Executive Assistant (Directiesecretaris) of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, Mrs. Carmelita Smits-Rombley has been holding this position as of February 1st, 2010.
This capable and aspiring lady has lived in the Netherlands for 14 years. In which time she has achieved (a post doctorate degree) Master's in Business Administration and acquired several other diplomas. Her employment track record being equally as outstanding shows that she has held several critical top-ranking advisory positions in the specialized field of planning and control within various government ministries and private enterprises in the Netherlands.
To add, Mrs. Carmelita Smits-Rombley has manned her self-owned consultancy agency geared towards providing complex Management, Financial Reporting and Taxation business plans and assisting persons with tax returns thus showcasing Mrs. Carmelita Smits-Rombley as a highly educated, skilled, talented and altruistic young St. Maarten professional. With all her expertise and specialization, Mrs. Carmelita Smits-Rombley is modest; "stating that she considers herself to be a generalist in the areas of business and public administration who enjoys meeting people and spending time with her family".
In her own words, she further expressed that she is joyous to have returned home to seek employment and confidently said that she is proud to have been able to join the team at Sector Public Health, Social Development and Labour, because she intends to create structured procedures for the department to function more effectively and intends to create structured procedures for the various departments of the sector to function more effectively and efficiently during and after Country St. Maarten's transitional period.
Furthermore, Mrs. Carmelita Smits-Rombley sees this position as one that will further enable her to acquire her professional ambitions of attaining a Registercontroller Diploma and developing a Work Ethics Program for young St. Maarten professionals.
Her tasks at the department are numerous. Therefore, in order for Mrs. Carmelita Smits-Rombley to execute them with her usually high proficiency she will require the full co-operation of all government departments and the general public.
To which, Commissioner - Hyacinth Richardson expressed that he happily looks forward to working with Mrs. Carmelita Smits-Rombley and welcomes her as a new addition to the Public Health, Social Development and Labour Sector. He further re-stated that one of his missions as Commissioner of Public Health, Social Development and Labour is to attract local professionals to fill available vacancies within the island Government. The Commissioner further pledged to continue to bring young ambitious persons back to St. Maarten to assist in strengthening Country St. Maarten and urges the private sector to do the same.
Philipsburg:--- Officers of the control unit and members of the bicycle patrols were busy conducting several types of vehicular controls on Wednesday afternoon throughout the Dutch side. SMN News camera lens caught these officers on Sucker Garden Road.
Philipsburg: ---On Tuesday April 6th at approximately 03.50 p.m., the police bicycle patrol was busy with their controls in the Back Street in the vicinity of Korte Steeg. The driver of a white Suzuki Jeep with license plate M-9960, with initials W.F. St. J. was ordered to stop his vehicle because he did not pay his road taxes. The suspect who is well known by police ignored the orders of the officer and increased his speed down Backstreet. At that same moment, another patrol officer had arrived on the scene. This officer had to jump out of the way to avoid being hit by the car.
However, the patrol bicycle was hit by the car and dragged approximately 60 meters down Back street. The bicycle came to rest in the "Last bus stop" on Back street. The Police bicycle with a value of Euro 800, - was destroyed. The suspect continued fleeing to the home of his mother at Fort Willem. There the suspect's vehicle was located. However, the suspect had fled on foot. A search of the home and the area did not have any results. The suspect's vehicle was confiscated for further investigation and towed by a towing company. The detective and Forensic department are investigating this case.
Philipsburg:--- On Friday morning the United Task Force Against Crime met with Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards. The meeting was requested by the UTFAC in a letter dated February 17th. 2010.
The United Task Force Against Crime represents all Community Councils on the island and is tasked with brain storming solutions to the crime situation in the various community districts on the island.
The UTFAC has held several meetings in the various districts and with members of community councils in order to identify problems and challenges and to hear directly from the district leaders what the problems and challenges are in their district as it relates to crime and illegal activities.
The Executive board of the UTFAC met with the Lt. Governor and also present at the meeting were several top Justice Officials; Windward Islands Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos, Interim Head of Immigration Robert Barby, The Interim Coach/Change Manager of the KPSSS Mr.Ronald Dongor, Acting Chief of Police Ademar Doran, The Royal Marechaussee, and members of the Lt. Governors Cabinet.
The United Task Force Against Crime was represented by Chairman Mr. Clarence Richardson, Mr. Lenny Priest, Mrs. Margaret Steeman, Mr.Benjamin Kelly and Mrs. Jadira Veen.
The United Task Force Against Crime brought forward many issues and suggestions as a contribution to strengthen the fight against crime in the various community districts.
Issues relating to youth delinquency and youth crimes, strengthening of the police force with more manpower, community policing, enforcement of the laws, introduction of a curfew for the youth and monitoring of the 4 border points at random times.
These and many more suggestions were brought forward by the UTFAC and were points of discussion with the Lt. Governor and the justice officials.
The United Task Force Against Crime stated that in order to fight crime, there must be a good working relationship between the various community councils and the police.
Lt. Governor Richards thanked the UTFAC for coming to the discussion table with suggestions and solutions to the crime situation as opposed to just criticizing and he has promised a follow up meeting in the coming weeks.
Philipsburg- NAGICO Insurances recently made contributions to the Windward Islands Emergency Medical Services (WIEMS) and Friends of the Island Government Fire Fighters (FIGFFF) Foundations. Both foundations fulfill vital roles in our community. The WIEMS carries out volunteer emergency medical care services through the use of an ambulance during walk-a-thons and Carnival celebrations. The Friends of the Island Government Fire Fighters Foundation carries out various volunteer works such as the cleaning and painting of grave sights and sports activity with students, promoting good sportsmanship among the youth.
NAGICO Insurances Customer Service Manager Mrs. Gervaise Schoobaar-Maynard made the presentation to WIEMS President Ms. Maria Chemont and President of the FIGFFF, Mr. Antonio Gibs. Mrs. Schoobaar-Maynard stated: "At NAGICO Insurances we strive for excellent customer care and community relationships. Due to their limited resources, we recognize that non-profit organizations face many challenges. We are pleased to support whenever possible to enable them to execute their tasks."
Ms. Chemont and Mr. Gibs expressed their gratitude to NAGICO Insurances for the company's generous contribution to their respective foundations.
GREAT BAY:--- St. Maarten's Executive Council on Tuesday approved proposals for the transition approach regarding tasks for the new ministry of tourism, economic affairs, traffic and telecommunications for country St. Maarten.
The Executive Council also approved an overview provided of the transfer of legislation by the Netherlands Antilles to the new ministry as well as the terms of the required legislation, Central Government tasks, policy, work instructions and procedures per department of the new ministry.
The Council of Ministers of the Netherlands Antilles is being requested to transfer the responsibility for the legislation to the Executive Council of St. Maarten as per July 1, 2010.
Another request being made to the Council of Ministers is that transfer of the respective budgets and incomes to the Executive Council of St. Maarten takes place.
St. Maarten's Executive Council additionally decided to request the Antillean government to immediately make available personnel of the various dependencies on St. Maarten to the Executive Council.
A workgroup of the sector Economy and Tourism has, meanwhile, been working diligently to complete the preparations for the transfer of tasks of the Netherlands Antilles to the island territory of St. Maarten.
The sector has chosen for a pragmatic approach to the transfer of tasks, taking into consideration, among others, lack of budget and human resources.
The approach calls for, among others, service lending agreements.
Marigot:--- The Director of the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital and the union UTS/UGTG are contesting the decision taken by COMEX to grant a contract to Clinic Choisy for home treatment (hospital a domicile). SMN News understands that the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital had 15 out of 16 votes when they presented their dossier to the CROS, but somehow the COMEX granted the contract to Clinic Choisy who only had four out of the sixteen votes. Questions are also being raised as to why the President of the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital Board Frantz Gumbs voted for CGM Basse Terre Clinic.
Conner said the President of the Collectivity Frantz Gumbs abused his power when he signed off as President of the LCF board instead of the President of the Collectivity. Concerns are also being raised about Gumbs support to the CGM instead of LCF Hospital. Conner said she already wrote a letter to President Frantz Gumbs asking for the conclusions of the COMEX meeting of March 23 and he responded to her and said he does not have reasons to have such documents.
According to Ramona Conner, board member of the UTS/UTG said there were three dossiers during the bidding, which are one from Louis Constant Fleming Hospital, Clinic Choisy which is located in Gossier and CGM from Basse Terre. She said the board of the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital took a decision to participate in the bidding process, something that the President of the Collectivity Frantz Gumbs knew about yet he chose to abuse his power and voted for another clinic without having a deliberation with the hospital board.
Several questions are being asked about Dr. Louis Jeffry absence from the COMEX meeting when the decision was taken to grant the contract to Clinic Choisy. SMN News learnt that Jeffry is sitting on the seat representing the Collectivity of Saint Martin in COMEX but Jeffry it is understood boycotted the meeting, while one of the vice presidents of the Collectivity of Saint Martin attended the meeting. "Even though this person attended the COMEX meeting and had a speech they could not vote on the bidding". Conner said.
In an invited comment Dr. Jeffry, fourth vice president of the Collectivity of Saint Martin confirmed he is a member of the COMEX board. When asked why he did not attend the meeting of March 23rd Jeffry said he was not invited to the meeting. He said that one of the other vice presidents was invited and that person attended the meeting.
A meeting is planned this Tuesday by the unions and doctors of the Louis Constant Fleming to follow up on the procedures to have the deliberations taken by the COMEX on March 23 annulled. SMN News learnt that the hospital director already wrote letters to IRS director requesting that the deliberation of March 23 be annulled and that the bidding process be done over.
Leader of the RRR Alain Richardson when asked for a comment said this matter will be addressed on May 11 during the territorial council meeting. Richardson said he has many questions about the outsourcing of the contract especially when it comes to when the public sector could make money it is outsourced to the private sector.
Philipsburg:- "We have to conclude that the government of Sint Maarten is facing some serious financial challenges" stated Island Councilwoman Sarah Wescot Williams in a press release. Wescot Williams said the SBDF (Small Business Development Foundation) has now joined the chorus of government not meeting its obligation to foundations; the saga of the on-and-off acceptance of BZV and FZOG cards by pharmacies and other medical institutions; University of St. Martin's latest financial dilemma. All foundations, mind you, that is on government's budget.
Another sign of government's financial woes is the government's decision to increase the TOT with 1 percent as reported.
The island council of Sint Maarten is yet to receive this proposal of the NA/Heyliger/Laveist government as any budget amendment must pass through the island council. It is only in this setting that the government can look the people of Sint Maarten in the eyes and defend its decision to increase taxes at this time. Wescot Williams said.
The argument that it is not the first time such a proposal has been made will not fly. Just like the work permit policy of January 2009 was to be part of a total package of measures to address labor issues of employers and employees alike, so was the proposal for a TOT increase part of a package that would have included economic stimuli for the business sector. After all, a most crucial component of the economy in these times is employment, which generates consumer spending and additional tax revenue.
Given the adverse affect of a tax increase in the current global financial environment, the DP administration in the past openly discarded this intention, because of its understanding of the effects of such on the economy of St. Maarten.
Better than any-one perhaps, the DP also understands the government's mitigating circumstances, however government's decision to increase taxes is not well thought out. It's not a balanced decision, but rather a knee-jerk reaction to its failed 2010 budget.
Was this what the 3-man team that came to assist St. Maarten advised?
The NA/Heyliger/Laveist coalition assumed government responsibilities, promising to execute the economic stimulus package. They have cleverly managed to abandon this entire matter of an economic stimulus package and no one uttered a word for have been taking for a ride by the government of St. Maarten.
And to imagine that the current Commissioner of Finance was one of the principals of the economic stimulus package.
But is the government really facing financial challenges? Notwithstanding the foregoing (USM, SBDF, SCDF, BZV/FZOG, TOT), it would appear not.
How else can it be explained that the Commissioner of personnel would travel with a 4-man delegation to Tallahassee to enlighten students. Tallahassee, a city where in the past few months the leader of government has gone twice to speak to students. One could then only imagine that the Commissioner of personnel would now have concrete and individual prospects for the Sint Maarten students. Was this the case? Absolutely not. Did the commissioner have a plan for the students to match their individual careers with the vacancies in government? He did not.
The government in responding to the DP faction in the island council announced an improved and revised incentive package for returning St. Maarten students. Where can this package be obtained, besides a vague reference by the Commissioner in an island council meeting? Is this package complete? Has it been provided to the students on paper? What are the conditions and who is eligible?
Can the government provide a report on this trip, rather than just a photo op? In plain St. Martin English: "How we looking?"
Bottom line: Is the government in a financial crisis?
Marigot:--- The Collectivité of St. Martin has finally obtained a decree for approval of road tax implementation and enforcement project, it will be possible to so once it has taken deliberation to formalize the project which the Decree relates to. Following a meeting with director of services, the Collectivité should abandon the annual change of licence plates and return to old formula of windshield stickers, which seems more sensible and in all case the only option applicable at this point in time. As we always said we are not opposed to the existence of a road tax if it is respectful of the law. Today it seems to be the case and we would like to stress that the legal way is the only way! No doubt that the credibility of the political leaders and the representation of State have suffered greatly after illegally harassing taxpayers.
The MOCSAM had already stepped into the breach to terminate the award of the first representation of our Collectivité at a national level to none St. Martiner, in competition with a local equally qualified and in defiance of all democratic rules. We had requested and obtained copies of sponsorships for candidates to this position as representative of St. Martin in the Economic, Social and environmental council, and it was found, contrary to the statements and writings of ousted President LC FLEMING and M. LACROIX delegate Prefect of the time, Mr. ARNELL had received more mentoring then Mr. FUENTES, but yet false memorandum stating the contrary was sent to ministry, misleading Madam Minister in order for Mr. Fuentes to be nominated as such. History repeats itself and today it is Mr. ROMNEY that is concerned. M. ROMNEY Robert, head of education department before the Collectivités of St. Martin and St. Barths, whom was denied the necessary human and material resources to carry out his mission but great efforts are mobilise in trying to remove him from this post in order to promote one from elsewhere. We are simply saying that this is unacceptable, it is a very bad signal to our youth in lack of role models and motivations and we have had enough! We will take the streets and advocate total blockage if this miserable policy should continue, including the stigma of our locals fully qualified and competent!
Kappror is a private company, but it is unacceptable that a company could be on strike since February 18th to this day without any concern of authorities. This is neither healthy nor worthy of our republic, nor our history. We are not interfering in internal affairs but it is time that solution be found to ensure that the company resume activities and that employees, mobilized ever since, regain dignity as fathers and mothers to face every day responsibilities. It is a heartfelt plea that we make for all government authorities and parties concerned to show sense of responsibility before it is too late.
The home hospitalization service (HAD) on our island attracts much attention. The president of the Collectivité, F. GUMBS, has signed a letter giving a strong endorsement to a project led by the health centre of Basse-Terre, on behalf of the Collectivité and as Chairman of the Board of the Hospital of St Martin. Today he would like to make believe of his surprise to the award of contract to another private clinic in Guadeloupe, waving an apology in the most sterile of all: "I was not aware of the proposed by the hospital in St. Martin". Mr. GUMBS, before talking in the name of others, as chairman of the board, it would be prudent to consult them and get their professional opinion. Strange is certain coincidence, how can we believe such excuse since, very coincidently, Semsamar is actually nourishing a plan for establishing a subsidiary "Semsamar santé" , offering among other home health care and within a more or less medium-term will propose HAD services, perhaps outsourcing some well-chosen private clinic that is not physically present on our island. (We will follow up ...)
The MOCSAM invites the public to be constant vigilance because enough is enough! Respect is a sine qua non of living together, social progress and economic development and we demand immediate respect and formally request an end to this hypocrisy toward the people of St. Martin.
GREAT BAY,–Sector Public Health, Social Development & Labour (VSA) Inspectorate, has been investigating the United States Food & Drugs Administration (FDA) recall of Children's Benadryl and Tylenol liquid medical products, and discovered that local distributors selling over-the-counter medicine, have complied with removing any recall medicine from store shelves.
The general recall entails more than 40-over-the-counter infants' and children's liquid medications.
Commissioner of Public Health Hyacinth Richardson says that he can confirm that the Inspectorate of Public Health has been monitoring the recall of the products since the earlier part of May and that to date all of the products have been recalled to ensure the safety of the general public.
Some of the products recalled may have a higher concentration of active ingredient than is specified on the bottle, while others may contain particles, while still others may contain inactive ingredients that do not meet internal testing requirements.
McNeil Consumer Healthcare issued the recall for children's versions of Benadryl, Tylenol, Tylenol Plus, Motrin and Zytec after consulting with the FDA. The recall according to the company based on media reports was not undertaken because of any adverse effects.
On May 5, 2010, a recall was issued by local distributor Manrique Capriles & Sons B.V.
The Inspectorate VSA advises parents and guardians who have any of the aforementioned products to stop giving them to their children as a precautionary measure.
The FDA also says that potential for serious medical problems is remote, but also advises consumers to stop using the medicine.
Persons can contact the Inspectorate VSA on 542-2059 for more information on the over-the-counter medicine listed below.
Concentrated Tylenol infant drops.
1. CONCENTRATED TYLENOL® INFANTS' DROPS 1/2 OZ GRAPE FLAVOR
2. CONCENTRATED TYLENOL® INFANTS' DROPS 1/2 OZ CHERRY FLAVOR
Children Tylenol suspensions
3. CHILDREN'S TYLENOL® SUSPENSION 2 OZ. CHERRY BLAST FLAVOR
4. CHILDREN'S TYLENOL® SUSPENSION 4 OZ. CHERRY BLAST FLAVOR
5. CHILDREN'S TYLENOL® SUSPENSION 4 OZ. BUBBLEGUM FLAVOR
Children Tylenol suspension plus
6. CHILDREN TYLENOL® PLUS SUSPENSION 4 OZ. COUGH & SORE THROAT CHERRY FLAVOR
7. CHILDREN TYLENOL® PLUS SUSPENSION 4 OZ. COUGH & RUNNY NOSE CHERRY FLAVOR
8. CHILDREN TYLENOL® PLUS SUSPENSION 4 OZ. FLU BUBBLEGUM FLAVOR
9. CHILDREN TYLENOL® PLUS SUSPENSION 4 OZ. COLD GRAPE FLAVOR
10. CHILDREN TYLENOL® PLUS SUSPENSION 4 OZ. COLD & ALLERGY BUBBLEGUM FLAVOR
11. CHILDREN TYLENOL® PLUS SUSPENSION 4 OZ. MULTI-SYMPTOM COLD GRAPE FLAVOR
12. CHILDREN TYLENOL® PLUS SUSPENSION 4 OZ. MULTI-SYMPTOM COLD GRAPE FLAVOR
Children Motrin suspension
13. CHILDREN'S MOTRIN® SUSPENSION 4 OZ. BERRY FLAVOR
Children Benadryl allergy
14. CHILDREN'S BENADRYL® ALLERGY BUBBLEGUM FLAVORED LIQUID 4 OZ.
Philipsburg:----The Lions Club Multiple District 60 Convention Parade was held Friday morning through Philipsburg as part of the on-going Lions Regional Convention at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, May 19th-23rd. Countries that were represented by Lion members in the parade included Anguilla, Virgin Islands, St. Kitts & Nevis, Antigua, Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago, Guyana, French St. Martin and finally Saba & St. Maarten who paraded for the last time under the Netherlands Antilles Flag.
Philipsburg: --- Sir Robert Velasquez better known as Bobby Velasquez would have to spend the next eight days behind bars as Judge Van Veen has decided to grant the prosecutor their request to extend Velasquez time in pre-trial detention as detectives investigate the case. Attorney at law Jairo Bloem said that the extension was not granted based on the evaluation of the files instead the judge only needs one statement which would classify the person as a suspect. Bloem said based on the judicial system the public prosecutor gets the opportunity to request two days extension, then eight days so that the detectives could investigate the case. He said during these days there is no evaluation of the facts of the case. "At this time the public prosecutor only have to provide grounds to do an investigation and say they have reasonable suspicion against anyone to keep them behind bars." Bloem said.
Bloem said it is extremely exceptional that the judge would rule against the office of the public prosecutor in this phase of the investigation. He said that in 99.9 % of all cases the extensions granted and the suspect would be released prior to the ten days if the public prosecutor does not agree. This does not say absolutely anything on whether or not someone is guilty. It does not even mean that there are concrete indications that a person might have committed a crime.
Velasquez was taken before the judge of instruction just before midday on Friday. Strangely the judge did not make his ruling known immediately on whether or not he would have extended the pretrial detention, as is customary.
Attorney at law Jairo Bloem told SMN News outside the courthouse after the procedural hearing that the judge would have rendered his verdict by 2pm on Friday.
Bloem later notified SMN News that judge Van Veen ruled that Velasquez would have to remain behind bars for the next 8 days just like any other suspect.
He said the detectives neither the prosecutor's office did not invite his client to the police station to question him prior to his arrest. Bloem said that in modest opinion the documents in the present file contains enough indication that justify an acquittal, if his client would be charged of having committed an offense. He stated that there are crucial contradictions the story of the alleged victim. He also confirmed that the police are presently questioning the witnesses that Velasquez provided to them to substantiate his story. He said he felt the measures used against his client are rather unnecessary but it is a prerogative of the public prosecutor office. Bloem said in his sincere opinion he believes that after the police finish questioning Velasquez they should set him free as they continue to investigate case since this alleged incident occurred more than two months ago. Bloem said even if the judge wanted to release his client it would be very difficult for him to do so based on what the law prescribes. It basically takes within our judicial system a public prosecutor to believe the complaint of one person, even if that complaint is only substantiated by what the persons says and has told to third parties, without any shed of additional proof, to lock someone up for ten days. One would hope that consideration is given to the consequences for a person, especially when dealing with persons that have earned their stripes in society.
Asked if his client has filed any counter claim regarding the alleged extortion of 1.5 million dollars against the alleged victim, Bloem said his client did not file any counter claim as yet however, his client is considering to file a complaint against the person who filed a false complaint against him.
The alleged victim in this case is the great niece of the alleged suspect. However, at the police station on Friday there were two of Velasquez sisters one carrying a poster saying "Bobby your sister is standing behind you 110%". Rosemarie Velasquez told SMN News that this ordeal is tearing the entire family apart. She said she knows her brother and she also know that he did not touch anyone inappropriately. Also speaking to SMN News was Catherine Hodge another sister of Bobby Velasquez, who wanted to know why SMN News published the incident that occurred 27 years ago, claiming the life of Velasquez 6 year old daughter.
Philipsburg: --- Commissioner of ROB, GEBE, and Environmental Affairs Theo Heyliger has pulled his support from the current National Alliance/ Heyliger and Laviest executive council. SMN News learnt that Heyliger met with some of his supporters over the weekend where he informed them he intended to leave government to form his own party for the upcoming country election.
On Monday afternoon after the island council meeting was adjourned Heyliger began cleaning out his office. Even though the commissioner has taken those steps he is yet to officially notify the chairman of the island council Franklyn Richards. SMN News understands that Heyliger told the chairman of the island council on Monday afternoon that he would submit his letter of resignation during the course of this week.
SMN News has been reliably informed that the Governor and chairman of the island council was fully aware on Monday morning that Heyliger was about to pull his support from government and he is just waiting for Heyliger to follow the regular administrative procedures.
SMN News understands that Heyliger claims to have issues with the current executive council because they have voted on removing the management of ROB based on the SOAB report. The source said the commissioner has refused to prepare an advice for the executive council for the contractors who won the garbage collection bid.
It is understood that four of the existing garbage collectors submitted their bid for the collection of garbage but Clean St. Maarten has lost the bid. It is alleged that the owner of Clean St. Maarten is close friends with the commissioner and he is angry at the outcome of the bidding.
The source said that Heyliger was purposely delaying the process to see if he could manipulate the system to further include Clean St. Maarten in garbage collection.
In an email to SMN News when this story was published Heyliger said the advice for the contract for the garbage collection would be submitted to the executive council within the next two or three weeks. The commissioner further said that the executive council has decided to extend the current contracts to up to June 2010.
Another concern they said Heyliger has is about the 1% turn over tax increase the National Alliance has proposed. While Heyliger was heard saying he would not support such he is yet to make known his opinion on the increase of turn over tax, neither has he given a suggestion as to how government should balance the 2010 budget.
SMN News further learnt from well placed sources that Heyliger has been trying his best to convince independent island council member Louie Laviest to throw down the government, but Laveist has refused to do so.
The source said they had the opportunity to read some of the text messages Heyliger sent to Laveist hoping to convince him to destabilize government. However, Laveist would not confirm neither has he denied if the commissioner was trying to convince him to take away his support from the current government and to join him in his dream party. Reacting on this statement Heyliger said he never sent any text messages to Laveist neither has he spoken to the embattled island council member about pulling his support from the National Alliance.
Some political pundits said that Heyliger has to create a problem with the National Alliance so that he can begin his political campaign. They said the Democratic Party does not have a seat in Parliament and their members are busy resigning and as such Heyliger has to end his marriage with the current government to gain credibility. "How can a man be in a house with his wife and call her a bitch?" Heyliger will be running against the National Alliance in country election so to campaign against them and be in the same house with them would not be good says the political strategist.
While several persons had doubts that Heyliger would leave the current executive council since he did everything to stay in government. One politician said Heyliger would not give up the harbor neither would he bring an end to his road projects. "Its all about who would control the harbor and Theo would not give that up said another pundit.
In the email the commissioner said he wants to see what SMN News would write when he is not part of the decision making. Asked if that is a confirmation that he intends to pull his support from the current executive council and if is the reason he cleaned out his office on Monday, the commissioner said he would not comment on that.
It should be also noted that even though Heyliger has formed the current government with the National Alliance and Independent member of the island council Louie Laveist a governing accord is yet to be signed by him and the leader of the National Alliance.
Philipsburg:---- Teachers and staff of the Sundial school are angry at the appointment a coordinator and Assistant principal of the Sundial School. The selected candidate it is understood is from the Netherlands while a local applied for the same position and was not selected.
In an email to SMN News the teachers said that the general director of MPC/ Sundial School appointed someone else even though the applicant it is alleged did not apply within the timeframe that is set by the school board. SMN News confirmed that the local candidate fits the criteria and has more teaching experience and the same types of diplomas as the selected candidate.
According to the information sent to SMN News stated that the new general director who was appointed in 2009 is making drastic changes which are not pleasing to the teachers and staff.
The teachers stated that it appeared that the general director is not pleased with the performance of the other candidate whom they said was taking training for the new position and he campaigned with his friend so that person could be selected for the position. SMN News contacted the school's principal Mirelle Regales for a comment on the allegations. Regales said that she was not willing to comment on the selection since the process was handled by the school board. Efforts made to contact the general director proved futile up to press time.
Philipsburg: ---- The candidate that was selected by the selection committee and the Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba to fill the position as Chief Commissioner of Police on St. Maarten paid a courtesy visit to the island's chief of police Franklyn Richards.
Peter de Witte is scheduled to begin working on Tuesday June 1 as St. Maarten's new chief commissioner of police. He was accompanied to the government administration building with out going acting police Chief Commissioner Ademar Doran.
Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba confirmed that de Witte will begin his duties as of June 1. However, the other members of the management team she said have not taken up their position as yet.
In the meantime, the decision from the Supreme Court for former and convicted chief of police Derrick Holiday is expected on Tuesday June 1. Should the verdict be in Holiday's favor then another decision would have to be taken regarding De Witte. Attorney at law Reynold Groeneveldt said he was expecting a decision from the court of first instance on Monday since he had filed a case to uphold De Witte's appointment. Groeneveldt said the judge postponed pronouncing the decision on Monday.
Betty's Estate: --- Teachers of the St. Maarten Academy (PSVE) were busy preparing their placards and posters to take to the streets on Wednesday protesting the termination of 13 of their colleagues. SMN News also learnt that the librarian of the Academic Section of the St. Maarten Academy has also been terminated and teachers from that section is also scheduled to participate in the planned action which is spearheaded by the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU).
Speaking to SMN News the teachers who received their termination letters on Tuesday morning said they were all shocked when they received the letters telling them the school board has terminated their contract as of July 31. Most of the teachers who were in the teachers lounge and a classroom were emotionally distraught at the news.
Copies of the letter which was provided to SMN News states that their employment with FAVE will be terminated at the end of the 2009-2010 school year which ends on July 31.
Reasons given to the teachers are that the Federal Department of Education has identified them as unqualified for Secondary Education since 2003. The letter further states that the teachers were allowed to execute their task as unqualified teachers with the agreement that they would acquire proper qualification within a specific period of time. "Eight years have elapsed and you provided FAVE with no additional degree, even though your qualification indicates that you are unqualified to teach at any level."
The St. Maarten Academy requested dispensation from the Federal Department of Education and it has been refused and the quality of the school's program is now in jeopardy.
The termination letter further states that the teachers received a warning letter since September 14 2009 and to date the teachers have not responded.
One of the teachers who also received his termination letter but was not at the school on Tuesday is Joel Pinas who taught at the St. Maarten Academy for the past 22 years.
In an invited comment Chairperson of the FAVE Josianne Fleming said that the school board has been pleading with these teachers for years to upgrade their education if they wanted to continue teaching. Fleming further explained that Pinas a Dutch teacher only has an elementary school diploma and she on several occasions spoke to the teacher in question and he kept promising that he would submit his other certificates but to date has not done so. Asked how the teachers were recruited in the first place and allowed to teach Secondary Education Fleming said those teachers were hired by the former and late executive director of the St. Maarten Academy Vance James Jr. Fleming said the late James had full responsibility for the hiring of teachers whom she said hired the teachers at different levels. She said the school has been requesting the dispensation while they requested the teachers to upgrade their level of education. Fleming said even though they have been behind their teachers for some years now none of them tried to comply with the demands of the Federal Department of Education who refused to issue their dispensation. She said because of the lack of qualified teachers at the school it is affecting their budgeting an quality of education.
Another problem the teachers said they are facing is the Federal Department of Education is refusing to accept any certificate for courses they did at the University of Saint Martin. Teacher Richard Tjin Sjoe said he did a few courses at his own expense at the USM and he sent his certificates to Curacao only to learn that USM certificates are not accepted in Curacao or anywhere else because the school is not accredited.
However, Fleming said in the past the Ministry of Education used to accept USM certificates. "USM certificates were recognized by the Central Government when Mr. Lamp was there." Fleming said.
Furthermore, USM certificates she said is accepted on St. Maarten and it should be recognized in Curacao also because there is an agreement between UNA and USM on the teacher education program. Fleming said many of the teachers who were terminated do not have the minimum which is a bachelor's degree which would entitle them to do the course to obtain their diploma in Education.(DIP.ED) which she said would allow them to teach in secondary schools.
The teachers said a representative from DERPI took someone to the school whose intention was to provide certain courses to the teachers and they were informed by the instructor who came from Curacao that USM is not accredited and there is only one institute in the Netherlands Antilles that could provide the courses. That school they said is located in Curacao.
In reaction to that Fleming said the instructor did take back the certification of each teacher to access them and to see if they could sign up for the course but the school board was informed that the teachers who wanted to participate in the course is not even qualified to take the course.
Asked how the school board plans to deal with the current situation since the students of the PSVE are scheduled to take their end of term examination. Fleming said if these persons are educators then they would not mix matters. Asked how they intend to replace the teachers she said they already began advertising for the new school year.
The teachers said outside of their termination they are still waiting on their retroactive pay, salary scales adjustment and Christmas bonus. They said they recently received an increase in their salaries but the school board incorporated it with their salaries causing them to pay more taxes. A meeting was held with President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union and the Chairperson of FAVE Josianne Fleming. A follow up meeting is expected to take place on Tuesday evening with the school board.
President of the WITU said the union is planning to take further action because teachers on St. Maarten have no protection. Elshot said the teaching profession has been exempted from the dismissal law in the labor department. She said that the WITU is planning a general membership meeting on Thursday June 3 where they are going to begin planning for general actions. "We are going to do what is needed to be done until St. Maarten gets a labor mediator and Minister of Education here to deal with our plight." Elshot said.
Philipsburg – Recently at a Toastmasters Meeting at the Government Administration Building the Soualiga Corporate Club welcomed its newest member, TM Andrew Budike. Mr. Budike was inducted by Club President Leona Marlin, she said "it is a pleasure to welcome you to the Soualiga Corporate Toastmaster Club and I wish you much success in achieving your goals as a new Toastmaster."
Club President Leona Marlin has expressed her desire to expand membership in the club with the objective of preparing all civil servants to improve their communication and leadership skills as the Island Government of St.Maarten draws nearer to Country Status.
It is for this reason, the club president is pleased that TM Andrew Budike an Occupantional Health and Safety Inspector working at the Inspectorate of Public Health, Social Development and Labor has taken the step to join the Soualiga Corporate Toastmaster Club to achieve the following goal, improve and strengthen his Leadership and Communication skills. Toastmaster Budike also sees the club setting as place where he can network and interact with other civil servants in a very constructive manner.
The Soualiga Corporate Toastmaster Club is one of four clubs on St.Maarten established among civil servants of the Island Government of St. Maarten. As a Toastmaster, members of the club work on the Leadership and Communication skills by giving speeches and participating during meeting in various assigned roles.
Philipsburg:--- Established in 1890, the St. Joseph School is currently preparing to celebrate its 120thanniversary, marking yet another year as the first Catholic School in the Windward Islands. Besides the regular celebration preparations, the school's Principal Mrs. Carmen Bowers-Lake along with other members of the management, staff and PTA, have put in place the 'Adopt a Classroom Program', inviting the private sector to assist with classroom upgrades for student groups three to eight.
NAGICO Insurances Managing Director Mr. Eric Ellis, accompanied by Marketing Officer, Mr. Jimmy Challenger, paid a courtesy visit to the St. Joseph School in recognition of the 'Adopt a Classroom Program'. Mr. Ellis presented Mrs. Bowers with a cheque, representing the costs of refurbishing one classroom, in the presence of students who thanked NAGICO for its generous contribution.
Mr. Ellis Stated: "We are honored to be part of this initiative and wish the school a great success with its program. NAGICO Insurances did not have to think twice about making a contribution, as we recognize the hard work and dedication of Mrs. Bowers-Lake and her team. The St. Joseph school has educated many of our forefathers, children and grandchildren over its 120 years of existence. We are pleased to be part of this program, ensuring that NAGICO continues to leave its footprints on the development of education in the communities which it serves."
Philipsburg, June 3rd, 2010 - UTS, offering Blackberry Service under its Chippie mobile brand, announces the availability of two new services for BlackBerry users.
The first is the official introduction of Blackberry Prepaid Service. This will enable anyone with any Blackberry device to activate the service instantly. 'Not everyone is able to commit to an agreement for continuous Blackberry Service.' Says UTS Commercial Manager Eastern Caribbean, David Melling 'Our prepaid option offers island-wide, unlimited data service, with the added flexibility of activating it if you want, when you want. You don't even need to come in to our stores to set it up.' Melling continues 'You send a code in an SMS message to 3838 and the correct settings are installed on your smartphone automatically. The service starts from ANG 20 and you pay for it with your prepaid credit. This new option for Blackberry service will be especially useful for visitors to our island and others who for whatever reason do not want to set up ongoing service.'
The second announcement is the official availability of free applications offered through App World. This software was previously only available for users in the United States and Canada and thus was not accessible to customers in the Caribbean. 'Some operators outside North America were already attempting to offer this service through undisclosed, unofficial methods, however we preferred to go through the correct channels and request that the application be opened up for use in the entire Latin American region' says Melling. 'The availability of the free applications on App World will mean that users will be able to get even more out of their BlackBerry device. You have the possibility of downloading various free applications that can make life even easier, which is precisely the point to having a BlackBerry smartphone.'
The newest application on App World will be of particular interest for those planning to follow the World Cup Soccer Championship. 'South Africa for BlackBerry' is a free application that shows real-time score updates, breaking news and event coverage related to the soccer championships in South Africa. 'Great fun and a must for any soccer fan, but that's just one of many applications available for download. There are numerous possibilities for games, online news and weather, data management, navigation and more.' Melling states. To download App World, go to the 'home' page in the browser on your Blackberry smartphone and select App World.
The BlackBerry solution is an integration of smartphones and software that enable easy access to a variety of data and communication services. BlackBerry® smartphones allow you to stay in touch through Email, phone, internet and many social networking applications. Additionally there are other functionalities like a camera, games, organizers, maps and countless other applications. 'We have had some testers trying out these services for us to get their feedback. Being satisfied with their experience, we are now ready to announce officially.' Melling continues. ' The availability of BES Express, which we announced yesterday, is another example of value added services for Blackberry. This free business solution is also available to any of our BlackBerry users, and offers enhanced features for synchronization of smartphone and the corporate server.'
Basseterre, St.Kitts (June 3rd 2010):- "I am not, nor have ever been an American citizen," said Peoples Action Movement MP Hon. Eugene Hamilton in light of a recent press release issued by the CUOPM, the Communications unit of the Prime Minister of St.Kitts-Nevis, suggesting that Hamilton is a U.S. citizen and as such is in violation of the Constitution.
"I in fact am the holder of a Permanent Residency Card (Green Card) since 2003. A fact which I have never denied. I have never pledged allegiance to any other country and I am NOT a citizen of any other country but the federation of St.Kitts-Nevis," Hamilton continued.
Defeated labor candidate for constituency#8 Cedric Liburd filed a petition claiming that Hamilton was ineligible for election on nomination day January 15th and further asking the court to declare his election null and void and of no legal effect.
Hamilton, The constituency #8 representative, filed court documents disclosing his United States Permanent Residence(Green Card) status since May 11th 2010. According to Hamilton's lawyers there was absolutely no obligation by their client to present his Permanent Residence Card. However both Hamilton and his lawyers felt that in an effort to save the court some time and expedite the matter in addition to their confidence that the matter is little more than a frivolous and vexatious matter, it was presented. Hamilton suggested that the lawyers of his defeated opponent Cedric Liburd were surprised by his action to confirm that he never traveled on a foreign document.
"They must have been quite surprised over the last few weeks, because I filed a document in the court on May 11th, 2010 and invited them to comply with the court order to take a look at the said documents on May 13th 2010," said Hamilton. "We are now in the month of June and to date they have yet to inspect the documents," Hamilton continued.
The People's Action Movement MP stated that he was accused by Cedric Labored and the Labor Party of holding a US Passport. However neither Cedric Liburd nor his legal team have presented any facts to support the allegation.
"In the original petition they claim that I have a passport....they claim that I have all kinda things issued by the US Government . To this day I have gone and put mine at the court and they have yet to show what documents they say I have," said Hamilton. "So to me they are just blowing hot air. They are blowing smoke in the wind because I have never hidden the fact that I have a Green Card. But I am going to state categorically that I have never had allegiance, obedience or adherence to any foreign power or state. I still maintain that." Hamilton continued.
Hamilton further stated that having a Permanent Resident card (Green Card) does not make the holder obedient to the United States, neither do they have a US Passport.
"Having a Green Card does not make me obedient or have any allegiance or adherence to the United States. I do not have a US Passport and I have never had one."
Hamilton re-iterated his earlier position when the petition was first filed and stated emphatically that in his view the petition can only be described as harassment.
"I want to re-iterate my earlier sentiments regarding this whole issue and that is to say that I find this claim and the challenge brought by my defeated opponent Mr. Cedric Liburd and the Labour party frivolous, vexatious and ridiculous and is simply a further attempt to continue the relentless smear campaign that was unleashed on me in the lead-up to the elections," said Hamilton. "Cedric Liburd and the Labour party orchestrated the most elaborate and vicious smear campaign ever to be waged against any political candidate in St.Kitts-Nevis and despite their absolute best efforts it did not work as I was duly elected on Jan 25th. However it seems that their failure to dirty my name has only served to motivate them to try in some way to bring me down so they are now resorting to what I can only describe as harassment with this latest ridiculous and frivolous claim of dual-citizenship," Hamilton continued.
" I want to reiterate that I am NOT A U.S. CITIZEN and I have never lived in the U.S. or paid taxes in the U.S. and that is why I can only describe the challenge as harassment," said Hamilton. "When all is said and done I hope that Mr. Liburd and the Labour Party are prosecuted , reprimanded or sanctioned to the nth degree by the Court for wasting my time and the time of the Courts over this ridiculous and frivolous suit," Hamilton continued.
Hearing of the case is set for July 26th-28th, 2010. Only Hon. Hamilton has presented any kind of evidence in the case, namely his Permanent Residence Card(Green Card). The lawyers of Cedric Liburd has failed to present any supporting evidence in their case.
Guana Bay:--- The St. Maarten Pride Foundation celebrated its 10th anniversary at a cocktail party on Saturday. Pride President Jadira Veen distributed four awards to different groups namely, St. Maarten Science Fair Foundation, Pearl FM Radio, Belvedere Home Owners and Tenants Association, St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association (SHTA). Veen in her address said the awards are just a symbol of appreciation to the persons who worked or either assisted the foundation in maintaining the environment.
Also present was commissioner of tourism and economic affairs Frans Richardson who reminded the persons engaged in environment awareness that he did not forget his pledge some years ago prior to him becoming a commissioner. Richardson had said that he believes that the harbor should collect at least 0.50 cents from each passenger and it should be donated to the foundations that are looking out for the environment. He said while it is difficult task for Veen and Ruben Thompson to speak out and people are not listening it is necessary that they continue to do what they are doing right now.
Attending the function was the French side environment ambassador Nicole Piper who pledged to work closer with their Dutch counter parts simply because St. Maarten is one island. Piper said that whatever affects one side of the island would definitely affect the other side.
She said right now the French side is focusing on sorting garbage beginning from home. On Saturday Pride Foundation also cleaned up the cemetery French Quarter to mark their 10th anniversary.
Philipsburg:--- Some eight hundred persons are yet to pick up their Brooks Tower Permits announced Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba at a press conference on Thursday. The Minister said if these persons do not pick up their permits by June 15 then the permits would expire on June 16th and the applicants would become undocumented again. Those persons whose permits are not picked up would also have to leave the island by August 31 or face deportation when caught by police. Persons whose applications were denied also have to leave the island by August 31 on their own account. Those persons that are caught by police and are deported would face a ban of three years said Jacoba.
The Minister said that letters would be sent to the applicants who did not pick up their permits and those whose applications were denied informing them they have to leave the island.
Jacoba is urging all those persons who did not bother to pick up their permits to make contact at the Philipsburg Police Station. She said many of these persons did not pick up their permits either because they don't have the monies needed to purchase their medical insurances or to make the compulsory deposit at the Federal Receivers Office. Some of them she said also have problems obtaining passports from their country but her office have an agreement with the various consulates who would issue a letter confirming that they have applied for their passport.
Jacoba said that she is still busy discussing with stakeholders on St. Maarten to formulate the new policy that would allow the 5000 persons who were granted a BTA permit to apply for the regular permit. She said without this policy these persons would not meet the requirement to get a normal permit and as such she is working on a policy that would grant the BTA holders special conditions to receive a residency permit. This policy she said should be ready by July 1 and it would be applicable for at least three years before the holder's falls in the regular system.
Jacoba also confirmed that the BTA permits cannot be renewed after November 3 and those persons who do not make the efforts to apply for their regular permits prior to November 3 would automatically become undocumented.
Jacoba said she also held meetings with acting Lt. Governor Reynold Groeneveldt whom she said would soon be responsible for handling immigration matters when St. Maarten and Curacao achieves it country status on 10/10/10. The Minister also said she also met with the incoming acting Lt. Governor Nilda Arduin Lynch who is yet to be sworn it. SMN News learnt that Arduin Lynch would be sworn in sometime this month since the island government is awaiting the Governor General to do the honors. Currently the governor general is in the Netherlands and St. Maarten's Lt. Governor is on vacation in the Netherlands.
Haitians Must also Leave
Members of the Haitian community who registered to remain on St. Maarten after the devastation of their country on January 12 also have to leave the island by December 31st the Minister said. She said currently her office is conducting an evaluation on the Haitians who registered but no new decision has been taken. "Right now the Haitians have to leave by December 31. Those that are caught will be deported" Jacoba said.
The Minister also informed members of the media that she was busy all week in discussions with the police and other stakeholders. Discussions she was about the Win Win Agreement which was extended until 10/10/10. Jacoba said they are also looking at a candidate that would fill the vacant position in the justice section. She said it is important that all vacant positions be filled in order to strengthen the police core. Already there is a new chief commissioner of police, and five assistance from the Netherlands. Already three of those persons have taken office but the next two she said will be on St. Maarten in July and August.
Court Ruling on Americans having Same Rights as Dutch
Jacoba said she held some intense discussions with several stakeholders and members of government to see how they would deal with the recent court verdict which gives the Americans the same rights as the Dutch.
The Minister said she also believes that this matter has to be discussed in The Hague since there is a treaty between the Americans and the Netherlands over 50 years ago. Another aspect that has to be considered is how the local governments intend to handle the situation since they are responsible for labor permits.
The Minister acknowledged that the current issue is rather sensitive but felt this matter has to have more discussions. She said there is more than one verdict on this matter and as such it cannot be ignored.
Marigot: --- Leader of the Union pour le Progres Louis Constant Fleming in an exclusive interview admitted that he should have sanctioned members of the UPP for their misconduct in the past but has failed to lead his party in the correct fashion. Fleming was also reacting to statements made by territorial councilor Marthe Ogoundele Tessi and first vice president Daniel Gibbs whom he said he intended to ask to resign from the UPP.
Fleming said the only reason he did not take actions before is because his party does not have a written policy on code of conduct. Fleming explained that the president and secretary of the UPP are working on those rules and it should be voted upon in their next meeting.
At that point Fleming said he would call on Gibbs and Ogoundele- Tessi who has been discrediting the leadership of Union pour le Progres while campaigning for the 2010 elections to resign. He said he already indicated to Gibbs last October where he told him that if he wants to head his own list in 2012 he must resign from the UPP and give up his portfolios. Fleming also made the announcement publicly when he was asked to react to the comments made recently by Ogoundele Tessi and Gibbs on a radio interview. Last week Fleming sent an email to all members of the UPP in the territorial council inviting them to a meeting on Monday June 7 at 5:30pm. The contents of the email is as follows
" a la demande du leader de votre groupe, je vous prie de bien vouloir noter que votre presence a la reunion de ce lundi 7 Juin a partir de 17h30, aux portes de Saint Martin est Indespensable. A l'orde du jour de cette reunion, un point unique: Intervention de LCF. Tout absent (non excuse) sera considere comme dimissionaire."Asked about the email Fleming said that his secretary felt it was necessary to add that content since several of the members don't show up for the weekly meetings where he updates them on his mission as senator. Most of the councilors he said are not doing their job and it is at these meetings he would insist on them to do their work since the people of St. Martin has placed their confidence in them.
He said on Monday all of the members except two of them who were travelling did not attend and at no point he asked Gibbs or anyone else to resign. "My intention is to get things in order before I address the two members (Gibbs and Ogoundele). Fleming further said.
Fleming said an emergency meeting was held on Thursday evening at his office and all the members of the UPP have decided to call both Gibbs and Ogoundele Tessi to order. He said while the UPP is working on his rules the party president has to set up another meeting with both Gibbs and Ogoundele Tessi.
Fleming said Gibbs could remain an independent councilor if he chooses to resign but under no circumstances he would be allowed to criticize the government he is part of for political mileage. Fleming further explained that Gibbs for months now has been attacking him and his competencies. One example is that as soon as he became president of the Semsamar Gibbs requested that an audit be conducted even though his father held the presidency for 20 years. Fleming said apart from that Gibbs wants to have an adhoc committee installed to review all the tax measures and proposals for St. Martin. "According to what I heard Gibbs would make this proposal at the next territorial council meeting. This tells me something is wrong with Daniel Gibbs because all tax measures to be implemented by the Collectivity Gibbs voted in favor of them. It is either he doesn't know what he voted for or he does not know what he is doing." Fleming said everyone has a right to want to be president and they all can postulate if they managed to get 26 people on a list. "I am not against anyone who wants to become the president of the Collectivity however they cannot be part of my list when that time comes." Fleming further explained that when he selected his candidates to form the UPP he did not select Ogoundele-Tessi and Gibbs, instead he said former Mayor Albert Fleming approached him and asked him to put them on his list. "This is one thing I regret because if I had chosen them then I know that I am responsible for their actions. However, I still take responsibility for making them part of the UPP."
As for Ogoundele-Tessi he said she should have been sanctioned years ago because the territorial councilor is collecting Euros 1, 647 as indemnity every month and she is not participating in meetings and commissions. "Marthe Ogoundele-Tessi does not attend any meetings even though she is part of the commissions. She does nothing yet she is collecting tax-payers monies as an indemnity. St Martin is in a financial crisis and we should have sanctioned her before." Fleming said.
Constant Fleming said Ogoundele-Tessi has been speaking against the UPP since 2008 when she wanted to become president when he was sanctioned. He said at the time he felt everyone makes mistakes and he gave the councilor time to heal. Fleming said two months later Ogoundele-Tessi voted for him to become senator and thus he felt she was going to be more active. " I did not take action because I did not want anyone to say I going after her for my personal agenda, but now things have gotten out of hand." Fleming concluded.
Philipsburg:--- On Monday June 14th at approximately 09.15 am, police were investigating an armed robbery, which took place in the Point Blanche area. During the robbery the victim with initials O.L.M. a local businessman was robbed at gunpoint by two unknown men armed with a shotgun. The businessman was robbed of his white Suzuki Van with license plate M-9798. In the Van there were several bank deposit bags, bankbook, two briefcases and several cases of magazines.
During the investigation the officers received information, that the suspects fled the scene in a black Hyundai Sonata with license plate 847ZBB971. The suspected vehicle was spotted by the patrol, driving at high speed on the W.G. Buncamper road, directly after the information came in said police spokesman Ricardo Henson.
A high speed chase by the police patrol took place and ended on the parking lot of Genevieve de Weever School in the Hope Estate. The suspects tried to escape their capture by reversing their vehicle into the patrol car. The two suspects in this vehicle with the initials D.A.H. from Saint Martin and M.R. from the Dominican Republic were arrested on the spot. During an investigation, a sawed-off shotgun and several rounds of ammunition were found in the suspected vehicle. The vehicle, fire-arm and ammunition were confiscated for further investigation. Further investigation led detectives to a third suspect with the initials R.A.M. from Jamaica who was arrested and taken into custody.
Philipsburg:--- A group of young women and men attending a health care course at the Educa Bureau RRR on Pondfill are now wondering if they were ripped off by the school when they registered to follow a nine-month course to become nurses aid. Speaking to SMN News were Florestine La Rocque, Giselle Cadington and Angela Gordon.
The students said they registered for the course since August 2008 and has already paid over $1,200 and to date they do not know if and when they would graduate and if they do if the certificate would be accepted anywhere on St. Maarten or abroad.
The young women who are all working in order to pay for their dream careers said when they enrolled in the school they were told that the school is accredited in Curacao and that they would receive practical training at the St. Maarten Medical Center.
Cadington said ever since they started the course they have been doing the theoretical part of the course but to date they have not started the practical. They said the school does not even have beds or other materials to train nurses and so far they did some job training at the White and Yellow Cross. They said when they asked the owner of the school when they would begin their practical training at the St. Maarten Medical Center the owner keeps telling them that she is not able to make contact with her people at the St. Maarten Medical Center. They said recently they heard that the school is not accredited and the school do not follow the regular curriculum of any nursing school of the Netherlands Antilles.
SMN News contacted management of the St. Maarten Medical Center who said they never heard of such a school and that they have no arrangements with the school to provide practical training for the nurses-assistants. SMN News also contacted the sector health care affairs to see if the department has any knowledge of the school and if government plays any role in organizing the course. Joireen Wuite sector director of the department said she never heard of the school and neither is government involved in organizing the course. Furthermore, SMN News learnt from the students that one of their teachers works at sector health care during the weekdays.
The students said they heard of the school when an older nurse at the St. Maarten Medical Center was providing the courses. They said the students who trained under nurse Brunelda Illidge are now LPN and RN at the St. Maarten Medical Center and the White and Yellow Cross. However, since Illidge left everything changed.
SMN News contacted the owner of Educa Bureau RRR Ms. Yvonne Dick who said her school is accredited by the White and Yellow Cross. When SMN News pressed for answers about the graduation and practical training Dick responded "Please tell the students to come in so we can discuss the matter". When she was told that the St. Maarten Medical Center and sector health care has no knowledge of her school she responded by saying "is that what they told you?" Dick said they only reason the course prolonged for two years is because her teachers stopped showing up to teach the classes.
As we continue to press for answers about the amount of monies the students paid and the period of time they are waiting. Ms. Dick said "I am not answering any more questions."
SMN News learnt that while 16 of the students in group A and B have spoken out the students that are currently taking a health care course do not know their fate.
Philipsburg:---With potential heavy rain expected this weekend due to the tropical disturbance lingering in the Atlantic, the SHTA remains concerned about the possibility of flooding.
In past meetings with Commissioner Heyliger, the SHTA expressed its concern regarding the increased risk of flooding in Philipsburg and the surrounding areas due to the construction of the ring road.
During these meetings, the SHTA was assured that the water level will be managed by the floodgates. Still, we're halfway through June and our understanding is that not all of the floodgates and pumps are working properly.
Furthermore, the annual cleaning of the trenches has not been executed as yet.
In the event that there is flooding the SHTA fears that it's going to have a financial impact on businesses and residents in the area with regards to damages, the availability of insurance and a possible increase of insurance premiums. That added expense is one these businesses cannot afford at this time.
The SHTA is therefore cautioning government to make all preparations necessary to ensure that the island is ready for this hurricane season.
GREAT BAY, St. Maarten (GIS) – The Department of Disaster Management has released the listing of Hurricane Shelters for the 2010 Hurricane Season.
Emergency Support Function - 7 (ESF-7) Social Welfare has compiled a list of buildings that will act as a temporary shelter in the event of a hurricane strike. Shelters will also be manned by law enforcement/military officials in order to guarantee order within the shelter.
Shelters will be opened hours before a hurricane strike. This notification will be issued via the radio, online internet websites and the print-media. Persons who feel that they won't be safe in their homes should prepare to go to a shelter. Prior to leaving your home, make sure everything is secure and you've packed all the essentials that you will need at the shelter.
Persons utilizing a shelter are not allowed to carry certain items to a shelter, only essentials. Pack enough water and food for up to three days. It is also advisable to take a first aid kit to the shelter with you along with prescription medications.
If you have a baby, remember to pack enough diapers, formula and bottles to last at least three days. Take playing cards, games and toys to keep children, and yourself, occupied. Take a set of clean clothes and bedding (pillow, sheets).
Carry a can opener; a few cans of non-perishable food; special items for elderly or disabled family members; battery powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries; cash/credit cards; passport and other important papers.
Alcoholic beverages and weapons are not allowed in shelters. Smoking is also not allowed. There is no need to bring cooking equipment or furniture to a shelter as there is no room.
Shelters do not accept pets, so you should make arrangements beforehand to have your untied pets secured in a room, with sufficient water, and food for at least three days. Do not leave dogs and cats in the same room.
1. Leonard Conner School – Venus Drive – Cay Bay
(for the Cay Bay & Cole Bay districts)
2. Christian Fellowship Church – Welfare Road – Cole Bay
(for the Cay Bay & Cole Bay districts)
3. Salvation Army Building – Union Road – Cole Bay
(for the Cay Bay & Cole Bay districts)
4. Milton Peters College – L.B. Scot Road – South Reward
(for the St. Peters, Ebenezer & South Reward districts)
5. Rupert Maynard Youth Center – St. Peters Road – St. Peters
(for the St. Peters, Ebenezer & South Reward districts)
6. Sr. Marie Laurence School – Ellis Drive – Middle Region
(for the Middle Region & Defiance districts)
7. New Testament Baptist Church – Cannegieter Street – Philipsburg
(for the Philipsburg & Pointe Blanche districts)
8. Allan C. Halley Community Center – Simpson Bay Road – Simpson Bay
(for the Simpson Bay & Beacon Hill districts)
9. Marie Genevieve de Weever School – Guana Bay Road – Hope Estate
(for the Hope Estate & Sucker Garden districts)
10. Epheses SDA Church – Belvedere Estate Road – Belvedere
(for the Belvedere & Dutch Quarter districts)
11. St. Maarten Academy – Cupper Drive – Cul-de-Sac
(for the St. Peters, St. Johns & Cul-de-Sac districts)
Philipsburg: --- Leader of the Democratic Party Sarah Wescot Williams has submitted a letter to leader of government William Marlin requesting that he call a PCCA meeting to discuss matters related to constitutional affairs. At a press conference on Tuesday Wescot Williams said it has been sometime the island leader did not call such a meeting and she wants to discuss the draft constitution. Wescot Williams also forewarned the leader of government that the DP faction would not allow the draft constitution to go through without scrutiny from the Democratic Party.
Wescot Williams said she would also be looking forward to seeing the two independent members of the council at this meeting if it is called by Leader of Government and Commissioner of Constitutional Affairs William Marlin.
Marigot: ---- The daughter of senator Louis Constant Fleming, Karine Fleming has used her rights to respond to media report that indicated that she postulated for the director's post at the Office du Tourisme.
Fleming said that after learning that a newspaper published she was a candidate for the position she felt compelled to respond since the article in question is pure speculation and invention from one specific journalist. Fleming said more surprising to her is to see her name appear in the newspaper without any type of verification.
"The journalist in question has my email and telephone numbers and she could have verified easily." Fleming said. "I am not a candidate for the position of Director of the Tourist Office or any other position at the Collectivity. I do not have the qualification for the director's position; also it is not my father's habit to place his children in jobs at the Collectivity contrary to what other politicians have done." Fleming said. She concluded by saying it is sad to see how far a particular journalist would go to sell newspapers and that only confirms her lack of professionalism and integrity within the community. Below is the exact excerpt from Fleming both in English and French.
After learning my candidacy for the position of Director of the Tourist Office through an article in Le Pelican newspaper published on June 22nd 2010, I feel it necessary to write to your newspaper to confirm that this is pure speculation and invention from one journalist Mireille Loubet. It was even more surprising to me to see my name in her article because she has my e-mail address and telephone number and could have therefore verify her information easily.
I am not a candidate for the position of Director of the Tourist Office or any other position within the Collectivite. I do not have the qualification to be the director of the tourist office. And it is not in my father's habit to put his children in jobs at the Collectivite, contrary to what other politicians have done.
It is sad to see how far this journalist will go to sell newspapers and can only confirm her lack of professionalism and integrity within our community.
DROIT DE REPONSE
Suite à l'article du Pélican du 22 juin 2010, par lequel j'ai appris ma propre prétendue candidature au poste de Directrice de l'Office du tourisme, je tiens à préciser que cette question n'a JAMAIS été à l'ordre du jour ni du groupe UP, ni de moi-même.
Non seulement parce que le tourisme ne fait pas partie de mon champ de compétence, mais également parce qu'il n'est pas dans les mœurs du Sénateur Louis-Constant FLEMING de placer ses enfants (contrairement à de nombreux autres...)
Il ne s'agit que d'une élucubration supplémentaire de Mireille LOUBET qui persiste à combler ses réelles lacunes journalistiques en inventant de toutes pièces des "informations" et/ou en colportant des ragots.
Il aurait pourtant été très facile de vérifier cette information puisque Madame LOUBET et sa direction possèdent mes coordonnées.
Anne Karine Fleming
NAGICO Insurances has kept up its tradition of employing students for internship or summer job placements. In the period of April to early June, the company received students from local primary and secondary schools, including the Milton Peters College and Learning Unlimited. From May to late August of this year, NAGICO will receive and work-a-long side St. Maarten students who are currently studying at local schools, in the United States or The Netherlands, as part of the summer job program. Over fifteen students will take part in the Summer Programs and would be assigned to various departments, including Accounts, Agency, Claims, Customer Service, and Marketing & Communications.
The SHTA applauds the Chamber's initiative of developing a Camera surveillance system as a tool to curb crime in high traffic areas on the island. The SHTA not only feels that it could be an effective tool in catching criminals, but also in monitoring the response time of the police force. However, while this is a step in the right direction, the SHTA believes that it is but a small part of the total solution. Therefore the SHTA is re-releasing its Safety & Security White Paper, a document developed with the assistance of the community, as part of the SHTA's Vision for St. Maarten, in 2007. Although 3 years have passed, the SHTA feels that the solutions provided in this document are still very much relevant to the current situation.
The SHTA's Safety & Security White Paper can be downloaded from the SHTA's trade website: www.shta.com
Marigot:--- The gendarmes have embarked on using more technology when conducting road controls and press release stated. Metal detectors they said were used along with the search dogs on Tuesday as they try to break the trend of violent crimes. The aim is to deflate the amount of armed robberies the gendarmerie stated. A control unit was at the Round About by the Office du Tourisme on Tuesday using the detectors to find weapons. Some 15 gendarmes carried out the searches. They said while they are working on creating a climate of insecurity for would be criminals it is necessary for the community to provide the necessary information on these criminals.
Philipsburg:--On Saturday July 10 th 2010 approximately 10.45 pm, police officers under command of an acting prosecutor, raided a house in Brills drive in Middle Region and confiscated a suitcase containing marijuana substance. Six persons were arrested and taken to the police station and incarcerated.
They were identified as: E.W of Sint Maarten, 34 years of age, V.C of Jamaica , 52 years of age, L.C of Sint Maarten, 34 years of age, R.I of Sint Maarten, 34 years of age M.C of Jamaica 55 years of age and C.B of Dominica 19 years of age. The weight of the confiscated drug is 10,5 kg. This information was not released earlier because of the investigation which was taking place.
A patrol unit of the Zero Tolerance arrested on Tuesday July 13th 2010 , around 8.20 pm, two men when they were cutting and sorting out marijuana in a car carrying a Taxi number plate. This took place on the Clamond Cherry road in Cole bay near the round about. The patrol unit caught the suspect by surprise. Four plastic bags containing marijuana about 100 small plastic bags and a small scale were confiscated. The suspects by initials D.N, born on the island of Sint Maarten, 19 years of age and G.R also born on Sint Maarten, 35 years of age were arrested and are in police custody. The weight of the drug confiscated is about 365 grams. The Taxi was not confiscated because it doesn't belong to the suspects, but is a vehicle which broke down and was parked on the side of the road on mentioned street.
Philipsburg:---The St. Maarten Study Finance Students, their Parents and Country St. Maarten have reasons to be proud of their students huge accomplishments during the E.P.I. College Graduation Nights July 4 & 5, 2010. YES, the Study Finance STUDENTS TOOK IT ALL!
Academic Year 2009/2010 - Technical & Science Section:
MAYNARD, Bako Ato – Grandson of the late Rupert MAYNARD
1. Student of the Year for the Entire Technical & Science Section:
2. Outstanding Accomplishment: Architectural & Construction 2006/2010
3. Highest ranking student : Architectural class of 2010
JANSEN, Edel
1. Outstanding Accomplishments: Electrical engineering 2006/2010
2. Highest ranking student : Electrical engineering class of 2010
Monday July 5th. 2010
Academic Year 2009/2010 – Culinary Arts/ Hospitality & Tourism Management
WHITTER, Maybeline A.
1. Outstanding Accomplishments: Culinary Arts
2. Highest ranking student Award Friendliness class of 2010
Parents, relatives and friends came from St. Maarten to celebrate this wonderful graduation night.
EPI Hospitality & Tourism Unit, is a fully government-accredited institution of higher learning, granting an Associate of Science degree in Hospitality Management and an Associate of Applied Science degree in Culinary Arts.
Those students who want to further pursue a Bachelor's Degree, should have no trouble getting into U.S. schools, such as the Florida International University in Miami, University of Nevada in Las Vegas, University of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida Institute of Technology, Webber International University, New York Institute of Technology, Cornell University, University of New Orleans, Northern Arizona University, Hotel Management School Leeuwarden in the Netherlands, or the University Of Aruba, and many others. In almost all cases, as many as 68 credits are accepted for transfer, placing the student in the junior year towards graduation with the Bachelor's Degree. EPI Hospitality & Tourism has established a working relationship with several of the previously mentioned schools.
Formal matriculation agreements for transfer exists with: Florida International University in Miami, University of Northern Arizona, University of Nevada in Las Vegas, University of Central Florida in Orlando, Hotel Management School Leeuwarden in the Netherlands, and with the Universidad di Aruba.
EPI Hospitality & Tourism is not a vocational school, nor an upper level high school; it is a full fledged two to three year of college education comparable to the first two years of U.S. colleges.
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, July 12th 2010 – Before the 45th Annual Convention of the St.Kitts-Nevis Opposition party the People's Action Movement on July 4, 2010, Political Leader, Mr. Lindsay Grant, warned about the Labour Government's attempts to trample the constitutional right to free and fair elections.
Mr. Grant recounted, "This is why success came when we challenged the illegal attempt by Denzil Douglas to change the boundaries last year. There is no politics to play when our basic rights are under threat."
Specific attention was called to the continued fight against the Labour Party's unfair, illegal and dishonest tactics, perpetrated by a concocted Electoral Reform Process.
Mr. Grant offered the success of Hon. Eugene Hamilton, who last week got the High Court to remove the names of Helena Mulrain of St. Pauls, Tracey Mason of Parsons and Donna Henderson of Parsons , from the Constituency #8 voter list, after the Registration Officer refused PAM's objections to the same.
The PAM Leader informed, "Since the January 2010 General Elections, I have objected to over 100 names on my list, who voted in the last election but who have never ever resided in Constituency #4."
Grant concluded, "We rely on such principles of free and fair elections as we take the Election Petition to Court, on the 21st July 2010, after which the People's Action
Movement will rightfully be seated in Constituency #4, where your Political
Leader will become the Member of Parliament."
On Wednesday 7th July 2010, the People's Action Movement filed
appeals in the High Court, to have over 100 names struck from the
Constituency #4 voter list.
Philipsburg:--- The executive council has taken a decision to increase the prices of unleaded gasoline and gasoil as of Sunday July 18 2010.
In a press release the council states that due to the increase in oil prices the price of unleaded gasoline will be increased to Naf. 196.00 per liter while the price for gasoil would be Naf. 164.00 per litre. The new prices will take effect as of Sunday while there is a slight decrease for diesel.
Philipsburg:--- Commissioner and deputy leader of government Theo Heyliger would be leaving the current coalition sometime this week. Some said Heyliger is expected to leave as early as Monday. However, this is the third time the commissioner has made people to believe he is ready to leave the current coalition and to launch the green party. While in the past he said he was not happy with how the coalition was working Heyliger never made the move neither did he give any official notification.
Late Sunday afternoon Heyliger posted a comment on his Facebook page confirming that was tendering his resignation on July 19th 2010. His post reads as follows "On July 19th I will be officially tendering my resignation as commissioner to the executive council of St. Maarten. I would like to THANK the entire population of St. Maarten for allowing me to have served from July 2nd 1999 to July 19th 2010. It has been an honor serving you."
SMN News also received confirmation from Leader of Government and the National Alliance William Marlin who said that Heyliger informed him that he was tendering his resignation from the executive council in order to prepare for the upcoming elections. Heyliger also thanked the National Alliance and their team for giving him the ability to have served.
Heyliger cleaned out his office on the weekend of May 24th out and promised the Lt. Governor that he would have submitted a letter to him explaining when he was leaving. Heyliger then had his staff say he was re-carpeting and remodeling his office while he refused to comment on the issue with SMN News. SMN News learnt then that Heyliger did not make his move because Island Council member and former member of the Democratic Party Louis Laveist had refused to go along with his plans. At that time SMN News learnt that Heyliger wanted to throw down the government because he was at loggerheads with the members of the National Alliance.
SMN News learnt that Heyliger indicated to his staff last week that he is leaving with or without Laveist since he has to start his campaign especially now that the date for country election is set for September 17th while nomination day is set for August 18th.
One source said that Heyliger gave his staff timely notification because most of them are political appointees and not government civil servants. SMN News further learnt that the commissioner would hire his staff that works in his office to begin his campaign at his new building in Pointe Blanche.
Efforts made to get an official confirmation from the commissioner proved futile up to press time.
Theo Heyliger submitted his resignation formally to the current government this morning.
Cape Bay:---On Saturday July 17th, 2010 at 2pm St. Maarten Pride Foundation received a call from its partner organization Nature Foundation informing the Foundation that an Oil Spill had taken place in the Cay Bay/Cole Bay area.
Upon the Foundations' arrival in Cay Bay the Foundations realized that SOL's Oil Storage facility was the source of the spill. SOL's manager Mr. David Antrobus and a staff member were observed making an effort to clean-up the beach and to prevent additional oil from entering the Bay. Based on information received from vessels in the area, concerned Cay Bay residents and an inspection of the Beach it was determined that a significant Oil Spill had taken place sometime during the course of Saturday morning.
Late last month Pride Foundation met with the Fire Department, SOL Antilles, GEBE, the SHTA, Nature Foundation, EPIC and others to discuss Oil-spill response. During the meeting it was agreed upon that those present would seek to work together to prevent oil spills and to mitigate the effects of any spills that may still take place, St. Maarten Pride Foundation is therefore very much disappointed that SOL's management did not contact the Foundations to inform them of-, and request assistance with clean-up efforts this past Saturday.
The constant Oil Spills at GEBE's power plant and SOL's facilities in Cay Bay and the Simpson Bay Lagoon point towards serious infrastructural and organizational problems at both companies. Pride Foundation has repeatedly urged St. Maarten's major Oil stakeholders to invest in Oil Spill Response material and training for their staff. The necessity of this training on St. Maarten was made appallingly evident some two weeks ago after a large oil spill at GEBE's power plant in Cay Bay when workers wearing no protective gear of any sort entered the oil filled waters, in attempts to clean the oil, and were subsequently covered in it from head to toe.
Government's and in particular the Commissioner in charge of Environmental affairs' apparent indifference and failure to publicly address these matters is allowing the spills to continue.
The Foundation once again urges government to inspect GEBE's and SOL's facilities, to require these and similar companies to provide relevant training to their staff and to have sufficient Oil Spill Response material available.
The Foundation also encourages the aforementioned companies to take their corporate responsibilities seriously. Pride Foundation will continue to monitor the situation.
Nature Foundation responds to yet another oil spill, videos posted on YouTube.
The Nature Foundation received a call from a concerned resident in Pelican regarding another oil spill coming from the Cay Bay area. Contact was immediately made with the Coastguard and other law enforcement authorities regarding the spill and Nature Foundation Staff responded to the site. EPIC and St. Maarten Pride Foundations were also informed of the spill. It was determined that the spill originated at SOL Antilles.
Site inspections concluded that due to the heavy rain this weekend and poorly maintained oil containment facilities SOL Antilles experienced an overflow of oil and a significant amount leaked into the ocean. During patrols using the Nature Foundation vessel Yellowtail an oil slick of approximately 1.5 kilometres was found. Prevailing wind conditions prevented the oil from drifting onshore and damaging Nature Foundation Installations, which were already damaged by the GEBE oil spill on July 3rd. SOL Antilles staff were busy cleaning up the spill late into Saturday.
The resident who contacted the Nature Foundation concerning the oil spill has posted video of the event on YouTube. The videos can be seen by clicking http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iMTziY307XA&NR=1. If the public notices any additional oil spills or any unusual events related to the environment contact the Nature Foundation at 5444268 or on 5270490.
Philipsburg:--- Island councilmember and former commissioner of labour Louie Laveist said no one is going to use him as the scapegoat to vote against the constitution that was debated on Wednesday. "I also want to know who told the members of the Democratic Party they can intimidate me" Laveist said when he listened to the presentations delivered by members of the Democratic Party it was clear that they are alluding that he and the leader of government are in cahoots regarding a clause that was added to the constitution.
Laviest was referring to the clause regarding article 36 of the constitution that deals with how a politician or elected person could be removed from office if he is convicted or suspected of a crime. Louie Laveist was charged and convicted on five counts last year, he appealed the verdict and was partly vindicated by the appeals court. Hoping to fully clear his name the island councilman appealed the verdict in the supreme court. The arrest and prosecution of Laveist led him to break away from the Democratic Party, this is the main reason why Democratic Party is opposition. Directing some of his comments to the members of the DP Laveist said he has been through a lot since elected and simple attacks or ridicule does not make him fearful.
He said if the Democratic Party wants they can have the clause removed since he does not need it to protect him. "Let me state for the record state if they are going to vote against the constitution because of me and that line then take it out. I have enough jurisprudence to protect me within the justice system."
Laveist also called on members of the Democratic Party to show him any constitution that were voted retroactively in the world. He asked the DP members if someone was convicted for murder and should this constitution say there is going to be capital punishment if the prisoner serving his sentence is subjected to the new law?
Laveist said the display from the Democratic Party was pitiful and they should stop the whining or rhetoric. "You all created a storm in a teaspoon and not teapot. I also want to know when this constitution is passed if you all are going to pull away one of the two seats held by some members of the council."
Laveist also commended the leader of the Democratic Party for her dedication towards confusing people if she is not able to convince them. "He called on the DP members to make sure when they choose a tree to climb to make sure it is not a prickle tree.
Island council members Rudolphe Samuel and Leroy De Weever called on members of the council mainly leader of Government William Marlin and leader of the Democratic Party Sarah Wescot Williams to be more mature during the second round and explain the constitution. Samuel said the two leaders were in all the meetings for the past ten years and they are privy to all information. " I was not in all the meetings." This document is no one person document and no one should take credit for it. "I believe you Mrs. Wescot Williams was the commissioner of constitutional affairs for nine years and you should be out there nine times more than William explaining the people what this document would mean for them." Councilman De Weever said government should have printed thousands of copies of the document to make sure every man, woman and child gets a copy of the laws that would dictate their lives. He said there are articles that deal with the abuse of animals and he believes the people should be told what are the consequences of cockfights. "I was told these laws were made from those of Holland I also want to know if the Dutch would go over to Spain and lock up the people who engage in bull fights.
UTS Donated $5000 to the Saba Cultural Foundation to go towards the expenses of organizing the Carnival festivities in Saba. The foundation is charged with the organization of Saba's 35th Carnival Celebrations this year and was in dire need of financial support to make the planned festivities happen. Foundation representative Ms. Juliette Woods expressed the foundations thanks for UTS's continued support of the festivities over the years. 'Many people underestimate the amount of work and expense involved in organizing carnival and we are happy that UTS has offered it support over the years to make our yearly celebration happen' says Ms. Woods. UTS Marketing and Communications Officer, Ms. Ivy Lambert states: 'In choosing to support the Cultural Foundation we hope that those participating in Carnival and those enjoying the festivities will be able to benefit from our contribution. We as a company are fortunate enough to be part of the Saba business community and we hope that our contribution will help in making the yearly festivities an enjoyable and memorable event for all involved. Especially since this really is a milestone year.'
PHILIPSBURG:--- Information reached the Commissioner in charge of Public Health Mr. Hyacinth Richardson that Dr. Pallas, a resident optometrist at the St. Maarten Medical Center SMMC has not been accepting BZV cards recently.
The Commissioner held a meeting with Dr. Pallas on Friday July 30, 2010 to address the matter and to bring some form of resolution to the ongoing issue.
Mr. Hyacinth Richardson is happy to inform the general public that Dr. Pallas will be accepting all BZV cards to ensure the provision of continual Health Care on the island.
In a press release to the Government Information Service (GIS) Commissioner Richardson concluded that the meeting was very fruitful as all parties are eager to continue the good work on behalf of the people.
PHILIPSBURG:--- University of St. Martin's (USM) Political Science 120 class for the upcoming Fall semester will be taking full advantage of St. Maarten's historical political developments.
The main objective of the USM's Introduction to Political Science course, taught by instructor Khalilah Peters, is to help students better understand the environment in which political decisions are made and governments operate.
According to Peters, the intention is to, as much as possible, integrate St. Maarten's political issues, developments, and activities into the class program. St. Maarten is currently in the process of obtaining Country Status within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
"In doing so, students will be given the opportunity to not only witness St. Maarten's political developments surrounding its constitutional change, but they will also be expected to examine and discuss these developments through an analytical academic lens," she said
Classes will not be limited to classroom instructions and textbook readings, students will be expected to attend political rallies, sit in on Island Council meetings, interview politicians and assist with the organization of one of the AVS political debates scheduled during the month of September, 2010.
Topics covered in this University of St. Martin Political Science course will include: (1) approaches to the study of politics;(2) basic concepts of politics; (3) emergence of the state; (4) nature of various governments; (5) function of governments (6) the nature of various ideologies and their influences on politics; (7) the role of political parties and interest groups; (8) administration and function of a civil service apparatus; (9) democracy and it's various forms; and (10) international politics and how they relate to our new constitutional status.
This course is open to all matriculated and non-matriculated USM students, and classes will be scheduled for Saturdays from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon starting from August 21st, 2010 to December 11th, 2010. Persons from the wider community, who are interested in politics, can also take the class but their enrollment is subject to approval from the dean of academic affairs.
"For those persons interested in politics and who may have keen interests in serving their communities, this course will provide them with an analytical basis from which they can assess the political developments of Country St. Maarten," Peters concluded.
USM fall semester gets underway on August 16th and runs through December 11, 2010.
Philipsburg:--- On Friday August 6th at approximately 02.00 p.m. police patrols, police traffic department, fire department and ambulance department were sent to the crossing of Oyster Pond road and Bishop Hill road for a serious traffic accident involving three vehicles and where at least one person was injured.
On the scene the driver of a white pick-up with license plate V-1426 was complaining of pain in his chest, neck and back. With the assistance of the Fire Department using the metal cutting machine called "the jaws of life" made it safer for the victim to remove from the wreckage by paramedics.
The victim was then transported to the St Maarten Medical Center for medical treatment. The exact cause of this accident is still being investigated by the Police Traffic Department.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—The historic 1st Regional Gathering of the Caribbean Network Operators Group (CaribNOG) gets underway in St Maarten from 15-19 August. The five day event is being staged to coincide with the Government of St Maarten's ICT Week and the Caribbean Telecommunications Union Caribbean ICT Roadshow.
"This is a very significant gathering" stated Mr. Bevil Wooding, Programme Director for the event. He added, "CaribNOG is a forum designed specifically to create greater levels of technical collaboration in the Caribbean. This puts us all in better position to address critical technology challenges and issues and to derive relevant solutions."
Over the past year the CaribNOG group has been building a reputation as an influential forum where network technicians and technology professionals share experiences and participate in high-tech training exercises and workshops.
Stephen Lee, spokesperson for the group and Chief Technology Officer at ArkiTechs Inc. stated "Not only will we have network professionals from across the region, CaribNOG has attracted speakers and participants from as far as New Zealand, Argentina, the UK and North America for the event."
The event affords St Maarten has a unique opportunity to showcase itself to the world as one of the region's main technology hubs. The week-long program includes technical training sessions in Voice over IP (VoIP), Linux Security, IPv6 and advanced routing for building the skills of ICT technicians and engineers.
The Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU), co-convener of the ICT Week, has been a staunch supporter of CaribNOG and collaborating partner since the inception of group. Ms. Bernadette Lewis, Secretary General of the CTU stated, "The goals of CaribNOG are consistent with the CTU's vision for greater technical collaboration within the region. We were pleased that the organizers have been able to use our Caribbean ICT Roadshow as a launch pad for CaribNOG's activities."
The event has also gained strong support from some major organizations in the industry including the American Registry of Internet Numbers (ARIN), the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), the Internet Society (ISOC) and the Latin American and Caribbean Internet Addresses Registry (LACNIC) and Packet Clearing House (PCH).
Ms. Peggy Ann Brandon, local coordinator for the St Maarten ICT Week said, "We are delighted to host such a high-caliber slate of presenters for this meeting." She added, "Regional ICT practitioners have a unique opportunity to be part of history in the making and to benefit from the expertise of some of the top minds in the industry."
The 1st CaribNOG Regional Meeting will be held at the Westin St. Maarten Dawn Beach Resort & Spa. The meeting is free of charge and open Internet Service Providers, Network Administrators, Computer Engineers, Technology Researchers and ICT Consultants and other interested stakeholders.
The Caribbean Network Operators Group (CaribNOG) is a non-for-profit, independent technical community committed to providing a regional forum for sharing technical experiences and expertise; building technical capacity and knowledge; and advocating relevant technical solutions for the region.
CaribNOG is committed to providing a regional forum for influencing technical development in the Caribbean region and raising awareness among the region's network operators and ICT practitioners as to their common role and regional responsibility.
About the Caribbean Telecommunications Union
The Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU) is a inter-governmental, treaty organization, acting in an advisory capacity to the governments of the Caribbean region. The organization was established in 1990 years ago by regional heads of government to advise on matters related to Information and Communications Technology (ICT).
The CTU is headquartered in Trinidad and Tobago and has been involved in the harmonization of policies across the Caribbean for the development of the ICT sector. It is governed by a council of ministers from the telecommunication and information ministries of the regional governments. Its membership base comprises governments, private sector and civil society organizations.
Philipsburg– Executive Director of the Tallahassee-Sint Maarten Foundation (TLH-SXMF) Arthur (Arturo) Lugisse, has been appointed head of Urban Broadcasting Company TV (UBC-TV) International Business Development and Marketing Division.
President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of UBC-TV Peggy Dodson, says Lugisse, is a perfect fit with respect to UBC's global strategy.
"Lugisse has the experience and background to make UBC the international company I have always intended it to be. I look forward to making some big deals and forming lasting relationships through Arthur for UBC-TV and all of our associated ventures and projects," Dodson stated in a press release provided to Lugisse.
"UBC-TV would like to expand into the Caribbean and I am looking forward to making that happen. We will be firstly looking at this part of the region, namely the North Eastern Caribbean.
"I am interested in hearing from TV stations, Cable TV Companies and others that are interested in working together to make this happen. UBC-TV is also very much interested in investors as well who would have shares in the company. The main benefactors are the customers of the various companies, and UBC-TV will only be an asset to what is already going on in the Caribbean," Lugisse said on Sunday.
UBC-TV is a new broadcast multi-media company that will broadcast multi-media company that will broadcast original 'urban lifestyle' programming that will include entertainment, music, culture, news, comedy, concerts, original dramas and other programming that is relevant to today's Urban Multi-Cultural Market.
Dodson can be contact by email
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 917-478-0625, or check out website www.urbanbroadcasting.tv
Television stations, Cable TV companies and other multi-media companies interested in developing a mutually beneficial relationship with UBC-TV can contact Arthur Lugisse up until and including Friday, August 20 at the Victorious Living Office, Backstreet #158B or call 520-1802, 542-2663 or send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
MARIGOT: --- The gendarmes has arrested a 30 year old man who is suspected of committing at least eight robberies in different areas on the French side of the island stated a press release from the gendarmerie.
The suspect has been transferred to Guadeloupe pending trial. He is accused of committing robberies in Grand Case, Baie Nettle, Orient Bay, and Marigot between April and August 2010. The suspect was active during the peak season of July when several armed robberies were committed. He was arrested on Thursday August 19 during a special operation the press release states. It is alleged that the suspect was a loner and would normally target restaurants, and liquor stores by holding up his victims at gunpoint.
The robber was arrested after several persons assisted the gendarmes by giving testimony. While the robberies were committed on the French side of the island the suspect is from the Dutch side of the island.
The gendarmes also arrested two minors ages 14 and 16 for their involvement in armed robberies to small businesses.
Philipsburg:--- The Acting Lt. Governor and Chairman of the main voting bureau has sent a letter informing the leader of the National Alliance and the Democratic Party that they need to make some minor corrections to the names of their candidates before their lists can be approved for the September 17 island elections.
SMN News learnt that the discovery was made in a closed door meeting on Monday when the verification process was taking place.
The two parties would have at least three days after the receipt of the letter to react by making the necessary corrections. The source said most of the errors that were made relates to how some of the candidate's names on each of the two lists were written.
In an invited comment leader of the National Alliance William Marlin said his list had a simple error with one of the candidates. He said the candidate first name and married name was written on the form but somehow the word "born" was left out before her maiden name. The corrections Marlin said was already made and submitted to the main voting bureau. Several efforts to contact the leader of the Democratic Party proved futile up to press time.
In the meantime, the two new political parties that were formed this year to contest the early elections for St. Maarten, namely the United People's Party headed by Theo Heyliger and the Concordia Political Alliance headed by Jeffry Richardson have been approved.
SMN News further learnt that the CPA might be able to add a second candidate to his list since the Civil Registry made some mistakes when dealing with Aruba born Leo Richardson. It is understood that the committee that perused the lists and the complaint filed by Jeffry Richardson already agreed that the mistakes were made by the civil registry thus Leo Richardson will be allowed to vote come September 17. SMN News further learnt that discussions are currently ongoing to see if the possibility of adding Leo Richardson as a candidate to the CPA list exists. The source said the CPA leader is not giving up on his quest to have a second person on his list and that he would be continuing the fight even if it means filing an injunction on Friday.
Willemstad:--- Community relations (COMRELS) projects help bridge cultures, uplift communities and lay foundations for change for all involved.
USS Klakring (FFG 42) and Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL 42) Detachment (Det) 10 sailors worked alongside airmen from 429th Expeditionary Operations Squadron landscaping, building bookshelves and painting during a COMREL at the Siloam Village Orphanage in Curacao, 16 August. The ship was in Curacao as part of the six-month Southern Seas 2010 deployment to the region.
The orphanage presently houses 12 terminally ill children and helps the surrounding community through weekly food and clothing distributions. Plans are being made to provide a daycare, school and training facilities for adults to help improve reading and enhance job skills. It is supported by the generous contributions from private citizens and organizations that give money, supplies and time.
Owner and director Brother Herman Gijsbers, a missionary who along with his wife, Bep, and daughter, Natasja, moved from the Netherlands to Curacao 21 years ago, said he was very pleased and a bit overwhelmed to have the U.S. military (18 sailors and 10 airmen) come out and do so much for the children and community.
"It would have taken me three or four months to do the work you all did in four hours," said Brother Herman. "I saw the work and sweat you all gave for us in this heat today. I am truly grateful to both God and you for being here."
COMREL programs enable U.S. military members to be involved with the local community through humanitarian efforts. Many of the programs include repairing and repainting schools or hospitals in communities of need, as well as providing supplies such as medical goods and hygiene products. School supplies and toys are also common goods given to the local community.
Air Force Chaplain Karl Blancaflor said we as Americans sometime forget how fortunate we are.
Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten Tourist Bureau hosted 11 Hospitality students from the University of St. Martin on an island tour and lunch at Mr. Busby's restaurant.
After the Island tour and lunch, the students were divided into two groups and spent the weekend at The Divi Little Bay and Holland House. As part of their hospitality assignment, they had to evaluate the respective properties before starting classes. The St. Maarten Tourist Bureau has supported this initiative for the past four (4) years now.
Philipsburg:--- Leader of government William Marlin in an interview said the Democratic Party did not make provisions for country St. Maarten even though they were in government for almost 10 years. Marlin said while everyone is talking about the building government has decided to rent, they have failed to say that those in government in the past did not provide space for the future parliament.
Marlin said when people heard about the $96,000 monthly rent they must have been shocked but it is cheaper than what most people pay per meter for a Front Street locations. Marlin said this issue has two components one is the amount of rent and the other is why they have to rent a building now. Marlin said people are confusing the new government building that is under construction and the parliament building. The new government building he said will house government and the council of ministers while they have to find space for parliament which is a separate entity from government.
Marlin said the location that was rented is a temporary location and the owner of the building has to invest monies to make sure the building becomes suitable to be used as a parliament building. He said four of the floors will be occupied, the 2, 3,4th floors will be the loft and meeting rooms for the members of parliament. Marlin said parliamentarian's needs to have space to work on a daily basis. He said the permanent committees have to meet regularly especially those of finance, labour, education and justice. Also to be housed in the new building is the support staff of the members of parliament all of whom are to have their separate offices including faction offices and meeting rooms. Marlin said they had to rent the building for at least seven years so that they are guaranteed of a space, he said the contract do have provisions to terminate the contract prior to the seven years but there would be a penalty if that is to happen. He said one of the advantages of renting for seven years is that government would not have to focus on building a parliament building on day one but instead they would build the other necessary buildings.
Marlin said one of the things the members of the opposition did not talk about is the 13 million guilders per year that is spent on office space for government offices throughout Philipsburg which is used only for the island government offices only. Marlin said government has been paying 3 million guilders per year for the white Administration Building which was not occupied for one day. Marlin also indicated that government is paying 60.000 guilders per year for the tax office which has been rented for the past ten years. The island leader said people need to put things into proper prospective and make the necessary comparison. He said while the other spaces were rented empty the parliament building will come fully equipped with the furniture and fixtures and other basic necessities. Marlin said based on an estimate they received from an real estate company, buildings on Front Street are rented as much as $100 per square meter while government would be renting Caribbean Palm for $45 per square meter and they would occupy 1200 square meters. Government will also have to pay $35 per square meter for the furnishings.
GREAT BAY:--- On Wednesday, after an assessment of the situation at schools, and in consultation with educational officials, it has been decided that schools will remain closed this week and will open on Monday, September 6.
Acting Lt. Governor Reynold Groeneveldt told the Government Information Service (GIS) on Wednesday that after a total assessment of the situation on the island which also includes the instability and lack of public utilities (electricity, water) in various districts; it has been decided to keep schools closed for the remainder of the week.
This would allow for the situation on the island to normalize in the coming days and the necessary preparations and repairs that need to be carried out at the various schools.
GREAT BAY:--- Operational leaders of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) 10 Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) met at the Fire Department in Cay Hill on Wednesday morning to assess the situation on the island with respect to post Hurricane Earl clean-up as well as approaching Tropical Storm Fiona.
Tropical Storm Fiona: A Tropical Storm Watch remains in effect for Sint Maarten. Fiona is expected to pass approximately 70 miles North East of the island around 2.00pm this afternoon.
The Netherlands Antilles/Aruba Meteorological Service informed the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) on Wednesday morning that the island can expect an increase in cloudiness, an increase in shower activity along with some heavy thunder storms. The possibility also exists for some high to gusty winds as the system passes. The majority of the weather is located in the Northern part of the system well away from the island.
Curfew: During the passing of Tropical Storm Fiona, all persons are advised to remain indoors at home or at work until the weather passes. At this time it is not necessary to re-introduce a curfew.
Electricity/Water: GEBE has reported that by late this afternoon, most of the island will have electricity. There are still some issues with overhead cables in some districts and these should be back online by late Thursday.
Drinking water production is dependent on electricity. GEBE along with the Water Production Company Airfin have been busy replenishing the water tanks and as electricity is restored this problem would have been remedied.
Clean-Up: Clean-up efforts continue. The Boardwalk will be cleaned during the course of Wednesday. Philipsburg has been cleaned for the most part and district clean-up of debris and household garbage will continue.
Marigot: --- The UTCG, CTG, and UTC unions are seeking to represent a number of local civil servants that are being pushed aside even though they are fully qualified to hold top positions in the Collectivity of St. Martin. Unionist Janine Arnel told SMN News in exclusive interview on Thursday that there are a number of local St. Martiners that has diplomas but they are not given the opportunity to serve their country. Persons like Alex Richards, Philippe Stephen, Rodrique Angely, Murielle Benissa and Henoc Patrick are only some of the persons that were named. Arnel said over the years they are hearing that there are no qualified locals on the island to take up major positions but there are at three persons who are currently being pushed aside while Guadeloupians were brought in and given huge salaries and benefits even though they do not possess the necessary diplomas for the jobs they are holding. Right now St. Martiners are less fortunate in their own country Arnel said.
Arnel who holds a masters degree said she received a sanction on Thursday when she was informed that she was going to be taking up a new position over the dispensaries, while she has been the acting director of the social services for the past two years without a director. Arnel has served 25 years as a social worker with the General Council and she also holds a degree in management of sanitary and social affairs.(BAC+5 that is equivalent to a Masters Degree). Arnel said she had quite some challenges when she began setting up the social services on St. Martin because those in charge wanted things to be done outside of the law as if the island was part of a banana republic, something she is totally against.
Arnel said one of the DGA Regine Ramassamy recently went back to her island after she was recalled by the General Council. She said that position will now be held by the DGS Pascal Avern. Avern she said will be holding two positions in the COM, while there are qualified locals sitting on the side line.
Arnel said she was informed in a meeting that the COM is reorganizing the services and that they are making changes whereby she will be removed from her position. Arnel said she was an acting director now she is given a position as charge de mission which does not entail a promotion with salaries or benefit neither does it correspond to her qualifications. She said according to the law she is supposed to be promoted after three years of service but that has not happened. Arnel said she was made to understand that another outsider would be taking up her position even though that person does not have the necessary qualification to hold such a position. Arnel said another top position in the social services is also held by Guyanaise person who also is not qualified yet they are earning huge salaries with house and car benefits.
Arnel named a number of persons who were brought in by the elected officials of the Union pour les Progres and the island she said went backwards by 10 years. She said there is one person who has more qualifications than the DGS and he is pushed aside. This person she said is waiting for the past four months and his expertise is not being used. Arnel said she felt that the people of St. Martin are being insulted with their educational achievements. Arnel named a number of persons who are currently holding the same position and are being paid for not doing anything that would benefit the island or its people. She said even though the elected officials know that certain persons are not qualified neither are they performing the duties they are paid to do, their contracts and benefits are being renewed at the expense of the people.
Arnel said three unions are now gearing up to take actions against the COM. She said the unions met with the COM and they have sent a number of letters regarding the labour abuse against the civil servants. Arnel said one of the reasons she has chosen to speak out is to make sure the population is aware of the current state of affairs of their country. Arnel said the St. Martin people should be first in their country and she cannot continue to accept the mediocrity that is currently being displayed by the elected officials. The French civil servants intend to join the national strike which is scheduled to take place on September 7th regarding the pensionable age while they would be preparing to take action against the injustice that are meted out against the locals.
Marigot:--- Five members of the board of Semsamar voted in favor of removing senator Louis Constant Fleming as president of the board. It has been months now several persons were speaking out against Fleming for postulating for the presidency of Semsamar because it is a direct conflict of interest. Fleming is a shareholder of Semsamar as well as St. Martin's representative in parliament in France.
SMN News learnt that first vice president Daniel Gibbs added the agenda point to the regular board meeting on Thursday and at least two members of the Territorial Council that are part of the majority and are also members of the Semsamar board voted against Fleming. Sources close to the board said while nine members voted in favor removing Fleming as the board's president four of them voted for him to remain chairman of the board.
Ever since Constant Fleming was elected President of the Semsamar board Gibbs raised his concerns and vowed to fight against Fleming. The first president also requested an audit be conducted at Semsamar even though his father held the presidency for over 20 years. It is not yet known when the board would meet again to vote for a new president and if Daniel Gibbs or Louis Jeffry would postulate themselves for the position. Fleming in a press release said he wishes the board well in their future endeavors.
GREAT BAY:--- On the campaign trail, I am presenting new ideas for a national education policy, with emphasis on a St. Martin language policy," says election candidate Rhoda Arrindell (UP #5).
A 2005 scientific study by Arrindell showed that nearly 65% of the population in the South or Dutch part of the island "want English as the language of instruction in the nation's schools," said Arrindell.
"A pilot study of teachers shows the same percentage as the general population," said Arrindell, who is a linguist and award-winning educator.
Rhoda Arrindell said that she would work with the UP government, school boards, parents, teachers, related stakeholders, to develop a modern language policy and a "sound and competitive education system for St. Martin."
The language policy would include "Dutch and French as mandatory second-language subjects, starting in the elementary schools, before children pass what is considered the critical age of mastering languages," said Arrindell.
"This would give St. Martin's children the possibility to learn Dutch and French in much the same way European children learn English once they had been exposed to it from early on," said the language expert.
"There is a difference between 'language of instruction' and 'language in instruction or education.' I am amazed that when I explain this to people they understand," said Arrindell, "but there are some people, and sadly some are educators, who should know better but get so angry and hostile when I talk about these ideas and plans with students, parents, teachers, and the St. Martin people at large."
"Over 95% of the world's experts show that the majority of a country's children learn best when they are educated in their mother tongue. The mother tongue and historic language of St. Martin is English," said Arrindell.
"This is the reason why English is also an official language in the territory's new constitution," said Arrindell, former language division head of the University of St. Martin. Arrindell is contesting the Friday, September 17 legislative election here.
"I am not favoring one colonial language over another. What we are looking at is the historical reality of English in St. Martin and to the extent that it will make us as a nation and our young people as students, far more successful."
"Furthermore, it will make our education system more competitive to prepare our people to assume full responsibility in an independent St. Martin. In this regard, it also showed courage and far-sighted leadership and when Theo Heyliger stood up and said in the debate on Sunday that he was proud to have voted for independence," said Arrindell.
Another feature that Rhoda Arrindell's language policy proposal would "respect, encourage, and integrate is heritage languages as subjects – just like how geography, social studies, science, music, math, and sports are subjects in the schools."
"A heritage language gives especially parents the option to have their St. Martin children learn a language that may be part of their parents' or grandparents' heritage."
"In that way, whether at school as an elective or optional subject, from private language institutes, or tutors, a St. Martin child could, and would have the right, to learn Haitian (Creole), Papiamento, Spanish, Hindi, Arabic, Yoruba, Chinese or Hebrew as their heritage language, or even just because as St. Martiners we love languages. Mind you, this is learning language as a subject, not as the language of instruction," said Arrindell.
Arrindell is a PhD candidate at the University of Puerto Rico and has just submitted her completed doctoral dissertation. Interestingly, her committee chair is Dr. Mervin Alleyne, one of the world's leading language and Creole authorities.
"In my new study, I am looking at language and culture in St. Martin and how they impact on identity," said Arrindell.
"And again, I went to the population in a professional and democratic way, in 2009 and 2010, interviewed a wide cross section, to be able to put in that study and to analyze what the St. Martin people are thinking and doing when it comes to how they identify themselves in this nation of ours," said Arrindell.
This will be the first such scientific study carried out in St. Martin, and her second major language-related study, said Rhoda Arrindell.
"As far as a national education policy goes, some key signs of that new study can be interpreted to show that English as the language of instruction will serve as a unifying and progressive force for the St. Martin people," said Arrindell.
Philipsburg:--- The last Island Council Election held on Friday has left a number of politicians disappointed while some of them are truly angry at the outcome of the results which was given early Saturday morning. It is clear that both the National Alliance and the United People's Party had preferred they had the majority seats to form the first parliament.
The race between the NA and the UP was a close one, the National Alliance won in 14 out of the 16 districts, yet they were not able to muster enough votes to get the eight seats that are required to form a majority government.
While the people have spoken and they have given the National Alliance a mandate to remain in government by awarding them with seven out of the 15 seats in parliament it is still not enough for the National Alliance to form the government by themselves. Leader of the National Alliance William Marlin said his party will begin talks as early as Saturday to form the next government since the members of parliament must be sworn in by October 5th. He called on the other political parties to bury the hatchet since the elections is now over and they should all get to work in the interest of St. Maarten. Marlin said there is a huge amount of work ahead of St. Maarten and politicians must know that the campaign is over and much work is ahead of them.
The United People's Party headed by Theodore Heyliger managed to secure six seats, while the Democratic Party headed by Sarah Wescott Williams secured two seats. Wescott Williams indicated shortly after the results were announced that her party will cooperate as much as possible to form the next government as early as possible, while Heyliger said he too would begin talks to form the government. Even though the National Alliance has won this election, they can well end up on the opposition benches if the Democratic Party and the United People's Party should team up to form the government with eight out of the 15 seats parliament.
As it stands now the leader of the Democratic Party Sarah Wescott Williams and Leroy Petrus de Weever are the ones to decide with whom they would form the next government and most importantly the two would have to decide whom they see fit to manage the affairs of the people now that St. Maarten has taken on a new role within the Kingdom.
The Democratic Party during the campaign trail said they are the most experienced of all the all candidates that postulated for this election. However the leader of the DP will also have to use her experience and wisdom to decide with whom she would share her golden keys since the voters have placed her in the position to decide with whom she will work.
The UP leader Theodore Heyliger is the largest vote getter in this final island council election.
Based on the outcome of the election the 15 persons that would form the first parliament for country St. Maarten are as follows.
From the National Alliance Slate
- William Marlin
- Frans Richardson
- Patrick Illidge
- Dr. Lloyd Richardson
- George Pantophlet
- Louie Laveist
- Hyacinth Richardson
United Peoples Party
- Theodore Heyliger
- Gracita Arrindell
- Sylvia Meyers Olivacce
- Romain Laville
- Jules James
- Rhoda Arrindell
Democratic Party
- Sarah Wescott Williams
- Petrus Leroy De Weever
Theodore Heyliger received 2,912 votes, while William Marlin received 1,590 and Sarah Wescott William 1368, while Jeffry Richardson from the Concordia Political Alliance captured 115.
SMN News will bring more on the last election for the island territory of St. Maarten and the first for country St. Maarten in our next edition of the news.
MARIGOT:--- A employee of Bureau de Change at the Marina Royale is currently nursing a stab wound to his abdomen after he resisted two armed men who was about to rob the establishment.
The victim was taken to the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital where he is receiving treatment. A press release from the gendarmerie states that the man's condition is not life threatening.
The suspects it is reported managed to escape on foot, no further details on the investigation has been released.
GREAT BAY (GIS):--- Commissioner Hyacinth Richardson met with Dr. Luis Guillermo Seoane, a Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO) official, of the Regional Office of the World Health Organization (WHO), based in Caracas, Venezuela.
Commissioner Richardson welcomed Dr. Seoane, an Advisor in the area of Family and Community Health, to St. Maarten. "It is a pleasure for us to have you in St. Maarten. We wish you a pleasant stay and productive meetings while you are on the island."
Dr. Seoane said that it was a pleasure to be here on St. Maarten and went on to outline the purpose of his visit. "On behalf of his Director and the PAHO official for the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba, he is here to continue the relationship with St. Maarten in order to strengthen the relationship, to maintain technical relations, to exchange information, to discuss new ideas, and to develop a consensus with St. Maarten so that the aims and objectives can be met.
In addition, Dr. Seoane said that he wants to find out in what ways PAHO could assist in achieving the projected measures.
The Directorate had a list of places to visit and people to see, namely, the White & Yellow Cross clinic, the Mental Health office, and the SLS Labs. Yesterday, Monday, September 20, Dr. Seoane visited the French side Health Authorities and facilities.
Present at the courtesy visit were Maria Henry, Fenna Arnell, and Eva de Weever—all from the Directorate of Public Health.
Dr. Seoane also met with other officials from the Departments of Social development & Labor and Epidemiology.
Philipsburg:--- The detective department is busy investigating another murder which occurred early Tuesday morning. A press release from the police spokesman Ricardo Henson states that at approximately 3 am on Tuesday several police patrols and detectives were directed to Gardenia road, in Betty's Estate, in the vicinity of house number 8 for a shooting incident.
Henson said when police arrived at the scene they encountered the driver of a grey Jeep Cherokee with license plate M-151 dead in his vehicle. Preliminary investigations conducted at the scene show that the victim died of gunshot wounds. Police said it is believed that the shots were fired while the victim was driving his car. So far police has not determined who the suspects are neither do they know the motive of the fatal shooting.
The victim has been identified as Eduardo Gumbs a.k.a. "Oggy" from St Maarten, 39 years old died on the scene as a result of the shooting. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said the victim was pronounced dead on the scene by the police doctor.
The Public Prosecutor Mr. Rienk Mud and the Judge of Instruction Mr. C. Luijks were also on the scene. The investigation is still in its early stages and there is much work to be done in this case. The police are asking anyone who may have information that could shed some light in this case to contact the police department as soon as possible.
GREAT BAY:--- Ten fire fighters including four colleagues from Bonaire, Saba and St. Eustatius, have completed a four-day safety equipment course.
The course was related to safety equipment such as the breathing apparatus manufactured by Draeger. The instructor for the course was a representative from Draeger.
Section Head Prevention, Preparation, and Education & Training of the Fire Department ing. Silvanico Pauletta told the Government Information Service (GIS) that the breathing apparatus is an essential tool for fire fighters as it makes it possible for them to enter hostile environments like smoke or gas filled rooms.
Pauletta added that it is important for the various fire departments to have trained personnel on hand that are able to maintain and regularly test these sensitive pieces of equipment which have to be at the ready when the alarm sounds for an emergency.
Fire department technical staff need to be certified at level three and has to be regularly certified.
The course was given at Fire Department Headquarters in Cay Hill.
The course included an examination and all fire fighters passed with flying colors and are certified to carry out regular maintenance of the breathing apparatus.
On September 24, two firemen from the Sint Maarten Fire Department will continue to follow the course at level four which would entitle them to carry out a yearly inspection of the breathing apparatus.
The Sint Maarten Fire Department now has six staff members who are able to carry out regular and annual maintenance testing.
Philipsburg:--- On July 15, 2010 twenty three seniors living in Sint Maarten decided to unite and establish an organization to improve the standard of living and the wellbeing of seniors and pensioners living on Sint Maarten. Two weeks later a general membership meeting was held on July 29, 2010 which adopted the Statutes of an association. This gave official birth to the Sint Maarten Seniors and Pensioners Association.
The main objectives of the association are to accomplish the full realization of all human rights and fundamental freedoms of all senior citizens on Sint Maarten being part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. These objectives were also agreed upon by governments of the world during the 2nd World Assembly on Aging in Madrid 2002. Also the achievement of secure ageing, which involves reaffirming the goal of eradicating poverty in old age, was an objective. Among the more than 160 governments that signed the International Action Plan on Aging was the government of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and in its delegation government representatives of the Netherlands Antilles. The Madrid International Action Plan on Aging signed had to be implemented before 2012.
We are now less than two years away from the 3rd World Assembly on Aging, which will be held in 2012, and the main question is: have the senior citizens on Sint Maarten realized all the human rights?
On Friday October 1st, 2010 on the occasion of International Day of Older persons the Home Away from Home Foundation has invited guest speakers from government of Sint Maarten and as keynote speaker drs Raymond Jessurun. Government officials will tell what they have done for the seniors. As the representative of the Sint Maarten Seniors and Pensioners Association Mr. Jessurun will share his views of the human rights situation of seniors living on Sint Maarten and the need for the Sint Maarten Seniors and Pensioners Association to organize the seniors on Sint Maarten. This will assist the seniors to achieve the full realization of all human rights and the eradication of poverty among them and their families.
Philipsburg:--- UTS presented the President of the Positive Foundation, Ms. Shelly Alphonse, with a new pink Sony Vivaz phone and Chippie credit in recognition of her efforts as foundation president to create breast cancer awareness amongst the community of St. Maarten. 'Breast Cancer awareness is an important topic and we commend the Positive Foundation for their efforts.' says UTS Marketing and Communications officer, Ivy Lambert. 'When someone spends much of their personal time doing community minded work, such as Ms. Alphonse, we try to show our appreciation of their efforts. Breast Cancer Awareness month kicked off on the first of October and I am sure that Ms. Alphonse will be very busy with a full agenda of planned activities. We hope that the phone and credit we gave her will make her job a little bit easier.' Ms. Alphonse thanked UTS for the device and the credit. 'It certainly came a as a surprise! They called me up out of the blue and said they had a new phone for me. It's a very nice surprise and I thank them very much'.
Philipsburg:--- The United Peoples Party has submitted five names of persons who they would like to have as Ministers for country St. Maarten. SMN News learnt from reliable sources that if the VNA approves the names then Franklin Meyers would be the Minister of Economic and Airport Affairs, Theodore Heyliger would be the Minister in charge of government owned companies GEBE and the Harbour, while he would also be the Minister in charge of Public Works. Hiro Shigemoto will hold the Ministry of Finance, Rhoda Arrindell, Ministry of Education, Youth and Culture affairs, while Roland Duncan would have the Ministry of Justice. The names submitted on behalf of the Democratic Party are Sarah Wescot Williams who will be the designated Prime Minister, while Maria Buncamper Molanus will hold the Ministry of Health, Labor and Social Affairs.
Sources say the Democratic Party will be sending Perry Gerling to Holland where he will take up the post of Minister of Plenipotentiary. So far the two coalition partners have kept the names secret as they intend to present their Ministers on Sunday during the official ceremony. The VNA is expected to deliver their response on the vetting on Saturday.
Saint Lucia:--- Sports journalist Robertson Henry of Saint Lucia who is the co-owner of www.sportcaraibe.net, a sports website catering to the marketing and promoting if Caribbean sports, was the recipient of an email from the Saint Lucia's Director of Youth and Sports.
In the July 26th 2010 emailed letter which was copied to almost fifty other individuals including media and Ministry of Sports personnel, the Director of Youth and Sports Victor Reid attempted to impose a number of bans upon the multiple awarded sports journalist.
The emailed letter followed an altercation between Robertson Henry of sportcaraibe and Anthony Debeauville of the Voice Newspaper, which resulted in Debeauville being floored by a punch by Henry.
The incident which took place at the George Odlum Stadium during the opening day of the 2010 Windward Islands School Games, is alleged to have been the result of insultive or threatening language leveled at Henry by Debeauville.
Without waiting for the law of the land to take its course, Saint Lucia's Director of Youth and Sports Victor Reid sent off an email to Henry, which was copied to a number of persons including the Minister of Sports Lenard Montoute, and Permanent Secretary Donovan Williams.
According to Reid's email, "It is with deep regret that I hereby inform you that the Ministry of Social Transformation, Youth and Sports wishes to terminate any ties that we have with you and sportcaribe with immediate effect.
Your actions at the George Odlum Stadium on Sunday 25th July 2010 during the 2010 Windward Islands Official Opening Ceremony and Athletics Championship, cannot be condoned, and necessitates the termination of your services and collaborations in all forms with and to us."
The in what is now being seen as hasty, illegal, and unconstitutional action Reid wrote; "That you are not welcome at any Youth and or Sporting activity under the auspices of the Ministry of Social Transformation, Youth and Sports, "That you are with immediate effect banned from the Windward Islands Championship venues and village, "That you shall not engage any of the players of these games to interview or hold any discussion on any matter,
"That you are not to visit the offices of the Department of Youth and Sports at any time,
"That you are to with immediate effect desist from the publication of all articles pertaining to the Windward Islands Championship in the print, television or internet medium, (if you do not desist we shall be forced to publicly denounce your reports and or comments), "That you should in no way link this Ministry with any future endeavors that you may propose or implement.
"A letter from the Permanent Secretary shall be delivered to you soon, further outlining our position and relationship with you." When contacted Henry stated that the emailed letter was brought to his attention by a friend, and have since sought legal advice on the issue, for the email has greatly affected his work. He also pointed out that since the email was sent out by Reid, all of the sporting organizations in Saint Lucia have stopped sending him information on their programmes. According to Henry, when he contacted officials of the various sporting organizations, he was told that since the Ministry of Sports banned him, they have no other choice but to follow suit. Additionally he says that a number of arrangements with private sector agencies were cancelled as a result of the Reid's email. When asked if Saint Lucia's Ministry of Sports has such powers, Henry replied that according to the information he obtained during researching the issue, is that the email is a clear case of defamation of character, the bans imposed are illegal, and that the Director of Youth and Sports overstepped his boundaries.
A leading member of the trade union movement in Saint Lucia told this reporter that "there are no provisions in the Public Service Regulations empowering any Government official to take such action."He further pointed out that this is a perfect opportunity for the current Government to put measures in place to protect the state from such actions, and that disciplinary action should be taken against the Director of Youth and Sports. An official of the Ministry of Youth and Sports said that pressure was placed on the Director to take action, but upon reflection, he clearly went overboard. The official admitted that no one have seen it fit to apologize to Henry as a result of the email, for it is being hoped that it would die a natural death. Clearly Henry has no such intentions, for already his attorney Wayne Harrow has written to Attorney-General Lorenzo Rudolph Francis on the matter. Henry says no reply have been received from the AG's office but he will not rest, until he gets what is due to him, although he refused to say what he is seeking in terms of compensation. One Government official told this reporter that another lawsuit against the Government is too many, and the best thing for the AG Office to do is make an offer to Henry. A legal expert after reading the email, pointed out that this is a case the Government should not bother attempting to mount a defense against, "for they cannot win that one."
Are there lessons to be learnt from this for the current Government and those to come? The legal expert admits that this is not the first time that public servants have made the state liable as a result of their actions, and is time something be done. He added that the AG should give directions to the Public Service Commission to take disciplinary action against the Director of Youth and Sports. He quickly added that the case against Henry has been prejudiced in many ways; the Director of Youth and Sports' email being another.
PHILIPSBURG:--- With less than two months left, the 5th Annual SHTA Crystal Pineapple Awards Fundraiser will be once again gathering the who's who of the tourism industry and community of St. Maarten on Friday November 26th, 2010. Five years ago this event has been established by the association to recognize outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to the tourism industry and the community in general.
The awards consists of 5 categories and a total of 15 awards that will be given for those who really make our hospitality industry, trade and community go round. This year there are 3 new awards: Outstanding youth achievement award, outstanding public sector achievement award and restaurateur of the year award. There are also some changes with existing awards, namely: the outstanding community service Achievement award has been split in two: one dedicated to organizations and the other to individuals. Additionally, the Journalism Award will not be in the category for voting, but will be chosen by the CPA judging committee based on submissions from journalists.
So far Three nominations are in; Mr. Tadzio Bervoets from the Nature Foundation for Outstanding Environment Award, Mr. Rajesh Chintaman for Outstanding Community Service Award (Individual), Seventh Day Adventist Pathfinders, and Belvedere Housing and Tenant Association for Outstanding Community Award (Organization).
SHTA encourages the community to visit us on Facebook: "Crystal Pineapple Awards" and stay up to date on the latest nominations. Last year, a total of over 50 nominations were received. A selection committee will choose the final nominees for each category.
The award winners are chosen based on their contribution to tourism and the community, achievements described in their nomination form as well as the outcome of an online poll. St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association will have the support of Price Waterhouse Coopers for the auditing of the nominations voting system. This is the third year and SHTA is pleased to have PWC as a partner in this wonderful event once again.
The St. Maarten hospitality and Trade Association honors individuals for their outstanding performances. The organizing committee is calling out to the community of St. Maarten to nominate an individual they know. Individuals, who have been nominated in previous years, can be nominated again. "We ask you to please write why you would like to nominate the particular individual". "Let the person or organization shine" says May-Ling Chun co-organizer of the event.
Nominations can be submitted until November 15th, 2010. For more information, please contact the SHTA office: 542-0108, e-mail:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or May-Ling Chun at 586-7120 or e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
PHILIPSBURG:--- The University of St. Martin (USM) Admissions Office is reminding all current applicants and those interested in applying to the University degree programs of the upcoming November 8, 2010 deadline.
Required documents for application include a completed USM application form, original high school diploma, official high school transcripts, original exam results, two passport pictures, affidavit of financial support, copy of passport and a $25.00 application fee. Applications received after November 8, will be subject to a late fee.
Students transferring to USM from another college or university, must provide official college transcripts along with course descriptions. All applicants entering USM for the first time are required to sit the university placement tests which are scheduled for November 25 and 26, 2010.
"Students who have completed their applications for the Spring semester have already received official notice regarding their admittance. I encourage the other applicants to make every effort to complete their applications before the deadline," USM Admissions Director Angeligue Hazel said.
Applications are now being taken for the Associate of Arts degrees in Business with specializations in Business Management and Accounting; Associate of Applied Science in Business Information Management; Associate of Arts in General Liberal Arts; Associate of Applied Science in Hospitality & Tourism Management; and Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education.
All application forms and accompanying documents should be sent to the USM Admissions Office. Persons interested in obtaining more information on USM's degree programs and application deadlines can call 542-5171 ext. 1008 or ext. 1019.
Philipsburg:--- This amazing first studio album recorded by the Dutch Caribbean POP/R&B singer Andre Robley will now go down in history for its local release on October 15, 2010 and October 16 respectively as the singer's international debut from right here in St. Maarten. He is clearly on a new level since returning from 106 & Park, BET, earlier this year having gone head to head against male R&B singers from Miami and Washington. A life changing experience was it? It would seem so. He returns only as Robley, trademark mo-hawk, Dasani water and Passion II endorsement and 10 lyrically stunning tracks to now unfold in this album titled Love Dreams.
Its dynamic vocals, high tempos & tranquil melodies are just the surface. Love Dreams reveals a deeper side of the multifaceted singer/songwriter: Pure & sensual love, soulful longings, charged cries over humanity's struggles & losses, shattered dreams and the faith to go on. Subjects so common transcend borders of religion and ethnicity yet stay spiritual and passionate; certain to move mind and spirit.
Robley also teams up with Gee Money and JSound. The hit maker trio connects soul to soul on amplifier to deliver dance singles "Rock Tonight", "I Luv Ya", "Dreaming" and "Pick it Up." Skillful engineering by Loic "Getop" Lagoutte and Black Stone sweetens each pre-mastered record with crystal clarity to keep listeners content; if not, wanting more.
CDs available at Le Grande Marche, select SOL gas stations, Bubble Tea, Taloula Mangos, The Mail Box, Soprano's Piano Bar and McDonalds.
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CAYHILL:--- GEBE will be hosting the Inter-Utility Sports Exchange (EDCI) from October 22 – 24, 2010 as part of the company's ongoing celebrations for GEBE's 50 Years Anniversary. Over 400 sports players and enthusiasts from 6 islands are expected to arrive on St. Maarten for 3 days of sports, fun and festivities.
The GEBE team will comprise of players from French St. Martin utility company EDF (Électricité de France) as well as from GEBE (St. Maarten, Saba and Statia) and will compete against teams from Curacao (Aqualectra), Aruba (ELMAR Aruba & WEB Aruba), Bonaire (Web Bonaire) in the standard competition games of softball, basketball, soccer and dominoes as well as more inventive games such as The Pulse Game.
The EDCI Sports Exchange will open with a bang at the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex on Friday, October 22, 2010 beginning at 5:30 p.m. with an Olympic-themed spectacle highlighting the various islands and cultures and showcasing St. Maarten's many talents. The opening ceremony will be followed by the football competition with Bonaire defending their positions as 2008 champions.
On Saturday at 9:00 a.m. the first pitch will be thrown at the John Cooper/Jose Lake Ball Field to start the Softball Knockout. Spectators there will also be entertained with the Watermelon Eating Contest, the Pulse Game, Squeeze It Race (for ladies only) and Tug of War. The Basketball Competition will tip off at the Sports Auditorium at 12 noon. Food and drinks will also be on sale. EDCI 2010 will close off on Sunday with the prize giving.
The sports exchange is a biannual event to promote the camaraderie among utility workers and forge relationships with colleagues promoting information and experience exchange. The EDCI Games were initiated in 1993 as an initiative of WEB Bonaire and have been held biannually ever since.
Philipsburg:--- The government of country St. Maarten is already looking into building its own juvenile delinquency facility announced Minister of Justice Roland Duncan. The Minister said during the past week he has been visiting all the departments in the justice chain. He said that which is in place for justice is inadequate and St. Maarten is starting from scratch. He said what he found thus far is worst than they thought since there has been understaffing in every area, while there are a number of sections that is not organized or structurally set up. He said while these sections are mapped out on paper the Dutch is already reminding St. Maarten that their first report is due in December.
Minister Duncan said while intention of the coalition government is to place their emphasis on youth, on the program there is a juvenile delinquency facility that has to be built. Duncan said the justice Ministry is rather big with several departments attached to it thus he is putting in place a cohesion plan which he will be presenting to the council of Ministers.
St. Maarten he said will have a solicitor general who would be working along with the Attorney General. The solicitor general he said will be stationed on St. Maarten and candidates are being interviewed currently to take up the position.
As for the police department he said the intention is to have police substations in all the districts while some enhancement will be done with the police sub-station in Simpson Bay. The idea the Minister said is to have more police presence in all of the districts so that the people can begin to build a relationship with law enforcement.
Nominations are continuing to pour in for the 5th Annual Crystal Pineapple Awards. One of the new categories this year, 'Restaurateur of the Year' has so far received three nominations, namely: Dino Jagtiani of Temptation and Rare, John Jackson of Saratoga, both of whom are members of the St. Maarten/ St. Martin National Culinary Team and Carlos Marinaro of Mooi and Patagonia.
Dino Jagtiani was nominated based on the exposure he has created for the island, by becoming the first St Maarten born son to ever graduate from the world renowned Culinary Institute of America. He has worked his way up from flipping omelettes at Port de Plaisance's Sunday brunch to owning two of the most exquisite restaurants on the island, Temptation and Rare.
John Jackson, also a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America was the Manager of the award winning St. Maarten/ St. Martin Culinary Team in 2007 and 2009 and has shown outstanding leadership and commitment to enhancing the culinary experience on St. Maarten.
Carlos Marinaro is the part owner of two of the newest restaurants Mooi and Patagonia located in the charming Puerta del Sol Plaza at the Simpson Bay Yacht Club. Carlos was nominated based on his dedication to training and employing young, aspiring chefs via the Sundial School and the SBO program.
The St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association honors individuals for their outstanding performances. The organizing committee is calling out to the community of St. Maarten to nominate an individual or organization they know is truly deserving of an award. Visit the 'upcoming events' section of www.shta.com to view the award categories and download the nomination form or send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . Nominations must be accompanied by a brief explanation of why the individual/ organization deserves the award and a picture.
Nominations can be submitted until November 15th, 2010. For more information, please contact the SHTA office: 542-0108, e-mail:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or May-Ling Chun at 586-7120 or e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Marigot: --- The students of the Lycee Polyvalent participated in a march on Thursday in support of the ongoing strike in Paris with the pensioners reform which will be go to the Senate sometime next week.
According to reports reaching SMN News the Lycee students marched through the streets of Marigot to the Collectivity of St Martin where they made their grievances known. It is also understood the students met with president Frans Gumbs where they denounced some of the problems facing the Lycee. Thursday's march was peaceful and no one in the community was injured. It is believed that the students felt that this would be a prime moment for them to capitalize on the pension's reform to make their own voices heard.
Dutch Quarter:--- Several residents who are looking for assistance and proper representation are already flocking at the door of the appointed Ombudsman for St. Maarten Nilda Arduin Lynch.
Listen to the interview:
A number of taxi drivers whose permits were approved by the former executive council is stuck somewhere in the administrative system contacted SMN News claiming that the department of CIB are withholding their permits for no apparent reasons.
Some 16 persons whose permits were approved with mistakes are at the mercy of the council of ministers or the Ombudsman because the current administration is not taking the necessary steps to have the corrections made.
The independent workers told SMN News that when the department of CIB was processing their applications they made mistakes which now have to go back to the council for rectification. According to one driver, he applied for a taxi permit and when he received the permit, the department and government granted him a bus permit. The man who requested that his identity be withheld said they made one simple mistake with one word, yet they are refusing to
make the necessary corrections. The driver who is obviously angry said when he read the permit and realised that they granted him a bus permit and not a taxi permit based on his application, he refused to accept the permit unless the correction is made. He said he has since written and approached the Minister of transportation who told him he needed to make an appointment with his secretary. The driver said when he tried to comply with the Minister's order the secretary offered to resolve his problem. "When they called CIB the lady there told them that they do not have that file, the head of CIB –Sherwin Frederick has that file in his office and they don't know what he will do with it." The driver said he also learnt that the head of CIB is now trying to treat the file as new request which is also under review. He said the Minister of Traffic and Transportation told him his office already sent 10 permits to be delivered. "These are new permits that were signed off by the former executive council and not the permits with the mistakes. So it is clear that the office of CIB and the council of ministers is not working on the permits with the mistakes.
Another driver who recently picked up her permit said the CIB head was purposely withholding her permit and she only got it when the Minister of transportation Franklin Meyers intervened."I was in the Minister's office when he called the secretary general Miguel De Weever demanding an explanation and I heard when De Weever said the permits were by CIB, yet when I went back to see Frederick he wants to bullshit me. I had to tell him I was in the Minister's office and I heard the conversation and only then he processed my file and delivered my permit."
In the meantime, another applicant who is well known to the community said he was told by the former commissioner that his permit was signed off. "The five day executive council members also assured that my file was processed, yet when I go to CIB, the department head is looking at me with scorn. The lady at the front desk also told me she does not have the file and whenever the file reaches her she will call me."
SMN News tried to contact the head of CIB Sherwin Frederick for a comment on the allegations but he could not be reached. SMN News was told that the department head is working outside of his office and he was not reachable on Thursday. The office assistants promised to have the department head contact us but we are still waiting on his phone call.
In an invited comment the Minister of public transportation Franklin Meyers said that the council of ministers is not withholding anyone's permit. "All the permits that were granted legally by the former executive council and were signed off by the Lt. Governor will be given out.
The council of ministers did not take any decision to withhold any permit." Meyers said on Tuesday morning.
In an invited comment secretary general to Minister Meyers, Miguel de Weever said that while several permits were legally issued those persons will get their permits sometime soon. De Weever said some of the permits even though approved have mistakes and those mistakes cannot be corrected immediately since there is no more island secretary or Lt. Governor to sign off on these permits. De Weever further explained that there are number of permits that were approved by the former executive council, some of them were signed off by the Lt Governor and some were not. Those that was not signed by the Lt. Governor is now under review. It is not known if those permits will be honoured or if they are going to be withheld.
De Weever said right now there are number things that have to be put in place including having a logo for country St. Maarten. SMN News understands that government is basically at a standstill since there is no logo for country St. Maarten, thus urgent documents cannot be signed and delivered.
OMBUDSMAN Intervention
The Ombudsman of country St. Maarten Nilda Arduin Lynch in an interview with SMN News said at least one of the three persons who approached SMN News approached her with his plight. Lynch said while her job is to protect the people and the constitution of St. Maarten she has to be able to do the job correctly.
The ombudsman said that to date she has no office space, neither a staff and this might not be ready until another month or so. She said currently there is a Quarter Master on St. Maarten who is assisting the new country in setting up the Ombudsman, the council of advice and the chamber of audit but that is taking some time since they are starting all these institutions and structures from scratch. "I was informed that a space is now available and I will be inspecting the location on Friday. One must know that the office of the Ombudsman must be accessible to each and every person living on St. Maarten. I will be attending a conference in Curacao during the first week of November where I will gather information on how the office of the Ombudsman works. While I know the legal framework I still need to get some outside information which would work in the interest of St. Maarten instead of re-inventing the wheel."
Arduin Lynch said she will be conducting a number of interviews on various radio stations, television and other news entity to inform the people what they need to do and have for the office of the Ombudsman to work. "People need to bring proof of their allegation if we are to investigate. They also need to know that this is a legal entity and to investigate we need tools and proper administrative facilities since everything has to be documented." Working outside the legal realm will be counter-productive to the people.
Arduin Lynch said her office would need at least five persons; three must have legal background while the other two has to be civil servants with a high scale or experience. So far there are a number of applications that were submitted for the available post; however the Ombudsman said she prefers to have locals working in this office. This way they would know the people they are dealing with, and the culture of the people. Arduin Lynch confirmed that some of the applicants are from Holland.
Arduin Lynch said when the office of the Ombudsman makes an investigation, the minister in charge of that department will be notified and ordered to take the necessary actions. She said if the Minister for some reason decides not to follow the recommendations then parliament is informed. Furthermore, these reports are documented and are always available to the public so they could act if necessary.
Following is the interview with Nilda Arduin Lynch--- St Maarten's Ombudsman, we urge our readers to listen to this audio interview since the information here is very informative and it is in the interest of the people.
Philipsburg:--- The bureau of telecommunications has sent a letter to the lawyers representing Eastern Caribbean Cellular (ECC) who filed bankruptcy on October 7th. Reliable information reaching SMN News on Friday states that the lawyers who filed the bankruptcy on behalf of ECC were served with the letter informing them of the reasons why the bureau of telecommunications have decided to revoke the company's license.
Attorney at law Roeland Zwanikken in an invited comment confirmed that he received a phone call from the Minister of Telecommunication Franklin Meyers on Friday informing him that the ECC license would be revoked.
The attorney said the Minister gave him two reasons why he has decided to revoke the licence. Those reasons are the Minister felt that the same people who bankrupt ECC are the ones who would continue to manage the new company which he said is far from the truth, for us the first reason given by the Minister is invalid.
The second reason given was because ECC defaulted in its tax payments, which cannot be disputed. Zwanikken said he was negotiating with Caribbean COM Networks (Pod Klimbpworth) who were willing to pay $300,000.00 to the creditors for ECC while they committed to rehire all the employees of ECC, but government is not cooperating with the sale of the company.
Zwanikken said only on Wednesday he heard the Minister of labour Maria Buncamper Molanus stating during their first live press briefing that her office would do everything to ensure the workers safety and job security. He said the Minister of labour said government does not want see another 21 people unemployed and felt this is the time for the Minister to step in and change the control of ECC and keep the workers employed.
Employees of ECC told reporters last week that there was someone who was interested in buying ECC and its license but the trustee was not entertaining the talks. Sources say that the former managing directors are the ones who were behind the revoking of the license since they wanted to purchase the company without its debts. One of the former managing directors of ECC was contacted by SMN News and he refuted the allegations.
SMN News also learnt that the affair of ECC has lots of political influence since the Minister of Telecommunications Franklin Meyers was not giving his full cooperation to a potential buyer and the lawyers that are representing the company.
The source further stated that the Minister in question has his own telecommunication license which he intends to use sometime in the future and having another telecommunication company on the island would not be beneficial to the Minister and his spouse. Attorney at law Zwanikken said he could not confirm if the Minister has a license but there are constant rumours indicating such.
SMN News also contacted the trustee representatives for further information on Friday they were not fully forthcoming with information fearing that this would jeopardise the ongoing discussions regarding the sale of the company.
Lucas Berman said that there are a few people who are interested in buying the company. However, if all information is released then the workers and the estate will be jeopardized, something he was not willing to put at stake. Berman said he did not see any letter to revoke the license but said if that was done then the trustee would definitely contest the matter in court.
The twenty employees of ECC who is currently out of work told SMN News that they heard of the license was revoked by the bureau, but they too were convinced that this case has political interest.
Philipsburg:--- Persons who recently wrote their driver's license examination and passed or those whose licenses are expired would have to wait until January 2011 before they can pick up an actual driver's license. SMN News learnt that Civil Registry closed its doors last week when the machine went down but they also closed the section because the pre- printed cards for the driver's license bears the signature of former Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards.
The source said the department took the necessary precautions to make sure that no license would leave the Civil Registry bearing the signature of any Lt. Governor under country St. Maarten since that function no longer exists. SMN News also learnt that persons who are supposed to receive their identification cards also fall in the same predicament because the pre-printed cards has "Netherlands Antilles" on them but a decision was made to use them during the transition period, however that decision was revoked because there are still problems with the logo for country St. Maarten.
Reliable information states that the Minister of General Affairs, Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams has decided not to us use St Maarten logo on the identification cards and driver's license because it is not yet ready, but these licenses and identification cards will have the coat of arms. SMN News further understands that the civil registry already ordered the pre-printed cards but it will only be available until January 2011. Persons who are supposed to have a valid license and cannot get one can check with the civil registry later this week to pick a document that is approved by the Police Traffic Department and the Prosecutor's Office. Drivers who receive such a document will not be fined if they are controlled by the police. However, it is not yet clear if the document will be accepted by the insurance companies on the island.
While the new licenses and identification cards will not bear any one person's signature it will have the Ministry that approved the license. Another setback for the Civil Registry is the conflicts in the laws pertaining to government structures. The source said the general secretary for the Prime Minister Julian Larmonie already indicated to the Prime Minister that some of the laws have to be revised and amended to avoid conflicts.
A press release from the government information service states that the department is currently working on a solution to the problem. So far all stakeholders have been informed about the situation. A temporary solution has been proposed and the department is awaiting confirmation.
Philipsburg/St Johns:--- The legal guardian, Elliot Richardson and mother of the late Cassandra Carty has approached the Inspectorate of Health on St. Maarten to investigate the death of their loved one. The late Cassandra Carty (42) was a client of the Sr. Bassillia Centre located in St. Johns and also an employee of the St. Maarten's Home. SMN News learnt that Cassandra was having tooth aches and a swollen jaw some two weeks ago and she visited her family doctor who advised the centre and the patient not to extract her tooth since there was an abscess under the tooth. SMN News learnt the family physician prescribed antibiotics and other pain killers for Cassandra. According to the guardian no one from the centre notified him as her legal guardian that his niece was ill and that she had gone to the see a doctor. Richardson said he received a phone call when Cassandra was admitted to the hospital a few days later. Richardson said besides that Cassandra is a disabled person and she is not allowed to take decisions on her own. Furthermore, she is a diabetic and he wants to know why his niece was kept three days at the centre with a swollen jaw. Most importantly the family wants to know what exactly caused her death. The mother of the victim said she herself has lots of questions for the dentist and doctors of the St. Maarten Medical Centre. She said she is a highly qualified nurse in the United States and she wants to exactly what caused her daughter's demise.
Director of the Sr. Bassillia Centre Carlson Richardson confirmed that the client who passed away is also one of his relatives and he knew she was having tooth aches and that she was taken to her family doctor. Richardson said the client was not satisfied with what her family doctor told her so she requested to visit another doctor on the French side who also told the care giver and patient that she is forbidden to remove the tooth. Richardson said that doctor also prescribed antibiotics but Cassandra already had antibiotics so they did not buy the second set of medication. "At some point Cassandra and the care giver went to see Dentist Dowling in Cay Hill and that person extracted the tooth even though there was an abscess and the jaw was swollen. Richardson said after the extraction Cassandra was taken back to the centre but after her jaw remained swollen, they took her back to see her family doctor who immediately made contact with the St. Maarten Medical Centre to have the patient admitted. Richardson said the dentist told the patient and care giver that the tooth had to be removed. He said the dentist made the decision to remove the tooth. He said one would think that the dentist would have taken the necessary precaution before removing the tooth. Richardson said normally when clients are ill they are taken with their care plan to their doctors. "In that file the dentist could have seen that Cassandra was a diabetic and most importantly that two other doctors advised not to remove the tooth since there was an abscess in the gum." The distraught director said ever since this happened he is not functioning well since only two months ago he lost his father. Asked why the centre did not notify the legal guardian, Richardson said that when clients are ill they do not notify the relatives immediately. He said if patients have tooth aches or fevers the centre would take the clients to see their doctor. "We did not expect something like this to happen. Cassandra saw multiple doctors and even though her jaw was swollen she was not in a lot of pain. He said that the care givers were wondering why her jaw remained swollen and she herself requested to go back to the doctor. "Cassandra's tooth was extracted one week before she passed away and we were not negligent, we took her where she wanted to go, however, as the head of the institution and her first cousin I want to know what killed her. How did this happen and whose fault it was?"
Her legal guardian Elliot Richardson said "when Cassandra was admitted it was then they called me to say she was in the hospital, on October 19 and I immediately went to see her and the specialist told me that Cassandra's blood level had fallen to 4 and she had to be transfused back to 10. He said he spoke to his niece, but later that day she passed away." Elliot Richardson said that his niece was disabled but she was a brilliant woman. "Cassandra spoke English, Papiamento, Dutch and Spanish and she was also computer literate. Even though she was disabled she knew how to take care of herself and she was scheduled to move to her Hope Estate home later this month.
Airport:--- The workers of the Princess Juliana International Airport PJIAE are busy putting their plans together to attract the attention of deputy leader of government and the Minister in charge of government owned companies Theo Heyliger. In an exclusive interview with SMN News some of the workers said that they already got indications that the Minister and deputy leader would be taking monies from the airport coffers to invest in community projects but so far the Minister has not said what he intends to do for the workers of PJIAE. Some of the workers are now busy trying to sign on with a local union they expect would champion their concerns.
The workers said some years ago the former Managing Director and now Governor of St. Maarten Drs Eugene Holiday told the workers that they would not be receiving any salary increases for a period of seven years until the mortgage of the facility is paid off.
The workers said while they were not in favor of the decision taken by the then director they went ahead with what they called the "bitter pill." The workers said it has been 12 years now they are waiting for a salary increase but that is not forthcoming and the director is no longer at the helm of the company. Besides that the workers said they were asked to hold on after the incident of 9/11 and most recently they were reminded about the economic down turn that has had global effects. One worker said that the former director had put in place an evaluation system which would compensate the workers if they exceeded beyond expectations. "The highest one can go in the evaluation is excellent and with that you can get 2.75% of your gross salary as compensation. However, none of the workers has ever managed to get an excellent which would have earned him or her less than $100 as an evaluation increase." The workers said the former managing director promised the over 200 workers that when the mortgage is paid off they would get a salary increase but that has not happened.
Another breaking point for the workers is the intention of the supervisory board of PJIAE and the Curacao based union ABVO to extend the current Collective Labor Agreement for another 3 years without the workers participation. The workers said the ABVO, CLA is not beneficial to the workers on St. Maarten. The workers said when ABVO signed the first CLA they had a 5% increase over a three year period which eventually rose to 9% each time the CLA was renewed but somehow the percentage decreased back to 5% after 12 years. The workers said ABVO does not communicate with the workers or the members they represent locally. They said based on the CLA's signed for Curacao airport workers are on a much higher scale than St. Maarten even though their economy is lower.
"Those people have some sort of special relationship with PJIAE management and they would come discuss and sign the CLA without the workers knowledge." The workers said they have never gotten the opportunity to discuss the proposals offered by the airport or even to give their own suggestions." They said the last CLA which is expected to expire in December gives the workers a 9% salary increase but with some understanding ABVO has decided to drop that back to 5%. The workers said instead of them moving forward or getting more monies their salaries remains frozen. The workers said they are forced to work two jobs to be able to survive on St. Maarten. They further explained that while PJIAE is the second best paying company on the island, most of its workers are living in the low income houses in Belvedere. "The workers at PJIAE are underpaid, the facility is sometimes understaffed and promises were made and not kept. The people out there just don't know what goes on at the Airport and we have one message for the deputy leader which is that he must take care of the PJIAE workers before dipping his hands in the cookie jar for his projects." The workers also made clear that they have no problem with the Minister's intention to take the monies from the airport to invest in community projects, but the Minister they said would have to take care of them first."
The workers further explained that the workers at the Curacao airports are working for much more monies than those on St. Maarten. "What someone has here after 18 years of service at the airport is the beginner's salary in Curacao." The workers are blaming the former managing director for their predicament claiming that when Drs. Holiday got the loan for the airport expansion he refused a 15 year plan to repay the loan and said it wanted a seven and half years loan plan.
MARIGOT:--- The Gendarmes have arrested a 24 year old man and sent him to Basse Terre for allegedly trying to run over a gendarme during a routine control. According to a press release from the Gendarmerie, the suspect refused to stop at a check point at Rue L'Esperance on Tuesday night. The suspect they said accelerated his vehicle and almost ran over a gendarme. The officers immediately gave chase and captured the suspect in the French Quarter area after the suspect lost control of his vehicle and crashed it. The suspect was taken to the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital for treatment to the injuries he sustained. While there he tried to escape but the gendarmes managed to recapture him. The gendarmes also arrested a man who is a suspect of the armed robbery of a gas station. The suspect was identified and arrested on October 30th for the offense he committed on January 13 2009.
Maho:--- The delegation representing PANCAP the Pan Caribbean Partnership Against HIV and AIDS have dedicated their services in making sure that persons infected with HIV/AIDS receives treatment internationally. Chairman of PANCAP Dr. Denzil L. Douglas told reporters on Monday that PANCAP will be putting in place universal programs for care and attention for all people infected with HIV/AIDS. He said the global fund was established to fight HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis. He said appropriate programs have to be in place for them to utilize the funds that are now available to them. Another priority of PANCAP is to make sure there is no compromise on the issues of human rights. Dr. Douglas said on the opening night of the PANCAP 10th Annual meeting they contemplated on how they can have countries re-visit their laws that continue to discriminate against people living with HIV/AIDS. Dr. Douglas said while studying this topic they realized that revisiting laws will have political overturns but PANCAP has renewed its commitment in having these laws revisited over the next ten years.
Dr. Douglas said that while PANCAP has made significant achievements over the past 10 years their goal now is to move to what they have envisioned as achievable for the future and there would be no comprise on their endeavours.
The honourable Kofi Annan said they looked at the progress made by PANCAP thus far and the challenges they faced and those they need to prepare for in the future. Annan said there is a need for greater partnership especially when one faces such an epidemic. PANCAP he said is already struggling to get the needed resources thus they are working in partnership to pool their efforts to have a greater impact on the issues they are faced with. The former general secretary of United Nations said he is happy to hear that PANCAP will focus on removing the discriminatory laws that are against people living with HIV/AIDS. He said he believes such laws must be done as quickly as possible. Annan said as they move forward there would be need for greater leadership and creativity. This epidemic needs people who are willing to get up and fight each day until help can reach each and every person that is infected with the disease.
Dr. Michel Kazatchkine said PANCAP will face difficulty achieving funds due to the global financial crisis. He said they have to now find ways to maintain their services with less resources, however, he sees this as a major challenge for PANCAP's programs sustainability. Kazatchkine said it is important for them to pay much attention to sustainability in the region especially since they have resources through the global fund to ensure treatment is guaranteed. PANCAP he said has to make sure they maximise their returns on the investments they make. Already he said the progress is evident in this region especially since they are reducing the death rate by 40% while 51% of the people living with HIV/AIDS have access to treatment. The future achievement for PANCAP is for them to get virtual elimination from mother to child. He said right now there are only seven cases where mothers virtually infected their child and that can be eliminated. Another major challenge for PANCAP is how to reduce newly infected persons. PANCAP he said has to find ways to engage the younger generation into safer and protected sex and to reduce violence against women. He said they also have to find ways to empower young girls if they are to reduce the amount of newly infected. PANCAP he said has to find ways of removing punitive laws against homosexuality and prostitution. He said another area that has to be watched carefully is drug use since it is growing in the Caribbean region. These are areas he said are critical and they must be concentrated upon if they are to control the epidemic in the region.
The following is the audio of the press conference on Monday.
Select the audio below in the list to listen:
Philipsburg:--- The Rotary clubs on both sides of the island has organized a musical concert to be held on Saturday November 13 at the Westin Resort. The concert entitled the Music Magic will feature a musical extravaganza with pianist Danny White and other local artists such as Connis Vanterpool, and the vocal Dread.
Rotarians Fred van der Peijl, Louis Wever, Sally Jasmine, John Berglund and Kishore Idnani told reporters on Wednesday at a press conference that the four rotary clubs have come together to work on projects to benefit the youths on both sides of the island. They said the projects they are currently trying to finance are the building and furnishing of a kitchen for the Belvedere Community Center and providing computers for the computer lab at the Lycee Polyvalent School. The clubs that are involved in the fundraising are the Rotary Club St Maarten Sunrise, Rotary Club St Maarten Mid Isle, Rotary Club St Martin, and the Rotary Club St Martin North.
President of the Rotary St Maarten Mid Isle said this is the first time the rotary clubs on the island have come together to work on projects that would benefit the youths on both sides of the island. He said while everyone will be celebrating St Maarten/St Martin Day the Rotary Clubs have decided to bring themselves together to work in the interest of the island's youth to show there is unity on St. Maarten/St Martin.
Kishore Idnani said while the Rotary is a worldwide organization with 1.2 million Rotarians while there are four clubs on the island. The fundraising event he said is a joint venture that will benefit children across the border. The aim he said is to show that all the clubs are one as a well as the people on the island are one. Sally Jasmine of the St. Martin North said the musical concert is an exceptional event especially for the French side of the island. Jasmine said the aim to keep the youths busy and to make sure the students attending the Lycee would get the necessary tools to complete their education at that learning institution. The Rotarian said her mission is to help the afternoon school program which takes place on Wednesday's and weekends. Youths today are tomorrow's adults and it is necessary to make sure these future adults are fully equipped. Jasmine said while everyone is speaking about the youths, the Rotary is busy working to provide for the youths and the community in general.
Coordinator of the show John Berglund said Danny Wright is a highly regarded pianist who has sold over 4 million copies of his CDs while he was named by the Billboard Magazine as one of America's top ten. He said Wright has agreed to come to St. Maarten to donate his time for the fundraising geared at helping the island's youths. Already Wright is working closely with two of the island's local artists Connis Vanterpool and Rabbi also on the program is a special guest whose name would only be released on the night of the concert. That evening there would also be a silent bidding for special items such as the island most expensive bottle of perfume with a half karat diamond inside the bottle. The items on bid can be used for Christmas gift items.
The trio will be playing on the morning of November 13th at the Belair community center strictly for rotaract children free of cost while the fundraising will be held in the evening at the Westin Resort.
Tickets are sold at $50.00 per ticket tables are also sold at $1000.00. Also on sale are autographed CDs from the artists.
Listen to the interview below: (select Rotary Club)
"The Federations sad state of economic affairs has more to do with the leadership of the Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Dr. Douglas than any global economic crisis," says Hon. Shawn .K Richards
Basseterre:----On July 7, 2010, the Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) concluded the Article IV consultation with St. Kitts and Nevis. In an effort to promote transparency of the IMF's views and analysis of economic developments and policies of respective countries, the organization issues Public Information Notices which are essentially reports or a summary of the findings of the consultations of the respective economy's.
The IMF's Public Information Notice painted a very bleak picture of the economic outlook of the federation. The IMF consultation revealed that economic activity sharply contracted by 5.5% in 2009. According to the IMF consultation summary the significant decline in economic activity was as a result of sharp declines in tourism and tourism-related activities. The report further stated that the projected output for 2010 will again show a significant decline and is expected to remain in a depressed state over the medium term or 3 to 5 years.
The IMF also stated that the federation's fiscal situation has deteriorated significantly and the public debt has increased by 15 percentage points in 2009 to 185% of GDP making the federation one of the most indebted countries in the world.
People's Action Movement Deputy Political Leader and Senior Opposition MP Hon. Shawn .K Richards expressed grave concern over the country's bleak economic prospects and laid the blame squarely at the feet of Minister of Finance, Prime Minister Dr. Denzil Douglas
"The IMF consultation report has only confirmed what we already know and that is our country is in a very sad state state of affairs economically and otherwise. And this sad state of affairs has more to do with the leadership and management of the Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Dr. Denzil Douglas and the labor administration than any global economic crisis. I rest the blame and ultimate responsibility of the federation's current economic state squarely at the feet of the Prime Minister," said Senior Opposition MP Hon. Shawn K. Richards.
"The report further highlights the fact that the Prime Minister and the labor party mislead the country when it proclaimed that everything including the economy, tourism and agriculture was working and this report clearly shows otherwise," Richards continued.
The IMF in its report recommended that in order for the government to improve the country's economic outlook it has to undertake the implementation of a combination of revenue and expenditure measures. Among the measures recommended is the prioritization of Capital expenditure which was also a recommendation indicated by the Opposition People's Action Movement in a Press Conference held earlier this week.
The IMF Directors described the federation as a tourism dependant highly-indebted country with an extremely challenging and bleak economic outlook.
Philipsburg:--- The detective department is busy investigating the death of a man identified as Sainz Sierra from Spain who was found in a pool of blood on Kruythoff Steeg Philipsburg early Tuesday morning.
Prosecutor Rienk Mud said they are busy investigating the circumstances of the man's death and police are trying to get the witnesses who saw when the victim was brutally attacked to speak with them. However, getting people to talk or to come forward has always been difficult Mud said.
The St. Maarten Medical Center was looking into ways of getting the victim out of St. Maarten for further medical treatment but that somehow seemed impossible. Sources close to the medical institution said the island's residents are at risk when they need to travel overseas as the medical director of the St. Maarten Medical Center Dr. George Scot is always off island. "Dr. Scot spends three out of his four weeks in Holland even though he is responsible for the daily operations of the institution."
SMN News also learnt that Dr. Scot is busy negotiating the expansion contract with LICOM. The source said the contractor has a two million guilder difference in calculations.
When police discovered the victim they found he had at least three large wounds to his head and he was bleeding profusely from them. Police also found a piece of metal pipe next to the victim which has since been confiscated.
...
Philipsburg:--- The first working parliamentary meeting called on Monday by the chairlady of parliament Gracita Arrindell ended up becoming an embarrassment to the members of parliament and country St. Maarten. Monday's meeting was expected to last a maximum of forty five minutes to an hour but due to a number of procedural errors the meeting lasted over four and half hours. The leader of the United People's Party Theo Heyliger spent most of the afternoon in the AC Wathey legislative hall looking at the procedures. There were times when Heyliger showed his anger at the amount of mistakes that were made by his candidate and now chairlady of parliament. On several occasions, Heyliger was seen shaking his head when each of the mistakes were made. During the first adjournment Heyliger and members of his party along with members of his coalition partner were seen in the hall way caucusing with Arrindell.
The meeting had a half an hour delay because the coalition majority could not provide a quorum to start the meeting. The six members of the National Alliance later gave the coalition their support so that the meeting could proceed. On the agenda were the approval of the credentials of the three incoming members of parliament, the election of a vice president of parliament, the appointment of an interim general secretary for a period of six months and establishing of an adhoc committee to review the rules of order of parliament.
On the first agenda point the chairlady wanted to appoint a general secretary, and instead of providing members of parliament with a proposal on the candidate and providing parliament with the person's credentials, Arrindell asked parliament to write a name on a piece of paper to appoint the general secretary. Arrindell wanted to appoint Franklin Hanze from Curacao to the position for a period of six months (see related story).
At that point, senator Frans Richardson called for a point of clarification asked the chair which name they should write on the small piece of white paper that was given to them. Arrindell then told Richardson to check with his party leader as she had informed him of the predicament parliament finds itself in and why it was necessary for parliament to appoint a general secretary. At that point, senator William Marlin and leader of the National Alliance faction also made a point of clarification saying that the chair ought to submit a proposal to parliament. Marlin said while he did had a brief discussion about the appointment he did not think handing members of parliament a blank piece of paper and telling them to write down a name was the appropriate thing to do. Marlin said he was looking forward to seeing a proposal which would have outlined the reasons why parliament has to appoint a secretary general for a period of six months and the conditions under which this person is hired. At that point the chairlady still continued to push her point saying that the person was going to take on the position as an interim. However, she was convinced that parliament was not going to proceed unless they saw a proposal and the candidate curriculum vitae.
When they resumed the chair presented a proposal and she asked parliament to rearrange the agenda points since the incoming members had to go over to the governor's office to be sworn in. Instead of asking the members to agree on the proposal to rearrange the agenda points she asked for parliament to vote on the incoming documents. Marlin on numerous occasions asked for points of clarification to show the chair that they were dealing with an agenda and not documents. The procedure frustrated those in the tribune and members of parliament even those that supported the coalition.
When it came to the approval of the credentials for the incoming members of parliament Roy Marlin, Johan Janchi Leonard and Dr. Ruth Douglas, again Arrindell did not provide parliament with the credentials. At that point senator Louie Laveist stood up and asked which credentials they were to approve. The chair again adjourned to appoint a committee of to review the credentials of the incoming members and later adjourned so that the incoming members could be sworn in.
While the meeting of Monday had three agenda points parliament took most of the time to sort out errors made by the chair. Before the closure of the meeting, parliament was able to elect a vice president in the person of Petrus Leroy De Weever who received 10 out of the 15 votes that were casted and an adhoc committee was installed to review the rules of order that the chair wanted to establish. Prior to establishing that committee senator William Marlin on several occasions had to explain the chair that the rules of order that was established by the island council of St. Maarten is already in place which went into effect on the amendment of the Kingdom Charter in articles one and two. Marlin said while parliament has a right to amend the rules of order there is no need to establish rules that are already in effect. He said should parliament be allowed to re-establish the rules of order then parliament would have to do the same with all the laws and ordinances that were put in place prior to St. Maarten taking on its new status.
Adhoc Committee established – Amount of factions in parliament yet to be established.
When it was agreed that parliament would allow the chair to install an adhoc committee the chairlady said that each member of the factions must submit a name to her to form the committee. At that point, senator William Marlin asked the chair how many factions were there in parliament and she said there were four factions. Marlin then said only three political parties were elected and as such he would like to know if any of the elected persons in parliament notified her that there was another faction in parliament. The chair then responded by saying none of the factions had notified her of their faction and she assumed there were four factions based on the political reality.
Even though senator Patrick Illidge has jumped ship from the National Alliance and signed an agreement with the leader of the United People's Party he is yet to submit a letter of resignation to the National Alliance. SMN News learnt that so far senator Illidge and Minister Roland Duncan both members and candidates who ran on the National Alliance slate have not resigned from the National Alliance.
Philipsburg:--- The public prosecutor's office is busy discussing the report they received from chief commissioner of police Peter de Witte on the vote selling case involving four officers and the United Peoples Party.
Prosecutor Rienk Mud said his office is still busy studying the report. However, they felt it is necessary for them to apprise the Lands Recherché of the reports. Mud said the Lands Recherché are the ones who are responsible for investigating politicians and police officers. Just last week the chief of police handed over the reports of an investigation that was conducted by the police internal affairs regarding officers who took monies from the United Peoples Party in exchange for their votes. The investigation started after three of the officers got greedy and took an envelope that was meant for civil servant working at the police station and shared it among themselves. Even though an investigation is ongoing the chief of police is yet to suspend the two police officers, the VKS officer and civil servant that is involved in the alleged vote selling.
Philipsburg:--- The Department of Communication on Tuesday, November 9th, 2010, staff of the Department of Communication, which falls under the Ministry of General Affairs, celebrated St. Maarten Day with a luncheon at the office. In keeping with tradition, staff members decorated the office in the festive red, white and blue and prepared all local dishes and drinks. The food consists of wilks & dumpling, fungi & spinach, fish soup, salt fish, boil plantain, salmon, pineapple chicken, baked chicken, pigtail & rice, rice & peas, and macaroni pie. The drinks comprised of guavaberry punch, homemade lemonade, and Big D's Punch. Mixed fruit cheesecake fulfilled the meal. The luncheon could not be complete without entertainment, which was provided by Paben "the ole man", re-telling stories of St. Maarten years gone by.
The Department of Communication would like to wish the entire community a SAFE and HAPPY ST. MAARTEN/ST. MARTIN DAY.
GREAT BAY:--- By ministerial decree, all government offices and schools will be closed on Friday, November 12 in connection with Thursdays Saint Martin/Sint Maarten's Day celebrations.
The decision was taken by acting Honourable Minister Maria Buncamper-Molanus who is filling in for the Honourable Minister of Education Rhoda Arrindell.
As already reported, businesses on the Dutch side can open on Saint Martin/Sint Maarten's Day, November 11, and working on November 11, will be on a voluntary basis.
Philipsburg:--- The judge of instruction has granted the prosecutor's office their request to detain R.G.B of French Quarter for another eight days as the detectives from the TGO team continue to investigate the brutal murder of Clemencia Josie-anne Julot (20). SMN News has been reliably informed that R.G.B is not the first suspect that was held since the investigation started. Sources say the police had arrested a teacher who was a close friend to the victim and his live in girlfriend. The two it is understood spent over three weeks behind bars and were released when their DNA did not match that which was found on the body of the victim.
Relatives of R.G.B are all enraged about the media reports since the arrest on Monday claiming that R.G.B will also be released and that he was set up by people who do not like him. One family member said they believe someone led police to the ageable man so they can cash in on the $25,000 reward that is offered by the police.
Clemencia Julot's was an employee of Blue Point Store when she was brutally killed. A search team comprising of co-workers and close relatives of the victim discovered her partly decomposed body in Oyster Pond one day after she disappeared. The victim it has been reported was jogging when she was abducted, raped and killed. When the body was discovered the father and best friend of the victim said they believed were suspicious of someone whom they said were sending text messages to the victim threatening her life. SMN News has been reliably informed that police held that person for three weeks and later released her for the lack of evidence linking her to the murder.
Tomas, the 12th hurricane of a very active 2010 Atlantic hurricane season, strengthened as it swept over Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and also touched Curaçao, damaging homes, knocking out power and blocking roads with flooding and debris in late October early November.
"We have contacted the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Cross Curacao where an assessment of their needs were requested and the response was for more monetary assistance," Red Cross St. Maarten General Manager Marjan van der Steen said. When asked why not just send clothes and food, she said "sending such items have proven to take more time and it's a logistical challenge." "Sending monetary donations is much faster and efficient for the recipients of such aid since materials can be purchased directly from their market."
If you would like to donate to Red Cross St. Maarten to help benefit the victims of Hurricane Tomas on the various Caribbean islands please send all monetary donations to the following emergency relief accounts at the Windward Islands Bank in St. Maarten: Nafl. 809.809.00 and USD 809.809.02. If you want your donation to benefit a specific island, please mark this on your transfer. If not then all proceeds will be divided equally over the islands in need.
Philipsburg:--- Police were forced to fire warning shots at suspect whom they believed was involved in a case of ill-treatment early Sunday morning. A press release from police spokesman Ricardo Henson states that on November 14th at approximately 02.00am Philipsburg police patrol was stopped on the A. Th. Illidge road in the vicinity of Son Latino Night Club, by the lady with initials C.B. born in the Dominican Republic.
Henson said the woman told police that shortly before she had been ill treated after a heated argument with Dominican man. At the same moment the victim pointed out a man who had stepped into a dark coloured Hyundai Elantra with dark tinted windows, with intention to drive away.
Henson said the patrol drove towards the car in order to approach the driver in regard to what the lady had stated. When the patrol ordered the suspect to stop he refused to do so. At the same time the patrol attempted the block his path, however, the suspect continued driving forward hitting and damaging the right fender of the police vehicle.
The suspect again, did not stop and drove off in the direction of Dutch Quarter. The patrol followed the suspect in his car and on various occasions ordered the suspect to bring his car to a stop which he did not do. The situation turned into a high speed chase after the suspect refused to stop. The chase ended at the border in French Quarter. Just several meters beyond the border while turning back towards the Dutch side the patrol noticed that the suspect had also turned around and headed back, towards the Dutch side, at very high speed. The patrol noticed that the suspect did not slow his vehicle down and intentionally ramming the police vehicle to escape from being arrested. The officers noting how dangerous and serious the situation had become and fearing for their safety pulled their service weapon and fired several shots at the tires of the suspect vehicle in the attempt to bring it to a stop, however, this was also unsuccessful. The suspects succeeded in escaping his arrest. The police vehicle was damaged to the extent that it could not drive any further. Immediately after the incident several members of the gendarmes arrived on the scene and stated that they had seen the suspect vehicle turned back towards the Dutch side because they were busy carrying out a traffic control just a short distance further. After hearing the shots they came towards the border to investigate what was going on. None of the officers were injured during this whole incident. The gendarmes conducted their investigation on the scene after which the damaged police vehicle was turned over to the Dutch police.
The suspect in this case has not yet been arrested. The investigation is ongoing.
Philipsburg:--- St Maarten has been lauded as being a mature and dignified nation when its representatives agreed to have an Ombudsman and a constitutional court in its constitution. The island received much credit for having the courage to set up such a legal body when Holland its mother country still does not have this entity in place.
The governor of St. Maarten drs. Eugene Holiday, chairlady of parliament of St. Maarten drs. Gracita Arrindell including several parliamentarians, lawyers, bailiffs and other representatives of the law attended the brief ceremony at the court house on Monday.
Members of the newly established court are Mr. P. van Dijk, Mr. J. de Boer and Mr. J.Th. Wit, Mr. B. Vermeulen. J. Th. Drop and Mrs. Suzy Romer are substitute members.
Speakers were the president of the newly established constitutional court judge Bob Wit, St. Maarten's ombudsman Nilda Arduin-Lynch, and Richard Gibson Sr.
MARIGOT:--- A 21-year old man was found to be residing on the island illegally after he attempted to avoid a Gendarmerie control on a scooter last Sunday.
A traffic control check point had been set up opposite 128 Route de Coralita at 3:45pm when the scooter rider with a passenger on the back, attempted to force their way through. The pair abandoned the scooter and attempted to escape on foot but was caught. The passenger was found to be residing on the territory illegally and will be returned to his country of origin.
Also on Sunday a 47-year- old man was detained suspected of robbing a restaurant on the Boulevard de France. The investigation determined that he was also implicated in two other robberies to businesses in Marigot. He will appear in court on February 3 2011.
On Tuesday November 16 at 9:30am an 18 year old young man was held after he was found to be driving a stolen car. He was also found to be residing on the island illegally and will be repatriated.
New constitutional structure.
The Kingdom of the Netherlands has recently undergone a process of constitutional reform, which has now reached fruition. The changes concern the Netherlands Antilles, a country that until recently was made up of the islands of Curaçao, Sint Maarten, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba. The reforms are based on the results of referenda and on decisions taken by representative assemblies about the islands' future constitutional status. The results, with one exception, were unequivocal: the islands no longer wanted to be parts of the Netherlands Antilles, yet they also did not want to sever their ties with the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The exception, Sint Eustatius, voted to remain a part of the Netherlands Antilles.
On the basis of an outline agreement concluded in 2005, which set out agreements on constitutional reforms, financial and economic issues, law enforcement and good governance, a series of conferences was launched with the aim of taking a coordinated and parallel approach to dealing with the complexities of this process. This led, in October and November 2006, to final declarations on the constitutional position of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba, and of Curaçao and Sint Maarten. At the Round Table Conference in Curaçao on 15 December 2008, the Netherlands and the other Kingdom partners reached agreement on the new constitutional structure of the Kingdom.
The conclusions of the final Round Table Conference were signed on 9 September 2010. These stated that the amended Charter for the Kingdom of the Netherlands would enter into force as planned on 10 October 2010. As of 10-10-'10 the Netherlands Antilles has ceased to exist.
In the new constitutional structure, Curaçao and Sint Maarten have acquired the status of countries within the Kingdom (like the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba before the changes). Aruba retains the separate country status it has had since 1986. Thus, as from 10 October 2010, the Kingdom consists of four, rather than three, equal countries: Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten are not Dutch overseas dependencies, but full, autonomous partners within the Kingdom, alongside the Netherlands, and each enjoys a high degree of internal autonomy.
The three other islands, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba have voted for direct ties with the Netherlands and are now part of the Netherlands, thus constituting 'the Caribbean part of the Netherlands'. The relationship's legal form will be that each island has the status of public body within the meaning of article 134 of the Dutch Constitution. In broad terms, their position is now like that of Dutch municipalities, with adjustments for their small size, their distance from the Netherlands and their geographic situation in the Caribbean region. For the time being, Netherlands Antillean legislation will still be applicable in large part to the public bodies. Every resident of the three islands who has Dutch nationality now has the right to vote in elections to the Dutch House of Representatives alongside the existing right to vote in European Parliament elections. They are not, however, allowed to vote in Provincial Council elections because the public bodies are not part of any Dutch province.
Responsibility for foreign relations
The constitutional changes do not affect the way in which the Kingdom conducts its foreign relations.
- The Kingdom's external borders have not changed.
- Foreign relations and defence remain 'Kingdom affairs'. These are dealt with in the Council of Ministers for the Kingdom, which meets in The Hague. The governments of the Caribbean countries are represented in the Council by a minister plenipotentiary. The Aruban government has its seat in Oranjestad, the government of Curaçao is based in Willemstad and the government of Sint Maarten in Philipsburg.
- There is one Minister of Foreign Affairs, who has ultimate responsibility for foreign relations for the Kingdom as a whole.
- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the embassies, consulates and permanent missions/representations abroad continue to work for the Kingdom as a whole and all its constituent parts.
- As of 10 October 2010, the Caribbean countries of the Kingdom of the Netherlands (Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten) each have their own Foreign Relations Department.
- While treaties and conventions may be concluded only by the Kingdom and not by its constituent parts, their applicability may be confined to one or more countries. In other words, such agreements may be concluded by the Kingdom for one or more individual parts of the Kingdom.
Questions & Answers
The Kingdom of the Netherlands: new constitutional structure
What does the constitutional reform mean for the Kingdom?
On 10 October 2010 the Netherlands Antilles ceased to exist as a country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The Caribbean part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands is now made up of the countries of Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten (each with its own government) and, as public bodies of the Netherlands, the islands of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba. As in Aruba, the government of the Kingdom is represented in the new countries of Curaçao and Sint Maarten by a Governor. The island councils have been abolished, and thus there is only one tier of government.
Will there be changes to the way in which the Kingdom promotes its interests abroad?
No, the Kingdom will continue to promote its interests abroad in the same way.
- The Kingdom's external borders have not changed.
- Foreign relations and defence remain 'Kingdom affairs'.
- The Minister of Foreign Affairs continues to represent the Kingdom of the Netherlands as a whole.
- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the missions abroad continue to work for the Kingdom as a whole and all its constituent parts.
- While treaties and conventions may be concluded only by the Kingdom and not by its constituent parts, such agreements may be applied to the Kingdom as a whole, or to its constituent parts individually, or in any combination.
- As of 10 October 2010, the Caribbean countries of the Kingdom of the Netherlands (Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten) each have their own Foreign Relations Department.
How are governance and legislation organised following the constitutional reform?
Like Aruba, the new countries, Curaçao and Sint Maarten, each have their own government and parliament. Together, these institutions are empowered to enact legislation in regard to the countries' own affairs. The Dutch public bodies of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba have the power to regulate their own internal affairs. Each public body has a local executive and a local council. For the time being, Antillean legislation will continue to apply to these islands wherever possible. It will gradually be replaced by Dutch law. The residents of the public bodies are eligible to vote in elections to the Dutch House of Representatives (and in European Parliament elections). In each public body there is also a branch of the Dutch government's new Department for the Netherlands in the Caribbean (Rijksdienst Caribisch Nederland), in which each government ministry is represented.
What is the Netherlands' role in relation to the other countries of the Kingdom following the constitutional reform?
The Netherlands works together with the Caribbean countries in the Kingdom in the interests of protecting the independence of the judiciary, tackling corruption and cross-border crime, and maintaining public order. A joint Court of Justice is responsible for the administration of justice in the Caribbean part of the Kingdom, and a single Procurator General is in charge of the Public Prosecution Service for Curaçao, Sint Maarten, and Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba. Aruba has its own Procurator General. The three police forces serving Curaçao, Sint Maarten and Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba respectively also work together closely. Cooperation in the context of the joint criminal investigation team will be continued for the time being. The Netherlands is also involved in financial oversight of the two new countries and the three public bodies.
How does the Netherlands manage its governance tasks on Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba now that they have public body status?
Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba now maintain two tiers of government, i.e. a local authority and the Dutch central government. Broadly speaking, central government has taken over the duties performed previously by the Antillean authorities. The local government is under the control of the local representative assembly ('the island council'). As well as taking over the tasks of the Netherlands Antillean authorities, the Dutch government has also taken on certain tasks previously the responsibility of the islands, such as management of the fire service.
The implementation of the Netherlands' tasks on Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba (and the related support services) is the responsibility of the Department for the Netherlands in the Caribbean (Rijksdienst Caribisch Nederland), which has a branch on each of the islands. In addition, the Department implements the Minister of the Interior and Kingdom Relations' official tasks as the employer of all public servants on Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba, including the police, the fire service and employees of the care administration office. That said, the police force and fire service maintain their own management structures.
In the short term, the aim is to improve education, public safety, public health, infrastructure and other facilities and services on the islands.
How is financial supervision organised following the constitutional reforms?
A Financial Supervision Authority has been established for Curaçao and Sint Maarten to supervise public finances under the ultimate responsibility of the Council of Ministers for the Kingdom. A similar body has been set up for Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba under the minister responsible for Kingdom Relations. This type of oversight structure will continue to exist in the new constitutional situation. The underlying supervisory principles are a balanced budget, prudent financial management and a cap on contracting debt.
Has there been any change to the Joint Court of Justice of the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba as a result of the constitutional reforms?
Yes, the existing Joint Court of Justice of the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba has become the Joint Court of Justice of Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten and the Caribbean part of the Netherlands (i.e. Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba). The Supreme Court remains the court of cassation for the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom.
How does the Kingdom ensure that public order, safety and security are maintained in the new constitutional situation?
Responsibility for maintaining public order, safety and security and running the emergency services on Curaçao and Sint Maarten now fall to the respective Ministers of Justice of the new countries. On Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba the local authorities will be responsible for public order, crisis management and disaster response. The Public Safety and Security Act for Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba also provides for special powers in the event of incidents whose scale exceeds a single island's capacity.
What is the role of the Public Prosecution Service in the different countries of the Kingdom in the new constitutional situation?
Investigative and prosecutorial powers rest with the Procurator General. There is a single Procurator General for all the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom that once made up the Netherlands Antilles: the new countries of Curaçao and Sint Maarten and the three new public bodies of the Netherlands: Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba. The Procurator General is the head of the public prosecution services in the new countries and the new public bodies. There is a joint Procurator General's Office, with a staff including two advocates general. In Aruba, the situation has not changed in any respect as a result of these reforms. That country continues to have its own Procurator General.
What currency will Curaçao, Sint Maarten and the Netherlands in the Caribbean use?
On 1 January 2011, the US dollar will replace the Antillean guilder on Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba. Curaçao and Sint Maarten have a joint central bank. The Caribbean guilder will be introduced on 1 January 2012 as the countries' common currency. Until that time, the Antillean guilder will remain the official currency.
What is the relationship between the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom and the EU?
The Netherlands is a European Union member state, but Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten, and the Caribbean part of the Netherlands (Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba) are not. Instead they have the status of Overseas Countries and Territories (OCT). As a result, the islands enjoy a number of advantages, for example where the export of goods to the EU is concerned. In addition, the islands receive funding from the European Development Fund (EDF). And since citizens of the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom are Dutch nationals and thus EU citizens, they may also vote in European Parliament elections. The constitutional reform does not affect the islands' relationship with the EU.
How is the Representation of the Netherlands in Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten organised?
On 1 January 2011, the Representation of the Netherlands in the Netherlands Antilles and the Representation of the Netherlands in Aruba will be integrated to form the Representation of the Netherlands in Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten. It will be a single Representation led by a single Representative, with an office in each of the three countries. The head of each office will be the deputy Representative in that country. The Representation will continue to represent all Dutch ministries (apart from the Ministries of Defence and Foreign Affairs, whose responsibilities span the Kingdom as a whole). It may thus be considered an 'outpost' of the Netherlands. As well as reporting to the Netherlands, the Representation is tasked with preparing and assisting with visits by members of the Dutch government, officials and other dignitaries. It also provides information on Dutch policy with respect to Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten, and general consular assistance to Dutch nationals in difficulty and detainees. The activities of the Representation in the Caribbean are thus comparable to that of an embassy.
Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten Lions Club recently entertained over one hundred and seventy seniors(170) from both sides of the island at Boo Boo Jam, for its annual Nelson van de Linde Senior Citizen's Party.
The day organized by a committee headed by board member Lion Chantal Schaminee, started with a traditional island breakfast, followed by live entertainment by local favorites Tanny and the Boys. "The seniors always look forward to this party every year and they surely had a good time again" said Lion PDG Wally Havertong. Many of the seniors recited poems, sang songs, told old stories and played games throughout the day.
The highlight of the day was the Surinamese lunch and dessert, along with music which was provided by the famous DJ Ruby. It all ended with a big dance party whereby the seniors danced to calypso and meringue music with the members of the Lions and Leos clubs.
The annual Nelson van de Linde Senior Citizen's Party is an event which was started back in 1997 as an idea by the late Lion Nelson, who the party is named after and is usually held during the month of October as part of the yearly activities of the St. Maarten Lions Club. The Leos Club also assisted the Lions by serving and helping with the seniors.
This party was free to the seniors as the St. Maarten Lions Club pays for the event as part of their yearly activities for the community with funds raised from fundraisings events throughout the year.
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Why do we have children? This is a question we seldom pose when we discuss the obligations of parents and the general adult world towards children. The reasons we have children may be as varied as the differences in culture, socio-economic background, religion, etc. But what is certain is that children need to be loved, cherished, and cared for in order to be able to develop to their maximum potential, no matter if they come into this world by accident or by design.
It is in recognition of this fundamental human right–and yes, children are human beings, too, not chattels or possessions–that the United Nations General Assembly on November 20, 1959, adopted its Declaration of the Rights of the Child. This is why we celebrate today as the International Day of the Rights of the Child.
But what does this really mean? It simply means, in my humble opinion, that just as adults, children have rights, too. The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, (CROC), therefore, generally outlines the civil, social, political, economic, and cultural rights of children. The Convention acknowledges among others that every child has the right to life, the right to his or her own name and identity, to be raised by his or her parents within a family or cultural grouping, and to have a relationship with both parents, even if they are separated.
The Convention further acknowledges the right of every child to have a country, to be protected from exploitation and all forms of abuse, and for his or her parents to exercise their responsibilities as parents. In addition, the Convention acknowledges the right of children to express their opinions and that these should be appropriately heard and acted upon.
Do we respect these rights of our children?
For this year's commemoration, St. Martin has chosen the theme: "Non-violence: a sure way to protect our children." Given the recent spike in youth violence on the island, this theme could not be more appropriate. I urge all our schools to focus on this theme as they design and embark on activities to mark this year's International Week of the Rights of the Child.
I am pleased to note that the celebration is not limited to one day, or one week, but will continue straight into the New Year. The annual exhibit and storytelling at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library is open to students and the general public and will last from November 22nd – December 3rd 2010. Similarly, a poster and bumper-sticker campaign will commence in January 2011, while a talent show and children's museum focusing on children of day care and early stimulation centers are slated for the beginning of the coming year.
Let me also point out that UJIMA Foundation is hosting an Educational Festival on December 5th which falls within the domain of the rights of children. I am appealing through this medium for everyone to support this effort without reservations.
All these activities are aimed at increasing awareness of the rights of the child, but perhaps the best way for us adults to ensure that these rights are not only protected but also enhanced is to spend time with our children. No parent should be too busy to spend time with his or her children. It is perhaps the greatest gift we can give them.
The time we spend with our children not only builds their self-esteem and confidence, but also becomes a treasure of memories when they grow into adulthood. It is what they would cherish the most, much more than the Nintendo games, DSI, or other expensive toys we buy for them. Time, quality time, spent playing with them, helping them with their homework, telling them life-inspiring stories, and generally inculcating in them the values we all hold sacred as members of this society... that is precious time that is worth much more than gold.
Non-violence is a learned habit: children learn to be peaceful when they are not forced to experience domestic violence or verbal violence. The only antidote to the violence that is plaguing our societies today is for adults to respect this fundamental right of children to live in peaceful surroundings. Violence breeds more violence, while non-violence begets peace.
On this very special day, I wish one and all a very peaceful celebration of the International Day of the Rights of the Child. We must do right by our children and respect their rights.
I thank you.
Galisbay:--- Five members of the territorial council who was elected on the Union pour les Progres slate has confirmed that they will submit their resignations to the president of the UPP party early this week and become independent members of the council.
At a press conference on Saturday four of the five councillors namely Daniel Gibbs, Remi Williams, Annette Philips and Jean David Richardson told reporters that they have tried everything possible for the president of the Collectivity and senator to respect the program they campaigned on in 2007 but it fell on deaf ears. Marthe Ogoundele-Tessi who is also part of the group did not attend the press conference due to prior commitments.
The group also decided to form a new movement which is called the "Union for Democracy" will be the ears and the eyes of the people in the territorial council. Gibbs said when they entered the political arena in 2007 the idea was to have transparency and democracy both of which have been banished. Gibbs said he was punished because he has refused to what he was told to do vocally.
The intention is also to ask the COM to conduct a general audit of the Collectivity's finances as well as they would have to provide them with the administrative decisions. They also intend to stand up for the people's right to work, justice and security. The group which is led by first vice president Daniel Gibbs made clear that they have no personal interest to defend and as such the movement is open to all St. Martiners who shared their goals and wants to join them in their struggle.
Gibbs told reporters that the reasons given by the president for taking away his portfolios were not clear enough. Furthermore, he said when the decision was taken two Tuesday's ago to take away the portfolios by the executive council it was not on the agenda "orde du jour" making the president's action illegal based on the organic laws. Gibbs confirmed that he has a legal team looking at the procedures the COM took to relieve him of his portfolios.
SMN News learnt that Gibbs will soon be filing an injunction against the COM and its president. Notably the president has not named his vice presidents which is also in contradiction to the organic law.
Gibbs made clear that while he has resigned from the UPP party he will remain a vice president even though without portfolios because he has no intention to quit. "I am not a loser they evicted me by taking away my portfolios now they would have to go to the territorial council to take away me out.
The council elected me as a vice president and they would have to fire me. All I am asking for is for the management of the COM to do things legally. As a politician I will be the eyes and the ears of the people as a vice president." Gibbs said the idea of being part of the majority was to solve the problems facing the nation and its people. He gave an example of the division between his office and the tourist office of which he was in charge. Gibbs said nothing was done to repair that situation. He said the senator said publicly that Gumbs is a good president but he is a bad leader yet he did nothing to correct the situation. He too said enough is enough and the time to pull away is now. However, he wants the president to tell him where he is at fault and in which area he did not deliver what was expected of him. He said they already prepared the tourism master plan where the water front project was included.
This master plan development he said received 22 out of the 23 votes and only councillor to vote against it was the president of the tourist office. Gibbs further explained that the French side government no longer has democracy instead there is monocracy since none of the other councillors cannot voice their opinion. Gibbs said nothing he did was good enough for the president and senator and he had two choices, one is either he accept what was happening and become an accomplice or to speak out against the dictatorship. The first vice president said his problems began when he questioned SEMSAMAR and asked for a general audit.
Territorial Councillor Jean David Richardson said when they were elected on the UPP slate in 2007 the goal was not to exclude anyone out of the decision making. He said one of his concerns is the decisions taken by the community councils and socio professionals which he said are normally pushed aside. Richardson said they have reached to a point where enough is enough especially since he is not in the political arena for any personal gains. "I want the people to know that I have not asked the COM for no car, laptop, or cellular telephone, whatever I do in the COM I use my own materials and property. I also want the people to know that I am not looking for anything for myself neither my family members. The people of St. Martin have too many problems already. I already told the first vice president that the time has come for politicians to stop enriching themselves instead they must enlarge the riches for the entire population."
Richardson said the people of St. Martin are hurting terribly and it's time for the politicians to come out of their comfort zone and mingle with the people who are struggling. He said right now one or two people are making money but the others are struggling to make ends meet. Richardson said within the three year period of this government they hired over 500 persons. He said had there been inclusion the socio-professionals could have been the ones to hire this lot. Richardson said they have reached the end of the road since those they were working with are deaf. Richardson said they were kicked aside by the political party because their opinions and point of views are not welcome. The territorial councillor said he has stepped aside to form this movement so that their voices or the voices of the people can be heard. Furthermore, he said he can no longer walk around the French side seeing the businesses closing down.
Territorial Councillor Remi Williams said he developed confidence in Daniel Gibbs due to the stance he has taken. "Daniel is one person who stood up to the president and senator he always fought for his shoes. He was not one of them that did not sit back. Gibbs has shown leadership and has shown that he could take decisions regardless of what others may think." Williams said because of the leadership skills Gibbs has shown is the reason for him to be part of the movement. The territorial councillor said the COM lacks leadership since the president of the COM Frantz Gumbs is not able to take decisions fearing for those who will get hurt. Williams made clear that he does not want anyone to feel that they have decided to step aside because of the waterfront project. He said they simply believe enough is enough and they have decided to take stand.
Also sharing the same concerns were territorial councillor Annette Philips. She said somehow the president and the leadership of the UPP somehow seems to forget how and why they were elected. They also seem to forget the potentials in the other councillors especially the two first vice presidents who were evicted from the majority. Gibbs she said never failed to communicate with any of the councillors. Phillips said whenever Gibbs worked on anything he was always prepared and it is a total disgrace for the president and senator to look at him as someone who caused the conflicts or a problem to the group. Philips said they have had enough since decisions are being taken without them which hinges on democracy. She stressed that there is no team work in the UPP and she felt that St. Martin has lost a lot of time in fulfilling their mandate to the youths.
The group further explained that when they expressed their opinion and did not follow what the president and senator wanted then they were victimized. Those that were victims of the government are Marthe Ogoundele Tessi, Daniel Gibbs and Jean David Richardson. Richardson said when he spoke out against the ills of this community and how the management of the COM works he was personally attacked by the system. Confirming the victimization was territorial councillor Remi Williams who said that if someone looks at how the portfolios were distributed they will see that they were left out which means that they were all victimized.
Marigot:--- Territorial councilor Jean David Richardson told reporters on Saturday that the Collectivity has hired some 500 persons in the last three years. Richardson felt that hiring so many people was irresponsible since the Collectivity seems to be having financial problems and there is constant need for St. Martin to approach the State for monies to pay its bills. The councilor felt that if the COM and its government had taken the time to listen to the socio-professionel and the community councils then those persons and more could have been hired by the private sector. Revamping the economy would definitely attract more business to the French side of the island which would have ultimately created more jobs in the private sector.
However, what is amazing is that the Chamber Regional de Comptes in its annual report of 2002 advised that the then commune of St. Martin should not hire anymore persons since the commune was not able to balance its budget for years and was having an enormous deficit. St. Martin was basically in the red which according the Chamber Regional de Comptes was not normal. The commune at the time had outdone its budget on hiring more people.
The report by the Chamber Regional de Comptes was even used against St. Martin when the local politicians were pursuing a change of status, but after some clever politicians and administrators shifted some figures and creating an EPIC for the water deficit, the status change was granted. However, the COM is still paying the debts that were created over the years by the then commune.
While several politicians felt article 74 was the best thing to happen for St. Martin, because according to them they would have been able to get more monies. That definitely did not happen because the senator on several occasions kept saying he is the one going behind the State to get more monies so the COM can pay its bills mainly salaries. Senator Fleming was once described as the leader with long arms when it comes to getting favors from the State. Former first vice president Marthe Ogoundele Tessi had said this during her first year in office when the senator managed to convince the State in 2009 to give St. Martin the Octroi de Mer funds for that year.
However, the brighter side of this status change did allow local politicians to get new titles like president and senator while the councilors managed to take some more monies as their indemnity. While the island has lost tremendous amount of monies, and the State is no longer responsible for giving the island tax monies whether or not it was collected neither can the State or the department of Guadeloupe take the blame for our shortfalls.
Ever since St. Martin achieved its status the island has lost an enormous amount of monies that it once had when the island was under the department. Funds like the Octroi de mer, the taxe sur la fortune, the taxe foncier, taxe habitation no longer come to St. Martin. What is clear is that the bills of the Collectivity have increased ever since the status has changed. They inherited the expenses that the commune left behind with additional salaries for the 500 persons whom they hired.
Mayor Albert Fleming on July 14 2007 warned St. Martin and its people to prepare for the hardships that lie ahead. Mayor Fleming said back then the politicians did not know what they were getting into when they sought a change of status.
Three years later the people of this great nation are now seeing what the former Mayor saw years ago.
On November 11, 2010, Senator Louis Constant Fleming told SMN News he was busy negotiating with the State to get an advancement of 8 million Euros so that the COM could pay its employees for the end of year that money he said was on its way to the island coffers. Amazingly, SMN News learnt that while the COM hired 500 people to work, many of them have "la contract de droit privee" which means no one not even the elected councilors know what their salaries and other benefits are. The only person that signs off on the "contract de driot privee" is the President. The qualifications of these persons for example the DGS is sealed along with his contract. How much he makes for the excellent management of the COM remained sealed to the territorial council and the people of St. Martin.
Territorial councilors are asked to approve budgets but they do not know how the people's monies are spent. Many of them vote in favor of these budgets without questioning how and where the money that is allotted to the President's cabinet is spent.
SMN News recently learnt that the COM spent over three (3) million Euros on its elected officials. Sources say monies were used to buy cars, laptops, cellular (Blackberries) and Ipad for the certain elected officials while the schools lack basic materials.
The new movement announced last Saturday that they would be requesting an audit of the COM finances as a news entity we do hope measures are taken by this group to secure the audit and its results so the people of St. Martin to see how their monies were spent over the last three years.
Sucker Garden:--- The detectives department are busy investigating a gruesome robbery which took place on Monday evening in Sucker Garden. The victims told police that three masked men knocked on their door just after 6pm and when they responded to the door they were gun butted, severely beaten and robbed.
When SMN News visited the family on Tuesday the male victim pointed out at least 13 spots on his head where he was beaten. He said the bandits spent over two hours in his house beating him and no one in the neighbourhood saw or heard anything. Furthermore, he claimed that he lost a huge amount of jewellery and monies. The bandits ransacked the home and even threatened to burn the couple alive if they did not hand over all their valuables.
The victims said it appeared as though they were targeted because when the robbers entered the house they asked for the monies he withdrew from the bank a few days ago. He also confirmed that he sold a car last week and that he had a large amount of money home as his wife was scheduled to travel soon.
Visibly shaken by the ordeal the victim said he would have to think about how to protect himself because he works seven days a week from morning to night so that he could provide for his family. Police is yet to release any information on this robbery.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto says Sint Maarten demands the release and transfer of Naf. 43 million in Turnover Tax (ToT) owed to the island by the former Central Government of the Netherlands Antilles.
This was a point pressed heavily during a meeting between the Committee for Financial Supervision CFT and the Council of Ministers on Thursday morning.
Finance Minister Hiro Shigemoto said the nation is not begging, but demanding its monies. This outstanding sum would greatly help with the erasing of some of the deficit from the 2010 budget and the draft 2011 budget. The draft budget has a Naf. 130 million deficit that government is working on reducing.
The outstanding ToT will cover the Naf. 8.8 million total deficit for the 2010 and put a dent into the deficit for next year.
The outstanding ToT has to be paid out by the Executing Committee ("vereffeningscommissie") for the Division of Assets and Liabilities. Through this committee, the former Antillean Director of Finance needs to be empowered to pay the outstanding bills.
The Naf. 43 million is derived from Sint Maarten's one per cent of the three per cent ToT levied on the island, but was collected by the Central Government up to October 9, 2010.
"Sint Maarten is held to the letter of the laws and agreements signed, but other entities aren't and are allowed to abuse the laws to the detriment of the nation. The country started with a deficit due to neglect and abuse from the former Netherlands Antilles," the minister said.
The island's financial situation with consequences of the mandatory Plans of Approach to finance and costs incurred due to the transition from Island Territory to country were explained to the CFT by the finance minister. These factors have to be combined with the upgrading of the neglected Central Government Departments, another financial consequence.
Thursday's meeting was the first between the CFT and the Council of Ministers. CFT made a presentation about its financial supervisory role and that of the Finance Minister.
The execution of budget 2010 and the delivery of quarterly reports, the continued preparation of the 2011 budget were discussed during the meeting.
Shigemoto informed the CFT that annual accounts for 2010 will delivered to CFT on January 1, 2011
The Financial Management Improvement Project that government had embarked on several months ago should be back on track as per January 1, 2011.
Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) has announced that registration for all events for Carnival 2011 will be open as of tomorrow, Wednesday, December 1, 2010. Registration for booth holders will also open tomorrow. All registration forms can be collected inside the Government Administration Building at the security checkpoint. Once filled out, the forms should be returned to the same location.
Interested persons can register for the Junior Calypso & Road march Competition, Junior Queen Show, Senior Queen Show, Senior Road march competition, Band-O-Rama, Junior Carnival Parade, Grand Carnival Parade, Senior Calypso Competition, Band of the Year and the Youth Extravaganza. SCDF President Stuart Johnson urged interested participants to register early in order to be fully prepared for the respective events. "We have started early this year with many aspects of Carnival. The dates for Carnival 2011 were announced since June this year, we have been working diligently behind the scenes to get everything ready. Now we need
those persons interested in being part of Carnival 2011 to register," he said.
With regards to the booth holders, Johnson reminded the returning booth holders that they too should register in time. If they are not registered, he said, the SCDF has a long waiting list of persons eager to get a booth. "We always give returning booth holders the first option, but they too should register early to avoid any misunderstanding," he added. Persons with questions can contact SCDF by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or calling 5220509 or 5225133.
Philipsburg:--- The UFA president and advisor has sent a letter to the Minister of Labour Maria Buncamper Molanus requesting the laws that govern the Government Mediator in order for them to know the rules and regulation of the Mediator and the power of the Mediator. The UFA said in their letter that they would like to have the laws for the labor unions to comply with, especially the rules and regulations and also the policies that govern the Mediator of St. Maarten. St. Maarten never had an official Mediator, for that reason we are requesting the above mention and all details that govern the Mediator of St. Maarten. The letter which was signed by the President of the UFA Francis Ollivachi and the advisor to the UFA Willy Haize reminded the Minister of Labor Maria Buncamper Molanus that there are penal codes penalties and procedures towards the parties before any government mediator and before any extraordinary mediator can be officially appointed.
The UFA also sent a second letter to the Minister outlining some of the issues between UFA and the Acting Mediator Kenneth Lopes. The UFA in their letter said they were having serious problems with the mediator in the past which they said still exists, they said they also sent a letter to the Minister in the past but to date she has not replied.
The UFA said based on newspaper articles they learnt that the Minister was going to appoint a mediator in October which did not happen and just recently she announced that she has extended the contract for the acting mediator for an additional six months.
The UFA states that it was mentioned that the Mediator has called a referendum with GEBE employees concerning the WIHCU and no government mediator name was mentioned in that advertisement. That showed he is guilty of something. He knows that the Health Care union does not qualify to represent the workers and the UFA will participate because the referendum is between Mr. Brooks and UFA's proposal.
The UFA said they have a problem with people who do not respect the the wishes of the workers that is why they requested the referendum.
They said at this referendum the Minister would be able to get a clear picture of the issues they are having with the Lopes furthermore if Lopes loses then he will have to step down as mediator. If Mr. Lopes wins then the UFA advisor Willy Haize will step down.
The UFA went on to say in their letter that if Lopes loses then the Minister would have to step down as Minister of Labour since that would mean that the workers have placed a vote of non confidence in the Minister. "This is all about transparency. Furthermore, we clearly stated that we had a deadlock with Atrium and Goddard catering which was clearly signed by Mr. Lopes." Now how can he mediate especially with those two companies that he has declared a deadlock. Did you investigate the labor problems between the UFA and Acting Government Mediator Mr. Lopes? What were your results if such had been done? You are appointing Mr. Lopes as the Government Mediator without taking consideration if indeed the statement of the workers is correct or not correct.
Based on the above mention UFA on behalf the workers would like a referendum to be held with all the private sector companies to determine if the workers agree for Mr. Lopes to be Government Mediator for St Maarten in order for justice to prevail and in order to establish democracy. In the hearing of UFA and Menzies it was stated verbally that if one party don't agree with Mr. Lopes, the judge said we have to get a neutral mediator and that is why Mr. Philips was appointed as Extraordinary Mediator because the UFA told the courts that Mr. Lopes was not neutral. Then later when the UFA had the injunction against the Federal Government the judge stated that if one party doesn't have confidence in the Mediator then he cannot mediate. You are overruling the court hearing with UFA and Menzies and the injunction between the UFA and the Government of the Netherlands Antilles and the judge has referred us to the Administration court the letter states.
Philipsburg:--- The management of the HIV/AIDS management team made several presentations on December 1 to mark the commemoration of Worlds Aids Day 2010. The theme for this year project leader Suzette Moses said is Universal Access and Human Rights with the sub theme "light for rights."
Moses said for the past two years the focus of the campaign has been leadership but this year they will focus on universal access and human rights while the emphasis for the next year will be placed on the human rights aspects of the joint theme. She said the focus for human rights is particularly timing for St. Maarten as they move to the final year of the red campaign. The intention is to focus on stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS.
Making their presentations on this World AIDS Day were Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams, Minister of Health Maria Buncamper Molanus and the General Secretary Joireen Wuite.
Philipsburg:--- Minister of Economic Affairs Franklin Meyers told members of the media on Wednesday during the council of ministers press briefing that he made a grave mistake when he announced that employers should pay their workers 300% for working on St. Maarten's Day. Minister Meyers said he made a special ministerial decree to allow the stores in Philipsburg to open on St. Maarten's Day due to the economic situation. He said in the decree he said that if employees chose to work they would be compensated 300% however, that was mistake for which he apologized to both the workers and the employers.
He said while he has the power to open the stores through Ministerial decree he has no power on how much workers are to be paid. Meyers said that must be regulated by Parliament which has to be regulated by law; currently the law states that workers who work on public holidays are to be paid 200% to 250% for some cases. Workers who worked on St. Maarten Day should not expect nothing more than that amount Meyers said for the workers to get 300% a parliamentary procedure was necessary and it was not done. The Minister apologized for the error to which he has taken full responsibility. He said country status is new to everyone including the council of ministers and as such this is a learning process. The Minister said before making such announcements in the future and if such a decision has to be taken he will make sure the necessary parliamentary procedures are in place. He made clear that allowing stores to open on St. Maarten's Day was something he did in good faith to stimulate the economy. In the meantime, workers of the Princess Juliana International Airport has sent a letter to the management of PJIAE demanding that they be paid 300% for working on St. Maarten's Day. Asked about that the Minister said that the Ministerial Decree was for the Philipsburg area and not for all over the island. He said the airport and other workers who had to work on that day did not come into consideration in the Ministerial decree.
MARIGOT:--- The gendarmes have summoned two persons to court after they refused to follow orders from officers, rebellion and refusing to show documents, while issuing death threats to officers during an outrageous incident on December 1.
The gendarmes stated in a press release that four gendarmes had stopped a motor cycle rider when they noticed the passenger was not wearing a helmet. The rider allegedly refused to show his documents and to cooperate with the officers. According to the Gendarmerie, tempers flared and the gendarmes were surrounded by a hostile crowd. At some point after the situation was brought under control a 20 year old man was arrested for making racist remarks against the gendarmes, while the rider of the motor cycle a 33 year old man was arrested the following day for rebelling against authorities violently, making racist remarks towards the gendarmes. The suspect also did not have a driver's license and registration plates for his motor cycle.
Philipsburg:--- The nine Cuban nationals that are behind bars might be released as early as Monday from police custody confirmed Minister of Justice Roland Duncan. The Minister said he already began discussions with Pastor Wycliffe Smith who will be responsible for the Cubans when they are released.
Minister Duncan said the discussions are in its initial stages and as soon as Pastor Smith has a location for the Cubans to stay they will be released from police custody. Details as to where and how often the Cubans must report to police still has to be worked out, the Minister said he will also give the Cubans temporary residence permits since they might be called as witnesses in a criminal case.
Minister Duncan said his office is busy working on the asylum request which was submitted last week by their lawyer. The nine Cubans were arrested some weeks ago in a taxi as they were about to board a boat to leave St. Maarten to Miami. The taxi driver is still in police custody as he is the main suspect in the human trafficking case.
Philipsburg: --- Members of the RST were seen on Monday making some major arrests of various suspects on Cole Bay Hill. So far it is not clear how many suspects were arrested. However, SMN News learnt that the arrests has to do with the human smuggling case that is being investigated. SMN News further learnt that the investigation is being handled by the RST and Marechaussees.
Press prosecutor Rienk Mud confirmed that some arrests were made in the vicinity of 1234 and more store. However, Mud said he is not able to divulge any information on which case the suspects were arrested. The press prosecutor also said he could not say exactly how many persons were arrested.
Philipsburg:--- The nine Cubans that were arrested some four weeks ago in a Dutch taxi as victims of human smuggling were released from police custody on Tuesday. The release came one week after Attorney at law Remko Stomp filed an injunction with the court of first instance to have his clients released from police custody. Stomp also filed a petition with the Minister of Justice seeking asylum for all nine Cubans nationals who can face the death penalty if they were deported back to Cuba.
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday shortly before the release Minister of Justice Roland Duncan said the Cubans will not be deported back the Cuba. Duncan said his Ministry would give the Cubans equal opportunity to find work and living accommodations on St. Maarten if they want to make St. Maarten their home. Duncan said Stomp needs to send an individual requests for each of the Cubans before his office can begin working on the request. He said Stomp made a list with the names of the nine people and submitted one request. "Every case or person has to be dealt with separately as I have to see on what grounds they requested asylum." Duncan said while he took the decision not to deport the Cubans government will not be financially responsible for their stay on St. Maarten. He said the Christian council has stepped forward and they are the ones who would be working out their living accommodation on St. Maarten.
The Minister said the only obligation the Cubans have right now is to report to law enforcement as they may be good witnesses in the human smuggling case that is currently being investigated. In the meantime, press prosecutor Rienk Mud said his office would be requesting that the Cubans be heard by the investigating judge as early as possible. Mud said the prosecutor's office wants to make sure these witnesses are heard because by the time the case goes to court they might not be found.
Philipsburg:--- Prime Minister and Leader of the Democratic Party Sarah Wescot Williams admitted to reporters on Wednesday that she was interviewed by American law enforcement agencies about the Carib News Conference that was held on St. Maarten in the year 2008. While not divulging any information about the content of the interview Wescot Williams made clear that government is not an object in the ongoing investigations. Minister of Justice Roland Duncan said that the Prime Minister was interviewed based on a treaty that existed between the United States and the Kingdom. He said parties agreed to assist each other in investigations and when the Prime Minister was asked she responded graciously.
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Philipsburg:--- While the Ombudsman Dr. Nilda Arduin has great understanding for the citizens who are anxious to file their complaints against government bodies and or civil servants, the people will not be served with yet another entity that would not be able to function properly due to not being equipped to deliver continuous and quality service as is in general the complaint about the Rent Committee due to lack of meeting space. The community will certainly not be served by a High College of State, which is less equipped and organized than the institutions it has to investigate, and decide on their (procedural) behavior such as the Rent Committee.
The Ordinance on the Ombudsman provides that the Ombudsman establishes the work procedures and the set up of the Bureau, while Parliament establishes the quantity and quality of the positions of the Bureau after consultation with the Ombudsman. In the absence of a turn-key operation, it should be obvious that the work of the Ombudsman has just begun by drafting of a formation plan, investigation and office policies, work procedures and the like to comply with the basic requirements of the law. The letter of the law and legal provisions do not establish the actual operations of the Ombudsman.
Can anyone imagine a Chief of Police operating without a police force? Or a Prosecutor conducting an investigation without procedural rules and regulations to be followed? What about a judge administering justice without a support staff, or a space to hear parties or witnesses?
The primary task of the Ombudsman established by law is to investigate complaints against the conduct of government bodies and civil servants, take decisions on the complaints filed, intervene or mediate, and present proposals to correct behavior or procedures. The Ombudsman is according to the law however not authorized to investigate a complaint if it pertains a matter of general policy of the government body, general interest, or regarding a behavior which is already being handled through an administrative, civil or criminal procedure, or covered by an administrative decision in the case.
Media reports stating that the Ombudsman Arduin refuses to step in the Buncamper-case, which incensed a lawyer, indicate that the well staffed and equipped prosecutor's office is taking its time to properly study the case. Investigation and subsequent prosecution of the Minister according to the law requires the approval of the Attorney General, which approval requires the approval of the Common Court of Justice. This would exclude the Ombudsman of investigating the case. It should be noted that mentioned bodies are guided by defined procedures, rules and regulations to be followed, and executed by support staff. It behooves a serious and responsible Ombudsman, for whom the procedures, rules and regulations, are yet to be established, and does not have a support staff, to act wisely and not to jump at each and every call to randomly investigate. The rightful question of the community will then be: Investigate based on which procedural rules and regulations?
Though the Constitution provides that the new country Sint Maarten will have an Ombudsman, who has fortunately already been appointed, the ground work yet has to be done; investigation policies and procedures drafted, support staff employed, office space secured and equipped to serve the public.
While Sint Maarten took over the Codes on Civil, Administrative and Criminal Procedures of the Netherlands Antilles, the investigation and decision-making procedures, and more of the Ombudsman and the Bureau are yet to be drafted by the first appointed Ombudsman. This is what Dr. Arduin has been doing, and is presently engaged in, next to organizing office space, support staff and the entire operation of the Bureau to receive the public.
The Rent Committee was established in the sixties, more than forty years ago, and to date cannot provide continuous service to the public of Sint Maarten due to lack of an adequate location. Sint Maarten does not need yet another institution, that fails the expectations of the people. As such understanding and patience is required and requested from the citizens, who are best served by a properly operating Ombudsman Bureau. The Ombudsman Dr. Arduin is committed to deliver this, and is diligently at work to put matters in place. Dr. Arduin emphasized that she intends to provide her services in a 'civilized way', and continues to welcome the public's input to determine the needs of the citizens. Dr. Arduin is aware that the requirements to file a complaint with the Ombudsman pursuant to the law are not yet known by all citizens, but in the meantime these will be constantly communicated to the public. One of such requirements is that the government entity or civil servant against whom a complaint is launched, should be informed accordingly prior to filing a complaint with the Ombudsman.
The public is advised to continue to follow the media for updates of the Ombudsman, and information about when the Bureau will be open to file complaints.
Belvedere:--- GEBE donated 100 footballs to the St. Maarten Soccer Educational Foundation to kick off their organization's 3rd annual football tournament on the Cruyff Court in Belvedere on December 11, 2010. The footballs are a limited edition 50 Years ball with a unique design reflecting the company's 50 year celebration. GEBE community policy focuses specially on the youth, schools, sports and seniors.
Philipsburg:--- Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto met on Monday with the soon to be established New Tax Reform Committee to discuss a plan of approach for the reform of the countries tax system by 2012.
Minister Shigemoto said the meeting that took place is part of the austerity package that was approved by the Council of Ministers in order to develop a tax system that takes into consideration the current economy.
"The country is at the crossroads. We have to have a balanced budget; and in order to balance that budget, we had to present an austerity package that includes over Naf.30 million in costs cutting measures and raising revenues by over Naf.40 million.
"Besides the aforementioned, stakeholders that I have consulted with to date have been informed that the increase in Turn over Tax is a temporary measure which would allow us over the next 12-months to develop a tax system that is tailored made to our socio-economic development," Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto explained on Monday.
The meeting was organized to outline the steps to be taken and the involvement of stakeholders in the process.
"We want a tax system that is fair, simple, and progressive. The aim is to increase compliance as well. With our new tax system, there are many expectations in the business community as well as for the general public to have an efficient and effective system in place that covers our public sector expenses and services rendered to the community.
"It is imperative that the new system is in line with agreements made with Kingdom partners. Transparency of this process is key and Government wants as large a consultation as possible. The Government website (www.sintmaartengov.org) will be an avenue to be used to allow members of the public to provide suggestions about the new tax system for the country," Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto said on Monday.
The Department of Fiscal Affairs has prepared a plan of approach which will guide the process.
Some of the issues to be dealt with are also the relationship with the North side of the island where double taxation is concerned and the exchange of information with the neighbouring islands.
"There is no ideal tax system, but with the input of all stakeholders, unions, business sector and members of the community, I am very confident that we will come up with a system that best suites our needs and requirements as a country," Minister Shigemoto concluded.
Members of the New Tax Reform Committee are Acting Secretary General of Finance Sherry Hazel, Senior Policy Advisor Ruth Boyrard-Brewster, Cedris Josepa and Sissy Fung from Fiscal Affairs and External Fiscal Attorney Judith Brewster, Inspectorate of Taxes Maria Bass, Island Receiver Minerva Gumbs, Economic Affairs Dijkstra, and representing the Head of Finance Cassandra Royer-Wilson.
Cay Hill:--- The St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) is the only hospital in Country St. Maarten and it is of prime importance that we provide correct and proper information to the public. For some weeks now certain individuals and entities are spreading insinuations and gossip about the hospital. The Supervisory Council truly regrets this and feels it as its responsibility to set the record straight by providing facts and background information.
First of all SMMC functions within a structure, governed by its Articles of Incorporation, in accordance with the Law on health institutions and other laws applicable in St. Maarten, including the Corporate Governance Act. In compliance with the law the SMMC has two governing bodies: the Board of Directors supervised by the Supervisory Council. The daily operations, the quality of care provided and the financial results are controlled or inspected by the internal Audit Committee, the independent Inspectorate of Health and an independent external auditor. There is also an independent Patient Complaint Committee. The SMMC is an open and transparent organization. We publish an annual report, including our financial statements, as required by law. These documents are public documents and controlled by the external accountant. We are accountable and responsible and we hold our laws high and upfront. If and when we make mistakes we correct them or address them through the proper channels. For the record we state that there is a system of control and supervision and of checks and balances in place at the SMMC.
Therefore the false statements of the SMMC having a General Director with several hats and several salaries and that he is "wheeling and dealing" and using the hospital for his own benefit is impossible and as such utter nonsense. One can only conclude that these false statements are meant to harm the good name and reputation of the SMMC and its General Director, Dr. George Scot.
Secondly, it should be stated for the record that since September 2009 SMMC has requested the mediation of the Labor Mediator Mr. Lopes in order to expedite the conclusion of the new CLA for our employees. On numerous occasions the Union, WIHCU, has been cancelling scheduled meetings. After lengthy negotiations the SMMC has submitted on July 15, 2010 a totally revised and improved CLA proposal to the Union. We are still waiting on their reaction conform the agreement made in the presence of the Government Mediator and their preparedness to continue and finalize the CLA negotiations for the benefit of our employees. Since August 15, 2010, as a responsible employer, we have been pressing all parties concerned to continue and finalize the CLA negotiations. We make a public appeal to the President of the WIHCU, Mr Julian Lynch, to rejoin the SMMC at the negotiation table presided by the mediator.
The latest incident regarding the "dispute" between two specialists is being handled in accordance with the established legal structure within the SMMC and Country St. Maarten. The Medical Staff of the SMMC, which is presided over by Dr. F. Holiday, is handling this issue. Their findings and recommendations will be presented to the General Director of the SMMC. According to the media Dr. Petit, who is a party in this dispute, has chosen to file a complaint with the police. Let justice take its course.
For the record, this incident has also been investigated by the Inspector of Health of St. Maarten who has confirmed by letter that the SMMC has not violated any law nor did the General Director act irresponsible or careless as has been insinuated in the media.
The Supervisory Council makes a strong appeal to all stakeholders in the Health Care Sector and the Community at large to work together in the continuous upgrading of safe and high quality of Health Care, which is to the benefit of everyone. The media has an important and educational role in our new Country and the workers in the media should be properly informed so they can in turn inform the public factually and unbiased. In a bid to share more in depth the facts related to the current statements we will invite the media to a press conference in which we will provide the relevant information and the proper documentation regarding the functioning of the SMMC.
In closing we wish to use this opportunity, as we approach the end of the year, to express our best wishes to the people of St. Maarten and that one and all have a safe and blessed Christmas and prosperous 2011. SMMC reiterates its commitment to you to continue ensuring safe, quality health care for the people of St. Maarten.
Philipsburg:--- Minister of Labour and Health Maria Buncamper Molanus and her husband Claudius Buncamper has a lot of explanations to give to the people of St. Maarten regarding the sale of the economic ownership of the long lease they received on April 1, 2008 "All Fools Day."
Unbelievable, but all this monkey business between the former executive council and the Buncampers was concocted on April 1 2008 "All Fools Day," the irony of all ironies.
The Buncampers received their long lease on April 1 2008 for a property they were subleasing two weeks before they obtained their first one year lease on January 1 2005 to St. Maarten Building Supplies.
Three years later the Buncampers became wiser and decided that they would make sure they get the long lease of the property while there were legal battles ongoing on who should get the long lease.
When the Buncampers obtained the long lease they did not stop there, they decided to
manipulate the legal terms of the lease by selling the economic value of the property for a whopping USD 3. 000, 000, 00 and granting the buyer a mortgage to the value of USD 2.000.000, 00. In reality article (e) of the long lease states that the lessee is not authorized to transfer or sub-lease (sublet) the rights of the long lease. "Economic Ownership is the legal loophole to circumvent this clause because (1) the rights of the long lease were not transferred, (2) they did no sublet or sublease since economic ownership is not a lease, but the end result is the same as an outright sale."
While there is a legal loophole in the long lease contract, it behoves the leader of the Democratic Party now Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams to tell the people of St. Maarten how ethical this is and if any other former commissioners had done the same as the Buncampers and how is good governance reflected in these shady transactions. The Prime Minister should also tell the people (voters) of St. Maarten why the Democratic Party government that she led gave the Buncampers the yearly lease and long lease when she knew Elmer Moses Mardenborough had submitted an application for long lease since April 21 1995.
We are forced to be reminded of a statement former Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards made when he said Lt. Governors are like the Sherriff among the cowboys.
According the deed made by notary Francis Edgar Gijbertha, the Buncampers received a down payment of USD 1,631,297.00 from the buyer Theodore Oniel Walters, managing director of ECO GREEN N.V. Walters has committed himself to paying USD 18,750 monthly installments beginning January 2009. The buyer in this case would also have to live with the mistake which has "ninety (73) consecutive monthly installments."
The irony in this "All Fools Day" lease leaves us to question the Buncampers on whether or not they received this sum of money or are they in the business of laundering money if so for whom are they fronting. Should reporters now look for the Buncampers tax declaration to see if they declared the USD 1, 631, 297.00 as income tax or is the Minister willing to make that available to the people of St. Maarten after all good governance is built upon transparency.
We believe Minister Buncamper Molanus should tell us exactly what transpired on All Fools Day 2008 because on Sunday the Minister said "I did not sell any long lease land for any amount of money," she went on to say at no time she used her office to benefit her or her family and certainly not in this case.
The mortgage clause in the deed SMN News obtained seems rather technical, stating that the seller (Buncampers) will grant the buyer (Eco Green) a mortgage on the long lease which the seller still holds in the event the court should condemn the seller to pay the buyer damages because the seller failed to comply with some unspecified conditions, seems more like a catch all clause.
SMN News obtained copies of the contracts at the Kadaster's office which is posted below for your reading pleasure. While there have been numerous articles on the sale of the economic value of the long lease and the denial from Minister Buncamper Molanus we believe our readers have a right to know what is happening in our country, they also need to know who our leaders are and the example they are setting for the youths of St. Maarten. The prosecutor's office said they received some documents but are yet to take a decision on whether or not to investigate. Let us hope with the releasing of these documents the prosecutor's office would by then tell us exactly what they intend to do with the documents they received.
Signature on first lease—
SMN News posted the first lease the Buncampers received from government on Sunday so that our readers could see for themselves that a lease was granted to the former commissioner and her husband Claudius Buncamper who is a senior civil servant. While the document bears the name of the former Lt. Governor of St. Maarten Franklyn Richards we realised that the signature on the document did not match the signature of Franklyn Richards. Our research shows that former Acting Lt. Governor Mathias Voges (current Minister of Plenipotentiary appointed by the Democratic Party) signed that document when Richards was probably off island.
The Deed of Land Transfer from the Buncampers to Eco Green.
The Kadaster Extract
The Long Lease the Buncampers obtained on All Fools Day 2008
Elmer Mardenborough's official request for the Long Lease.
The St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) is looking for young ladies to participate in the Junior and Senior Carnival Queen Pageants. The foundation is putting extra effort into re-establishing the two local events as premier activities for Carnival 2011.
"Over the past two years or so the excitement around our two local pageants has waned somewhat for a number of reasons," President of the SCDF Stuart Johnson said. "One of those reasons is of course what we offer as prizes for the pageants and the marketing of the two shows was not where it should have been. We intend to change that for Carnival 2011," he added.
Interested young ladies for the Junior Carnival Queen Pageant should be between the ages of 7 and 12 years. The show starts with an opening dance followed by the segments that will be judged: introduction, talent and Carnival costume.
The format of the Senior show differs a little. It also starts with a performance, followed by the introduction segment, talent, swimwear, Carnival costume and evening wear. Young ladies interested in the Senior show should be between 17 and 25 years of age, unmarried with no children.
"We are working on an incredible prize for both the Junior and Senior Queens as well as the runner-ups. We are doing our utmost to bring back the excitement and class of the events," Johnson said, adding that registration forms for both shows can be collected at the security post inside the Government Administration Building.
Persons with questions can contact SCDF by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or calling 5220509.
Philipsburg:--- The deed that was drafted by notary Francis Edgar Gijsbertha on December 19 2008 between Claudius and Maria Buncamper and ECO GREEN is not registered at the Kadaster's office says acting director Clemens Roos. SMN News interviewed Roos on Thursday when we were provided with an updated copy of an updated extract on Wednesday night. The Kadaster extract we were given on Tuesday is no longer valid since changes were made to the document on Kingdom Day (December 15th 2010). Interestingly the Kadaster's Office no longer has trace of the extract they issued to us on Tuesday. Acting Director Clemens Roos said when changes are made to extracts it replaces the old information.
Roos explained that when he was contacted about the extract he realised that the document has an error which needed to be changed. Asked if the Kadaster's office is normally opened on holidays the acting director said that while they are closed to the public some of the personnel would go to work if necessary. "Making the change to documents is normal procedures, on several occasions notaries would contact us when their documents have errors. I want to make clear that the Kadaster's office is not involved in this matter." Asked if any politician or Minister contacted his office and requested that he make changes to the document. Roos said the Kadaster's Office is an independent foundation and no government entity is over them. He further explained that they work in accordance with the law and if anyone has questions as to why they made the changes on Kingdom Day 2010 and not since 2008 when the new policy was introduced they should contact him for clarifications. Roos said if the deed of the economic value is not registered then the burden of that deed cannot be on the extract.
Roos said the policy for the Kadaster office has changed since 2008 but the information from the old system was transferred to the new system and the changes can only be made when they are found. The acting director said the Kadaster's office does not recognise the sale of economic ownership and as such when notaries send those deeds for registration it is returned to them. He further explained that the ECO Green and Buncampers deed was sent back to Gijbertha early 2009 informing him that the sale of economic ownership is not registered since the information on the deed does not change. Roos said that the sale of economic ownership comes mostly from one notary which is Francis Gijsbertha and whenever they show up at the Kadaster's Office they are returned to him.
"However, those documents were scanned and this is how we have them here. The acting director explained that the deed that was submitted to the Kadaster's office but it was not signed off."
Updated Extract of the register at Kadaster's Office
Extract delivered on Tuesday 14th December, 2010
Marigot:--- Reliable information reaching SMN News on Friday states that a member of the opposition and leader of the Movement for the Advancement of the People (MAP) Louie Mussington has been elected as the new president of SEMSAMAR.
At a board meeting on Friday five of the twelve members postulated for the presidency seat. They are Annette Philips who received one(1) vote, Louis Jeffry two (2) votes, Simon Smadja two (2) votes while the new president elect Louie Mussington captured five (5) votes. In total ten members attended the meeting. Several efforts made by SMN News to contact the president elect on Friday evening were futile as Mussington did not answer his cellular phone.
The courts in Basse Terre has rendered its verdict in the injunction filed by ousted President Louis Constant Fleming on December 14 ordering the board of SEMSAMAR to recall the meeting to vote Constant Fleming out of his seat. Details on Friday's meeting are not readily available. SMN News will bring you more information as it becomes available.
PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Drs. Gracita Arrindell calls on members of society to reaffirm and commit to helping the most vulnerable in today's community, not only during the holiday season, but also throughout the entire year.
This is part of President of Parliament's message on International Human Solidarity Day, Monday, December 20, a day established by the United Nations (UN) calling on governments on the need for human solidarity as an initiative to fight against poverty.
According to the UN, people are also encouraged to debate on ways to promote solidarity and find innovative methods to help eradicate poverty.
"Solidarity is a union of people with similar interests or sympathies. Solidarity is a value and despite growing inequalities, everybody has a role to play. Let us reach out to those less fortunate, the sick, the poor and the elderly, those abused or discriminated against. We need to work together in solidarity and build a better community for all.
"Such a step starts with each one of us. Everybody playing a role will see less vulnerable people in our community," President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell said on Sunday.
On December 22, 2005, the UN General Assembly proclaimed that International Solidarity Day would take place on December 20 each year.
The event aimed to raise people's awareness of the importance of advancing the international development agenda and promoting global understanding of the value of human solidarity. The assembly felt that the promotion of a culture of solidarity and the spirit of sharing was important in combating poverty.
PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Drs. Gracita Arrindell announces that the Central Committee of Parliament will be meeting in public session on Tuesday, December 21 at 2.00pm in the A.C. Wathey Legislative Hall.
During the Central Committee meeting, Members of Parliament (MPs) will discuss the draft ordinance related to the 2011 national budget.
There are four parliamentary factions that form the Parliament of Sint Maarten, namely the United Peoples party (UP), Democratic Party (DP), Independent Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge and the National Alliance (NA).
Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten Nature Foundation recently restarted efforts to bring the island's SCUBA dive moorings up to speed before the official start of the tourist high season. Despite staff shortages and a limited operational budget, the Nature Foundation managed to re-install six dive moorings using underwater drilling equipment and replace an additional six which were cut by passing vessels. Dive moorings are used by dive boats to secure their vessels instead of dropping their anchors on the reef, which can damage sensitive coral reef habitat. Staff of the Saba Marine Park travelled to St. Maarten at the beginning of December to assist with underwater drilling work; "We would very much like to thank the staff of the Saba Conservation Foundation/ Saba Marine Park for coming over and giving us a hand with our mooring work and the Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance (DCNA) for supporting the exchange. It is good to see that the Nature Parks of the surrounding islands are giving each other the support they need to do their work despite a tight budget and being severely understaffed" commented Tadzio Bervoets, Nature Foundation Manager. The Nature Foundation also received help and support from the local dive centres through the free providing of air for underwater work, donations that went towards fuel for the boat, and logistical support in finding the proper locations to place the moorings. Generous support was also provided by Aquatic Solutions for allowing the use of their equipment, FKG Yacht Rigging and Marine Fabricating for equipment repairs and maintenance, Saba C-Transport/ Dawn II for shipping equipment between Saba and St. Maarten and Volunteer Diver Mr. Lucas Berman for his valuable time and expertise. Mooring work will continue in January with the continued maintenance and placement of dive moorings surrounding the island.
The St. Maarten Marine Park was established in June 1997 with funding from the Dutch World Wildlife Fund seeking to protect areas of important natural habitat unique to St. Maarten. The St. Maarten Marine Park is a voluntary protected area until official legislation has been passed offering it official protection. Tourist activities are concentrated on the south and eastern side of the island, where the dive sites Molly Beday, Pelican Rock, Hen and Chicks, and Cow and Calf as well as the Proselyte Reef Complex are located. These areas embody some of the last pristine marine locations on the island, with excellent diving. This area also constitutes an important breeding ground for marine birds, fish, sea turtles, queen conch and other marine life. Based on a recent Nature Foundation study the Coral Reefs surrounding St. Maarten contribute or have the potential of contributing USD $ $57, 586, 976 to the economy of the island, with visitors spending an estimated USD $9, 689, 625 on the local dive industry and associated services.
Philipsburg:--- As Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, I am proud that as of 10-10-2010 St Maarten has its own institution for the execution of the social and health insurances for our own people. This institution is named "Uitvoeringsorgaan Sociale en Ziektekosten Verzekeringen" which can be translated as the Executive Body for Social and Sickness Insurances.
From 10-10-2010 until the 31st of December 2010 the administration of the social and health insurances is being administrated by the SVB of Curacao, formally the SVB of the Netherlands Antilles.
Meanwhile under the supervision of the Interim Director of St. Maarten's own Executive Body, Mr. Dennis Richardson, everything is being prepared for the takeover of all responsibilities as of January 1st, 2011. St. Maarten's institution will be responsible for the execution of the social and health insurance rules and regulations, foremost of the AOV, AWW, OV, ZV, FZOG, AVBZ and Cessantia.
This means that our Ministry will be able to focus primarily on their policy making and legislative tasks: "the government at a distance so to speak". The reforms for our national health and national pension insurances are examples of the focus points of the Ministry.
This is a very special moment, because a new year is around the corner. With this announcement I would like to inform the people of St Maarten about the tremendous work that has been and is still being done by the Interim Director, his team, the members of the Supervisory Board, civil servants and of course the current SVB and BZV staff to allow for a smooth transition.
In cooperation with our Ministry and the SVB Curacao the executive body is able to maintain services and secure jobs for the people involved. Now the following phase starts. As of January 1st, 2011 all decisions concerning the social and health insurances will be made in St Maarten by the director of the Executive Body of St Maarten. The SVB Curacao has promised full cooperation and will assist with necessary services to transfer all activities to St Maarten. A transition team, set up by the Interim Director will take on all the challenges involved: implementation of the necessary information technology, transfer and training of staff, organizational changes, research into and the implementation of measures for service improvement and much more in order to be prepared for the new developments.
A lot has been done and still has to be done. However I am confident and as Minister of Public Health I congratulate the Interim Director and all the people involved in this transitional phase who strive to make a better and stronger and more service oriented organization for St Maarten.
Most important for now is that with all the work going on "behind the scenes" I can inform the people of St Maarten that the AOV, AWW, OV, ZV, AVBZ, FZOG and Cessentia will be executed as it is presently done. A special information session for the health care providers is scheduled to update them on the developments. For now no changes will be made in contracts and payments. All persons with a BZV/FZOG card or temporary letter maintain their healthcare or benefits. I would like to make it clear however to clients of SVB or BZV that are not entitled to care or benefits according to stipulations by law, that extra controls on cards or temporary letters by staff of the Executive Body on St Maarten will be applicable. Concerning the payment of premiums for employers there are no changes since as of 10-10-2010 only the AVBZ-payments are executed by the receivers office.
The current location of services to the public remains the same. For SVB services, clients are welcome at the W.J. Nisbeth Road # 1. For BZV services, clients are welcome at the A.T. Illidge Road # 56.
Philipsburg:--- After several short adjournments the discussion in the central committee which was called by the coalition government to discuss the draft 2011 budget got underway. Minister of finance Hiro Shigemoto made a presentation of the draft budget during his ellucidations.
Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams also gave an outline on how much money is budgeted for her department, mainly general affairs.
Members of the National Alliance faction made clear that they recieved the documents of the draft budget as well as the notification for the meeting which was scheduled for Tuesday on Friday.
Faction leader William Marlin also informed the chair that his faction did not receive the advice issued by the council of advice on the draft budget.
Member of Parliament Louis Laveist posed severe questions to Minister of finance regarding the increase of ToT by 66%. Laviest asked the Minister if he knew the prices of bread even though bread and other food items are exempted from the ToT increase.
Laveist pressed for answers from the Minister asking if he consulted the NGO, and stakeholders such as the unions when the Council of Ministers decided to approve the increase in turn over tax. The former commissioner of labour also wanted to know if government considered the minimum wage earners and single parents when they decided to increase the ToT from 3 to 5%.
More on the budget discussion can be heard on audio above.
GREAT BAY:--- The St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association picked up yesterday where Nagico Insurances left off by handing over a check to Soualiga Inn owner Maurice Gumbs for the accommodation of Chantel Prince, whose state of homelessness ended earlier this year.
Nagico CEO Imrad McSood Amjad sponsored the accommodation for Chantel for the past seven months. The client of the Mental Health Foundation was homeless and lived on the streets. Since she found a home at the Soualiga Inn on the Pondfill life has greatly improved for Chantel, thanks to the generous sponsorship of Nagico.
But as all good things come to an end, so did the sponsorship. The Mental Health Foundation is working hard on creating a day-care clinic in Cay Hill, where there will also be eight apartments available for clients of the foundation. Chantel Prince will get an apartment there, but until the facility is ready – somewhere in March of next year – she needs a roof over her head elsewhere.
Myriam Haar (the spouse of the managing editor of the Today Newspaper) has worked with and for Chantel as a volunteer ever since she met her through her work as interpreter at the courthouse. She got in touch with SHTA-president Emil Lee on Wednesday and her call for help was answered on the spot. The SHTA will pick up the tab for the next three months. And in case the Mental Health clinic in Cay Hill is not ready by March, SHTA board member Eveline Henriquez (Firgos Paper) will pay for Chantel's accommodation for another couple of months if necessary.
Yesterday afternoon the sponsors met at the Soualiga Inn. Chantel was not present to meet her new sponsor, because she was enjoying a Christmas dinner organized by the Mental Health Foundation. There was also a sad occasion to commemorate: the death of Patricia Brooks, who was also a client of the foundation, and who was shortlisted to get an apartment in the new facility.
Myriam Haar thanked the first sponsor for Chantel, Imrad McSood and handed him a gift basket and a copy of The Art of Racing in the Rain, a novel by Garth Stein about perseverance, love and never giving up. Eileen Healy gave a candle to Maurice Gumbs.
Haar also thanked Emil Lee and Eveline Henriquez for taking over the sponsorship.
The SHTA-President said that his association is committed to the improvement of life for the people in St. Maarten. "Taking care of members of our society who are unable to do it on their own is a responsibility of the government and the business community. We need to improve the quality of life for everybody. Prevention is also cheaper than cure."
In a sense we are making a quick commitment here today, Lee said. "But when you see people like Myriam who commit time and effort to help someone like Chantel, they need to be supported. I consider this as a great investment. If the government were more transparent, it could also help and probably get more compliance from its citizens by doing so."
Philipsburg:--- The police, detective and forensic department are busy investigating the circumstances surrounding a shooting spree on Boxing Day in the Fort Willem area. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said police recovered at least 43 spent shells on the scene but no one was hurt neither was any building destroyed with the gunshot spree.
Henson said the preliminary investigation has shown that the culprits involved in the shooting spree were probably firing shots in the air. Henson said the forensic department is sending out a severe warning to the general public informing them that this type of shooting spree is extremely dangerous because shots that are fired in the air comes back to the ground and it can injure or kill innocent people. "Bullets fired in the air fall back to the ground at very high speeds it can damage buildings or can cause bodily harm to persons that can be fatal."
The police spokesman is calling on residents of Fort Willem to assist the police in providing information on who are the culprits responsible for the shooting spree.
The police spokesman said the incident occurred around 11:00 pm on Boxing Day when residents of the area called them to notify them that several shots were being fired in the area. Henson said some of the shots were being fired from machine guns.
As the police patrol approached the scene of the incident the group of persons gathered there took off running in different directions. On the scene the patrols conducted an investigation which indicated that many shots were fired.
MARIGOT:--- A 21 year old man was arrested on Christmas day after he attempted to rob a businessman on Rue de Hollande. A press release from the gendarmerie states that the culprit entered the business place around 3:10pm waving a butcher knife at the businessman demanding money. According to the press release, when the proprietor refused to hand over money to the culprit he slashed the businessman on his arm.
Persons who witnessed the ordeal summoned the gendarmes who found the culprit in a nearby house hiding. Further investigations showed the suspect had robbed the businessman one week earlier but the businessman did not file an official report with the gendarmes.
Philipsburg:--- The Brooks Tower Accord (BTA) process which was initiated by former Minister of Justice of the Netherlands Antilles Magali Jacoba will come to an end on St. Maarten Thursday December 30th announced St. Maarten's Minister of Justice Roland Duncan.
Duncan told reporters at the weekly council of ministers press briefing that he addressed about two or three hundred persons around midnight as they queued up to be registered on Wednesday.
Duncan said the civil servants working on the BTA process worked up to about 9pm on Tuesday night and he has no idea on what time those workers would leave on Wednesday and Thursday night, thus making him very proud of the civil servants that are executing the process.
Minister Duncan said he cannot think of any place in the world let alone the Caribbean who have shown such tolerance in trying to assist people who came to the island by making them legal. The justice Minister further explained the BTA process started in 2009 and its finally coming to an end on Thursday December 30th 2010. The Minister said it is his hope that St. Maarten would not have to go through this process again as those persons who have been made legal can also contribute to the social aspects of the island on which they have lived and enjoyed.
Duncan said come 2011 the immigration controls will be structured, he said he is busy setting up a full fledge immigration and naturalization service which will have its own controllers, detectives and administration this department he said will control the borders structurally. The Minister said while he is not announcing how the raids and controls will be done he is making a call on all employers to legalise their workers. The Minister said much of the people who are rushing to get registered through the BTA are because their employers have refused to sign the guarantees and to cooperate with their workers. Duncan said he does not believe that these employers are not able to find qualified people on St. Maarten while they are have people working for them illegally who do not participate in the social system. "These people don't pay social security, they don't participate in the pension scheme, while some of them don't pay taxes." The employers need to understand that if they want to participate in any country it is not only about them getting rich but they must contribute back to society. Duncan said while many people are screaming about the increase in the Turn over Taxes, they should ask themselves how many people are participating by paying their dues and are helping to carry the load.
Let our Culture be identified through the eyes of one of our own one of the best in Steel pan and entertainment by executive director Arthur Lugisse
Steel Pan Master Isidore York "Mighty Dow"York a trip is being organized to Tallahassee for Dow's group ,brother Neville York and his Father Chester York for 2011...Our Steel Pan Talent need to be part of our sister city with Tallahassee exchange program.
An award plaque will be sent to be presented by the Minister of Culture Rhoda Arrindell on behalf of our foundation to Steel Pan Master Isidore York "Mighty Dow"York
Ebony Steel Orchestra's nineteenth annual steel pan Christmas concert entitled "Steel of Class" that was held in an elegant setting at The Westin Dawn Beach St. Maarten Resort and Spa's event hall Sunday night Dec26,2010 was a preview of what is yet to come for the 20th Anniversary 2011...Dow told me that his dream is to make his event an ongoing event to attract even tourist to the island the same way that JAZZ events does...and we are going to support him by promoting the event in the United States...AFTER TWO DECADES IT HAS BECOME PART OF OUR CULTURE AND SHOIULD BE RECOGNIZED AS SUCH.
We also have to realise that it's not by chance but by choice that York family has excelled in that area of Music....The Undisputed Royalty of the Steel Pan, the York family has been playing pan for decades. Learning from his famous father, Chester York, Isidore, better known as the Mighty Dow, has 10 or more recordings under his musical belt. With his Ebony Steel Orchestra Foundation, he also teaches pan to young musicians. Playing with his brother, Neville, they keep crowds on their feet with their infectious tropical rhythms on a regular bases...for the training of the youth to be taught this art form the TALLAHASSEE-ST.MAARTEN will be embarking on a fund raising drive to support the Ebony Steel Orchestra Foundation to help get some of our youth of the streets to be part of something positive that Public and Private sectors will be part of...I have 46 years in the music industry so I think I can offer some expertise and support in this area to becoming a firm part of our Culture and Heritage.
Suggested name for organization St.Maarten Federation for Cultural Heritage
One of TLH-SXMF focus this coming year 2011 is on Cultural Heritage.... CULTURE, COMMERCE AND COMMUNITY One of the greatest economic resource St. Maarten has is its "ability" to create, package and sell cultural tourism. TLH-SXMF and Carimerica's definition of cultural tourism is simply put: "cultural tourism involves community residents creating, packaging and selling products and services directly relevant to their individual, organizational and community development so that they and their guests/visitors may discover finer, grander and more enjoyable concepts of themselves". Entertainment has really not been given its grand role that it has played in our tourism package we need to step-up to the plate and create proper representation for all entertainers and music groups in St.Maarten...Country St.Maarten needs that now....July 1988 ...22 years ago I initiated music at Cheri's Café and changed the whole concept of tourism entertainment with a location that wine-dine and dance to a new art form...The first groups I placed at Cheri's Café were the Band Control, Ramon and the Family Brass, Double Channel, Mystic Roots and other entertainers today it has played a major role in St.Maarten tourism product...a lot of credit should also be given to Cheri for her constant efforts to promote the local art form. It is time for us to bring our entertainers together and have a location where they can perform as a local Musical Cultural Revue...King Beau Beau-Dow- King Timo-Mighty Brat and many other local artist and bands, let's give our entertains their flowers while they are alive...we have decease's musical hero's that has passed on like Mr. Larmony, Ray Antony Thomas both Senior and junior, Julio Wilson, Trumpeter Tony Thewet, Drummer Carlos Summersault, Play writer IAN VALZ, Guitar Player Alvin Hodge from Tonka's band Ages Trumpeter Butcher, Big Nell ,Ange, Bebe Flanders, Trumpeter Roy Richardson from the band Caribbean Kings from the French side just to name a few...we need to set up an association to represent the entertainment, music industry 2011 Country St.Maarten should make a positive difference. TLH-SXMF will offer the international platform for the organization to be represented locally and internationally. I call for all Entertainers, Artist, Bands to come together to make a difference in Country St.Maarten the time is now organize yourselves many SXM Students are returning home with the managerial skills to assist in that development we just need to start, what happens to an entertainer who has done this as his livelihood for years then gets sick where are his benefits...we need to talk to NAGICO for a policy that will benefit each entertainer for interruption of salary ,health and even death compensation for themselves and family.
Country St.Maarten should mean a new beginning a new start for areas where we failed 10 years ago when we tried to organize that same very area of interest but failed....now is the time....in all organizations respect at the top is needed and I think Steel Pan man Chester York, Organist Mario Brown and Trumpeter Bobby Vlaun should meet and take the lead with these...I will contribute in more ways than one. WE NEED SUPPORT FROM BOTH PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTORS....
Happy New Year 2011 to all... This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 850-391-3486
Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) is wasting no time as the new year breaks and will be meeting with stakeholders during the course of next week. "In the process of preparing for Carnival and before finalizing our schedule, we have to meet with the stakeholders," President of the SCDF Stuart Johnson said.
The SCDF will be meeting with service providers (Security, Sound etc) on Tuesday, January 4. On Wednesday January 5, the SCDF will meet with the band leaders at 6:00pm at the Legislative Hall in the Government Administration Building. That meeting will immediately be followed by a meeting for calypsonians at 7:00pm same venue.
On Thursday, January 6, the SCDF will meet with troupe leaders at 6:00pm at the Legislative Hall followed by a meeting with the booth holders at 7:00pm at the same venue. Johnson urged all stakeholders who have not yet registered for Carnival 2011 to do so before the meetings, although the possibility exists for them to register during the meeting.
Registration forms can be picked up at the security post inside the government administration building. "During the meeting we will outline stipulations for Carnival 2011 as well as be open for suggestions and recommendations of stakeholders. This is not a dictatorial foundation. We will listen and do our best to see if suggestions and/or recommendations are feasible in the best interest of Carnival," Johnson said.
"We need all stakeholders to be present for these meetings as we are striving to be on the same page with everyone involved in every facet of Carnival," he concluded. Anyone requiring additional information can email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 5220509.
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Philipsburg:--- On Wednesday December 29th at approximately 09:30 pm the Police central Dispatch received a call of a suspicious vehicle in the area of Victors Supermarket in Cole Bay. The description of the car was a small gray Chevrolet without any license plate in which three young men were driving.
The men inside this vehicle were all dressed in dark clothing and were behaving quite suspicious. A patrol from the Zero Tolerance team while driving on the Welfare road in the vicinity of Lee's Roadside Grill spotted the vehicle in question driving towards the Airport Boulevard.
The Zero Tolerance patrol decided to conduct a routine stop in order to establish the identity of the persons driving in this vehicle. The patrol ordered the driver of the car to stop however, he refused to do so and increased his speed. A high speed chase started through the areas of Beacon Hill, Maho Reef, Mullet Bay and Cupe Coy. In the Beacon Hill area one suspect jumped out of the car in his attempt to escape from the police however, was immediately apprehended by police. The other two suspects continued in their attempt to escape from the police. Meanwhile several other police patrols had joined the chase. In the Mullet Bay area a warning shot was fired but the driver did not stop and continued to flee towards the Low Lands with the intention to cross the border. A shot was then fired at the right front tire disabling the vehicle. Both occupants jumped out of the car and ran into the bushes next to Atlantis Casino. The area was immediately surrounded by several patrols at which time the Police K-9 went into the bushes to search for the suspects. When these suspects jumped out of the car one of them dropped a very old antique fire arm (a musket) on the ground.
This firearm was confiscated for further investigation. The search for the suspects lasted approximately an hour and a half without any results. As the search continued in the Mullet Bay area reports came in that the two suspects were being held at the security office of the Cupe Coy Hotel however, that one of the suspects had managed to escape and was running towards the border via the coast. The second suspect was immediately transported to the Philipsburg Police Station. A search for the third suspect continued in the dark of night but he managed to cross the border through the bushes. The Gendarmes were contacted and informed of the situation. The two suspects that are in custody are G.B. and S.B. and are both from the French side. The small gray vehicle was also confiscated and towed away for further investigation.
As the year ends we at SMN News had yet another difficult choice to make when it comes to selecting the person of the year. Looking back at who has made a significant contribution during their political career to St. Maarten within a very short period of time it was without no doubt that William Victor Marlin, leader of the National Alliance out did all others. He is the oldest politician that is still serving his country as a parliamentarian but he is the one that made sure that the Dutch took St. Maarten serious when negotiating the status change for St. Maarten. William Marlin made sure he secured the date 10/10/10 on September 30th 2009 during the RTC Meetings held there, one which the Dutch had to respect.
On June 8th 2009, William Marlin formed a coalition government with island council members Louie Laviest and Theo Heyliger when the Democratic Party Government fell. While being accused of entering office through the back door, William Marlin and his team went to work. One of his main goals was to give the people of St. Maarten what they asked for some ten years ago. A status change as being a country within the Netherlands.
St. Maarten and its people today can proudly say they have achieved what they asked for some ten years ago. While there were others who led the negotiating team for almost ten years they did not manage to get a date let alone a status change for St. Maarten. On several occasions, the people were told that St. Maarten was ready to take on its own affairs but when Marlin took office he discovered that there was much work to be done within a short period of time if he is to secure the change of status the people so badly wanted.
Marlin went into government on June 8th 2009 to October 5th 2010 but before leaving he made sure the final agreement was signed one week before he left office. It was a time when all politicians abandoned ship to campaign so that they can be elected to office come 10/10/10 but William Marlin stayed the course and travelled to Holland to secure the signatures on the final agreements for St. Maarten to become country.
While we have selected William as our person of the year we also have to credit the members of the negotiating team, mainly Joan Dovale Meit, Dennis Richardson, Governor Eugene Holiday, and Richard Gibson.
To William you have displayed courage and leadership skills during the 15 months you led St. Maarten, you truly placed your country before yourself leading up to the September 17 elections because you too could have abandoned the ship you were called to steer. Instead you showed your love and dedication for your country by staying the course despite the cost. Congrats William and may God bless you and your family this New Year. Happy 2011.
Marigot/Anguilla: ----- Fishermen on St Martin have decided to block all fishing and regular passenger boats coming to St. Martin from Anguilla on Wednesday as they protest against the decisions taken by authorities in Anguilla. According to information, reaching SMN News, authorities in Anguilla began imposing fines on St. Martin fishermen who have been fishing in their waters.
It is understood that two local fishermen has to pay some $750 or EC750 for fishing in the Anguilla waters illegally something that does not sit well with the local fishermen who decided that they would block the maritime port on Wednesday so that Anguilla fishermen would not be able to sell their fish on St. Martin.
Emile Larmonie of Cul de Sac said he was supposed to be part of the protest on Wednesday but decided not to because the fishermen on St. Martin have been going further into Anguilla waters to fish for a very long time now. Larmonie a former deputy mayor who was in charge of maritime affairs said the French has not determined which and what belongs to St. Martin fishermen. Larmonie said the French fishermen have to contest the unfair treatment with their government since the little water space they had to fish was taken away by the Natural Reserve. "The French did not protect its fishermen and our people have been going somewhat too far, the fines that are being imposed by Anguilla are something that has been taking place a long time ago." Larmonie said he also participated in a meeting some three months ago and he is well aware of the situation.
Larmonie said it was made clear during the "grenelle de la mer" that the Natural Reserve was disproportionate and that something needs to be done for St. Maarten Fishermen. He said the action taken by the local fishermen on St. Martin including those from Cul de Sac is fair and that the locals are simply defending their daily bread. Larmonie further explained that local authorities have to now step up to the plate to find a solution to the ongoing problem between Anguilla and St. Martin fishermen.
The vice president of the Grand Case/ Cul de Sac community council said he already sent a letter to the Natural Reserve asking them to free up the Cul de Sac and Orient Beach reserve, which would allow the young men of St. Martin to occupy themselves by fishing. Larmonie said he even wrote the President of the Collectivity of St. Martin asking him to intervene since it has been recognized during the "grenelle de la mer" that the Natural Reserve has been disproportionate but to date nothing has been done by government. "The Natural Reserve is even charging people to snorkel at the Cul de Sac Bay as well has been charging restaurant owners on Pinel Island rent for using Pinel Island." Larmonie said.
"Our people have to defend their daily bread and by blocking the Anguilla fishermen from entering St. Martin are sending a clear message to both governments. Our fishermen are like goats locked in a pen, since they are fined for fishing in Anguilla and prevented to fish around St. Martin by the Natural Reserve."
St. Martin he said only has 12 miles in the Anguilla channel to fish and that is definitely not sufficient for them, Larmonie explained. Larmonie said the commune of St. Martin and Anguilla had an agreement, which would allow St. Martin fishermen to fish in Anguilla if the names of the boats and registrations were given to them. Larmonie said the reason why Anguilla was taking measures was because fishermen from Guadeloupe was fishing in their waters and the Anguilla authorities could not determine St. Martin boats from those from Guadeloupe since both islands had the same registration letters (PP) meaning Pointe Pitre.
Larmonie said the persons whose boat registrations were from St. Martin and were provided to Anguilla were given permission to fish in Anguilla during the commune's time. However, he could not say if that agreement is upheld by those managing the COM.
In the meantime, Anguilla police said they do not know what sparked the protest in St. Martin, but admitted they stopped a boat about one mile from Forest Bay on January 5. They said the two men on board the boat did not have any documentation to show ports authority and as such were asked to leave. SMN News learnt one of the men on board that boat was the president of the fishing association Tony Page. However, efforts to reach Page proved futile on Wednesday.
The following is a press release issued by the government of Anguilla on Wednesday evening.
Early this morning the authorities at the Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications, Utilities, Housing, Agriculture and Fisheries learnt that some French fishermen were blockading both the Port of Marigot in St Martin and the entrance into the lagoon; when the first ferry leaving from Anguilla the "Ocean Three", was denied entry to the port. After learning of the incident and recognizing the impact on the ferry services and the travelling public, numerous phone calls were made to the various St. Martin port officials and an emergency meeting was held at the Chief Minister's Office, where a decision was made that a delegation from Anguilla should go over to St. Martin to speak with the local authorities there. The delegation from Anguilla included: Honourable Chief Minister, Mr Osbourne Fleming; The Honourable Minister of Finance, Mr Victor Banks; The Honourable Minister of Infrastructure, Communications, Utilities, Housing, Agriculture and Fisheries, Mr Kenneth Harrigan; The Honourable Minister of Social Development, Mr Evans Mc Neil Rogers, The Public Relations Officer in the Chief Minister's Office, Mr Curtis Richardson; The Permanent Secretary responsible for fisheries, Mr Larry Franklin; the Director of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Mr James Gumbs, and Mr. Maurice Connor of the Anguilla Tourist Board.
On arrival in St. Martin the delegation was met by a representative of the President of the Collective, The meeting was held at the Mayorie The St. Martin delegation which included a number of French and Dutch fishermen (including the head of the St. Martin fishermen association Mr Tony Page), and other French authorities.
After the customary introductions, Mr Frans Gumbs (Chairperson) open the meeting by indicating that it is unfortunate that we are having this meeting given the close relationship, which the people of Anguilla and French St. Martin have had over the years. He proceeded by asking the President of the fishermen association Mr Tony Page to explain the reason why the French fishermen were blocking the port.
Apparently, the St. Martin fishermen were reacting to an incident which happened on Tuesday 5th January 2010, where a fisherman from St. Martin was asked by Officers of the Marine Division of the Royal Anguilla Police Force not to fish in Anguilla waters without a valid fishing licence. The fisherman was obviously not happy with being unable to fish that day because he was under the impression that there was some unwritten agreement where French fishermen were allowed to fish in Anguilla waters without the appropriate fishing license. Hence, the unofficial blockage of the port a week later by the fishermen.
The Anguilla delegation reiterated the sentiments of Mr Gumbs in that Anguilla and St. Martin have always had a good relationship and that the Government of Anguilla recognizes the longstanding relationship and interdependence between Anguilla, St. Martin and St. Maarten in the area of transport, commerce, maritime and fishing matters. However, there is a need for persons to adhere to all legal requirements when they are in the territorial waters of Anguilla. The Anguilla delegation also stressed the need for Anguilla to protect its marine resources for the benefit of Anguillians while recognizing the traditional relationship with fishermen from St. Martin and St. Maarten.
It was agreed:
that the port should be immediately opened. The port was opened around 12:15 pm.
Indigenous fisherman from St. Martin and St. Maarten will adhere to Anguilla's legal requirements in order to fish in the territorial waters of Anguilla including obtaining the appropriate license and permissions.
The Department of Fisheries and Marine Resources in Anguilla and its counterpart organization in St. Martin will collaborate to ensure that issues are resolved in a timely and amicable manner.
Indigenous fisherman from St. Martin will be granted one month to apply to the Department of Fisheries and Martine Resources for the appropriate license. The license issued to the local St. Martin fishers will be for line fishing for pelagic fish species only (dolphin fish, wahoo, tuna etc.) and they will not be allowed to set fish traps targeting lobsters, crayfish, and reef fish.
Philipsburg: ---The various Community Councils on the Dutch side of St. Maarten came together for the first time on the island to join forces against the ever-growing problem of crime.
The United Task Force Against Crime, a task force consisting of representatives of each community council, organized a panel discussion on Sunday at the Belair Community Center.
The event was open to the General Public.
On the panel was Prosecutor Mud, Chief Inspector Carl John, Police spokesman Ricardo Henson, Acting Chief of Police Ademar Doran, Pastor Philbert, and child psychologist Alexandra Halley.
The public had the opportunity to pose questions to the panelists and come up with their own solutions to crime in their neighborhood.
Clarence Richardson who is the Chairman of the Community Councils Task Force Against Crime urged the public to do their own part, to start to play a greater role in their own community against crime. He stressed that crime is everybody's business and should not be left up to the police alone to solve and prevent crime but that each and every individual can contribute in their own way. Pastor Philbert noted that parents have to go back to basics and bring up their children with good morals and respect for their elders and the law.
Several panelists also told the audience that it is important to know your neighbor and to be a good neighbor.
Acting Chief Ademar Doran presented a list of the crime statistics to the audience dating from 2005-2009.
Doran noted that the list is a preliminary report and police will be looking into the data to find out if certain crimes are going unreported.
Doran told the audience that the police force is understaffed and what they have been able to accomplish with solving crimes is a testament that his small police force is a hard working one.
Many from the Chinese and Indian community groups attended Sunday's panel discussion.
The Community Councils Task Force Against Crime will continue with organizing more events in the near future as well as seeking an audience with the relevant authorities to discuss the Councils findings and presenting solutions to the crime situation, as well as pledging a working relationship with the police force.
(Jadira Veen Press Release)
Basseterre, St.Kitts:-In what political observers and analysts described as an uplifting and hopeful New Years address, leader of the St.Kitts-Nevis Opposition Party the People's Action Movement Lindsay Grant announced and outlined part of the visionary plan that will enable the people of the Federation to feel much needed relief from the first day of the new PAM Administration.
In this time of a skyrocketing cost of living that has made luxuries of the most basic necessities the incoming PAM Administration pledged to remove all duties and consumption taxes from foodstuff imported into the Federation.
"No more will struggling merchants be made scapegoats for costs that have spiraled out of control," said the Harvard Law School Trained PAM Leader and Prime Minister in waiting.
"This policy will immediately put money back into the pockets of ordinary people because the price of food will fall significantly. No more will workers on a fixed salary or wage see their disposable income shrink each month as they stretch ever fewer pennies in order to save for the now almost weekly trips to St. Martin or Statia in order to eat. A major hardship will be alleviated," Grant continued
According to many economists the increase in disposable income as a result of the removal of duties and consumption taxes from foodstuff imported into the Federation will have a significant multiplier effect as there will be more money available to spend in other parts of the economy. This will provide a real stimulus which will be quickly redound to government coffers in the form of revenue.
"The removal of these duties and consumption taxes will give ordinary people more control over their incomes and they will be given a hand up instead of a hand out; the benefit to the economy as a whole will be permanent and far reaching," said PAM Shadow Minister of Finance and Economic Planning Hon. Shawn K. Richards.
It is therefore clear that the incoming PAM Administration will take full responsibility for the role of government to improve the daily lives of the citizens immediately upon assuming office. Prime Minister Dr. Denzil Douglas announced a January 25th General Elections. Recent polls have suggested that the Opposition People's Action Movement and Leader Lindsay Grant are enjoying an extremely high favorability rating.
For more information visit the People's Action Movement Website at http://www.pamforchange.com or contact.
Philipsburg: ---- Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba has placed Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police Richard Panneflek to the disposition of the Island Government for another year. SMN News learnt that Panneflec sent the Minister of Justice a letter sometime last week telling her that the agreement he had would have expired on February 1 2010 and he intended to report back to work as Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police on that date. Sources say when the Minister received that letter she immediately prepared a decree telling Panneflec that he is placed to the disposition of the island government for another year.
SMN News further learnt that Panneflec had sent a letter to Minister Jacoba shortly after she took office indicating to her that he had completed the task required of him by the executive council (Island Government) and was ready to return to the police force but she never replied to his letter.
Sources say that one of the reasons the Minister of Justice cannot readily accept Panneflec back in the force is because former Minister of Justice David Dick had placed Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police Ademar Doran illegally in a position that was not legally available. It is understood that Panneflec is currently in scale 16 and Doran is also in the same scale. The source said if Panneflec is to return to the police force then he would have to be promoted to scale 17 that are currently being held by Former Chief Commissioner of Police Derrick Holiday. SMN News learnt that the illegal adjustments were made during the last two weeks of the former Minister's tenure.
In the meantime, former Minister of Justice David Dick did publish the vacancy of Chief Commissioner of Police, which was contested by Holiday in a court of law.
In an invited comment Panneflec said he discussed the matter of his disposal to the island government for another year with his legal representative. He said based on the complexity of the case he is not in a position to divulge much information. SMN News also learnt that members of the NABP are scheduled to arrive on St. Maarten this Wednesday where they would discuss the matter with the management team of the Police Force St. Maarten (KPSSS). SMN News learnt that the NABP representatives would also be discussing the issues surrounding detective Carlton Philips and the prosecutor's office.
Several efforts to contact Minister Jacoba by phone on Monday proved futile even though she is currently on St. Maarten.
Philipsburg: --- Elected officials from the National Alliance slate and their supporters held a car rally on Sunday as they thanked voters for the confidence they placed in them during the January 22 parliamentary election.
Leader of the National Alliance William Marlin and his constituents gathered at the University parking lot where they decorated their cars with posters and flags before driving through the various districts. Several of the posters carry the words "Moving forward together" "Thank You St. Maarten, forward together".The NA leader was seen braving the hot sun as he placed posters on his personal vehicles and those of his supporters. Several of the supporters of each of the candidates were seen distributing tee-shirts and flags for those who came to join the party.
The rally left the university parking lot through Sucker Garden as they made their way through Belvedere. According to the supporters of the National Alliance who car pooled to join the party said their plans were to make sure they pass through each and every district on the island honking their horns.
Dorothy Lake advisor to the National Alliance leader said all the cars that participated in the rally were packed. She said the population came out in large numbers to show their support for the Alliance. Lake said in each district other cars joined the rally making the line rather long. She said while she was leaving Simpson Bay there were other cars going down to Simpson Bay.
At the end of the rally supporters of National Alliance gathered on the Pondfill where they partied for the rest of the evening.
DUTCH QUARTER: --- Police managed to recover eight stolen vehicles in the bushes at Zorg en Rust Union Farm on Saturday afternoon reported police spokesman Ricardo Henson. Henson said the police patrol recovered the vehicles that were hidden in the bushes, but in close proximity of the homes in that area. Henson said all of the vehicles were reported missing
Two of these vehicles, one Infinity Q45 and a Suzuki Baleno, were set on fire as a result of which both cars were totally destroyed. The 2008 Infinity Q45 at the time it was stolen and burnt, had a value of approximately U.S. $ 45.000, while the Suzuki Baleno had a value of approximately U.S. $ 6000.
The other cars were one Kia Rio, One Kia Picanto, One Kia Mini van, One white Suzuki Vitara, One Daihatsu Charade and one Samsung 3M.
The police spokesman said it is very unlikely that no one did not see when the two vehicles were burnt and no one he said called police to notify them.
It is very unfortunate that no one called the police when they saw fire and smoke in the bushes. All vehicles were towed away and the investigation to determine who the person or persons are that are responsible for this criminal act. The police Department are asking any one who may have information that could shed some light on this investigation to call in and give that information using the Tip-line 9300 or the Detective department at 54-22222 ext. 222/224.
In addition to this case, while the police officers were on the scene of this investigation, several verbal threats towards police came from within the crowd on the Union farm side that had gathered to see what was going on. However at the time it could not be determined who these persons were that made these verbal threats. The police department is hereby sending out a very stern message to those persons making these threats, that the police department does not take these type statements lightly and will maintain its "Zero Tolerance" policy with regards to any type of threats or negative behavior towards the police.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—On Monday, February 8, the Executive Council of the Island Territory of St. Maarten hereby informs the general public that the business opening hours adjustments are as follows:
- Regular opening hours from Monday—Saturday will remain 6am to 6:30pm.
- On Thursday (as 'koopavond') regular opening hours are extended from 6:30pm to 9:00pm (except where otherwise exempted). This implies that no exemption fee needs to be paid for being open during these hours.
- All businesses unless otherwise restricted are eligible to apply for extending opening hours on Sundays and days equal to Sunday from 11am to 3pm (expect where otherwise exempted).
- Yearly exemption fee is Naf. 150.00
As per the Business Opening Hours Ordinance (Landsverordening Winkelsluiting) PB 1969 no. 58, all businesses unless otherwise exempted are required to adhere to the abovementioned maximum opening hours and must comply with the relevant labor laws, requirements and policies.
Philipsburg:--- Two Haitians nationals are among four armed bandits that were arrested early Monday morning reported police spokesman Ricardo Henson. Henson said police were called to Guana Bay shortly after 9 am after four men had stormed a house and robbed the occupants under the threat of a firearm. According to the police spokesman the ring leaders of the robbery appeared to be the two Haitians nationals who refused to cooperate with the investigators saying they cannot speak English. "Already we can see that these two suspects have no remorse by the way they are acting." Henson said.
Police arrested four suspects who had just robbed a home in Guana Bay, Henson said several police cars responded to the scene to investigate, he said while on their way they noticed a green jeep with license plate 730 ZBS 971 with four men inside speeding out of Guana Bay road. Police he said managed to stop the jeep and conducted a control. Police arrested the four men whom they identified as R.F.G from St. Maarten, H.R from the Dominican Republic and F.Y and J.M from Haiti. Police also recovered the firearm a .38 caliber, clothing as well as a black briefcase that was stolen from the victim. The police spokesman said the case is currently being investigated by the armed robbery unit.
Philipsburg: --- The Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba was advised by the Police Unions not to grant any contracts to officers who are scheduled to leave on pension. SMN News has been reliably informed that at least six officers, two of which are from the management team of the police force are scheduled to go on pension. The source said even though the police force on St. Maarten is grossly understaffed it is the opinion of the police union that officers currently in the force can do a better job than those in management and those officers should receive the necessary promotions to lead the police force.
Already Hildo Martina is on vacation and he is scheduled to go on pension on April 15, SMN News learnt that Martina sent in a request to extend his contract but his request it is understood went by the Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police Ademar Doran for an advice. Dafnis Francesca it is understood was asked by government to stay on the force, he is scheduled to be leaving on pension sometime in May 2010.
In an invited comment, Francesca said he did not apply for an extension of his contract and he does not know what advice was given to the Minister. Francesca further stated that he already has another offer with an airline since he is a certified pilot. The Assistant Chief Commissioner did not say if he gave those who requested of him to stay on a positive or negative answer.
Other officers that are also scheduled to go on pension before June 2010 are Elgin Scot borough, Pricilla Gumbs, Angie Fowler, and Ronald Alexander while Chief Inspector Johan Janchi Leonard has requested early retirement after serving 40 years in the police force.
In the meantime, police coach Ronald Dongor's contract will soon end. The source said Dongor has eight weeks more to work with the KPSSS but he is busy negotiating with the Marachussees to head the department on St. Maarten. SMN News also learnt that the island government is also involved in working out some sort of agreement for Dongor to remain within the local police force even though the so-called Win Win Agreement is considered to be a failure.
SMN News further learnt that Assistant Chief Commissioner of Police Richard Panneflek has applied for the post of Chief Commissioner of Police even though the Minister of Justice placed him at the disposal of the island government for another year.
Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba is scheduled to arrive on St. Maarten on Thursday where she will be holding several key meetings. One of the meetings to be held early next week is with the police union regarding the failure of the Win Win agreement. Sources said the WWA agreement was not lived up to and even the police coach who is receiving an exorbitant salary did not do what was expected of him. "The only thing Dongor did was to get some second hand cars and motor bikes from Holland. The vehicles were repainted and are parked at the back of the police station in Philipsburg." The source said.
The Minister of Justice is also expected to deal with the issues surrounding detective Carlton Philips, Sylvia Gibbs and Norwin Villarreal since the Minister spoke to two of the three individuals during her last visit to St. Maarten.
Marigot: --- President of the MOCSAM Julien Gumbs is once again sounding the alarm about the possible road tax. Gumbs in an exclusive interview with SMN News said that while the window that is supposed to be collecting the road tax is closed since October 2009 to date the Collectivity and its representatives has not seen it fit to update its population on the reason why they stopped collecting the tax which is supposed to be used for road developments.
Gumbs said the MOCSAM over the past years have been protesting the illegality of the road tax and to date the Collectivity cannot get a "decree de application" from the State Council. He said the MOCSAM filed two cases against the Collectivity on this road tax and the threatening letters that was sent to people who did not pay the taxes. He said to date the court has not ruled on either of the cases because they are awaiting a response from the COM about the letters they sent to several residents of St. Martin who did not comply with the payment. "The last time I heard from the administrative courts was sometime in February 2010 and the judge said he is still waiting on the COM to respond. My hope is that the courts would render its decision before 2012 so that those currently in office would answer for their wrong doings," Gumbs said he wants to people to see that elected officials cannot do as they like because they were elected to office. He said elected officials have to also abide by the laws like everyone else. The MOCSAM president is calling on the St. Martin community to remain vigilante and they look out for their own interests.
Gumbs said that based on the news report he understood that the Collectivity has abolished the road tax system they implemented in 2008 and they are now working on something new which would involve license plates. Gumbs further explained that the fact the Collectivity has aborted its former procedure, which is still in process shows that they are in bad light, but has failed to admit such.
Gumbs made clear that the MOCSAM is not against the road tax since they do agree that the people of St. Martin has to contribute to the island's development, however, the MOCSAM is against the illegal aspect of this tax. He said one of the requests made by him was to bring back this road tax plan to the drawing board and to do it right since those in the COM rushed it off from day one without conducting a study.
Gumbs warned that if the COM pushes its new format without holding a debate that would also include the MOCSAM they would be vigilante and would continue to protest if it is needed. Gumbs said one of his fears is that those in charge would bring this to the council a week or two before they are ready to launch and the council would again vote without perusing the format and the legality of the taxes. Gumbs said he is of the opinion that the COM should give back those persons who paid the tax their monies since it was not acceptable to the State.
SMN News contacted Christophe Coelho of the Prefecture for an update on the road tax procedures. Coelho said the Collectivity does have the tax and road competences and they indeed voted the road tax ordinance in 2008. Coelho said the COM could do whatever they want with taxes however; they do have to comply with the State (Controle de legality).
As for the road taxes he said that ordinance was not fully completed when it was voted in the territorial council. Coelho said the COM had to make sure they fully outlined the penalties that could be taken against vehicle users who did not comply with the payment of the road tax (vignette). He said because the territorial council did not do anything regarding the penal section and the gendarmes could not conduct any controls if that was not included. Coelho said the COM had to get the State Council to agree with the road tax ordinance before the gendarmes could have acted or begin controlling.
This process he said is very long and he is of the of opinion that the procedure is still underway but the COM has decided not to wait on the State Council but to come up with another idea where they would involve the penal section. He made clear that so far, the Prefecture does not have anything on this new project and it is yet to go before the territorial council.
As for the monies that were collected from the sale of the vignette in 2008 and 2009 he said it was deposited in the Collectivity's account.
According to the COM when they launched the road tax project in 2008 they said the monies collected would go towards the building of new roads but to date no new roads have been built.
...
Philipsburg:--- The police and immigration department has begun their planned immigration controls. The officers visited a number of businesses and work sites in search of illegal workers. During the process, they managed to arrest 14 persons who were working and residing on the island illegally.
Police also visited neighborhoods where they believe illegal immigrants are residing said police spokesman Ricardo Henson. Those arrested and are to be deported are from Italy, Jamaica, France, Anguilla, Dominican Republic, and Dominica.
The controls currently taking place are in keeping with what Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba said in November when she launched the Brooks Tower Project to regulate illegal residents on St. Maarten. The controls were scheduled to begin on March 1 and it is under the supervision of the island's chief of police.
Philipsburg: --- As of Monday April 5 2010 the police department started their traffic controls aimed primarily at those motor vehicle drivers and vehicle owners who have not yet paid their road taxes for the year 2010.
The traffic controls have been held on several locations on the island. Up until Tuesday evening, April 6 70 fines have been given to those drivers that were in violation. Many vehicles were towed and stored until the road tax is paid. The controls will continue says Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson.
Philipsburg: --- The detective department is calling on anyone especially relatives of a man who has been identified as Kevin Duggan Woods, born in Nevada U.S.A. on April 10th 1978 to visit the Philipsburg Police Station to claim and identify his body.
Police discovered Woods body shortly after 02.00 am on Monday morning on Amarrilys Road Mary's Fancy.
Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said police received several phone calls from residents of the area who said they heard someone in the bushes calling out for help. Henson said according to the residents the man was calling for help but no one was able to see him since he was in the bushes and apparently was moving downward in the bushy area.
The police spokesman said when police reached the scene they heard movement in the bushes but they too could not see the person due to the darkness and heavy rain that was pouring at the time.
Henson said the fire department was called to give assistance and they managed to cut open a track where the man's lifeless body was found. Henson said when the body was recovered he had minor scratches and bruises which he probably got while moving in the bushes. Henson said the body was taken out of the bushes and brought to a nearby yard where paramedics tried to revive the victim to no avail. He said the man was pronounced dead shortly after but the cause of death was not determined. Henson further explained that the man seems to die suspiciously and his body has since been confiscated as the investigations continue.
Henson said at daybreak on Monday police and K-9 officers conducted an intense search of the area. During this search a small amount of cash, a VISA credit card and an American drivers license of the victim were found and confiscated
The investigation into this case has just started and any family member or anyone who knows the victim and who can identify him are asked to immediately get in contact with the detective dept. at Telephone phone 54-22222 ext. 225/222/ 224.
Philipsburg:--- The police found a number of illegal items in the police holding cells on June 11th. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said that the operational unit carried out a control after receiving tips that inmates might have illegal items in their cells.
During this control numerous illegal items mainly several small plastic bags containing marijuana, matches, a self made knife and a shank (object for stabbing) among other items were found. These items were all confiscated and an investigation to how these items got into these cells is being carried out.
These self made weapons raise an extreme danger to the detainees themselves and also to the officers who have attend to them on a daily basis.
Based on information coming into the police department and several attempts by unknown persons to get illegal drugs into the cell-complex of the police station this surprise control was carried out.
As additional safety precautions the police management has taken following measures:
Personal items will only be accepted by family members or close relatives of the person detained at the police station.
If family members or close relatives are not available a person appointed by the detainee will be allowed to bring these personal items.
Any family member or relative bringing personal items for any of the detainees must properly identify themselves (Identification card, passport or drivers license).
The police department will not be excepting any clothing, sanitary products or any other items from person than those allowed or appointed to do so.
Items accepted are:
shirt (white)
3 undershirts
one pair socks
2 jeans (few pockets as possible)
2 shorts (without strings)
slippers/ sneaker without laces.
deodorant in see through plastic container
rubber or plastic toothbrush
small toothpaste
boxer shorts
soap (no gels)
bible
Items not accepted:
combs
shampoos
lotions
products in glass containers
electric toothbrush
powder
hair grease
Afro picks
belts
sheets
newspapers/ books/ cigarettes
The personal items will only accepted from Monday's to Friday's from 08.00 a.m. to 04.00 p.m.
St. Peters/Bel Air: --- Relatives of a 17 year old boy identified as Patrison Isarac is now mourning his death along with management of the St. Maarten Academy PSVE after a pickup truck in which he was seeking a lift home toppled over.
SMN News managed to confirm that at least six students of the Academy (PSVE) were on the vehicle when the driver lost control on St. Peters main road due to high speed. Reliable information at this time states that the 17 year old succumbed to his injuries at the St. Maarten Medical Center.
SMN News learnt that the driver a former student of the St. Maarten Academy identified as 18 year old Jonathan Miggens was driving his father's pick-up at high speed when the accident occurred. SMN News confirmed that Miggens graduated from the St. Maarten Academy some two years ago and he just recently received his driver's license. Eyewitnesses to the accident said Miggens was racing with a scooter while his former classmates were at the back of the vehicle. The eyewitnesses said somehow the driver hit the sidewalk and lost control of the vehicle causing the vehicle to topple over.
They said some of the students on the pickup managed to jump off the vehicle as it was toppling over but the victim they said got pinned beneath the pickup. At the moment authorities are investigating the freak but deadly accident.
President of St. Maarten Academy School Board Josianne Fleming-Artsen confirmed the dead student as Patrison Isarac. Fleming said there were six students at the back of the pick-up truck at the time of the accident. Fleming-Artsen said all five of the other students were released from the St. Maarten Medical Center with minor injuries. "One of the students left on a wheel chair. However, even though they were released from the hospital we need to monitor them closely. Shock and trauma such as this one can bring about other effects." Fleming-Artsen said.
SMN News also learnt that this particular student almost lost his life three months ago at Mullet Bay Beach when he went swimming with his friends.
Fleming-Artsen said the school has decided to cancel all examinations for students attending the St. Maarten Academy PSVE for Thursday. Students and teachers attending the institution will be given counseling throughout the day on Thursday. Fleming-Artsen said a decision will be taken on Thursday whether or not they would continue the end of term examinations on Friday or if they would wait until next week. "Stopping the examinations is not reason for anyone to stay home. We need all our students and teachers at school on Thursday so they can receive the necessary care for the lost of their student and classmate.
Prosecutor Rienk Mud in an invited comment said the body of the victim has been confiscated for examination and will be released after to the family. Mud also confirmed that the driver of the pickup was taken to the police station where he was questioned about the accident. The public prosecutor said the driver was also injured during this freak accident. "We will question this young man again, including witnesses that were in the back of the pickup and those persons who apparently saw what happened." After that the prosecutor's office would decide if the driver is responsible for the death of Isarac or if it was just a freak accident. Mud concluded.
In a press release the board of the St. Maarten Academy states that on Thursday the
Foundation for Academic and Vocational Education, FAVE known as the St. Maarten Academy, the Board, management, teachers, staff and students mourn the loss of one of its students Patrison Isarac (PSVE section) who died tragically in a fatal traffic accident on Wednesday June 16, 2010. Because of this tragedy, the school has postponed the school exams for Thursday June 17, 2010. Instead, a group of professional counselors will be assisting the teachers and students during this time of grief. All students are, therefore, asked to come to school on Thursday because a schedule of activities has been planned to help the students deal with this tragic event. Through this medium, the board, the management, staff and students of the St. Maarten Academy would like to extend their deepest sympathy to the family of the late Patrison Isarac. May God strengthen you during this time of sorrow and may his soul be peaceful.
PHILIPSBURG - The University of St. Martin(USM) will be holding the third of its Lecture Series on Tuesday, June 22, 2010 with Attorney and Acting Lt. Governor Reynold Groeneveldt as the keynote speaker.
The lecture entitled "Revisiting the Constitution" will be held at the USM Lecture Hall from 7:00pm to 10:00pm. USM is organizing these free lectures to inform the general public.
"The Draft Constitution for Country St. Maarten is an important document and as such the people must be aware of its contents and its implications to them as citizens," said USM President Josianne Fleming Artsen.
The St. Maarten Constitution is being lauded as one of the most progressive in the Kingdom of the Netherlands since it was modeled after that of Aruba, the most recent country in the Kingdom to have a constitution with improvements.
One of the important aspects in the constitution is how elected officials are dealt with if they are arrested or convicted of a crime. Changes to this aspect have been recently made and keynote speaker Mr. Groeneveldt will be discussing this matter.
The Central Committee of Government is scheduled to handle the revised onstitution within short.
The general public is invited to attend this important lecture and be informed on the matter. Mr. Groeneveldt has been one the many legal minds working on the constitution from the inception.
The third of the lecture series entitled "Revisiting the Constitution" will be held on June 22, 2010 at the USM. All the lectures are FREE. The USM LECTURE HALL has a seating capacity for about 200 people and attendants are urged to be on time.
Philipsburg:--- On Monday July 12 several young police and immigration officers who joined the force about 2 years ago and passed their exams as constable or immigration officer successfully, received their diplomas during a small ceremony which took place at the police station in Philipsburg.
Chief Commissioner of Police Peter de WITTE congratulated the officers and encouraged them to do their utmost best now and in the future that lies ahead. De Witte further told the officers that he is proud on them for their accomplishments.
Some inspectors of police also received their certificates for having successfully completed the course of "competence management".
Drs FALBRU head of the Police academy on Curacao was also at the ceremony.
The venomous Pacific Ocean Lionfish has arrived in St. Maarten waters. The Nature Foundation was contacted by a local dive operator reporting a sighting of a two-inch long lionfish on a local dive site The Lionfish is a poisonous fish species which was introduced into the Caribbean and tropical Western Atlantic from the Pacific Ocean in the Early 1990's. The Lionfish has venomous spines all over its body which can cause extremely painful and occasionally fatal stings in its victim. Staff from the Nature Foundation immediately responded to the reported sighting but due to the inclement weather and despite multiple attempts they were not able to capture it. "We were unable to capture the specimen over the last few days because of the squally weather. As soon as the weather clears we will be able to once again attempt to capture the specimen. Lionfish tend to stay in one location for the majority of their lives so we will likely be able to capture it soon," commented Tadzio Bervoets, manager at the Nature Foundation.
Lionfish were first introduced after an aquarium tank carrying three of the fish was destroyed in Ft. Lauderdale during hurricane Andrew in 1992. Since then the venomous fish has steadily been invading numerous coastal waters throughout the Bahamas, the United States and the Caribbean. In addition to Lionfish posing a threat to public health they are voracious predators and will eat up to 10% of their body weight. "The problem for fisheries is that our local fish species do not see it as a predator and so they don't know to avoid it. There have been areas in the Bahamas where fishing had to stop because there were no more local fish or lobster being caught in fish and lobsterpots, only poisonous lionfish. That is why it is very important that we have a management structure in place to deal with the invasion," commented Bervoets.
The Nature Foundation has a St. Maarten Lionfish Response Plan in place since before the first specimen was observed in anticipation of the fish reaching local waters. The Foundation stated that it will be doing everything it can to control and manage the infestation but that initial control will be challenging because the Marine Park Ordinance is not yet in place which would have given the Foundation greater resources and legal backing to deal with the invasion.
If a lionfish is observed the Nature Foundation should be contacted immediately at 5444267, 5270490 or 5805703 with information on the location, time of day, and activity. If someone happens to be stung by lionfish medical attention should be sought immediately and hot water be applied to the wound which will help neutralize the venom. The Nature Foundation will be organizing information sessions for the general public concerning the invasion.
GREAT BAY (GIS)—The annual school bus inspection will begin on July 26 and run through July 28th. The inspection period went well last year; bus owners and drivers were very cooperative. The same is asked from them this year in trying to inspect the school busses that transport school children on behalf of the Island Government.
It is essential that the busses are in good operational condition. Therefore, all school bus owners are required to have their buses inspected during these days. Bus drivers and/or owners have to have their busses up to standard according to the Traffic Ordinance.
Currently there are according to the records approximately 64 busses. The school bus transportation consists of operators using T, G, P, M, and BUS license plates.
The time of the inspection is from 8:30 a.m. to 12 noon and from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. The location of bus inspection will be in the parking lot at the Jose Lake, Jr. Ballpark.
Drivers and owners are asked to be on time, have all the documents in order, and bring all the busses under one owner at once to improve the efficiency of the bus inspection period.
Please contact the Control, Inspection, and Security (CIS) Department to schedule your inspection appointment as soon as possible.
CIS is also advising all bus owners and drivers who failed to show up for the annual school bus Inspection that they will not be compensated nor be allowed to transport school children on behalf of Government.
Airport:--- The Windward Island Civil Servants Union (WICSU) and its members in the immigration department of the Princess Juliana International Airport took industrial action on Saturday.
William Reed President of the WICSU told SMN News in a telephone interview that the union and its members have had enough. Reed said currently there is a deadlock between the union and the Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba. Reed said immigration officers has no chairs to sit on while working at PJIAE, the computers do not have the protective screen, immigration officers who are permanent are yet to get their salary increase and benefits and the Minister of Justice is doing nothing about these matters. "I have held meetings with her and she keeps promising that she would look into the matter and to date nothing is happening. I also sent an email to the Minister telling her that I will not take any responsibility if anything happens at PJIAE. Reed said St. Maarten is approaching 10/10/10 and the union and its members have to know what would happen to their benefits and salaries and the Minister must give us some assurance on these matters. Unless that happens then the WICSU would have to take action to get her attention.
During the action persons arriving on St. Maarten were allowed to walk through without being processed. At the time SMN News learnt it was the peak hour at PJIAE when several planes had landed.
In invited comment Acting Lt. Governor Reynold Groenevelt said when he heard of the incident he immediately went to the airport to begin talks with the WICSU president William Reed. Groeneveldt said before he begin the talks he asked Reed to send the immigration officers back to work since he considered the union's action to be very irresponsible. "Right now we don't know who is on our island and what this could do to our economy and I made this very clear to Reed" Groeneveldt said.
Philipsburg:--- Rich and vibrant in color and content, Buncamper-Molanus said the upgraded site is www.mariabuncamper.com "your introduction into understanding the government and politics of St. Maarten."
"It is by means of politics that people are elected and assume positions of responsibility to represent the people. A popular question is: What is politics really about? For me politics is a vehicle that takes you from the side line to the place where you can actually make a difference for the people, the people of St. Maarten," she said.
"The people have the right to know which decisions are being made on their behalf and how these decisions will affect them. By means of this website you will get an impression of several of these decisions made on your behalf," she added.
The website is interactive in functionality and features sections such as press releases, other articles, a gallery and a section for Live feeds and Events. "You can read about meetings, concerns and decisions taken by our representatives. It is also important that you voice your opinion, you can do so through your representatives, you can do so through me," she said.
The site also has polls and surveys with critical questions. There is also a contact form for a direct connection to the Maria Buncamper-Molanus Team. "Please use this to voice and share your ideas. We also have the Maria Buncamper-Molanus Newsletter. You can receive an email with information about St. Maarten, its current status and the developments towards Country St. Maarten.
"I sincerely hope that the public use this opportunity to learn more about my candidacy and what I have done and continue to do on their behalf. It is time to take your place at the table and be counted," she added.
Solid Logix, a St.Maarten founded company, designed the website. Solid Logix is a provider of information technology professional consultants for medium to long-term engagements. The company provides permanent placements and designs quality solutions for entire IT projects and companies.
They design, develop and install web applications that will help foster business development efforts, facilitate and improve communication with customers and prospects.
Philipsburg: --- Ten out of the eleven members of the island council of St. Maarten who attended the meeting on Thursday to debate and vote for the organic laws have voted in favor of the laws. Commissioner of constitutional affairs William Marlin in his elucidation explained the council that the island council is voting for these laws now so that the Round Table Conference can take place on September 9th to pave the way for St. Maarten and Curacao to attain its country status.
Marlin said that when the parliament of St. Maarten is seated they would be able to make whatever amendments to any of the laws if needed. Members of the Democratic Party faction expressed their concerns saying the council was being pushed to vote these laws and they were not given enough time to study the laws. Even though expressing concerns the Democratic Party faction said they have confidence in the advisers who have worked long and hard to prepare the laws that would govern the parliament and country St. Maarten. The organic laws that were voted upon and approved are the ordinance regulating country St. Maarten, the ordinance regulating the personnel, the law regulating the promulgation of laws, the law regulating the position of the ombudsman, the law on emergency services, law regulating the legal position of the civil service, law regulating the security services for country St. Maarten, and the law regulating personal information.
During the debate several issues were raised which was not related to the organic laws. Issues such as the executive council re-distributing the portfolios of care taker commissioner Theo Heyliger who has resigned since July 19. Councilman Leroy De Weever took a swing at the leader of government saying the only reason they took away Heyliger's portfolios was because the current government wants to take credit for the social homes that are to be given out soon. In rebutting that statement leader of government William Marlin assured that he is the commissioner in charge of housing since June 8th 2009 and he is not the type of person that would play with people's emotions during election. Marlin said he has no power over the 70 homes at Hope Estate and that the island government and the St. Maarten Housing Development Foundation will be signing an agreement on the homes on Friday. Marlin also refuted the statements made by De Weever who said government is playing cheap politics by saying the councilman should have looked at the publication sheet and he would have seen who holds the housing portfolio. Marlin said he is not one of those persons who held on to land for eight years and then sold those parcels on land one Saturday before election to gain popularity or votes.
Also taking shots at the statements made by De Weever was Councilman Louie Laveist who said he is in no way defending Heyliger but government is about continuity and when Heyliger resigned he said he was doing so to begin his political campaign. Laveist said if Heyliger had indicated then that he was also pulling his support from the National Alliance/ Laveist and Heyliger coalition then his portfolios would have been distributed a long time ago. Laveist said that since Heyliger's resignation he has not shown up for work neither is he attending executive council meetings. Commissioner William Marlin also brought clarity to matter by saying that the information which was leaked to one of the daily newspapers was not correct. Marlin said since Heyliger resigned he did not attend any of the meetings neither is he participating in any of the deliberations. Marlin said because of that government felt it was prudent for them to redistribute the portfolios to the other members of the executive council. Marlin said the fire department and disaster management was transferred to commissioner Xavier Blackman, the SLAC, EDC and the harbor now falls under commissioner Frans Richardson, GEBE and ROB falls under William Marlin.
De Weever also took a turn at government for amending the casino license ordinance which would pave the way for Caravanserai resort to obtain a casino license, De Weever said government seems to want to harbor money laundering since the casinos and change points is where these types of activities take place while stores on Front and Back Streets are closing down. Island council man Louie Laveist jumped after the statements saying that what the National Alliance/ Laveist and Heyliger executive council did now is exactly what the Democratic Party executive council did or wanted to do, something he said he knows about because he was part of the council. Laveist also promised to let the cat out of the bag regarding the same resort and the Democratic Party executive council.
Marlin also mentioned that the former executive council voted in favor of granting a license to Caravanserai and the former chairman of the island and executive council had sent it to the governor general to have it overturned because the chairman was not in favor of granting the license. Marlin said had the policy been changed then the resort management would have had options which was to comply with the requirements as stipulated.
GREAT BAY:--- Executive Director of the Tallahassee-Sint Maarten Foundation (TLH-SXMF) Arthur Lugisse says that Sint Maarten students studying in Tallahassee along with the Sint Maarten Tallahassee Student Association (SMTSA) represented the island in a Flag Event.
"The music was great as well as the attendance. Our students were able to participate with their Sint Maarten flags that Commissioner of Education William Marlin sent them a few months ago for the battle of the flags.
"Sint Maarten competed against the U.S. Virgin Islands. The performances were very competitive. Commissioner Marlin realized that the students needed some support in the area of cultural activities and he sent flags, caps and t-shirts. A promise made was a promise kept, he said.
"DJ Outkast came up and had the Caribbean students asking for more. It is our intention to arrange an exchange where DJs and Bands in the future can participate in different events and cultural exchanges between the City of Tallahassee and Sint Maarten," Lugisse pointed out.
Results from the Various Polling Stations, the following are the polling stations from which SMN News will bring you the results.
Election Watch Nights --- results are coming to you live from the Main Voting Bureau located at the Government Administration Building on Clem Lageba Square.
Parties that Contested the Early Elections for Country St. Maarten are:---
The votes cast for today Friday at the various polling stations are
1. John Larmonie Center, has 866 eligible voters, at 7pm 616 persons casted their vote bring it to 71%.
2. Sundial School, 1169 eligible voters, 779 persons cast their votes bringing it to 67%
2A. House of Detention, 59 eligible voters, 59 persons casted their votes , 100%
3. Sint Maarten Senior Citizen Recreational Ctr. 1383 eligible voters, 1028 persons cast their votes a total of 74%
4. Sister Marie Laurence School, 1557 eligible voters, 1080 persons cast their votes, a total of 69%
5. Dutch Quarter Community Center,1420 eligible voters, 1027 casted their votes, a total of 72%
6. Milton Peters College,1389 eligible voters, 1040 persons cast their votes, a total of 75%
7. Rupert L. Maynard Center,1114 eligible voters, 829 persons cast their votes, a total of 74%
8. St. Maarten Academy, 971 eligible voters, 748 persons cast their votes a total of 77%
9. Celebration Palace,1288 eligible voters, 900 persons cast their votes a total of 70%
10. Raoul Illidge Sports complex, 1152 eligible voters, 811 persons cast their votes a total of 70%
11. Charles Leopold Bell School, 1581 eligible voters, 1096 persons cast their votes a total of 69%
12. Leonard Connor School, 1112 eligible voters, 749 persons cast their votes a total of 67%
13. Simpson Bay Community Center, 976 eligible voters, 568 persons cast their votes a total of 58%
14. Belvedere Community Center, 1309 eligible voters, 1033 persons cast their votes a total of 79%
15. Melford Hazel Sports 7 Recreational Center, 789 eligible voters, 574 persons cast their votes a total of 73%
16. Methodist Agogic Center 1394 eligible voters, 1018 persons cast their votes at total of 73%
16A. Sint Maarten Home, 72 eligible voters, 52 persons cast their votes, a total of 72 %
Live Results
Polling Station:
John Larmonie Center NA(268 ) DP(115) UP(218) CPA(1)
Valid votes 602, Blank 2, Invalid votes 8, Amount of votes cast 612.
Raoul Illidge Sports Complex NA(335) DP(133) UP (313) CPA(11)
Valid votes 792, Blank 10, Invalid votes 7, Amount of votes cast 809.
House of Detention NA(20) DP(17) UP(19) CPA(0)
Valid votes 56, Blank 0, Invalid votes 3, Amount of votes cast 59.
Methodist Agogic Center NA(402) DP(181) UP(411) CPA(8)
Valid votes 1002, Blank 5, Invalid votes 11, Amount of votes cast 1018.
Simpson Bay Community Ctr, NA(158) DP(166) UP(221) CPA(4)
Valid votes 549, Blank 6, Invalid votes 13, Amount of votes cast 568.
St. Maarten Academy NA(378) DP(118) UP(229) CPA(6)
Valid votes 731, Blank 7, Invalid votes 10, Amount of votes cast 748.
St. Maarten Recreational Center NA(488) DP(180) UP(346) CPA(10)
Valid votes1024, Blank 5, Invalid votes 10, Amount of votes cast 1039.
Sundial School NA(317) DP(150) UP (287) CPA(5)
Valid votes 759, Blank 2, Invalid votes 14, Amount of votes cast 775.
Rupert Maynard Center NA(426) DP(115) UP(271) CPA(8)
Valid votes 820, Blank 1, Invalid votes 8, Amount of votes cast 829.
Celebration Palace NA(417) DP(114) UP(321) CPA(16)
Valid votes 868, Blank 8, Invalid votes 24, Amount of votes cast 900.
Leonard Connor School NA(361) DP(103) UP(263) CPA(9)
Valid votes 736, Blank 3, Invalid votes 10, Amount of votes cast 749.
Melford Hazel Sports &Rec. Ctr. NA(266) DP(70) UP(212) CPA(3)
Valid votes 551, Blank 2, Invalid votes 19, Amount of votes cast 572.
St. Maarten Home NA(33) DP(13) UP(4) CPA(0)
Valid votes 50, Blank 1, Invalid votes 1, Amount of votes cast 52.
Milton Peters College NA(560) DP(152) UP(307) CPA(11)
Valid votes 1030, Blank 5, Invalid votes 5, Amount of votes cast 1040.
Charles Leopold Bell School NA(415) DP (233) UP(392) CPA(7)
Valid votes 1047, Blank 7, Invalid votes 37, Amount of votes cast 1091.
Sister Marie Laurence NA(460) DP(176) UP(407) CPA(12)
Valid votes 1055, Blank 20, Invalid votes 6, Amount of votes cast 1081.
Belvedere Community Center NA(494) DP(152) UP(349) CPA(10)
Valid votes 1005, Blank 14, Invalid votes 13, Amount of votes cast 1032.
Dutch Quarter Community Center NA(479) DP(150) UP(370) CPA(6)
Valid votes 1005, Blank 20, Invalid votes 10, Amount of votes cast 1035.
Seat Distribution
DP 2 seats
UP 6 seats
NA 7 seats
Philipsburg:--- The Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba, chief prosecutor on St. Maarten Hans Mos and the Dutch representative on the island were among some of the dignitaries that attended the opening ceremony of 32 new spaces Thursday at the Philipsburg Police Station.
Detainees who are held at the police holding cell would for the first time be sleeping on a mattress covered in leather. They have a decent bathroom and a well painted facility that is fully equipped with surveillance cameras and lighting. While being in prison is not a pleasure for no one the current facility is habitable compared to the one that is currently in use. The new holding facility comprises of four cells that can accommodate four prisoners, four cells that will accommodate three prisoners and four cells that cells that will be accommodating two prisoners this brings the total to 32 detainees at a time. Each cell space is ten square meters as stipulated by law.
Chief Inspector Anthony Rogers told the gathering that he was given the task to make sure the project was completed in accordance with the international standards laid down by the European Commission for the Prevention of Torture (CPT). Rogers said opening the extra police cells is a milestone for St. Maarten Police force and society. He said the police organization made a promise to the CPT to ensure that they will upgrade their police holding cells to meet international standards, thus they have kept their promise. Rogers said after the inspection was conducted by the CPT it was clear that St. Maarten had to get its house in order by upgrading the police holding cells. Rogers further explained that based on the report of the CPT had St. Maarten not complied then the Kingdom was going to come down on the island's authorities.
While Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos in his short speech said the island is on the brink of becoming country and a decent country would treat its prisoners in a decent way. Mos said while justice must prevail, prisoners must be treated decently and proper. Mos said currently prisoners are not treated decently and the CPT has told St. Maarten and the other islands including the Netherlands that they must treat their prisoners decently. Mos said a good beginning represents only half of the job, thus the other half has to be completed. Mos said the other half is the Pointe Blanche house of detention which needs renovation and extension. Mos said there is need for more space at the house of detention and if justice is to be served those condemned must be able to fully serve their time in prison.
The island chief prosecutor has issued a challenge to the government of country St. Maarten to make the extension of Pointe Blanche House of Detention their number one priority.
Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba said the extension and completion of the cells was big issue each time she would visit the island since St. Maarten had to comply with the international regulations. Jacoba said she is proud to see the cells completed prior to the island achieving its country status and allowing them to compete internationally. Jacoba said her hope is for the detention center for immigrants to be completed by the end of the year so that the immigration and police can begin with intense controls.
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Great Bay:--- Despite the inclement weather which threatened the island yesterday, scores of people from various organizations and businesses turned out to participate in the 'Pink Parade'.
Dressed in pink and braving the weather, scores of participants lined up at the John Larmonie Center where they marched to the beating of drums of the Brigade Band and Yumay Band along the Long Wall Road, to Front Street then to the Boardwalk and finally ending at the St. Rose Café Philipsburg kicking off the start of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The walk which was in honor of those who have lost their lives to breast cancer, a salute those who have survived it and an encouragement to people who are still engaged in the battle against breast cancer, was carried out under the theme "Early detection saves lives."
Organizers of the walk said they were extremely pleased with the turn out despite the threat of rain and were even more pleased with number of young people who participated. Shelly Alphonso of the Positive Foundation said that it was a pleasant surprise to see the response of the St. Maarten community. "I am really pleased with the many people who participated and they all participated for their own reasons," she said. "Some walked because they really wanted to spread awareness, some walked because they were actual breast cancer survivors and others were there because they wanted to support someone they knew who is now battling breast cancer."
Among the hundreds of people who joined the Pink Parade were Island Council lady; Sarah Wescott-Williams, French politician Alain Choisy and radio personality Elektra who all gave brief speeches about breast cancer.
Wescott-Williams in her address revealed that her motivation and contribution to the Pink Parade was also because of her mother who is a breast cancer survivor for more than five decades now.
"I really want to thank everyone who came out because this is our first breast cancer walk and it was really successful," she said. "It was pink all over and we were able to start on time and more importantly it was incident free."
Among the participants were representatives from Nagico Insurances, Divico, the Windward Islands Bank, AUC, St. Maarten pride Foundation, Telem and several nurses from the St. Maarten Medical Center.
Ms. Alphonso also extended thanks to the main sponsors of the event: Heavenly Water, Nagico and Divico and is reminding the general public that free breast screening exams will be conducted at various doctors' offices across the island and will be announced via the media.
Marigot--- For the most of the young people on Saint Martin, today, the country offers neither present nor future. Already the category of the population the most affected by unemployment and precariousness, the present crisis only made matters worse. The unemployment rate among the youth increases more than that of the remainder of the population. It is almost an accepted fact that young people have to suck salt! The only difference is that, for our generations will not be just a passing moment. It seems that the governing officials have chosen to impose sucking salt as a lifestyle. No true policy in favor of the youth, no action in favor of their integration, no prospect for employment...
For most of the young people, it is clear that this system has no future to offer. One often spoke about the young people of Saint Martin as a disillusioned generation, one that has no interest in anything and without a dream. However, with each new day, the youth shows us that it is not at all a resigned generation.
The social situation of the youth rhymes with hardship. Each year the situation worsens whether they are still in school, struggling to find employment or young workers. Below 25 years of age, the youth is excluded from all welfare plan. Even if they worked at some point, they are not entitled to unemployment allowances. Right now, being young is to survive while juggling between the bills and finding a job or getting a diploma which, as times passes, is less and less a guarantee for the remainder of our life.
The unemployment rate of the young people in overseas France - and thus in Saint Martin - is close to the 60%. For the past 30 years, on the national level it has been oscillating between 20 and 25%, it is twice and half higher than that of the " adult " population...
What should be done about this? We, at Generation Outre-mer, think that it is firstly advisable to restore the confidence of the young people, individually and collectively. That means that new dynamics have to be imposed which calls for a modification of the image Saint Martin has of itself; we have to communicate more on the assets of the country and by showing that the fate of the young people is a true concern of the elected officials and economic stakeholders, by becoming an example and the valorization of the history and the culture of Saint Martin.
The concern also calls for more concrete actions towards the young people, by improving the prospects for employment, and by granting them greater financial autonomy...
We are persuaded that the socio-professional development of any man is conditioned by his academic success, so, optimizing education is a pressing need. One can recommend that the child be considered a person, and not only as a pupil, by giving to the children, as of the smaller classes, the opportunity to discover their own capacities in various fields and by not stigmatizing the pupils who have chosen trade schooling. Moreover, the development of a curriculum that includes Saint Martin and the Caribbean (history, political events, traditional knowledge...) is likely to encourage them.
Reinforcing the attractiveness of Saint Martin also calls for a fight against the insecurity and the feeling of insecurity. One would be mistaken in thinking that the youth does not struggle with the feeling of insecurity. A few hints to fight against insecurity and the feeling of insecurity: the creation of an enclosed educational centre, the installation of our military adapted service, but also the setting up "of school of parents" in our districts, the setting up of a help-desk for the youth and a true prevention policy and specialized education....Who, today, can objectively say that the APAIS was not fulfilling its role in Quartier d'Orleans?
Moreover, respect and solidarity are values which are inclined to disappear as a logical consequence of strong propensity to individuation, excessive consumerism and a search for hedonism. Consequently, it is advised to center spirituality on developing a sense of responsibility and solidarity by encouraging the youth to become makers of the events and activities (district fêtes, festivals...) and by steering them to the required effort to earn money by putting them in concrete situation of financial management, which will also sensitize them with the value work.
In 2008, after the presentation of the White paper of the youth to the President L.C FLEMING, a certain number of formal engagements had been taken by him. Although we are pleased that some of our proposals were taken into consideration (territorial youth council, setting up of department that deals with youth affairs, diagram of childhood and youth, assistance fund towards the youth....), we cannot but note that the youth policy (as a public policy) is non-existent and should more be viewed as simple posting!
Therefore, we feel that the Advisory council of Saint Martin (in collaboration with the services of the Territorial Council, the district councils and the lifeblood of the territory), should take up this matter and to further study the reality of the youth of Saint-Martin aiming at:
- displaying the representations, strategies and aspirations of the young people of Saint Martin
- providing a thorough diagnosis of the conditions of existence of the youth
- provide potential actions in order to mitigate the identified weaknesses
By painting such a picture of the youth and its environment, which implies to understand its difficulties (in particular the de-motivation phenomena, elements of frustration and violence, difficulties in the area of intergenerational dialogue and addictions, but also, its expectations, for example, as regards social environment, leisure, socio-professional accompaniment...), the Advisory council will then be able to legitimately make suggestions and proposals in view of improving the conditions of existence of the youth of Saint-Martin.
The problems that our young people are faced with are many and multiform, but solutions exist. It is thus advisable to tackle the immediate problems of the youth, such as the lack of employment, the insufficiency of financial autonomy, the difficulties in finding housing or security issues. But it is also necessary to restore their individual and collective confidence and support the respect of certain values, like the respect, solidarity or work.
As a reminder once again, a country which does not love its youth is a country that has no love for itself! And if it were still necessary to point it out, the political issues for 2012, whether on the local or on the national level, will deal mainly with youth related and fiscal issues.
France/Holland:--- The long awaited police agreement that was discussed and put together by former chief commissioner of police Richard Panneflek and the commandant of the gendarmerie Loic Barras has been signed last Thursday by the Ministries of Overseas Affairs in Holland and France.
The two former heads of the police organizations on the French and Dutch side worked on this cooperation agreement shortly after a grave accident had taken place in Sandy Ground involving two Dutch side police cars that were involved in a high speed chase. That accident which occurred in October 2007 and left two police officers injured and caused much strain on the working relations between the French and Dutch sides, forcing Panneflek and Barras to work on a cooperation agreement which would allow officers on both sides to engage in cross border chases when it pertains to fighting crime.
With an official agreement officers from both sides will be able to conduct patrols on either sides of the island and will also foster better exchange of information and cooperation. Officers of the law are now able to do controls jointly on both sides.
In an invited comment former Chief of Police Richard Panneflek said when he and Barras worked on the treaty they did it based on the framework of the Schengen Accord since France is part of the European Union. "While the Schengen Accord gives police officers a 30 meter boundary in hot pursuits we have joint controls on both sides." Gendarmes can now act as police on the Dutch side and the Dutch side police have the same rights on the French side as the Gendarmes." The former top cop said.
He said the signed treaty should be considered historical since there was none of its kind in the past. "Considering the size of the island to have such a treaty would mean a lot in crime fighting. Officers who are in hot pursuits no longer have to stop at the border since crime does not stop at the border." Panneflek said.
SMN News learnt that the agreement was sent to Curacao and was left there for a long period of time before it was officially sent off to Holland. However, the French Gendarmes also had sent the French version of the treaty to Ministry of Overseas Affairs in Paris who eventually sent it to The Hague for it to be processed.
GREAT BAY:--- Creating awareness about breast cancer is essential for women to be able to identify, understand, and address the biological and lifestyle factors associated with breast cancer.
"As Minister of Health, I am pleased to recognize and acknowledge the activities that have been organized to date and those still to take place during the latter half of October. The month of October as everybody is aware is being observed as Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
"I encourage women to learn about the risk factors for breast cancer, as well as the importance of breast cancer screening. Early detection and thereafter treatment, is the best option for reducing breast cancer deaths among women in the nation," Minister of Public Health Maria Buncamper-Molanus told the Government Information Service (GIS).
Minister Buncamper-Molanus also added that the community also needs to support those who have been diagnosed or affected by breast cancer.
Regular breast self-exams can help women learn what can be considered normal as it pertains to their own bodies and therefore make it easier to notice and find any changes. Remember doing a breast self-exam regularly is not a substitute for regular mammograms.
At present there is no known cause for breast cancer; however there are certain risks factors, which may put individuals at higher, risk of developing breast cancer, e.g. person's age, genetic factors, personal health history and diet.
Philipsburg:--- Stuart Johnson has been nominated for the Crystal Pineapple Awards Fundraiser in the category for Outstanding Community Service (individuals).
Stuart Andrew Johnson was born on June 24th, 1984, on St. Maarten to the proud parents of Saba-born Rudolph Johnson and Aruba-born Linda Johnson. While in high school, he was a member of the Teen Times Youth Newspaper, Volunteer Club of the School, St. Maarten Green Voice Foundation, and Democratic Party Youth Wing of which he became president.
Upon completing his secondary education, he enrolled in the University of St. Martin (USM), where served as the first Student Government Association President, from 2003 to 2005. While in SGA, Stuart fought to have the organization notarized, which facilitated an increase in its (size/membership) and influence. Despite this already hectic schedule, Stuart remained active in the St. Maarten community. He has remained in close touch with the general public in areas ranging from youth affairs, environment, sports and culture, just to name a few . In December 2005, he launched his own foundation, named Youth Link Foundation, which he currently serves as the president. Additionally, he continued to take the initiative with clean up campaigns in the districts of Cay Hill and Middle Region as well as the Guana Bay/Mullet Bay beaches.
As an extremely active community activist Johnson continued being a member of the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation, and today, served as the youngest Vice President of the Foundation.
At the end of September, he became the youngest President to be elected to the board of the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation as preparations for Carnival 2011 are already underway. Additionally, he now serves as the Vice-chairman of the Supervisory Board of Directors of St. Maarten Postal Services.
"There have been few people as active in politics and in the community on the island as Stuart Johnson." Stuart, in all aspects of the word, truly knows what it is to be a St. Maartener and he loves his beloved island, dearly." - DP 50th Anniversary Special Supplement of the TODAY newspaper.
For those who know him, they will say, "this is just the beginning..."
The St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association honors individuals for their outstanding performances. The organizing committee is calling out to the community of St. Maarten to nominate an individual they know. Individuals, who have been nominated in previous years, can be nominated again. "We ask you to please write why you would like to nominate the particular individual". "Let the person or organization shine" says May-Ling Chun co-organizer of the event.
Nominations can be submitted until November 12th, 2010. For more information, please contact the SHTA office: 542-0108, e-mail:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or May-Ling Chun at 586-7120 or e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
The SBO Maritime Assistant Course level 1, which aims to train drop outs from the secondary school level to become professionals in the maritime sector, has delivered nine new graduates.
From the 16 students that started the course in September 2009 nine managed to complete the full course successfully: 6 with diplomas and 3 with certificates.
The course is very practical. During 1,5 days at school subjects such as Basic Mechanics, Boat Painting, Social Skills, English, Kayaking, Swimming and Dingy Driving are taught. Coordinator of the course, Rien Korteknie, especially wants to applaud the students and WIEMS for the 100% passing rate of the students for the very important First Aid Responders Course.
Three week days the students received practical training in the various marine companies on the island: e.g. maintaining boats, assisting tourists on boat trips and assisting dock hands at the big marinas. After the course 1 student has already found employment at Aqua Mania, 2 at Blue Bubbles diving company, 1 at Island water World and 1 student decided to continue to study and started with SBO Carpentry level 2 course.
The marine industry is pleased with the outcome of the course focusing on basic skills needed to be successful within the sector. The St Maarten Marine Trades Association (SMMTA) states that finding skilled local employees remains a challenge and this program is a step in the right direction to promoting the industry to the local labor force.
The SMMTA Board together with Lisa Marshall, widow of the late Paul Marshall will present the top 3 students with the 2nd Annual Paul Marshall Memorial Scholarship Award. This scholarship award was established to further the Maritime education of St. Maarten students through skills advancement. The recipients will expand their sailing skills through a private course offered by the St. Maarten Yacht Club, which will ensure the skill level of the participants to CWO Level 2.
In September of this year a new group of 15 students has started with The Maritime Assistant level 1 course. The course is organized by SVOBE at Milton Peters College and is financed through government and with extra financial assistance via USONA from Dutch Development Funds for Education and Youth. SBO Service center/DERPI assists the MPC-SBO team with training of teachers, job coaches, curricula development, drop-out prevention and organizational advice.
This year's graduates will receive their diplomas and scholarship on October 21, from 7 pm (until 9 pm) at the Milton Peters College.
Philipsburg:--- Minister of education, sports, youth and culture affairs Rhoda Arrindell told reporters on Wednesday that there is a new Sherriff in town and her government has not seen any plans for the much talked about race track and cricket field. Minister Arrindell admitted she is new in the process and is still busy familiarizing herself with the various departments within her portfolios.
While Minister Arrindell was not able to pinpoint her priorities in her portfolios she made clear when asked if there would be any continuity with regards of the race track and cricket field that was initiated by former commissioner of sports Frans Richardson. Minister Arrindell responded sarcastically, she laughed and asked "what race track and cricket field? I consider this to be a brand new game with a new sheriff in town."
She further said that there is a new Sheriff in town and there is no race track or cricket field in their plans for sports. Minister Arrindell said that she has her own vision for sports and how it should be developed on St. Maarten, while not completely ruling out other people's ideas and projects. "I have my own vision for sports and not leaving it out of the school curriculum. However, I would prefer to start from scratch since it's a brand new situation, it's a new government and it's not a department." The Minister said while she has seen other projects she did not see any presentation of a race track or cricket field.
Right now we have been receiving correspondence from Curacao regarding the Kingdom Games and the Netherlands Antilles Olympic committee that must be dealt with within short.
Asked about her plans for education especially her intention to have the language of instruction as English, Minister Arrindell said the language of instruction is no longer a discussion. "We already established the language of instruction to be English as everyone knows my position on this matter. The idea is to get this written into law and have the other subjects such as Dutch and French taken as compulsory subjects. The Minister said that discussion is long gone and they are now looking at how to do this well. As for compulsory education she said it started in 2008 as a phasing in process. However, she made clear that St. Maarten will comply with all its obligations when it comes to its children. "Right now we are looking to see what would be the most responsible way to have this totally implemented. All children on St. Maarten are our children and we have to do it well since we do not want to short change our youths for the sake of dropping them in a classroom." The Minister said all children deserve the same level and quality of education and as such her Ministry is looking at how to incorporate the other schools into the regular school system.
Oyster Pond: --- Police are busy investigating the death of a man whose body was found in the ditch near border bar. According to police spokesman Ricardo Henson, the unidentified victim's body bore several bruises and cuts which led police to believe that someone must have knocked him down. The police spokesman said the victim has been identified as Francedouard GRANDIN who was born in Haiti on October 30th 1955.
Henson said the victim's body has been confiscated since the police is yet to determine if the victim died due to a hit and run accident or if this is another homicide. The detective and forensic departments are busy trying to determine if the man was killed due to hit and run or if he was killed otherwise.
Grandin's death is the third Haitian killed in this year they are Isarac Patrisan who lost his life in traffic accident while leaving school, Clemencia Julot who was murdered some months ago and Grandin whose life was snatched away early Thursday morning.
In the meantime the police and detective department has released the name of the victim whose body was recovered in Maho on October16th 2010. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said the victim has been identified as Wouter Jan Romeijn born in the Netherlands on October 1968 and was residing in the Cote d' Azur area. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said police is still not able to determine if the victim was thrown from a vehicle or if he was struck by a vehicle, therefore they are urging the public or eye witnesses who witnessed this horrible crime to make contact with the police.
Baie Nettle:--- The representatives of Jutras Groupe Immobillier who is currently on the island presenting its plan to develop the Front de Mer project told reporters on Friday that while they invited the president of the COM Frantz Gumbs and the members of the territorial council to the presentation of the Front de Mer Project president Gumbs did not honor his invitation.
Mario di Palma said even though the first vice president Daniel Gibbs has worked on the project and he met the president once and spoke of the project, he did not show any interest in discussing with them again. The investors showed members of the media a power point presentation of the plan but they were unable to provide key answers as to how they intend to develop the Marigot waterfront and the implications this would have on the local businesses as well as the environment.
Calypso Events was contracted to organize the presentations, the first was held on Thursday at the Flamboyant Hotel where the business people and council members were invited to view the plans but members of the media was barred from this event.
The investors said their intention is to make the presentation to the territorial council but the president is not responding to their request, even though the first vice president is working closely with them. They said it is necessary for the COM to become involved with this project because they are the ones who would have to inform their population. "Right now we have a project and we will be holding more meetings so we can convince the people that they should work with us, since this project is for them.
The plan presented is for a ten year period which has value of 1 billion, one hundred and ten million direct investments with 687 million Euros as indirect investment. The objective of the project, they said is to increase the value of the patrimony of Saint Martin, to develop tourism, position credible St Martiner's in the Caribbean, to develop the economy and to create more jobs for locals.
The direct investments for the next 10 years are as follows:-
- Commercial Port— 60 million Euros
- Chantier Naval (dock yard) -49 million Euros
- Water Front--- 988 million Euros
- Maritime Institute 13 million Euros
Indirect Investments for a 10 year period:-
- Hub Import and Export 20 million Euros
- Institute of Art and Culture 20 million Euros
- Private Residential 300 million Euros
- Private Hotel 250 million Euros
- Commercial sites 97 million Euros
During the construction some 1000 persons will be employed every year for the next ten year with the creation of 3600 new employment over the ten year period.
The investors said they are willing to wait and see if the president of the Territorial council would see them and to entertain them. However, they made clear that they do not intend to wait indefinitely for the president. Furthermore, St. Maarten is a land that is governed by state laws and it is not a banana republic. They further explained that they are waiting for the council to open the bidding for this project so they can bid on it.
They said they have the monies available since the RBBT bank is owned by Canadians and that is the bank that has financed the projects on the Dutch side. They said the money for this dream project is available and St. Martin is lucky to have investors that have the money on the table to invest while government is playing games. The investors said their partners are Cirque du Soleil, SNC Lavalin, Chantiers Naval, West Jet, Air Transat, Air Canada, RBC, and Air Canada.
They said the intention is to rebrand the French side and to make sure they attract tourist with strong spending power. The investors said that the Front de Mer project should not be looked at as a competition towards the Dutch side instead the Front de Mer project would be a compliment to the Dutch side.
They said while tourists disembark on the Dutch side they go to the French side for their attraction. The Front de Mer is to provide quality attraction that they believe will attract more business. The idea is to reduce parking in Marigot and to encourage walking through Marigot so that more people would visit the business places which to them would increase business for the businesses in Marigot. While the plan has details on what the investors want to construct, no parking space is part of the project. During the question and answer session the investors said their intention is to build walkways at the entrance of Marigot to reduce traffic throughout Marigot. "When people come here on vacation they don't want to smell exhaust smoke, they want fresh air and the sea."
At the press conference there were first vice president Daniel Gibbs, and the director of the Galisbay Port Service Alberic Ellis. When asked how much filling in of the sea would have to be done to accommodate a project of such magnitude. Ellis provided some information based on a plan that was made in 1992, when pressed to see if an environmental impact study was done and what would be some of the environmental consequences, Ellis quickly said he was not holding the press conference.
Below is the audio of the press conference, in both French and English. Click on the the first audio link titled "Front de Mer" to listen.
Philipsburg:--- SMN News has been reliably informed that the former convicted Chief of Police Derrick Holiday might be the person who would be appointed as labour mediator. The source said Holiday applied for the position before St. Maarten achieved its country status he was promised the job by the former executive council of St. Maarten if the VNA approves his appointment. SMN News learnt that so far the current Minister of Labour is yet to send his credentials VNA for vetting even though Minister of Labour Maria Buncamper Molanus announced last week that she already has a candidate for the position.
The source said the labour Minister is facing severe pressure to appoint a new mediator by a certain workers union. They said while the union is pressuring the Minister she is still having trouble submitting Holiday's credentials to the VNA especially knowing he has a conviction on his record. The Supreme Court in their final ruling upheld the ban of the lower court where Holiday cannot hold any position within the police force for the next three years while he was sentenced to one year suspended sentence with 180 hours community service. However, it is not clear if that would hinder the process of him being appointed a civil servant in country St. Maarten.
SMN News learnt that one of the concerns of the Minister of labour is that Holiday does not have any knowledge on labour laws, thus he must be trained. While Derrick Holiday is a lawman by trade his skills rest within the justice system.
Philipsburg:--- The Minister of Education, youth, sports and culture Rhoda Arrindell has informed the media on Wednesday that she has placed a moratorium on all hiring and placing of workers within her ministry. The Minister said the hold is placed until further notice since her ministry is busy trying to gain more information on the applications that was submitted to government while she is also trying to form a database on those persons currently working in the ministry.
Minister Arrindell said once the status of the applications on the posts that were advertised becomes clearer and she receives the capacity building plan from the general secretary, only then the review process can begin.
In the meantime, the Minister made good on her statements a week ago when she classified herself as the new Sheriff in town by pinning the Sheriff star on her clothing Wednesday.
The education Minister also announced that the study financing period is now open and applications are now available at the department of Education. The Minister said she is currently reviewing the draft priority list which should be ready by next week.
NAGICO Insurances took part in the Annual Student Career & Study Fair that took place yesterday at the Belair Community Center. The students received a combination of take-a-ways including a pamphlet containing information on career options in the insurance field, the second issue of the company's newsletter: NAGICO Life Lines, and promotional stationery.
NAGICO Insurances Human Resources Officer Esmeralda Maria was on hand to advise the students on their future employment options with NAGICO. During her presentation she stated: "Besides positions in the insurance field such as Underwriters, Claims/Loss Adjusters, Agents and Insurance Brokers, a position at NAGICO does not have to be directly insurance related. The company has many departments similar to other (financial) services providers and as such openings at different level entries may be possible for the following fields as well: Human Resources, Accounting, Marketing & Communications, Information Technology and Customer Service."
Ms. Esmeralda Maria was accompanied by Agency Administrative Clerk, Tamisha Wigley to give support during presentations to secondary students from the various schools on the island.
Great Bay:--- Ever wondered why the waiter pours the equivalent of a mouthful of wine in a glass and offers it to you for approval before serving it? Do you know the ritual of wine-tasting and why connoisseurs sniff the wine glass before drinking from it?
"There's more to wine than meets the eye," says Director of Tourism, Regina Labega. "That is why wine will be flowing throughout the five-day Flaavors of St. Maarten Food and Wine Festival which starts on November 10."
In fact, the curtain raiser for the Flaavors Festival is a grand champagne tasting at Porto Cupecoy, which will feature Iron Chef contestant Marc Forgione who will be preparing some hors d'oeuvres best suited to go with champagne. Admission to this event is US$150 per person.
On Saturday, November 13, 2010, there will be a conducted wine tasting at noon by the Napa Valley Vintners Association at the Westin Dawn Beach Resort. The participating wineries include Flying Horse Winery, Luna Vineyards, Jones Family Vineyards, Peju Vineyards, The Hess Collection and Grgich Hills Winery. Others are the Miner Family Vineyards and the Oakville Ranch Vineyards.
Participating panelists at this special event are Dan Bailey of the Jones Family Vineyards, Paula Kornel of Oakville Ranch Vineyards and Michael Davis of Hart, Davis, Hart, in Chicago.
"With such experts around, the wine tasting promises to be more than a delight to the palate," noted LaBega. "Questions like what wine goes well with T-bone steak, and which wine will make a red snapper or grouper go down well will surely be among those answered by these experts."
PHILIPSBURG:--- Deputy Prime Minister Theo Heyliger says the people and Government are in solidarity with the people of Curacao, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and Barbados that have recently experienced widespread damage in parts of their island nations caused by the passing of Hurricane Tomas.
The extent of damage is coming to the forefront as assessment teams on the various islands carry out their surveys.
Curacao received approximately six hours of constant rainfall that led to severe flooding after downgraded Tropical Storm Tomas became stationary North of the island earlier in the week.
"We are in solidarity with the people of Curacao and the Government of Prime Minister Gerrit Schotte after hearing about the extensive flooding that parts of that island have experienced.
"The people and Government of Sint Maarten also offer our condolences to those who have lost their lives during the passing of Tomas.
"Sint Maarten is prepared to assist our fellow brothers and sisters on Curacao should the need arise. We remember the assistance provided to us back in 1995 after the passing of Hurricane Luis with the provision of human resources.
"We can fully sympathize and comprehend what the people of the various islands are experiencing at this point in time. Our thoughts and prayers go out to them as they start to rebuild their lives.
"As a nation we also pray for the people of Haiti who have already gone through so much with the devastating January 12 earthquake that left close to 300,000 people dead and about 1.3 million still living in make-shift tent villages.
"Even though Tomas has weakened to a tropical depression, it could regain hurricane strength. We hope that the system fizzles out and no longer poses a threat to any land," Deputy Prime Minister Theo Heyliger said on Wednesday.
The Saint Lucia National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) is reporting five (5) confirmed deaths. Damage has been projected to surpass US$100 million. The death toll could rise further as search and rescue efforts continue.
Two persons were seriously injured on St. Vincent and more than 1200 houses have sustained damage ranging from slight to total destruction. There are over 1150 persons in shelters. Seven government buildings were also damaged.
There was widespread devastation of the agriculture sector to the bananas and plantain fields.
GREAT BAY:--- St. Martin's newest author Felecita Williams may prove to be the island's busiest writer for 2010. Williams (L) was certainly kept busy signing (10/21/10) copies of her autobiographical book Because of Prayer at the 14th Biennial Caribbean Regional Conference of the Aglow International. The recently concluded Christian fellowship assembly was held this year in Grand Cayman. "I enjoyed it," said Williams, who was also the flag-bearer for the St. Maarten territory "in the flag parade at the opening session," said the author. "It was a marvelous opportunity for me to be exposed and to have my books goes all the way to Cayman! It's truly a wonderful blessing," said Williams. The Because of Prayer tour has also taken the author to Curacao, USA, and the Netherlands for book signings and readings. Because of Prayer was launched here in May 2010, said Jacqueline Sample, president of House of Nehesi, the book's publisher. (Photo courtesy FW)
Cole Bay:--- Depositors of the Christian Kingdom Cooperative (CKS) met with managing director and other advisors to the credit union on Friday night at the Carls and Sons Unique Inn where they were apprised of the current situation facing the CKC and the decisions that were taken by the Central Bank. At that meeting the members were told that the Central Bank has revoked the licenses for CKC but they are yet to file bankruptcy procedures. CKC received the official notification from the Central Bank earlier this week by letter that their license was revoked. Last Friday members of the Central Bank had notified the CKC management and its advisors that they had decided to withdraw their licenses even though sister credit union are currently negotiating with CKC to take over the credit union.
One of the key questions that were posed by the depositors at the meeting is if the CKC has any insurance that would safeguard the depositors. At that moment CKC and its legal advisors notified their members that the Central Bank has failed to meet the law which is stipulated under article 39 of the federal legislation that regulates the banking industry.
Article 39 of the bank supervison law of the central bank deposit scheme of 1994 states that the central bank has been charged with setting up of a deposit insurance scheme to protect the depositors but the Central Bank has failed to set up such an insurance. Following is article 39 of the federal legislation taken off of the Central Bank of Curacao and St. Maarten.
SMN News has been reliably informed that the CKC legal advisors are planing to file a counter suit against the Central Bank for negligence whenever they file the bankrupcy. The source said while the depositors who have over 1.7 million dollars at stake cannot file a claim towards an insurance scheme the Central Bank can be held liabable for failing to protect its deposiors. SMNNews also learnt that because there is no insurance for the banks depositors of all banks faces the risk of losing their monies since the central bank has not insured them.
In an effort to protect and manage one of Country St. Maarten's Natural Treasures; the St. Maarten Nature Foundation will be launching a wide-scale project in order to determine the number and health of the island's resident pelican population. The Brown Pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis) is one of St. Maarten's national symbols, the depiction of which can be found on the island's Flag and Coat of Arms. The pelican also lends its name to various businesses and institutions on the island yet there is very little information on its lifecycle. It was therefore decided that in order to properly conserve and manage this culturally important species vital information needs to be collected on nesting areas, the types of animals the bird feeds on, how many pelicans we still have left, and what type of threats the bird faces. Anecdotal evidence has shown that the pelican population has severely decreased over the last few decades and that the island might be in danger of loosing its resident pelican population. The health of St. Maarten's pelicans can also reflect the general health of the marine ecosystem; with more pelicans present the better the environment.
The Brown Pelican occurs on coasts in the Americas from Washington and Virginia south to northern Peru and the mouth of the Amazon River, as well as numerous islands in the Caribbean. Their young are hatched in broods of about 3, and eat around 150 lbs. of fish in the 8-10 month period they are cared for. It is known that the islets off of the island's Eastern Shore; Pelican Rock, Hens and Chicks, and Molly Beday are important hatching areas for this and numerous other bird species and hopefully with the results of the study steps can be put in place to conserve them.
The Nature Foundation will apply bird monitoring methods learned during Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance bird monitoring courses and will conduct point counts at various locations throughout the island. Also, in an effort to involve the community in the project a limited amount of citizens can volunteer to assist with the research. Different points on the island will be used to monitor for the species and monitoring using the Nature Foundation Marine Park patrol vessel Yellowtail on the offshore islets on the Eastern Coast of the island will also be conducted. Those interested can call the Nature Foundation on 5444267 or leave a message on the Nature Foundation Facebook page (facebook.com/St-Maarten-Nature-Foundation). Space will be very limited. The first pelican count will be held on St. Maarten's Day, November 11th, 2010.
Philipsburg:--- The Chapter of professional Young People (CPYP®) hereby extends an invitation to persons who are interested in becoming a member of the organization to join them this upcoming Saturday November 13, 2010, at 4 pm at the University of St. Martin.
Founded in 2009, the Chapter was created with the mission to develop young St. Maarten professionals; young professionals who possess a fervent ardor for further self development as a basis to be effective in overall community development.
This self development can be political, formative, media related and / or community related. CPYP is focused on providing its members with the necessary foundation to take them to the next level of self development.
CPYP Vice President Mario Gumbs believes that Country St. Maarten deserves the hands of young professionals who are willing and able to contribute to the building up of Country St. Maarten. It is my firm belief that we must be a part of moving St. Maarten forward and for that reason; I would like to encourage the public and especially young professionals to come out this Saturday. Becoming a member means that you will be taking a step in the right direction and to lend your voice to affect change and exert influence within your community.
For more information on CPYP St. Maarten visit their fan page on your social network site, Facebook.
Philipsburg:--- Members of the National Alliance faction met on Wednesday midday to discuss how they would approach and deal with the chairlady of parliament Gracita Arrindell during the closed door meeting scheduled for 2pm on Wednesday. The meeting is to discuss the appointment of Franklyn Hanze as an interim General Secretary to parliament of country St Maarten.
SMN News has been reliably informed that the chairlady via her "right hand" Franklyn Hanze sent out an amended proposal to some of the members of the United Peoples Party faction and Dr. Lloyd Richardson. Those that received the amended proposal are Jules James, Dr. Lloyd Richardson, Patrick Illidge, Petrus Leroy de Weever, Roman Laville and Silvia Meyers. In the meantime the other five members of the National Alliance William Marlin, George Pantophlet, Frans Richardson, Hyacinth Richardson and Louie Laveist including UP members Johan Janchi Leonard and Dr. Ruth Douglas along with DP member Roy Marlin did not get the amended proposal.
The amended proposal which is to be discussed during the central committee has the monthly expenditures for Hanze as the following:-
Lodging - 20 days @ Fl. 250,00 5000,00
Meals - 25 days @ Fl. 125,00 3125,00
Rental Car 20 days @ Fl. 140,00 2800,00
Travel Vouchers - 4.3 @ Fl. 565,00 2429,50
Airport Tax - 4.3 @ Fl. 41,50 178,45
Fee Flat Rate 26.000,00
Total monthly cost Fl. 39.532,95
In the meantime the chairlady of parliament Gracita Arrindell is still to finalise the discussions with USONA to see if they would undertake Hanze's expenses as a consultant to St. Maarten during its transition period. Currently the members of parliament SMN News understands are very concerned about who will cover the expenses should USONA object to taking it over. SMN News also learnt that while the project director Denis Richardson was working on the proposal, Hanze and Arrindell made up their own proposal and presented it to parliament on Monday. The first proposal had a weekly expense to the tune of Naf. 11, 210. It must also be noted that Franklyn Hanze has his own legal consultancy firm.
Philipsburg:--- This Saint Martin/Sint Maarten's Day, November 11, 2010, we of the Southern part of our island celebrate with Saint Martin under a new constitutional status.
It is the first Saint Martin/Sint Maarten's Day that on the South side of this beautiful nation, we celebrate our joint day as a country, having achieved country status within the Dutch Kingdom on October 10, 2010.
Indeed, our heritage has surely contributed to the attainment of constitutional change and the much sought after self-government for our people. From the three islands Windward Islands Territory to becoming an Island Territory ourselves, to a country within the Kingdom in 2010.
As a people we have much to be proud of. The constitutional change process was inspired by our yearning for a more fulfilling future for our people.
Having a long history of friend and kinship amongst ourselves, a reputation of kind hospitality, and legendary pride in our nation as we move forward together as North and South, let us continue to harness the spirit of cooperation for the betterment of all our people.
Let us provide the leadership necessary to do so, based on our shared heritage and continue to inspire tomorrow's generations, as they look to us to lead the way forward. We have demonstrated time and again, that there is strength in unity and so we must relish the absence of physical borders and avoid creating mental or political barriers. For North and South, French and Dutch, the times are challenging, the responsibilities greater yet, but our common heritage remains the buttress to face these challenges head-on.
May God continue to bless our island nation.
Marigot:--- President Frantz Gumbs at an executive council meeting on Tuesday night took away all the portfolios of the Vice Presidents of the Collectivity. Those that lost their portfolios are Claire Javios, Daniel Gibbs, Pierre Allioti, and Louis Jeffry. While Gumbs took away the portfolios based on article CE 50-4-2009 and LO 6353-3 of the Organic Law, he also acted illegally by not having the stripping of the portfolios on the agenda.
President Gumbs now has full control over the affairs of the COM. SMN News has been reliably informed that while the executive council met on Tuesday to deliberate on administrative matters, the stripping the vice presidents of their portfolios was nowhere on the agenda. It is further understood that the elected officials that are still supporting the President and Senator acted in conspiracy against Gibbs. "Taking away the portfolios from all the members was to get at Gibbs." At the meeting on Tuesday night were five members of the executive council, while two of them were absent. Those present were President Frantz Gumbs, Louis Jeffry, Claire Javois, Alain Richardson and Daniel Gibbs, while Pierre Allioti and Aline Hanson were absent. Voting in favour of the motion presented by Gumbs were Jeffry, Javios and Gumbs while Richardson and Gibbs voted against.
According to the law, the president now have to call a territorial council meeting to inform the public and the council of the decisions he has taken to strip the vice presidents of their portfolios. The president would also have to give the council the reasons why he took such decisions.
SMN News learnt that if Gibbs decided to take the President to court for his actions on Tuesday night there is a strong possibility he would win the case. Already senator Louis Constant Fleming has taken Semsamar board to court after they ousted him from the presidency on September 10.The case of LC Fleming against Semsamar was called on October 13 while the court will pronounce its ruling on December 15th.
Philipsburg:--- A press release from Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos has issued a press release stating that an agreement has been reached with police inspector Carlton Philips and the prosecutor's office. Below is the full release.
"In September 2009, Police Inspector Carlton Philips publicly made allegations that there had been a conspiracy against his candidacy for Chief of the Criminal Intelligence Department (CID). Members of the selection committee would have conspired against Philips, resulting in the fact that not Philips but another candidate was chosen and thus Philips' promotion was blocked. Philips' opinion was based on statements attributed to at least one member of the selection committee. The selection committee comprised of three persons including the CID prosecutor.
Inspector Philips had received information that the CID prosecutor had raised objections to him being appointed as the head of the CID department. In his public statements Philips requested that the role of the CID prosecutor in the matter also be investigated. This led to the acting chief Prosecutor deciding in October 2009, that his office would not work with Inspector Philips in investigations as long as he did not issue a public apology.
On Friday October 13th 2010, a meeting took place between the Chief of Police, the Chief of the Judicial Department, the acting Chief Prosecutor, the CID Prosecutor and police inspector Carlton Philips. In this clarifying meeting, several topics were discussed, including all aspects of the application of Mr. Philips, the position of the CID prosecutor as well as the decision taken by the acting chief prosecutor.
During this meeting it was established that statements made by certain individuals, miscommunication and at times a serious lack of information, had led to the unfortunate situation between the office of the public prosecutor and inspector Philips. It was also established that in any case the CID prosecutor was not involved in any conspiracy to block his promotion. Philips subsequently acknowledged that based on incorrect information he had wrongfully assumed that the CID Prosecutor was also part of the conspiracy. Parties expressed their regrets for the unfortunate situation that resulted in the strained relationship between them.
Based on the above, parties have reached an amicable solution of this matter and it was decided to restore the working relation with inspector Philips."
PHILIPSBURG:--- Vice Prime Minister Theo Heyliger and Minister of Finance met with former Dutch representative to the Netherlands Antilles in Philipsburg Gert-jan Stortelers on Monday.
A number of issues were discussed during the courtesy visit including staffing shortage within the government administration especially in key functions, and how this could be solved within the short to mid-term.
Stortelers was also briefed by both ministers with respect to current developments since the attainment of country status on October 10.
Stortelers currently holds the position of senior policy advisor in the Department of Kingdom Relations attached to the Ministry of Interior Affairs & Kingdom Relations.
Stortelers was accompanied by his colleague Harold Boersen.
Philipsburg/French Quarter:--- The prosecutor's office has confirmed the release of R.B the suspect that was arrested last Monday as a suspect in the murder of Clemincia Josi-anne Julot.
A press release from Prosecutor Rienk Mud states that R.B was released on Monday afternoon. Mud said based on DNA research it makes it unlikely that R.B had anything to do with the killing of said victim.
The public prosecutor's office also announced that the investigation is continuing and as such they are calling on the public to come forward with whatever information they might have to assist in solving this horrible crime.
Julot's body was recovered on July 22 2010 in Oyster Pond, the 21 year old woman disappeared two days prior to the gruesome recovery when she went jogging. The Prosecutors office put together a special team, "Team Grootschalige Opsporing" (TGO) to solve what they described as one of the most horrible crimes to have ever happened on the island.
By Lasana M. Sekou
GREAT BAY:--- St. Martin people have been expressing outrage and disgust concerning the recent suspension of two top officials of the territory's Tourism Bureau, considered to be the most efficient, people-focused, service-oriented, result-driven agency of government, despite its well-known manpower inadequacies.
Not only are the talk-shows bombarded with calls, generally in favor of the two victims of this irrational government action, the suspension of Ms. Regina LaBega, director of tourism and marketing director Edward Dest almost two weeks ago has also become a most-talked about issue island-wide.
St. Martin people are demonstrating once again that they do not appreciate their government punishing, humiliating, and wrecking the reputation of some of their brightest and most dedicated sons and daughters in a manner that flies in the face of their sense of justice and fair play.
"Even criminals are treated more fairly," I've heard a number of people repeat, commenting on the matter, pointing to the fact that suspected criminals must be informed within two working days of the reason they are detained and brought before an investigating judge to determine if they should be held longer.
It is not my intention to defend the good name of both Ms. LaBega and Mr. Dest: their records speak for them. However, I cannot but join in expressing my own outrage at what seems to be a calculated smear campaign unleashed by the authorities and I will limit my opinion to how language is being used to deliberately create a narrative that does not stand the test of logic.
If I understand it correctly, the two tourism top guns were summarily sent home, some even say, "Gestapo-style," based on some unspecified "discrepancies" discovered by the Finance Department allegedly since February of this year. Now, the word "discrepancies" could mean anything from a wrong posting of an item in the budget to the disappearance of millions of dollars. The vagueness in this "charge" is obviously meant to allow the imagination of the population to take flight.
Secondly, there has not been in recent memory, any case that has forced government to engage in a concerted PR effort: the very same day the suspension and eviction order from the premises of the Tourism Bureau were "gleefully" served on the two officials, a press release was issued to further "explain" – with at least three appearances on talk-shows and other interviews granted by ministers known for their preference for staying out of GIS news briefings, even when the portfolio was their responsibility. Why all the media adrenaline rushes? To deflect accusations that the measure was political victimization? There is more there than meets the eye.
In the process, statements claiming that the case file has been submitted to the Public Prosecutor are flung around, despite media reports that the Public Prosecutor has denied receiving any such file. In my view, this is the nastiest aspect of the whole matter.
The mere mention of the Public Prosecutor creates the impression that a crime has been committed, when the suspended officials have not even been informed of what they may have done wrong to warrant such a drastic measure, which the minister in charge called routine in the present constitutional dispensation.
But, and this is a most insidious part of the claim, how could the Public Prosecutor be even mentioned when government has stated that the "investigation" has not been finalized? What charges and/or evidence were they going to submit to the Public Prosecutor if they haven't even concluded their so-called "investigation"? Are we missing something here?
"Investigation" – or however those words will metamorphosis – is another of those code words used to conjure up some hideous crime. How can people be under "investigation" by their employer since February (or even September) and not know about it until they are shamefully suspended in November?
Who is (or who are) the "investigator(s)"? How long does it take to "investigate" "discrepancies" involving only two officials who have given their professional lives for the economic well-being of the territory, and indeed (knowing especially Ms. LaBega's marketing savvy and her love and socio-cultural concerns) of the entire island?
While nobody is suggesting that anyone is or should be above the law, it is simply unbelievable that those who acted in the manner in which they did, did so with the best interest of the rest of us at heart.
I believe the suspended officials will hopefully have their day in court to put this nightmare behind them, but I wonder what redress and what reparation would be sufficient to undo the damage done to their reputation. Hopefully, this will be sooner than later, because when bad things happen to good people, the whole community, the whole S'maatin nation, suffers. And for that, there is no reparation.
GREAT BAY:--- Last week personnel from the emergency services took part in a two-hour Mass Casualty Incidents (MCI) workshop that took place at the Fire & Ambulance Department Emergency Response Center in Cay Hill.
The workshop included personnel from the fire department, Sint Maarten Emergency Medical Services (EMS), WIEMS, Red Cross, Family Physicians, Mental Health Foundation, Sint Maarten Medical Center, Sint Martin's Home and the Inspectorate of Health.
Head of the Ambulance Department Cylred Richardson told the Government Information Service (GIS) that the MCI workshop covered such areas as an airplane crash, cruise ship fire, and a bus crash.
"The workshop also included organizing and commanding the emergency scene, sorting of patients based on severity of their injuries, setting up field treatment areas, and the transportation of multiple victims to the hospital.
"The personnel were also taught how to utilize a variety of resources such as equipment and personnel. The goal of the training was for the national emergency services to be better prepared to handle an incident," Richardson explained.
Minister of Public Health Maria Buncamper-Molanus was impressed with the content of the workshop. "It is essential that our EMS personnel receive training in various areas of emergency response and management.
"Also very important is re-training of staff and continuous upgrading. Our island nation caters to the international community. The type of economy we have developed as a nation caters to almost two million visitors a year. In the event of an incident involving a cruise ship or an aircraft, the first responders need to be able to handle this type of emergency.
"The same services not only serve our visitors, but are also first and foremost for the community. Public transportation is a clear example, should there be an accident involving a bus carrying 15 passengers, again our EMS must be able to deal with such an emergency. I am very proud of all of the staff as well as those other stakeholders who came out to the workshop. Our main goal is to provide quality and efficient services to the community and our visitors," Minister of Public Health Maria Buncamper-Molanus told the GIS on Sunday.
The workshop attendees were also acquainted with two new MCI response trailers that were recently purchased by the Sint Maarten EMS.
The trailers built by Disaster Response Solutions in Ohio, carries a variety of medical equipment including 25 backboards, a large quantity of trauma supplies such as splints, and burn sheets, airway equipment including ventilation devices, and equipment to assist command personnel in organizing the mass casualty scene.
In addition, one of the trailers carries a large oxygen tank and two delivery manifolds that allow oxygen to be administered to 10 patients simultaneously. This capability can be useful in the event of an industrial accident where toxic gases may be released or if there is a major fire and multiple persons are suffering from smoke inhalation.
Each trailer can treat more than 50 patients and can be attached to a small vehicle and transported along narrow road and alley ways to an incident.
"I am very pleased with the resources that we have received and the training that the staff has been going through over the years. It is hoped that the training and trailers will never be used, but in such an event, our national emergency response personnel are better prepared," Head of Sint Maarten EMS Cylred Richardson concluded.
The workshop was conducted by Daniel Mack from the United States who serves as Assistant Chief of Miami Township Fire and Emergency Medical Services in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Mack has conducted similar workshops throughout the United States and is the author of numerous articles on MCIs.
Philipsburg: --- Members of Parliament Louis Laveist and Frans Richardson walked out of the government administration building on Tuesday afternoon protesting against the length of time they had to wait on the A.C Wathey legislative hall to start a scheduled central committee meeting. Members of Parliament were initially told that the meeting to discuss St. Maarten joining the Latin American Parliament will convene at 2pm it was later changed to 3pm but when the parliamentarians reached the government administration building they were forced to wait in the corridor since Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto was busy meeting with members of the CFT in the A.C Wathey Legislative Hall. At that point the MP's were told that they should stick around because the meeting would start at 3:30pm.
SMN News learnt that there was some sort of mix up with the scheduling of the meeting. Sources say parliament did not duly notify the secretariat on the planned meeting for Tuesday.
Shortly after Laveist and Richardson walked out of the building they were called and told the A.C Wathey Hall was made available to them and that the meeting was going to begin forthwith. Both MP's then returned and signed in to participate in the meeting.
The two agenda points on Tuesday was for the members of parliament to decide if St. Maarten parliament would become a member of the Latin American Parliament and if so which committees St. Maarten would choose to join.
Senator Frans Richardson asked what would becoming a member of Parlatino cost St. Maarten including the travelling expenses. He also asked if the budgetary constraints on St. Maarten would in any way jeopardize the island's membership.
The chairlady of parliament responded by saying becoming a member of Parlatino would cost St Maarten $20,000 annually.
Senator Johan Janchi Leonard in his elucidation said he did not think the MP's should focus on what this membership would cost St. Maarten instead he is of the opinion that the people needs to know what would St. Maarten benefit by becoming a member of Parlatino. Senator Roy Marlin and Patrick Illidge shared the same concern. However, deputy chairman of parliament Leroy De Weever felt there was also need to discuss how much this would cost St. Maarten.
Senator Frans Richardson also suggested that the meeting should have been held behind closed doors but the chairlady immediately reminded him that the rules of order stated that central committee meetings have to be public.
Senator Louis Laviest said that the agenda points were not properly noted since the conditions were not added in agenda point one. While the MP's are asked to decide whether or not they would agree to become a member Parlatino they are not fully aware of the cost and conditions. He suggested that the central committee discuss point 2 before point one. The chair agreed after some discussion to adjourn for ten minutes so that the MP's could caucus before debating agenda point two. Before the meeting adjourned the central committee voted in favour of St. Maarten becoming a member of Parlatino. When the meeting convened the central committee immediately decided that St. Maarten would become members of the following committees:
- Economic Affairs, Social Debt and Regional Development Commission.
- Citizen Safety, Combat and Prevention of Narco-traffic, Terrorism and Organised Crime.
- Education, Culture, Science and Technology and Communication Commission
- Health Commission
- Human Rights, Justice, and Prison Policies Commission.
- Gender Equality, Childhood, and Youth Commission
- Agriculture, Cattle Raising, and Fishery Commission.
- Environment and Tourism Commission.
GREAT BAY:--- Honorable Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams would like to congratulate the broadcast media who observed World Television Day on November 21.
"The broadcast media, in particular television, plays a very important role in providing news and information.
"The media is considered the fourth estate which rests on the idea that the media's function is to act as a guardian of the public interest and as a watchdog.
"The fourth estate is an important component of the checks and balances that form part of a modern democracy such as ours. Government embraces the important role the media plays in providing information, which is crucial especially at this important juncture in the life of our country Sint Maarten.
"Journalists have a responsibility to the community to report the facts, due to the essential role that they play where the dissemination of information is concerned.
"The influence of the media can lead members of the community to either make an informed decision about an issue, or an uninformed opinion based on incorrect information. Hence, the responsibility of the media to remain a credible source of news and information.
"Television can be a tremendous source as it educates the community and upholds freedom of information. On this past World Television Day, I would like to congratulate all those who work in the broadcast/television media, including those in the Department of Communications, and wish them much success. Continue to keep up the good work," Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams told the Government Information Service (GIS).
The United Nations (UN) General Assembly proclaimed 21 November as World Television Day in recognition of the increasing impact television has on decision-making by alerting local and world attention to conflicts and threats to peace and security and its potential role in sharpening the focus on other major issues, including economic and social issues.
On 21 and 22 November 1996, the UN held the first World Television Forum, where leading media figures met under the auspices of the United Nations to discuss the growing significance of television in today's changing world and to consider how they might enhance their mutual cooperation.
That is why the General Assembly decided to proclaim 21 November as World Television Day – to commemorate the date on which the first World Television Forum was held.
The Department of Communications (GIS) falls under the Ministry of General Affairs which falls under the political responsibility of the Prime Minister.
Mr. Gerard P. D'Arcy,Director of RGM Caribbean Limited and associate paid a courtesy visit to the Honorable Prime Minister, Mrs. Sarah Wescot-Williams in her capacity as Minister for General Affairs (Facilities Management). The visit was co-attended by Mr. Louis Brown, Acting SG-for Housing, Physical Planning, Environment and Infrastructure. RGM Ltd. is the developers for the New Government Building on Pond Island.
Philipsburg:--- The board of the St. Maarten Carnival Foundation (SCDF) has chosen the slogan for Carnival 2011: "Country St. Maarten Fettin' for Carnival 2011". As has become tradition, the selection of a slogan was done via a public competition. The SCDF received 106 submissions via Facebook and email in a three week period.
In the end, the SCDF settled on the submission by Chananda Rombley-Delaney, an elementary school teacher at the Oranje School. She received a season pass to Carnival 2011.
President of the SCDF Stuart Johnson said after much debate, the theme was chosen to historically record that Carnival 2011 was the first Carnival festivities after St. Maarten obtained its new constitutional status.
"We contemplated leaving the word 'country' out of the slogan since you just say St. Maarten, not Country St. Maarten," Johnson said. "But we wanted that historic perspective; we thought that distinction was important. Also, the word 'fettin' is an old time word to indicate having a great time. And there is nothing bigger than our Carnival fete. So we have history fully ingrained in our slogan as well as fun and excitement," he added.
The slogan will be used on all Carnival 2011 promotional material, including its schedule, posters, website etc. "On behalf of the SCDF we would like to thank everyone who participated in the slogan competition. Carnival is the people's business and we were very pleased to see how many people came up with terrific slogans," Johnson said.
The SCDF is also gearing up to release its official 2011 schedule which is basically complete.
Caption: Winner of the slogan competition Chananda Rombley-Delaney receives her prize from President of the SCDF Stuart Johnson on Thursday.
GREAT BAY:--- The Civil Registry Department has organized an information session at the Leonard Connor School in Cape Bay for Tuesday, December 07.
Residents of Cape Bay and neighbourhoods are invited to the information session that will be held from 6.00pm to 7.30pm.
Attendees will have an opportunity to ask questions about the services that the department offers along with the procedures that must be followed.
Another session is to be held at the Cultural Center on Backstreet, Thursday, December 09 at the same time.
Persons who need additional information can contact the Civil Registry Department at 542-2457.
The Budget is balanced says the coalition government of the UP/DP parties. A beautiful and unique pre-Christmas announcement which will begin the New Year with a bang. What a gift for the residents of St. Maarten. This measure according to an article appearing in one of the daily newspapers was approved by the Council of Minister on Thursday. There are some statements that were attributed to the Minister of Finance that needs addressing.
And one of them relates to the issue of borrowing. Permit me to quote from the daily newspaper: "We as a country are not able to borrow money to cover our budget (general fund)" end of quote. I have a question: "Why do we have to borrow?" Government can answer the question now or later because I as a Member of Parliament who have to approve the illusive 2011 Budget have not seen it as yet. But since government saw it fit to inform the people through the media it should have no problem answering the question. Why did I ask that question? Did or didn't the Dutch government deposit some funds on the account of the Central Bank for St. Maarten? And imagine we don't have to pay it back. Now if indeed this is the case then why hasn't the government accessed these funds? Let me answer and I stand to be corrected if my answer is incorrect. In order to access those funds government has to present approved audited financial statements. We all know that the General Audit Chamber of the then Netherlands Antilles has not approved the financial accounts for the last 10 years. We all know that they said that these budgets were never balanced. We all know that they said that some of the information was in such a state and let me paraphrase that they did not know what to make of it or where to begin. And let me insert here, "who was director of resources and as such over the various heads of Finance for the last 10 years or more?" Another statement attributed to the Minister of Finance was and I quote:" After inheriting a multimillion guilder deficit from the previous National Alliance led Government we have the responsibility to solve the problem rather than throw up our hands in despair" end of quote. People of St. Maarten please analyze that statement carefully and then ask yourself the question when did the multimillion guilder deficits start? Perhaps it was a slip of the tongue. I must ask this question also, how much money does the former Netherlands Antilles government owe St. Maarten and what committee is looking into this? Finally, I suggest to the UP/DP party coalition government to in line with was agreed to with the Dutch government by the signing of the Final accord of November 2, 2006 and what was also stated in the Transition Accord of February 12, 2007 under the heading Payment arrears to ask the Dutch government how much funds was deposited for St. Maarten on the account of the Central Bank. The Dutch government should have this/these amounts at their fingertips after all they are meticulous when it comes to their administration. Perhaps that amount will turn the deficit into a surplus and the people of St. Maarten will not have to suffer under the burden of more taxes because of the Democratic Party of the last 10 years and prior to this not adhering to sound financial practices.
Philipsburg:--- Dignitaries from both sides of the island who gathered in front of the Government Administration Building on Sunday evening for the annual thanksgiving and tree lightening ceremony were reminded of the importance of giving God thanks. Among the audience were the Governor of St. Maarten Drs. Eugene Holiday and his wife Marie Louise, Minister Franklin Meyers, Minister Rhoda Arrindell, Minister Hiro Shigemoto, Minister Maria Buncamper Molanus, senators, Silvia Meyers, Johan Janchi Leonard, Petrus Leroy De Weever, President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell.
After the official service the Christmas trees were lit by Minister of Culture Rhoda Arrindell, marking the official opening of the Christmas season, while a re-enactment of the Nativity scene was done. Invited guests left their seats to witness the re-enactment.
Philipsburg:--- A detective working at the Philipsburg Police station is looking at ways to redress a situation he considered to be unfit and improper. SMN News learnt that the detective met with union representatives on Monday as well as the Chief of Police to inform them of an incident that involves the Minister of Justice Roland Duncan. According to information reaching SMN News, the Minister went to the Police station late Sunday night after a French citizen got injured and refused treatment from the local paramedics. Sources say when the Minister reached the police station he insulted the detective instead of dealing directly with the chief of police. The Minister of Justice met on Monday for about four hours where he discussed with the police management team.
In an invited comment Chief of Police Peter de Witte said he discussed the matter with the Minister on Monday and the outcome was positive.
Efforts made to contact Minister Duncan on Monday evening proved futile as he did not answer his cellular telephone.
Philipsburg:--- As reported on SMN News on Tuesday the public prosecutor's office confirmed that they have arrested three suspects on Monday that are linked to the human smuggling investigation that has left at least six Haitians dead. The house search and arrests took place on Cole Bay hill in the vicinity of the 1234 & More store. According to reliable information reaching SMN News, the survivors who are currently held in Tortola fingered the persons that they paid to smuggle them to the British Virgin Islands. A press release from prosecutor Rienk Mud states that in conjunction with a motor vessel that was carrying over thirty people and that got shipwrecked near the island of Tortola on Sunday night, three men were arrested on St. Maarten later the same day. Consecutively three house searches were conducted followed by two searches in offices. Computers, documents and money (several thousands of dollars) were confiscated.
The three men are J.J.C., 50 years old, L.B., 43 years old and L. S.-M., 62 years old, all born in Haiti and currently legally residing in St Maarten are now behind bars assisting the RST and Marechaussee with the investigations.
The investigation is being conducted by a joined team of RST, Royal Marechaussee and KPS in cooperation with the Coastguard and French authorities. Currently detectives from St. Maarten are on the island of Tortola to further investigate this case together with local authorities.
The three suspects will be charged with human smuggling. They will be led before the judge of instruction within 48 hours.
Pointe-à-Pitre:--- The Lawyers of the Bar of Guadeloupe gathered in a general meeting on December 7, 2010 to denounced the continuing attacks and the lack of consideration demonstrated towards the profession resulting from:
- the absence of security measures to be taken to permit the access of lawyers to the Courthouse having led to the aggression of one of them inside the Courthouse
- the violation of the principle of hearing both parties resulting from the silence imposed to a lawyer at the moment of her pleading.
- the procedural insecurity born out of the change of rules and practices without prior consultation with Lawyers.
- the exclusion of lawyers from the recording offices while their hearing charges are continuously increasing.
- the absence of decent measures enabling them to exercise the rights of defense, especially, the non communication of penal documents on a timely basis by the Prosecutor's Office in violation of his engagements.
- and generally, the scornful attitude too often displayed toward Lawyers whereas they are justice partners.
The Lawyers of the Bar of Guadeloupe are tired of these attacks which are paralyzing the serene exercise of their Profession, thus they decided on December 8th to begin a general strike says chairman of the bar council Charles Nicolas in a press release.
PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Drs. Gracita Arrindell message on International Anti-Corruption Day, observed globally on Thursday, December 9, was an appeal to the community to help stop corruption in public and private sectors and wherever else it may be happening.
Corruption plagues effective governance, discourages investment, obstructs progress and hampers credible national development.
Corruption also fuels poor service delivery, severely harming individuals, communities and society as a whole.
The United Nations (UN) Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA), recognizing the need to make public administration accountable and effective, have agreed to collaborate to establish and manage a new category of the UN Public Service Awards, one of the most prestigious recognitions of excellence in public service worldwide.
The new category, entitled "Preventing and combating corruption in the public service," will empower the two partners to collect, disseminate and, where possible, replicate noteworthy programmes and practices of Governments to foster integrity in public service.
The partnership of UNODC and UNDESA aligns their respective missions in the areas of integrity, accountability and transparency. It will encourage higher standards of public conduct and promote greater awareness of the importance of tackling corruption in order to achieve the Millennium Development Goals.
"I commend the two aforementioned UN organizations for taking the initiative in adding a new category to the prestigious UN Public Service Awards. Every one of us has a role to play in society. We have a responsibility to make things better not only for ourselves, but also for the common good.
"We form part of a nation, a community. If part of that community is sick, it also impacts us in various ways, and therefore, we each have a role and responsibility and in this case, stamping out corruption where ever it may lay. The Ombudsman is a body that can and will play an integral role where the delivery of services to the community by public bodies is concerned.
"Our missions as a nation must be to prevent corruption in all spheres within society, let us all recommit ourselves to that," President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell said on Thursday.
Philipsburg:--- Commissioner of police Carl John and police spokesman Ricardo Henson met with members of the business community and the United Task Force against Crime (UTFAC) and representatives from Chamber of Commerce on Thursday to discuss some of the measures police would be taken this holiday season. Those attending the meeting were Damu Ratwani from the Indian Merchants Association, Steven Huang from the Chinese Association, Jadira Veen and Clarence Richardson from UTFAC with Ludwig Quinche and Anne Meyers from Chamber of Commerce.
The police force assured that they will be implementing their Zero Tolerance policy as of Friday December 10th island wide.
Ratwani expressed concerned about the lack of sufficient lightening on both Back and Front Streets, while he praised police for doing more to protect the business community during the evening hours and holiday season. Businesses he said will be able to open until 9pm this holiday season while extra security throughout Philipsburg and other areas will be available until 10pm. Stores will be allowed to open on Friday's until 10pm, beginning on December 10th until December 24th.
Merchants are asked to make sure they deposit their monies by 9pm to avoid robberies. The business community were also urged to have proper cameras and additional lighting to protect themselves from criminals.
The UTFAC urged residents and visitors of St. Maarten to make sure they have at all time their identification cards with them so that police can easily identify the people they come into contact with. The UTFAC said they do not want to see letters from people in the newspapers complaining that they were detained for the lack of identification. "People they said need to act responsibly as it is required by law for citizens to identify themselves to law enforcement. Holiday shoppers are asked to look out for the pick pocketers who normally work overtime in crowded areas during rush hours. Shoppers are also urged to beware of their surroundings at all times. Parking for holiday shoppers will be on the Ring Road sand on the Pondfill where additional security will be up until10pm.
Philipsburg:--- Our culture, our language, the difference between culture and subculture and difference between an identity versus a nationality are some of the key topics that will be elaborated upon during the identity crusade of which part one is scheduled for upcoming Saturday, December 18. Though this is the festive season during which everyone is busy preparing for the Christmas season, it is also the period during which many of our traditions have disappeared. It is the moment to reflect on where we came from, our history, and were we are now, thus the President of the Pepper Pot Projects within a Vision Association, Mr. Fabrice Baly.
The event takes place at Ms. Ruby Bute residence under the silk cotton tree. A tree that has been standing strong and bold for the last 300 years. "It will be a grass root family and friends gathering with free sitting which is conducive for a harmonious fellowship as we hope to connect with ourselves, our values and unite as people", as said by Mr. Baly.
The identity crusade is the first project launched by the association Pepper Pot since its inauguration of their TV program in April 2010. The TV program is both educational and informative and provides a platform where concerned men and women of Saint-Martin (Northern and Southern side) can bring their concerns on the issues of the community and propose solutions most of all. Mr. Baly further stated that "the importance of our culture and identity became clear after the topic was debated on the TV program, so we put together a panel of specialists based on their experiences, knowledge and researches to inform or remind us of who we are as a people. Culture is not just an activity or an event but our way of living". He continued by quoting one of the guest speakers Mr. Touzah Jah Bash: "we are in our home let's say of a family of 4, as we allow and welcome guests to dwell with us, as an issue arises in the home, we kindly ask them to excuse us as we deal with the FAMILY issues, once solved the guests are welcomed to join the family again." This is what the crusade is about, discuss our issues among ourselves.
He further stressed on the fact that there is a gap of missing knowledge and information towards those estimated less than 45 years old on exactly what is culture and to be more meaningful what is OUR culture? The discussion and debate part will be part of the second part of the crusade which will be held in the month of January 2011
For those who may have an inquiry on why the series is called a "crusade " which is normally a terminology used by churches in outdoor events with an everlasting impact. At the end of such an event none who have attended is the same, all are called to make a decision based on the information they have heard. "We are unshakeable convinced of the very same for all those who will be there," said the President.
The entire Pepper Pot team invites the public to join them on upcoming Saturday, December 18 in Mrs Ruby Bute yard at 7 pm sharp for an information and educational session on Saint Martin heritage.
For more information about the crusade or Pepper pot in general an email can be send to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or look on facebook. Residents on French Saint Martin can also tune in on Tuesday, December 14, as some of the speakers will elaborate more on the identity crusade.
GREAT BAY:--- Honorable Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams, would like to congratulate the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves on his third consecutive win at the polls on December 13.
Gonsalves was sworn in as Prime Minister on Wednesday for another five-year term.
One of his main government's efforts will be to continue with policies established to assist persons still recovering from the passage of Hurricane Tomas, a category one system in late October.
Gonsalves is leader of the United Labour Party (ULP) which won eight of the 15 seats in the election.
Monitoring teams from the Organization of American States (OAS) and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) said that the elections had been conducted free and fair and reflected the will of the voters.
Philipsburg:--- Windward Islands Airline (WINAIR) a St. Maarten based company is in financial crises, this is according to the Prime Minister of St Maarten, the Honarable Sarah Wescot Williams. In an address given via the St Maarten media, PM Williams disclosed that that the committee that was put together to look into the matters facing WINAIR has submitted their reports and she is expected to meet with the members of the committee to discuss the proposals they offered.
It was noted that the challenges and difficulties being by the airline continues to deteriorate. This is according to well placed sources within the company which have already resulted in job cuts among ground, administrative and pilot staff. The airline as a result of its financial challenges, have seen some of their routes being cut.
However, while reports from the company's Managing Director, Edwin Hodge has pointed to continuous financial challenges, a number of employees have levelled allegations against him stating that his micro managing of the airline and wanton spending has further placed the ailing airline in deeper crisis.
"Almost every week Eddy is here, there and everywhere flying and no one knows where he is going to as he seems reluctant to let the staff know what is happening.. What purposes is he attending but while the staff are being placed under enormous challenges and unfair working conditions, you can see him flying all over the globe with no report or information being given to us the staff," a evidently peeved employee disclosed.
The employee further alleged that speaking out on issues within the company leads to discrimination and victimisation. "When one speaks out he (Edwin Hodge) is quick to fire and or suspend that employee for no apparent reason and this is not fair, but I guess that because he is in charge he feels that he can do as he likes. He has to recognise that people will not always agree with him," the employee said.
Prime Minister Williams also said besides meeting with the members of the committee she intends to meet with the management of WINAIR to discuss the current situation of the company which she said needed urgent attention.
It was pointed out that the Prime Minister made it very clear that she is not satisfied with how the company is being managed and stressed that urgent and decisive actions will be made so as to ensure that it functions at a professional level. However, this media house learnt that in desperate attempts to increase the company's almost empty coffers it has sought to execute a number of promotions. The source further alleges that some of the promotions are being executed at a time when it's very difficult to ascertain the viability and sustainability of the airline. " They have the promotion as being advertised in the Nevis and Antigua and Barbuda markets but no one knows how long this company will continue to operate in these islands as evidence are there that the markets are being considered for possible closure. It is unfair to be running these promotions without informing residents that they (WINAIR) may not be operating longer," the source stressed.
The source pointed out that some years ago residents in St Kitts were only told a few days before the closure of their route that WINAIR would no longer be flying here. This, the source declared resulted in a number of passengers having to be facilitated on LIAT because of the sudden closure. "I believe that we are heading back down the road like where we were some years ago when they suddenly closed the St. Kitts market and I trust that the residents of Nevis and Antigua and Barbuda are wise to know that the company is in a much worst situation and these two markets are likely to close suddenly too, so all caution should be exercised when purchasing tickets," the source stressed.
Some employees said that the Managing Director continues to remain tight lipped on the entire situation resulting in a number of employees being uncomfortable. "We only learn and become aware of things when people on the streets tell us as he (Edwin Hodge) is reluctant to speak," the evidently peeved employee said.
It was pointed out that when the Tortola, Dominica and St Kitts routes were being closed, the staff were only notified about three to five days prior to the closure. "They treated us with unprofessionalism as the MD had no courtesy in telling us what was happening and we received the brunt of the public negative comments because of the way that we were treated by him. You just can't treat your staff, especially your customers with disdain like that," the employee said.
They further noted that Hodge continues to be at logger heads with his pilots over what many claims is his unwillingness to facilitate their concerns and allow them to express their views and opinions on issues of grave concerns to them.
Sources said that resolving the animosity that currently exists among the management and employees would help especially solving the long standing dispute between Hodge and the pilots. "Hodge have to understand that without the pilots there are no company, also he must recognise that he cannot be jumping here, there and everywhere without justifying reason/s as to why he is going to these places. It is time that this man understands that he needs to treat us with some sort of respect," another inside source said.
The Prime Minister promised that when the discussion is over she will release more information to the media on the status of WINAIR. However, she admitted that WINAIR is facing some serious financial problems noting that the picture doesn't look good.
When contacted, Managing Director, Edwin Hodge in an email said that he will address the allegations being made against him. "...I can tell you now all are not true," he said via an email message sent.
However, while promising that an extensive response would have been given some two days ago nothing has been received.
Philipsburg:--- Civil Servants working for the government of St. Maarten were not happy when they went to various banks on Friday looking for their December salaries and their Christmas savings.
According to several civil servants who spoke to SMN News on the condition of anonymity, the finance department did not pay their salaries as was expected on Friday. The government workers said they were also informed that they will not be receiving their Christmas savings (Tax Reservations) which is deducted each month from their salaries and are given to them in December for the holiday season. "All we are hearing via the grapevine is that government doesn't have monies to give us our Christmas savings in December and they will try to pay us in January. While we are hearing this, no one from the Personnel Department had the courage or decency to inform us on time. We are one week away from Christmas and now we are hearing that they don't have the monies they deducted from our salaries." Many of the workers called Members of Parliament from the National Alliance faction expressing their grievances.
Philipsburg:--- Board Members of the Democratic Party are furious at their leader Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams whom they instructed on Thursday night to send home Minister of Health and Labour Maria Buncamper Molanus. The board of the Democratic Party advised Wescot Williams to force Minister Buncamper Molanus to resign as early as Friday but the DP leader it is understood is not in favour of sending home Buncamper Molanus. Minister Maria Buncamper Molanus and her husband Claudius Anthony Buncamper are involved in yet another scandal as they sold the economic rights of a parcel of land they obtained from government. The sale of economic rights to Eco Green was done on December 19th 2009.
SMN News learnt that the board of the Democratic Party feels that retaining Buncamper Molanus as a Minister will be detrimental to their party. On Thursday night, the party president Michael Ferrier told SMN News that the board had submitted its advice to the leader of the party and she was also given the authority to decide what is best for the Democratic Party. Sources say some members of the board contacted their party leader on Friday demanding that she send the Minister home immediately. Those pressuring the Prime Minister is Member of Parliament Roy Marlin, President of the DP Board Michael Ferrier and board member Julian Rollocks.
Reliable sources close to the Buncampers said that the Minister has already taken a decision to resign and to quit politics since she can no longer take the pressure from the Democratic Party and the general public who have been calling for her resignation since this latest scandal broke.
SMN News also learnt that their coalition partner UP leader Theo Heyliger has given the Democratic Party until this weekend to resolve Buncamper Molanus scandal.
SMN News has been reliably informed that Wescot Williams is fearful of the Buncampers because she too sold government lease land in the early 1990's. The source said that Wescot Williams obtained a parcel of land in Simpson Bay and later sold it for a large sum of money. The plot of land granted to the leader of the Democratic Party is located across from the fire station in Simpson Bay where Thrifty's Car Rental is located. According to our sources, Wescot Williams sold the property to an Italian who recently passed away. It must be noted that while government forbids the sale or transfer of lease land if it is vacant, it is not forbidden to sell lease land if a building is on the property.
Cay Hill:--- Shady business transactions at the St. Maarten Medical Centre are continuing to surface even though the medical director of SMMC Dr. George Scot and members of the supervisory council have denied the allegations.
However, documents provided to SMN News shows that the SMMC has been using third parties to order their materials such as the Stryker beds that were ordered earlier this year. The hospital spent close to $350,000.00 to order the beds yet they were not in possession of any documents to show that the beds were for SMMC.
Emails provided to SMN News show that the finance department made several enquires to one Fred Roos and Tammy requesting information on the beds. SMMC also contacted Stryker and they were unable to obtain the information because SMMC was not on the bill of laden. The finance department specifically instructed one of the recipients to get information from the medical director on the Stryker beds so that the hospital's maintenance department and the shipping company could coordinate the delivery.
One of the emails provided to SMN News reads as follows: ---
"My office is the purchasing Office with SMMC- Finance Department. It is my understanding you are away from the island at the moment. Mr. Cees Jan Roos helped us, since your contact number on the Bill of Laden is no longer in use. After several phone calls both to Madelyn and Caribbean Foreign Trade Corp and Rene at Carib Trans concerning the large order and payment. My office is unable to get solid details on this physical delivery to SMMC, as SMMC is not listed anywhere on the paperwork. So legally they cannot reveal any shipment details to us. Or even confirm a delivery schedule of this large shipment. Stryker was unable to send us a copy of this Bill of Laden.
Caribtrans needs something from you in writing that these patient beds are indeed for the St. Maarten Medical Center- to in turn release information to us. Please let us know if changing the name on the Bill of Laden is possible at this point-in helping this situation."
Another email states "Understand that you have meanwhile spoken with Cees Jan. I will be back on St. Maarten tomorrow around noon. Understood from Dr. George Scot that SMMC would like the order be delivered/unloaded on Feb. 22 I will be in touch with you tomorrow afternoon to personally see delivery-location at SMMC premises. At this point in time I see no need to change the Bill of Laden."At a press conference on Thursday when SMN News asked Dr. George Scot and members of the Supervisory Council if the SMMC were using his N.V or any other N.V to order materials. Dr. Scot denied the allegations saying those person/persons accusing him should be the ones to provide the proof of their allegations.
Dr. Scot was also asked to explain how is it possible for him to be a member of the board of directors and the medical director of SMMC at the same time, and if holding two the positions creates a conflict of interest. Dr. Scot and the members of the supervisory council said SMMC changed its statues to allow Dr. Scot to hold both positions. Dr. Scot further explained he is no longer an employee of the St. Maarten Medical Centre and that changing the statues allows the SMMC to hire his services through his N.V.
SMN News also asked Dr. Scot to explain some other conflicts regarding an unregistered specialist at the St. Maarten Medical Center who was later terminated. Dr. Scot explained that the SMMC submitted the necessary paperwork and informed government about the specialist but after 15 months his registration was not completed and as such the hospital had no other choice but to let go of the specialist.
Delivery Invoice from CaribTRANS for Stryker Beds.
DEAR CITIZENS AND FRIENDS OF SINT MAARTEN,
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2011!
WE ARE GREATFUL AND BLESSED TO BE ABLE TO WELCOME A NEW YEAR AGAIN BY THE GRACE OF GOD.
I HOPE THAT YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONES HAD A SAFE TURN FROM THE OLD TO THE NEW YEAR 2011.
IF 2009 WAS A 'TESTING' YEAR' AS I STATED IN A PREVIOUS MESSAGE, THEN THE PAST YEAR 2010 CONCLUDED LEAVING BOTH OUR PEOPLE AND OUR GOVERNMENTS LOOKING FORWARD TO A NEW ERA FILLED WITH HOPE, OPPORTUNITIES AND PROSPERITY FOR ALL OUR PEOPLE.
THE MANY CONSTITUTIONAL CHANGES AND CHALLENGES CONTINEOUS TO AFFECT OUR LIVES IN MANY WAYS. THIS IS A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO RENEW OUR COMMITMENTS TO EACH OTHER.
AN OPPORTUNITY TO RESTORE OUR FAITH IN MANKIND, A CHANCE TO RECOMMITT TO INVEST IN OUR NEIGHBORHOODS, OUR SCHOOLS, BUSINESSES, AND GOVERNMENT INSTITUTIONS, IN ORDER TO MAKE OUR BEAUTIFUL ISLAND SINT MAARTEN WHAT IT IS DESTINED TO BE;
A GREAT NATION BUILT AND LOVED BY A GREAT PEOPLE.
I RECENTLY CAME ACROSS THIS FOLLOWING QUOTE: "MATURITY DOES NOT COME WITH AGE; IT COMES WITH THE ACCEPTANCE OF RESPONSIBILITY".
AS A NEW 'COUNTRY' BARELY 2 MONTHS YOUNG, WE MUST ALL DO OUR SHARE NO MATTER HOW SMALL TO MAKE THIS NEW ENDEAVOR A RESOUNDING SUCCESS. OUR SAFETY, OUR PROSPERITY, OUR PROGRESS AND SURVIVAL AS A NEW NATION DEPENDS ON OUR INDIVIDUAL AS WELL AS COUR COLLECTIVE STEADFASTNESS TO ENSURE THAT INDEED OUR BEST YEARS ARE AHEAD OF US.
I THANK YOU FOR THIS OPPORTUNITY TO ADDRESS YOU. HAVE A SAFE, HEALTHY AND HAPPY NEW YEAR.
GOD BLESS AND PROTECT SINT MAARTEN AND ITS PEOPLE.
DRS. GRACITA R. ARRINDELL, PRESIDENT PARLIAMENT OF SINT MAARTEN
The Year 2010 in Review' will be the last program of 2010 and the first program of 2011 aired on the Law in Focus. Our viewers and listeners are invited to tune in on Thursday December 30th 2010 and January 6th 2011, and subsequent rebroadcasts according to the schedule stated below. We are sure that it will be a worthwhile and interesting experience to hear what the various guests on The Law in Focus had to say, leading up to 10-10-10.
"The Law in Focus" is an informative and educational program for the entire family, aired every Thursday night from 9.30 – 10.00 p.m. on Sint Maarten T.V., Channel 15, with rebroadcasts on the Wednesdays following from 6.00 - 6.30 p.m., on Sundays from 4:00-4:30 pm on Radio Soualiga 99.9 FM, on Mondays on Cable TV Saba and Tuesdays on Cable TV Statia from 7.00 – 7.30 p.m. The program is aired on Statia radio on Tuesdays at 12.30 noon with a repeat on Sundays at 6.00 p.m., and on Channel 9, MSR Cable TV on French Saint Martin. The public is encouraged to send questions on legal issues to email: lawinfocus@ burofocus.com or fax # 5473754.
Basseterre, St.Kitts:-St. Kitts & Nevis Prime Minister, Dr. Denzil Douglas was on Monday 11th January, 2010, condemned by one of his fellow Labour parliamentarians, as a man who is unfit to continue to serve the twin-island federation as head of government.
This scathing attack came not from the opposition party, but one of Douglas' own Labour colleagues, Dwyer Astaphan, who has held some of the most senior portfolios in the Cabinet, including Minister of National Security and Tourism.
Astaphan, who was one of the most influential and powerful Labour Parliamentarians, serving with Douglas, told thousands of listeners during a half hour address on one of the local radio stations in St. Kitts, that Change is Necessary and that he did not believe that Dr. Douglas was the right man to lead St. Kitts & Nevis in the future.
Astaphan further stated that, it is only when that change comes, would the nation be able to heal from the current turmoil dividing the country.
The Labour MP expressed the sentiment that the upcoming elections will be one that will be keenly scrutinized by the historians and viewed with much hope and interest by our children.
Astaphan said that "The Caribbean is watching. The world is watching. And the historians are waiting with their pens and laptops at the ready to hail or condemn us".
He declared that he was still a staunch supporter of the principles of the labour movement but maintained his desire to see a CHANGE in the direction and leadership of the party and a firm willingness to respect a new PAM government.
"If the people of this country elect PAM to office I would be among the first to respect and acknowledge the new government," the Labour Parliamentarian continued.
In 2009, just before it was widely felt that new elections would be announced, Astaphan resigned from the Douglas Cabinet, accusing the Prime Minister of being a dictator and a man all for himself and not for the good that he can do for the nation.
He also cited among other things, the lack of proper leadership of the Labour Party and the country by Prime Minister Dr. Denzil Douglas.
Astaphan said that he has always maintained his support of the principles of the Labour Party, but has expressed grave concerns over the leadership and direction of the party which he feels has strayed significantly from the principles of which he supports.
The labour party replaced Astaphan with Ms. Marcella Liburd who would be challenging PAM candidate Roy Angus Fleming in what many political observers have considered to be a pick-up seat, to be re-taken by the opposition Peoples Action Movement, PAM, led by Lawyer Lindsay Grant.
Mr. Fleming's party, PAM has been running a strong campaign for change, highlighting critical issues of Crime, Cost of Living and Corruption.
Recent polls in 2009 have all indicated that the new labour candidate Marcella Liburd, is trailing the PAM candidate Roy Fleming in what is the federation's largest constituency.
In his 30 minute long address, Astaphan outlined his political journey which began back in 1992. He spoke about the hope of a unification of the political parties for the overall good of the nation.
For more information visit the People's Action Movement Website at http://www.pamforchange.com or contact.
Philipsburg: --- The road is near for 13 singers when they compete for the golden voice song festival champion. The hype for the show is growing according to organizers. The 13 contestants were chosen by a panel of judges during the qualifying show on February 14th 2010. Contestants are presently in the studio preparing for what many call should be the battle of voices scheduled for this Sunday February 28th at the festival village.
Organizers were not too happy with the turnout for the qualifying show however, they remain optimistic about the turnout for the final show on Sunday. The show has two parts; the contestants will sing the song by which they qualified to the finals and a new song making it two rounds. Organizers also decided this time around to start the show early because most of the patrons have to work the next day, therefore the show will start at 6:00pm sharp. Moitiance dance theatre and modeling group will make a special performance for the show. The show will be hosted by Alida Brown Henery and Peter J.
The singers are Erica Van Putten, Keila Gumbs, Shanella James, Mina James, L Key, Michael Paris, Kisha Richards, Ishmeal Fosten, Annick Moses, Shawn Wilkinson, Shawn Jacquet , Heather D and Benjamin Bell. They will be judged on their voice performance, dress code and stage performance. Presently the contestants can be voted upon on Pjd2radio.com. persons can log on and vote for whoever they think will win the competition. Tickets are available at van dorp, DVD express and pjd2 studios for a special price of $10. Entrance at the gate will be $15.
Marigot: --- Reliable information reaching SMN News on Wednesday states that the Collectivity of St. Martin is planning to outsource Fish Day, which is to be held on May 1. The source said that two of the four vice presidents and a territorial councilor met with Chantal Vernusse to discuss the outsourcing on March 1. Vernusse is licensed to organize Calypso Events.
According reliable information a territorial councilor along with several members including members of Eclipse was not invited to the meeting, which was to organize Fish Day. SMN News further learnt that one of the councilors who are not in favor of the outsourcing was also not invited to the meeting on March 1. Sources say the Arts and Culture department workers were told that they would receive convocation for the meeting and they never got it.
SMN News further learnt that the COM is planning to increase the budget for Fish Day and they believed it would be better organized by a foreigner and not the people who did it over the past eight years.
According to information reaching SMN News, the COM is planning to take the same route they took when they outsourced Caribbean Festival last year to the Committee Traditions and Carnival (CTC).
According to reliable information, the organizer that was brought in to St. Martin to assist with the organizing of Caribbean Festival was paid some Euros 80,000 while there are locals (Eclipse) with licenses to organize the same types of events on St. Martin.
SMN News learnt that a delegation went to meet with the President of the COM Frantz Gumbs on Wednesday but that meeting is scheduled to take place on Thursday. It is not clear if President Gumbs agrees with the outsourcing.
Fish Day was launched some eight years ago by culture pioneer Nicole Piper who was heading the Arts and Culture Department. Piper was running the department as deputy mayor, she worked along with Eclipe and other contractors from the day Fish Day was launched.
Nicole Piper had organized Fish Day 2008 and was criticized by the former first vice president responsible for culture for using Euros 60,000 for the event, which attracted close to 20,000 patrons, while members of the current Arts and Culture Department organized the event in 2009.
The source said the new commission wants people whom they believe can better manage the funds that would be allocated for Fish Day 2010. SMN News further learnt that there are several key persons within the community that are ready to take action if Fish Day is outsourced to Calypso Events or any other foreigner.
Philipsburg: --- Members of the detective department were seen searching the home of a tire shop owner believed to be the dead man that was found Friday after noon Over the Bank. SMN News learnt that the victim is Dionicio Pozo of the Dominican Republic and owner of a tire shop located across from old Sunny Food Supermarket on AT Illidge Road.
Neighbors of Pozo said he has no immediate family living on St. Maarten. They said the man was seen last Sunday cleaning up his surroundings which is at the back of the tire shop on AT Illidge Road. On Sunday several detectives was seen by an SMN News reporter questioning bystanders and taking photographs of where the man used to live and operating his business. According to well placed sources the victim was found shackled in the bushes Over the Bank. In an invited comment on the man's identity Prosecutor Rienk Mud said he would neither confirm nor deny if the police have identified the victim.
In the meantime Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said police still did not positively identified the victim. Henson said the prosecutor office as well as the detectives is still requesting the assistance of the public to positively identify the dead man. Henson said police have their suspicions as to who the victim might be however they still need a relative or close friend who might have specifics about the victim to identify him. Asked if police are in possession of the victim's passport and or identification card, and if that is not sufficient to identify the person. Henson said that even though they might be in possession of such documents, the photographs on the documents must match the victim. "In cases where the person's face is damaged then definitely someone has to identify the victim" Henson said.
On July 2 the body of Clemencia Jose-ann Julot was found in the bushes in Oyster Pond, she too was found with her hands tied. SMN News has been reliably informed that Julot had about 87 stabs wounds about her body, information which was not released to the media. So far police has not made any headway in finding the killers of Julot.
Marigot: --- The constant bickering between elected officials among the majority of councillors in the Union Pour les Progres is hindering development and threatens joint cooperation between the two sides of the island. Ever since Daniel Gibbs now first vice president has been elected in 2007 he has shown very little interest in working with the Dutch side. Gibbs during his first year closed off the New York Tourist Office which was rented by the two sides, claiming that the French side did not have its budget in place, he also accused the Dutch side of overcharging the French side when the bills endured were to be divided equally.
Gibbs refused on a number of occasions to even communicate with the Dutch side in the English or Dutch language as he expresses his lack of interest in the joint working relationship. Apart from that Gibbs has been involved in a number of disputes with the senator and party leader Louis Constant Fleming, over the past months. Gibbs requested an audit be done at Semsamar the moment Fleming was elected President of Semsamar. While the bickering and political turmoil continues between elected officials on the French side several elected officials are at lost with an email that was sent to the French and Dutch liaison officer Marcel Gumbs by the Mark Mingo CEO of St Maarten Ports Services. Mingo dispatched an email to Gumbs on August 5th informing him that he was rather upset about the news that the French Port (Galisbay Port) was negotiating with the port of Montreal to take over the Galisbay Port. Mingo further claimed that should this happen then the Dutch Cargo Port was going to be under threat. According to Mingo's email he said a meeting arranged by Gumbs which was held on the French side with the President of the Collectivity Frantz Gumbs and the Senator Louis Constant Fleming who assured them that the two were still in charge of the join working relations. Mingo said as of August 5th the Dutch side Harbour was not going to entertain cooperation with the French side until corrective measures were taken. He said the Cargo facilities invested close to 100 million USD and they were not going to put that kind of money at risk.
Below is the content of the email from Mark Mingo to Marcel Gumbs.
Mr Gumbs (Marcel)
I am very upset about the news I received today that the french port is negotiating with port of montreal to take over their port.
We had a meeting with the collectivitee which you preperared President Gumbs and Senator Fleming were present in that meeting and they said that they were in charge for us to work together.
To let you know as of today we will no longer entertain coorporation untill corrective measures are taken.
The Cargo facilities have invested close to 100 million USD and we sure not going to put that at risk.
Kindly inform the collectivitee and respect our position
Mark Mingo
Ceo
The liaison officer who is no longer the official representative since his contract was not renewed by government informed Mingo by mail that shortly after receiving Mingo's email that he had spoken to the President of the Collectivity who told him that he knows nothing about Montreal taking over the French side port and that the first Vice President Daniel Gibbs was in Canada and it appears he has a group of Canadians advising him on just about everything. Marcel Gumbs told Mingo that the President Gumbs wants him to know that the Port of Galisbay still belongs to the Collectivity of St. Martin and whatever agreements he had with the former commissioner of harbour affairs Theo Heyliger and the staff of the Cargo facility still stands. Marcel Gumbs also assured Mingo that he carbon copied his email to the senator while he offered to convened another meeting to clear the air.
Mr. Mingo,
I just spoke to President Mr. Frantz Gumbs, he said he knows nothing about the port of Montreal taking over the port at Marigot. V.P. Daniel Gibbs is presently in Canada, it appears he has a Canadian group advising him on just about everything. Le President said to tell you the port belongs to the Collectivity and what he said in the meeting with you and Commish still stands. I have cc'd Le President and Senator Fleming on this email.
I propose to convene a meeting in order to clear the air.
Regards
Marcel
Somehow a copy of Marcel Gumbs's email and the email sent to Mingo reached the first vice president Daniel Gibbs who is in charge of the Economic Development on the French side of the island. Gibbs then sent an email to President Gumbs on September 7 asking a number of questions regarding the secret meeting that was held between the Cargo facilities and the President and Senator. In Gibbs's email he reminded the president that they promised the population to be transparent during their campaigns in 2007. He also reminded the president that he is the one responsible for the economic development and most importantly he is the president of the board of directors for the port and airport affairs. Gibbs said he works relentlessly to develop the French side especially when it comes to investments on St. Martin and that it has been weeks now he has been hearing rumours that indicated that he had a Canadian group advising him as if he does not have anyone that is capable in his cabinet to advise him. The first vice president then admitted that he has a close friend of his family and someone who is familiar to St. Martin advising him on a voluntary basis this person he said has dual citizenship which is French and Canadian. Gibbs also asked about the secret meeting held between the two sides which were confirmed in the email that was sent by Marcel Gumbs. He also quoted parts of the email to show that a meeting did take place and he was not privy to what the discussions were. He informed the president that as an elected official he has the right to have information on the decisions taken during the meeting. Below is the content of the email sent to President Gumbs.
Chers collègues de la majorité du Conseil territorial,
Je ne cesse de réclamer le maximum de transparence dans nos prises de décisions sur la gestion de la Collectivité. C'était notre premier engagement de campagne en 2007.
J'ai l'honneur d'exercer les fonctions de Premier vice-président responsable du Développement économique, je suis également président du Conseil d'administration du Port et de l'aéroport. Je travaille sans relâche au développement des investissements sur Saint-Martin.
Il y a maintenant des semaines que, comme vous, j'entends des rumeurs à propos « d'un groupe canadien qui me conseillerait en tout ». Comme si je n'avais personne dans mon équipe capable de me conseiller. Il est vrai qu'un ami de la famille, familier de notre île, me donne aussi des conseils, d'une façon bénévole, je vous l'ai présenté, et il se trouve qu'il a la double citoyenneté française et canadienne.
En revanche, j'apprends, et je veux vous en informer, qu'il y a eu entente secrète entre le Président et le Port de Phillipsburg, je cite un mail du Président que la grande majorité d'entre nous n'a pas eu l'honneur de recevoir : « The President said to tell you the Port belongs to the Collectivity and what he said in the meeting with you and Commish still stands». Je vous transmets en copie ce mail et un autre qui confirme cette information.
Manifestement, ces écrits démontrent que le Président et le Sénateur ont pris des engagements envers la partie hollandaise de ne pas la concurrencer dans son développement portuaire : «The Cargo facilities have invested close to 100 million USD and we sure not going to put that at risk».
Nous sommes en droit, en tant qu'élus, de savoir :
1. Quelles sont les ententes prises entre le Président, le Sénateur et la partie hollandaise quant aux activités portuaires?
2. Cette prise de position explique-t-elle les blocages que nous connaissons dans le développement de la partie française?
3. Comment le Président peut-il affirmer qu'un groupe canadien me conseille sur tout ?
4. Comment le sénateur peut-il participer à ces tractations contraires à nos intérêts?
Je termine en soulignant à quel point il y a une réelle contradiction entre nos positions publiques et cette entente, une fois de plus faite sans nous, qui démontre le problème de gouvernance de notre Collectivité que je dénonce depuis des mois.
Nous devrons, tôt ou tard, en rendre compte à la population.
Je compte sur vous pour réagir à ce mail.
Daniel GIBBS
Vice-Président de la Collectivité de SAINT-MARTIN
According to information reaching SMN News Daniel Gibbs only received the email correspondence on Tuesday September 7 and he distributed copies to several territorial counselors who met on Wednesday to further discuss the emails and its contents. SMN News further learnt that the elected officials on the majority of Union pour les Progres wrote a letter to the President demanding explanation and they give him an ultimatum which is to step down as president of the COM at the next territorial council meeting which is scheduled for the end of September.
Efforts to reach Gibbs on Wednesday to comment on the ongoing issues proved futile.
DAWN BEACH:--- The Caribbean Water Association's (CWA) Annual Conference was officially opened on Wednesday by Deputy Prime Minister, Theo Heyliger, at the Westin Dawn Beach Resort. Heyliger congratulated the members of the association on their 5th anniversary. In his first speech since becoming Deputy Prime Minister, he also reflected on the changes that he has seen in the water production and distribution since he started his political career in 1995 when the local water company was faced with large financial losses.
GEBE is hosting this event as part of the company's ongoing 50 years celebration which also coincided with the association's anniversary. GEBE Managing Director, William Brooks, reflected on the many achievements of the association over the past years, of which notable is the in-depth study of water quality of Rick Ruytenbach as an intern with the CWA in 2008.
The morning opened with presentations by Rick Ruytenback, the former TU Delft student, who presented his thesis findings on the water quality on Saba, Statia and Bonaire as well as his recommendations on the transition for these islands into the BES construction and the resulting consequences from the Dutch Water ordinance.
Stef Strik of the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Environment gave an update on what the three islands can expect with the transition to the BES islands. The transition of the islands into the BES status subjects them to the same water ordinance regulation as in Holland, but it has become clear that a transition period and more research will be needed to determine whether the islands' water networks can meet these regulations.
A recent meeting with the Dutch Association of water companies (VEWIN) along with the Ministry of I&M was well attended highlighting the importance of this topic both in the BES islands as well as the Netherlands. This message was communicated through Alexander Vos de Wael, director of Oasen water company in the Netherlands on behalf of the director of VEWIN, Theo Schmitsz, whose scheduled attendance was not possible at the last moment. These presentations were followed by a panel discussion that focused mostly on what the islands and water production and distribution companies can expect in the short term as well as on the longer term. The consensus in the discussion was that the islands will need a tailor-made program for each island and that collaboration between the Dutch water companies, the local water companies, the Ministry and the CWA will be paramount in reaching the right solutions for these islands.
Jasper Verberk, associate professor of the TU Delft, discussed the Dutch water distribution system and new testing methods that are faster, more accurate and give a better insight into the changes of the water quality once the water enters the distribution system. The presentation was matched with the report of the water quality workgroup presenting the challenges in the distribution systems of the Caribbean islands that are faced with much higher pressures on water networks and pipes due to the hills, as well as operating in a much warmer environment.
The CWA workgroups consist of Water Quality, Security, Distribution, Water Production Technologies, Training, Communication and Customer Relations. Each workgroup gave an account of the their work and achievements over the past year.
The Caribbean Water Association was formed as a data exchange platform between the islands of the former Netherlands Antilles and Aruba. It has since expanded to the Caribbean Water Association working with the six islands, and Suriname and has been collaborating with universities in Curacao, Suriname and Delft as well as the Dutch Association of Water Companies. The goal of the association is information and experience exchange with the slogan "Sharing knowledge and experience results in wisdom."
Philipsburg:--- The government of St. Maarten will respect whatever policy or decision was taken by the federal government prior to St. Maarten taking up its status change regarding residency permits assured Minister of Justice Roland Duncan.
On August 2, the former Minister of Justice Magali Jacoba had sent a letter to the head of immigration Robert Barby and the former Lt. Governor Reynold Groeneveldt instructing them that all persons who were residing on St. Maarten prior to December 2001 must be treated equally to those persons who received their 3-year Brooks Tower Permit.
The letter of August 2 states that all persons who are registered on the island and working must show proof that they have been on the island prior to December 2001 uninterrupted before they can obtain a three year residency permit even if there are gaps in their permits.
Asked if he is willing to implement the same policy as the former Minister of Justice in order to ease the burden on regular workers Minister Duncan said he already met with the head of immigration and he is gathering information on how business is done. He said while he has not reached the stage of taking a decision on residency permits. Minister Duncan said there is need for them to do a broad discussion on immigration and labour before they take any type of long term decisions. "I am not privy to that letter, while I heard about it I have not read the letter as yet. However, if it is a decision then it will be respected in the interim, while the government of country St. Maarten reserves the right to change and or amend its policies." Minister Duncan said very shortly government will be conducting a total review of the immigration and labour policy.
Duncan said he already scheduled a meeting with the Minister of labour to discuss the procedures on labour and residency permits. He said currently St. Maarten does not have to answer to the federal government and as such the laws that regulate these permits has to be restructured into one set of laws.
In the meantime, Prime Minister Wescot Williams said government is already looking at the labour permit policy, she said governments' intention is to revamp and reform the policy. Wescot Williams said while the details of the discussion have not taken place, the intention is to revisit these policies now that the entire jurisdiction falls under St. Maarten.
GREAT BAY:--- The Collective Preventive Services (CPS) which is part of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, says that the Dutch side is bordering on a dengue fever epidemic.
On two separate occasions in the months of August and September, for two consecutive weeks the number of confirmed cases for that week was five or more.
The increase in the mosquito population is attributed to the heavy rainfall, which is more frequent this year than last year, and the population's non-adherence to instructions to remove or eliminate mosquito breeding sites/places.
The number of confirmed cases up to and including the week of October 4 is 105 since the beginning of the year; seven of these confirmed cases were reported in the Cole Bay district and six confirmed in Sucker Garden. The remaining cases on a lower frequency were distributed amongst the various districts on the island.
377 lab requests have been carried out; and 18 persons have been hospitalized. Fourteen of these admitted cases were confirmed, three were negative and one was discarded.
There is an increased mosquito population and this is not solely attributed to the aedes aegypti but the culex which breeds in other types of stagnant water.
At this present time there is no concrete plan for fogging. Discussions are underway between the government and a local exterminating company with respect to fogging. The respective contractor must ensure that there are sufficient chemicals, labour and an efficient fogging machine.
Decreasing the mosquito population calls for a combination of two strategies, firstly, the removal of breeding places and fogging. However, considering the environment and the life cycle of the mosquito (aedes agypti), emphasis is being places on the strategy of eliminating mosquito breeding places.
CPS continues to emphasize that home and business owners should check around their properties right after a rain shower and take immediate measures.
CPS is strongly advising, residents to continue to be proactive and take preventative measures against mosquito breeding in order to avoid an increase in the mosquito-borne disease dengue fever.
Dengue fever is caused by a virus, transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected aedes aegypti mosquito. Dengue symptoms include high fever, severe headache, backache, joint and eye pain, nausea and vomiting, and a rash. Once a person has developed a fever, the infectious period lasts for about a week. Most people recover without any complications, using pain relievers and bed rest.
The pilot project yard to yard inspections carried out earlier this year revealed a house premise index of eight per cent (international house premise index is five per cent), locally indicating a high number of breeding sites, which ranged from sewage water, waste water, clean water, containers with water and car wrecks.
Home and business owners should check around their properties right after a rain shower and take immediate measures.
Contractors on job sites are advised to take immediate steps by checking around the work site for containers and other items that could hold water. Check around for any stagnant water in yards that could become a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
An open lot was discovered in Beacon Hill and was full of what appears to be rainwater. The lot was inspected by Controller Johnny Wattley from the Vector & Mosquito Control Unit and treated as well as the lot on W.B. Peterson's Road in Ebenezer.
CPS strongly recommends that open lots owned by private individuals should be controlled by them and monitored for mosquito breeding. Overgrown vegetation should be cut away. If a mosquito breeding site is discovered, it should be destroyed.
Residents are therefore strongly advised to take action making sure that there is no stagnant water in their yards and roof spouts; and disposing responsibly old tires, empty drums, buckets, jars, birdbaths, boats, plant containers, paint cans and other items that can collect water around their homes and businesses. Wear appropriate clothing and mosquito repellent.
...
Philipsburg:--- The Minister of Tourism Franklyn Meyers has signed a letter which was delivered to the director of the Tourist Office Regina Labega and Edward Dest informing them that they have been suspended with pay and barred from entering the tourist office until further notice.
SMN News learnt that the letter to Labega and Dest was hand delivered by the General Secretary of the Minister, Miguel de Weever and government controller Alex Richardson. The source said when the duo approached Labega at her office to serve her with the letter they were both grinning. It is further understood that Labega was shocked with the news, thus became concerned at the way she was informed of her suspension but de Weever it is said demanded that the keys of her office be turned over to him and that she leave immediately.
In an invited comment de Weever confirmed to SMN News that the two staff members were given official notification that they are not allowed to enter the building of the tourist office until further notice.
De Weever did not give details as to what the two are accused of but said they are conducting an investigation into certain irregularities.
SMN News learnt that the department of finance headed by Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto has initiated an investigation against Labega and Dest to see if they are embezzling monies from government. SMN News learnt that each time Labega travels abroad to represent or promote St. Maarten she would receive travelling allowances from government. However, it is alleged that Labega would also charge her travel expenses to the New York tourist office.
SMN News further learnt that Labega is somehow attached to a company that is contracted by the tourist office. That company "Eastern Caribbean Destination Management (ECDM)" it is said belongs to Labega, Fabian Badejoe, and Ericka Fortuno, the former head of the New York Tourist Office. However, the records at the Chamber of Commerce show that the directors of the ECDM are Fabian Badejoe and Erika Fortuno. However, based on the current structure of government it is extremely difficult to see if Labega is a shareholder of the company.
Regina Labega is a civil servant and she has been working at the Tourist Office for the past 18 years, promoting St. Maarten abroad. SMN News also learnt that Regina Labega had applied to government for the position of General Secretary to the Minister of Tourism but that position was not given to her.
When the news broke that Labega has been suspended and evicted from her office; several persons in the community expressed outrage saying that Labega is politically victimized by the current government. Persons in the streets said the attack on Regina Labega today stems from her decision to support the National Alliance during the September 17 elections. SMN News learnt that Labega refused to support the Democratic Party even though her sister Claudette Labega ran on that slate, while she also did not support the United Peoples Party since she still remembers how her sister Christina Labega was treated by the leader of the United Peoples Party Theo Heyliger who was and still is in charge of the harbour holding companies. Some persons said Regina Labega practically sacrificed her family life for St. Maarten as she constantly travels abroad to promote the island. Her most recent trip was to Argentina where she attended an annual trade show and to speak with Copa Airlines.
One resident and civil servant who requested to remain anonymous said that this is political victimization something they saw coming. The civil servant said Heyliger and Shigemoto have personal animosity against Labega and this is payback time. The civil servant said the deputy Prime Minister sat for months on the SOAB report that was done at ROB and he Heyliger did nothing that was suggested by the SOAB to Dollison. Instead Heyliger gave Dollison one of the best packages with government perks as he waits on his pensionable age. "Just recently I saw Dollison and the UP number 3 candidate leaving the island together, they were going off island to seal some deal."
In an invited comment Regina Labega who was obviously distraught when contacted said she is shocked, disappointed and most importantly is hurt at the notification given to her. She said only on Thursday she spoke to the Minister of Tourism and he did not give her any indication that this was coming to her. Labega said that she had no indication that there is an investigation and she also does not know what she is accused of. Labega also met with her lawyer shortly after she was evicted from her office on Friday.
So far it is not clear if the Council of Ministers took a decision to suspend Labega or if the decision was taken by the Minister of Tourism Franklin Meyers.
A press release from Minister Meyers states that both head of the Tourist Bureau and the head of the marketing division officially received suspension letters on Friday, November 5, 2010 pertaining to an ongoing investigation into discrepancies found by the Finance Department.
Their suspension has to do with the new procedures now in place for the handling of such matters as of October 10, 2010.
Minister Franklin Meyers emphasizes that the process should be allowed to continue unhindered. The minister makes it clear the steps taken thus far as well as the ongoing process does not mean Labega and Dest are in any way guilty of any wrong doing.
They will both have an opportunity to be heard by the relevant authorities about the discrepancies.
The discrepancies were uncovered by the Finance Department prior to September 2010 and were reported to the then-Finance Commissioner. The process was left to be completed.
In the current country status, in cases like these, the minister has to issue suspension letters so as to not impede an ongoing investigation.
Minister Meyers once again urges the public and press to understand that this is not a finger pointing exercise but a due diligence and legal process based on the principles of good governance and the rule of law.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Vice Prime Minister Theo Heyliger and Minister of Finance discussed innovative means to finance public housing on the island with representatives from the Directorate General of Housing, Communities & Integration.
The Directorate will be furnishing information about financing for public housing at a reasonable interest rate. The delegation was informed that Housing Foundations in Holland are not allowed to invest outside of the Netherlands.
Initially, Sint Maarten was looking at establishing a relationship with a Dutch Housing Foundation and the Sint Maarten Housing Development Foundation where financing is concerned.
Another issue discussed was community district development. A neighbourhood approach project was executed successfully in Holland and Curacao and everybody was in agreement that something similar could also be done for Sint Maarten. The Directorate General will furnish information related to this approach to Sint Maarten representatives for further review and follow-up.
Minister Heyliger also asked about the possibilities of assistance with the development of environmental policies for Sint Maarten, and the request will be taken into consideration by the Directorate.
Representing the Directorate was Director General Mark Frequin, Department Manager Special Projects Victor Schaap and Martina Bartelink charged with the portfolio of Housing, Communities & Integration.
Pond Island:--- The detective department is busy investigating the sudden death of a small business owner on Pond Island. The businessman whose name is given as "Nando" was found dead in his living room about 11 am on Thursday. Police also discovered the man's companion in critical condition; she was taken to the St Maarten Medical Center for treatment.
In an invited comment Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said neighbors found it strange that the couple did not open their bar on Thursday morning thus leading them to knock on their door. Henson said when the neighbors did not get any response they became suspicious and called police who broke down the door of the house and made the discovery.
Preliminary indications are that the couple had been exposed to gas. Henson said while two gas bottles were found in the house it is not clear what exactly happened. The police spokesman said the forensic and fire department are busy conducting their investigation and the moment the findings are completed it will be made available.
In an unrelated incident a decomposed body was removed from a home in Grand Case on Thursday morning. SMN News learnt that the victim is the son of Pastor Romney who has been identified as Nathan Romney. Sources say the younger Romney has been ailing for some time.
Marigot: --- An employee of First Deco known to the community of St. Martin as Pascal Delalosa (44) lost his life during the early hours of Monday morning. SMN News learnt that the victim was robbed sometime last week and he was again attacked early Tuesday morning in his apartment at the Marina Royale where he was stabbed to death. Sources say the culprits broke down the victim's front door to gain access to the house.
Efforts made all day on Tuesday to reach the commandant and captain of the Gendarmerie proved futile. Prosecutor Jacques Louvier also could not be reached by phone on Tuesday.
In an unrelated incident the gendarmes and Pompier responded to French Quarter to deal with a young man who went berserk. SMN News learnt that the young man was in possession of a firearm and wanted to shoot someone who must have annoyed him. SMN News further learnt that the gun accidentally fell down and shot the man in his shoulder. He was transported to the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital for treatment. Details of the incident are still sketchy.
Gendarmes were also busy on Tuesday conducting a searching a home for the gun that Orlando Isaac used to shoot a Jamaican national on August 14th 2010. SMN News learnt that the home of one of Isaac's aunts was searched for the missing weapon.
MADAME ESTATE:--- GEBE will be breaking ground on the underground cabling project for the last area in Madame Estate. The project will begin this week with the road being cut to facilitate the digging of the trenches. Once that part of the project has been finalized, GEBE will be changing out the water lines, and placing both high tension and low tension lines underground.
GEBE is working in collaboration with TELEM and St. Maarten Cable TV to put all the overhead cables underground simultaneously. The entire project is being coordinated through one contractor, Alex Backhoe & Trucking.
Businesses and residents in the area of Guadeloupe Road and Grenada Road are being requested to seek alternative parking as the project teams will be trenching the entire length of the road to facilitate the project. There should be no impact on the electricity service during this period as the overhead lines will remain in service until it is completed. Should service need to be interrupted, GEBE will inform customers accordingly.
Approximately 95% of high tension cables are already underground making the electricity distribution grid more reliable, especially in times of hurricanes.
Philipsburg:--- Senator George Pantophlet in a press release reacts to the balanced budget presented by government on Friday.
The Budget is balanced says the coalition government of the UP/DP parties. A beautiful and unique pre-Christmas announcement which will begin the New Year with a bang. What a gift for the residents of St. Maarten. This measure according to an article appearing in one of the daily newspapers was approved by the Council of Minister on Thursday. There are some statements that were attributed to the Minister of Finance that needs addressing.
And one of them relates to the issue of borrowing. Permit me to quote from the daily newspaper: "We as a country are not able to borrow money to cover our budget (general fund)" end of quote. I have a question: "Why do we have to borrow?" Government can answer the question now or later because I as a Member of Parliament who have to approve the illusive 2011 Budget have not seen it as yet. But since government saw it fit to inform the people through the media it should have no problem answering the question. Why did I ask that question? Did or didn't the Dutch government deposit some funds on the account of the Central Bank for St. Maarten? And imagine we don't have to pay it back. Now if indeed this is the case then why hasn't the government accessed these funds? Let me answer and I stand to be corrected if my answer is incorrect. In order to access those funds government has to present approved audited financial statements. We all know that the General Audit Chamber of the then Netherlands Antilles has not approved the financial accounts for the last 10 years. We all know that they said that these budgets were never balanced. We all know that they said that some of the information was in such a state and let me paraphrase that they did not know what to make of it or where to begin. And let me insert here, "who was director of resources and as such over the various heads of Finance for the last 10 years or more?" Another statement attributed to the Minister of Finance was and I quote:" After inheriting a multimillion guilder deficit from the previous National Alliance led Government we have the responsibility to solve the problem rather than throw up our hands in despair" end of quote. People of St. Maarten please analyze that statement carefully and then ask yourself the question when did the multimillion guilder deficits start? Perhaps it was a slip of the tongue. I must ask this question also, how much money does the former Netherlands Antilles government owe St. Maarten and what committee is looking into this? Finally, I suggest to the UP/DP party coalition government to in line with was agreed to with the Dutch government by the signing of the Final accord of November 2, 2006 and what was also stated in the Transition Accord of February 12, 2007 under the heading Payment arrears to ask the Dutch government how much funds was deposited for St. Maarten on the account of the Central Bank. The Dutch government should have this/these amounts at their fingertips after all they are meticulous when it comes to their administration. Perhaps that amount will turn the deficit into a surplus and the people of St. Maarten will not have to suffer under the burden of more taxes because of the Democratic Party of the last 10 years and prior to this not adhering to sound financial practices.
Authorities in the British Virgin Islands have recovered six bodies between Monday and Tuesday. Rescue agencies were continuing the search near Brandywine Bay after the ill fated boat hit a reef around midnight Sunday.
BVI News reported that the Virgin Islands Search and Rescue recovered the body of a male from the seabed near the site of the wreckage.
Monday morning, five bodies were recovered from the water and near the scene of the wreckage – two females, one male and two children. Among the survivors are 14 males and 11 females. Some 21 detainees are being held at the Detention Centre at Balshum Ghut while four have been hospitalized.
On Tuesday the RVIPF convened a meeting, which included Police investigators, St. Maarten law enforcement officers and representatives from Her Majesty's Customs, Immigration and the Ministry of Health.
Among the matters discussed were provisions for immigrants to connect with families in Haiti or in St. Maarten and to receive health and other welfare accommodations and preparations for repatriation of bodies and survivors. Police are also arranging for a meeting with members of the BVI Haitian Association.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development through the BVI Health Services Authority completed a preliminary health assessment of the detainees specifically to detect the presence of the cholera disease. The Ministry maintains that there were no known risks to the general population as none of the detainees are exhibiting signs or symptoms of the cholera disease. However, the Ministry will continue to monitor the situation and are working closely with other agencies to ensure the safety of the public. A comprehensive health assessment will be completed today.
All general procedures to safeguard health are to be maintained among officers in contact with the detainees.
Local investigators are working closely with the St. Maarten law enforcement authorities to identify those responsible for the illegal human trafficking and to bring them responsible to justice.
Meanwhile, Her Majesty's Customs, Virgin Islands Search and Rescue and U.S. Coast Guard were part of the early efforts to rescue individuals from the waters around the wreckage and to detain those that had made it on to shore.
A 25-foot fiberglass boat which is believed to have transported the group has since been removed from scene and is now at the Police Marine Base.
The Governor and Premier have both been notified of the situation and have been briefed on the conditions of the detainees and any possible threats to the BVI public in light of the cholera epidemic in Haiti.
On this situation, the Governor has stated that his office has been in contact with the Haitian government to brief them on this incident.
In addition, the Ministry of Health and Social Development along with the BVI Health Services Authority are collaborating on health issues related to the detainees and are taking all necessary precautions to safeguard the BVI public. Presently, there are no known risks to the general population as none of the detainees are exhibiting signs or symptoms of the cholera disease. However, the Ministry will continue to monitor the situation and are working closely with other agencies to ensure the safety of the public.
(BVI Online News)
...
Philipsburg:--- Businessman Elmer Moses Mardenborough the person who is entitled to the long lease for a parcel of land he filled in the Sucker Garden area known as the Souliga Boulevard is planning his next step since it was revealed that the former Democratic Party executive council issued a long lease to Maria Buncamper Molanus and her husband Claudius Toonjie Buncamper for a parcel of land he (Mardenborough) filled in with government's permission.
Mardenborough showed documents to prove that he invested close to$ 200,000.00 to fill in the land and to date he has not received any compensation for his investments while he charged that government is liable for damages and the loss of his investments.
Moses Mardenborough in an exclusive interview with SMN News said he received permission from government in 1996 to fill in a part of the Great Salt pond and to occupy it until government finalizes the process to grand him a long lease. Mardenborough provided SMN News with a stack of documents to show his claim. Among the documents is a declaration by former island council member William Marlin now senator of St. Maarten which states that while he Marlin was in government his executive council had decided to subdivide land in the Great Salt pond in the area of Sucker Garden for the development of small businesses. Other parcels of the land were granted to persons and companies in the field of heavy equipments, concrete and asphalt. Marlin stated in his declaration that at that time Government wanted to create an industrial zone and to stimulate the removal of the heavy equipments from residential areas.
The former leader of government said the parcels were allotted with the understanding that as soon as VROM and Domain Affairs had prepared the subdivision plan and the draft resolutions the lands in question would be transferred. It was also agreed that persons and companies who filled in the land themselves and were allowed to use the land pending the completion of the plans.
The declaration further stated that Mardenborough was allotted a parcel of land in the industrial zone area with the understanding that he was allowed to fill in the lands pending the completion of the paper work. The department of VROM and Domain Affairs had been involved with the process Marlin stated in his declaration.
However, when Marlin left government and the Democratic Party took over, the plans government had were abolished and the persons who filled in the parcels of land never got their long lease neither were they notified when someone else got a long lease for the property they occupied. Mardenborough also provided the letters he was served by the attorneys representing the St. Maarten Building Supplies which stated that they were in possession of a lease for the property and they are ordering him to remove his materials and other properties from said land.
Mardenborough and his lawyers began the fight back then and they wrote several letters to the executive council who never replied to their enquiries. According to Mardenborough, his lawyer at the time Nilda Arduin began investigating and she discovered that an advice made up by VROM was sent to the Executive Council on December 15 2004 advising government to grant the lease to the head of VROM Claudius Buncamper and his wife Maria Buncamper who was a parliamentarian and senator at that time. Government then took a decision which was signed only by former commissioner of domain affairs Roy Marlin and the Lt. Governor of St. Maarten Franklyn Richards to grant the Buncampers the lease for one year with the option to renew. The lease was granted on January 1 2005 to December 31 2005.
Exactly three days after the advice was sent to government to grant the Buncampers the lease, they signed a lease agreement with the St. Maarten Building Supplies.
Amazingly, the lease agreement between the Buncampers and the St. Maarten Building Supplies was drafted on December 18th 2004 almost two weeks before government granted the elected representative and civil servant a lease for the property.
The lease agreements states that the monthly installments amounts to Naf. 2100.00 included all transfer and any other costs related to the transaction. The lessee also has an option to renew at which time the monthly lease will be determined. All of which was also in the lease agreement the Buncampers have with the island government.
Discrepancies.
While the former executive council knew who filled in Great Salt Pond (Souliga Boulevard) and what type of business Mardenborough was conducting on the property located across from the Melford Hazel Centre they went ahead and granted a long lease to the Buncampers despite a ruling from the court. It should be noted that Mardenborough officially requested a long lease for the property on April 25 2005.
Mardenborough provided the ruling from the administrative court who ordered government to take a decision which was either to honour the agreement they had with Mardenborough and grant him the long lease or annul the agreement. To date Mardenborough said government has not taken such a decision and he was not aware that the former Democratic Party Executive Council granted a long lease to the Buncampers. He said he learnt via media reports that a long lease was granted and he is now meeting with his lawyer the find out the next step he should take. Mardenborough also provided an agreement he has with the St. Maarten Building Supplies when they retracted their court case. The St. Maarten Building Supplies ended their court case and made an agreement with Mardenborough when they realized that that Mardenborough had the rights to the plot of lands based on sworn statements provided by the personnel of domain affairs and VROM all of which was used in the court of law.
Besides Mardenborough, SMN News learnt other persons filled in parcels of land and they too did not get their long lease or deed to the property but the Democratic Party executive council awarded those parcels of lands to their comrades or party supporters. One such person is Charles Hodge who has been occupying a parcel of land since 1998. John Richardson is the only known person who is in possession of his long lease since 1993 while he received his certificate of admeasurements in 1981.
The Buncampers have a long lease which was granted by government on April 1 2008 for the property located at number 47 Souliga Boulevard. Recently, media reports indicated that the Buncampers sold the property to Eco Green for three million dollars. Already the owner of Eco Green has paid 1.6 million dollars as down payment while he has to pay 90 monthly installments of $18.750.
Lease Agreement Between the Buncampers and Island Government.
Lease Agreement Between the Buncampers and St. Maarten Building Supplies.
Lease Agreement Between Mardenborough and St. Maarten Building Supplies
A crew member identified as Pradan Gadahar of Aurora Cruise Ship in port on Wednesday was shot in his butt in the vicinity of Seamans Club in Sucker Garden. Preliminary information reaching SMN News states that the crew member was shot outside of the Adult Entertainment club. It appears as if the shooter was in the process of robbing the victim. Well placed information states that Gadahar was shot in the butt and the bullet exited through the front of his torso.
Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson in a police report said that on Wednesday afternoon December 29th at approximately 04:00 pm, the Central Police Dispatch received several phone calls from residents from Sucker garden living in the vicinity of "El Capitan" and "Seamans Club" about a man who was the victim of shooting. Immediately after receiving this information several police patrols were dispatched to the scene. The victim with initials P.G. from India and a crew member on board of the cruise ship "AURORA" in port today, was laying on his stomach on the ground just at the entrance of Seamans Club. The victim was bleeding from a gunshot wound to the upper right side of his buttocks and had an exit wound to his upper right thigh.
The victim told police that he was attacked by an unknown man with a gun in the alley between an apartment building and the Seamans Club. He was threatened with gun and his personal belonging was demanded from him by his attacker. Henson said the suspect suddenly covered the victim's mouth before shooting him.
After shooting him the suspect fled the scene leaving the victim behind. The police spokesman said the suspect did not succeed in stealing anything from the victim who was treated at the scene by paramedics and then transported to the Sint Maarten Medical Center for further treatment.
The wounds resulted not to be life threatening and the victim will be able to leave hospital tomorrow. The Detective and Forensic Department has started their investigation and are asking anyone who may have any information with regards to this case or any other case to call the Detective Department and give this information.
GREAT BAY (GIS):--- The law on Turn Over Tax for St. Maarten has been finalized. This law, known as, Landsverordening tot wijziging van de Landsverordening belasting op bedrijfsomzetten 1997. (AB 2010, no. 31), will go into effect January 1st, 2011.
The Department of Communication is hereby officially announcing this new law which can be read in full by visiting the Government's website: www.sintmaartengov.org/laws.
A copy of this law can be picked up at the Department of General Affairs, located at the Government Administration Building.
Philipsburg: --- With the reports from SOAB now in the open SMN News has learnt that the head of the permits department at ROB Mr. Guy Gumbs has submitted his resignation from that department. Sources say that the department head has claimed that he has health conditions and as such, he can no longer hold the position (head of permits) thus he resigns with immediate effect.
Gumbs submitted his letter to general affairs on January 25th 2010. He also requested that the executive council reinstate him to his former position as project manager at the department of New Projects and Beheerdienst with the same legal position prior to his departure in April 2009.
The letter was sent to the executive council and copied to Commissioner Theo Heyliger.
SMN News managed to retrieve a copy of a memo Gumbs sent to the director of ROB Mr. Joseph Dollison on August 31 2009 informing him that he would not be signing the permits for Olzina N.V. belonging to Samir Andreos. According to the memo, Gumbs said he would not sign the advice and suggested, "All departments shall sign this advice including inspections since they are so aware of the circumstances surrounding the project. The person who was head of VROM or who now represented at the time shall be the one to sign this advice."
SMN News also learnt that Gumbs was under constant pressure from the director of ROB to sign off advices that did not meet the legal requirements and as such, he has decided to remove himself now that an official investigation has started at ROB.
SMN News also learnt that the director of ROB Mr. Joseph Dollison has submitted a letter saying he is currently ill and would not be reporting to work, while his subordinate Claudius Buncamper is currently off island. For the sake of clarity we at SMN News have decided to publish the memo Gumbs sent to Dollison pertaining Olzina N.V.
Last week we could read and hear in the news how the Pharmacists Association of Curacao went public with an administrative financial problem that they could solve at the negotiation table, in Court or with any marshall by putting for instance a lean on banc accounts of the FZOG-fund or from the governments that have to contribute in the fund.
MENTAL TORTURE OF FZOG - PENSIONERSInstead of trying all legal means at the disposition of a creditor, caregivers in Curacao decided once more to go public to put psychological pressure on the sickness insurance fund FZOG and on politicians. Deliberately (or unconsciously) with their action they cause concern, insecurity and affect the tranquility of the retired civil servants pensioners and their families which are the FZOG cardholders.
You would have expected from caregivers that they do their utmost to prevent to affect the mental health (worrying) and even the physical health (cramps in the belly, raising blood pressure) of the civil servant pensioners.
Not withstanding the advertisements of the ABVO Council of Pensioners last year not to make war affecting health of the civil servant retirees, once more we are confronted with care givers that consciously choose for action forms that affect the pensioners and their health. These care givers do not care that their actions affect the health of the pensioners! As a matter of fact the more they affect the health of the pensioners the better for them, because that is the way for them to increase their income causing more visits to the doctor, more medication, etc.
PROMISES OF THE POLITICIANSLast year the care givers in Curacao and Sint Maarten by refusing service to FZOG cardholders caused that many civil servants retirees received no treatment or no medication. Some were forced to pay cash to receive access to the necesary medical care and medication.
We have to reckognize that the publicity created by the care givers with their refusal of the cards resulted last year in attention even from the highest legislative body in our country the Antillean Parliament. The Minister of Finance and all parliamentarians in defense of the civil service retirees promised to come up with a structural solution for the FZOG fund. (integration of FZOG in SVB)
The Minister of Finance even went so far to show that nowhere in the FZOG ordinance is stipulated that the central government is responsable to pay for the deficits of the FZOG sickness insurance fund. Nevertheless for political reasons the central government to show that wellbeing was now possible because of debt relief that the Dutch started to pay off, the sentral government gave the FZOG fund a financial injection that could pay all outstanding debts of FZOG care givers untill may 2009.
RESTITUTION FOR RETIREES STILL BLOCKEDWhile the fund continued to owe the care givers after may 2009 not with standing all kinds of negotiations and agreements between care givers and FZOG, the government pensioners who have paid cash for their medical treatments and medication untill the day of today are also waiting for their refund ! We have examples of restitution cases waiting for more than 5 years.
While in Sint Maarten a lot of requests for medical referral, requests for glasses, etc are piling up at SVB Sint Maarten, which functions as the postal office for the FZOG fund, no structural improvement of the FZOG-SVB service to civil service pensioners has been experienced yet.
PENSIONERS CANNOT WAIT ANY LONGERSome of our retired civil servants passed away because the Lord decided to terminate their suffering here on earth. How long civil servant retirees have to suffer? How many civil servant retirees have to die before a real improvement and a structural change of the medical care system and the sickness insurance for civil servant retirees and their fa,ilymembers comes into effect??
ABVO-COU\NCIL OF PENSIONERS ACTION : "ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!"
In their reent meeting the ABVO Council of Pensioners (ABVO-KODIPA) decided to launch an action week from April 12-16, 2010 named: "ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!" "AWOR SI TA BASTA!"
In Curacao representatives of ABVO-KODIPA in the Curacao Confederation of Pensioners and Older Persons (KOPAMKO) will adress the FZOG problems and determine a plan of action to take steps to stop the mental torture of civil service retirees with an FZOG card.
In Sint Maarten representatives of the ABVO Council of Pensioners have contacted the civil servants labour unions in Sint Maarten. In a meeting last year august 2009 of these unions with the Executive Coiuncil of Sint Maarten the unions received a promise from the Execcutive Council that by 10-10-10 all civil servants pensioners will receive the same health care package as the active civil servants and that effective that date the civil servants pensioners will pay the same sickness insurance premium as the active civil servants working for the island government.
All government pensioners that have issues pending with FZOG or SVB such as requests for restitution, requests for referral, requests for glasses, etc. are invited to contact members of ABVO Council of Pensioners either by calling or visiting the following locations : In Curacao : ABVO office at Kaya Thomas Henriquez 24 – Brievengat – tel: 7376097; In St Maarten : WIFOL office at Pond Fill # 89 – Philipsburg - tel: 556 3622
Furthermore all pensioners in Sint Maarten are invited to a general meeting to share all pending issues or concerns they have with FZOG or SVB. Representatives of labour unions WICSU/PSU, WITU, ABVO-SXM, UFA and WIFOL will be present to discuss what it is that we can do to address the concerns of the pensioners on Sint Maarten. The general meeting will be held this week Thursday April 15th from 4 to 6 o'clock pm at the WIFOL at Pondfill.
On behalf of the board of the ABVO Council of Pensioners:
Raymond Jessurun - 1* vice-president ABVO-KODIPA – +5999 - 561 5035
Helen Hoijer - 2* sekretary ABVO-KODIPA
GREAT BAY:--- The Collective Preventive Services (CPS) announced on Thursday that there has been 54 confirmed cases of dengue fever on the Dutch side of the island from January up to the end of July. Of those 54 persons, 12 were hospitalized.
Current dengue fever numbers on the Dutch side do not qualify to declare a dengue fever epidemic. The criteria call for at least five cases of dengue fever for two consecutive weeks and that is not the case at this point in time.
A meeting of the Dengue Action Response Team (DART) took place earlier this week at the offices of Sector Public Health. The meeting was called to review the current dengue situation on the Dutch side of the island and the actions that have been taken and what still need to be done.
One of the main conclusion points is community action in the fight against preventing dengue by denying breeding grounds for mosquito's.
Mosquito Eradication Controllers are not able to visit every yard on a regular basis, and therefore if all owners of structures, homes and business all assist, the Ades Aegypti mosquito which has the potential to transmit dengue fever would be denied a breeding place to lay its eggs.
Every home and business owner has to do their part. The more hands on deck the better and one are able to tackle the problem head on.
Vector Controllers have visited various locations where dengue cases have been reported and have taken the appropriate measures required to eliminate mosquito breeding spots.
For a period of three weeks in May and early June, an island-wide (Dutch side) fogging exercise was carried out to kill the adult mosquitoes. However, if there are larvae the fogging control measures does not kill the larvae which then later become mosquitoes, which can be responsible for dengue.
The best and only measure is for every home and business owner to also join the war in taking preventive measures to deny mosquito's breeding areas.
Mosquito Eradication Controllers after carrying out follow-up inspections in certain districts have noticed homeowners are not following the instructions that have been given to them to remove items etc that may become a breeding ground for mosquito's.
When controllers go back to locations that have already been visited, and the owner hasn't taken any action as requested by the vector controllers, due to non-adherence, the possibility of issuing fines will be considered.
Those present for the DART meeting were representatives from the Tourist Office, SLS Lab, Epidemiologist, and CPS.
Those who require information about mosquito prevention measures can check on a weekly basis the Government Information Page in the two daily newspapers or call CPS at 542-2078 or 542-3003.
The First Seminar of the SINT MAARTEN SENIORS AND PENSIONERS ASSOCIATION (SMSPA) will be held on January 17th and 18th, 2011, at the Belair Community Center in Cay Hill, Sint Maarten. The seminar is first of all for the members of the association. Invitations have been also sent to the leadership of the local labour unions and the leadership of seniors organizations of the neighbouring islands of Saba, Sint Eustatius, Sint Kitts Nevis and Anguilla.
This seminar will be dealing with the following topics:
1. How to increase the income of seniors and pensioners:
a. how to increase purchasing power of seniors
b. how to pull seniors out of poverty
2. How to improve the health care for seniors and their family members:
a. how to eliminate discrimination in sickness insurance packages
b. how to get free health care for seniors
Main speakers / panelists from private and public sector will present their views.
- Neil Henderson of HENDERSON INSURANCES in representation of the private insurance companies ENNIA, FATUM, NAGICO and GULF INSURANCES, will inform the participants which pension and additional income products and services can be offered to seniors and/or their family members and which other solutions can be thought of to improve the products to be offered. On the second day he will present the various health insurance packages and services of the private sector insurance companies especially with the seniors and pensioners of Sint Maarten and their familymembers in mind.
- drs Jorien Wuite, Acting Secretary Genera, and staff members of the MINISTRY OF PUBLIC HEALTH, SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT AND LABOUR will elaborate on the first day upon the public pension system in Country Sint Maarten. On the second day she will talk about the quality of the health care in Sint Maarten, the elimination of the discrimination in sickness insurance packages and the preparations for the National Health Insurance System for Country Sint Maarten.
- drs Raymond Jessurun, 1st vice-president of the Sint Maarten Seniors and Pensioners Association, will give his views on the discrimination in old age pensions, the discrimination in health care quality and the discrimination in basic health insurance packages in the Kingdom of the Netherlands as a violation of fundamental human rights. He will deal more in particular with the question whether elimination of the discrimination or equalization of old age pensions, health care quality and basic health insurance packages in the Kingdom, in particular here in Sint Maarten, is possible.
These presentations will be further discussed in the work group sessions and with the panel at the end of each day.
Undoubtedly these topics will generate a lot of interest locally and in the neighbouring islands of the Caribbean, and in the Kingdom of the Netherlands, especially now that the islands Bonaire, Saba and Sint Eustatius have become Dutch municipalities, and Sint Maarten and Curacao have become countries.
The finances to cover the expenses of this seminar are provided by local sponsors which make it possible that this seminar can be held at the Belair Community Center and the presentations and the panel discussions can be televised after the seminar, on a local cable channel.
Pinel Island: --- Workers of the Reserve Naturelle (Natural Reserve) were seen mixing cement on Pinel Island as they build a small shed with tables and benches. Owner of several hectares of the Pinel Island Emile Larmonie is angry at the fact that members of the Natural Reserve are allowed to build on the island using cement and steal. Larmonie told reporters on Thursday that he was fined 50,000 francs ($10,000) some ten years ago when he tried to build a shed for fishermen on that island.
Larmonie said that even though he owned much of the land, government declared that Pinel Island is part of the domain land. He produced an attestation that is signed by the President of the Collectivity of St. Martin that states that Pinel Island is located in a natural zone and the Collectivity neither the commune in its days never issued any building permits neither did they give anyone permission to be on Pinel Island. Based on the attestation Larmonie wants to know if COM has changed its rules and suddenly granted a building permit to those of the Natural Reserve.
Larmonie said he has been trying to find out if the Natural Reserve received a building permit to construct the shed they said is for everyone. He said he wants to know if a building permit was granted to foreigners while St. Martiners are being penalized when they build or even try to use the beach. Larmonie said a few days ago members of the Natural Reserve fined some students that were camping on the beach, "the students had to pay Euros 50 for the space they occupy with a tent. Right now the locals have no place on the beaches, neither the sea" He said the natural reserve is even charging people money to snorkel around Pinel Island.
Larmonie who is also vice president of the Grand Case/ Cul de Sac community council said he sent letters to both the Natural Reserve and the President of the Collectivity to free up two of the beaches so locals can use them, but to date he has not received any response from either party.
Efforts made to contact the President of the Natural Reserve proved futile up to press time.
The second winner of Island Water World's Online Game prize of a dinghy-outboard combo, worth US $ 3200, is Vassil Kurtev from Bulgaria. He arrived in December in St. Maarten from Tenerife, after crossing the Atlantic on his 38' custom designed S/V Bizone.
Vassil, nicknamed Vasko and 74 years young, built 'Bizone' in the early 1990s in Bulgaria together with his son. Due to the lack of well stocked chandleries Kurtev fabricated a great deal of the parts himself. Kurtev is an avid sailor and participated in 1984 in OSTAR (Observer Singlehanded Transatlantic Race from Plymouth, England to Newport, Rhode Island). Back then he sailed a 24-foot folkboat and finished in 40 days.
Until the end of January every online shopper at Island Water World's new e-commerce website – www.islandwaterworld.com - will be automatically eligible to win Walker Bay Air Floor Hypalon AF240 Dinghy and a Mercury-5HP-outboard Combo. "The draw is cumulative – meaning if you bought something in November or December you will still be eligible for the draw in January - the more often you buy, the more chances you have", says Sean Kennelly, Managing Director of Island Water World.
