PHILIPSBURG:--- Commissioner of Tourism, Economic and Aviation Affairs Frans Richardson at a press conference on Wednesday said that elected officials as well as the tourism bureau has to market the island aggressively so that the island does not lose out on anything during the global economic crisis.
Richardson condemned the statements made by former tourism commissioner Roy Marlin who said that the commissioner was wasting taxpayer’s money when he went to China last week. Richardson also called on Marlin to share any information he may have for St. Maarten to gain its revenues. He said the island only knows tourism and maybe the former tourism commissioner may have another idea on how the island can make money. He said several other islands and countries that were strong in other areas such as agriculture has almost abandoned that source of income and has turned to tourism.
Richardson made clear that he would continue to do all in his power to market the island more aggressively and to make sure that St. Maarten does not lose its visitors to any other destination who is also marketing their island.
Richardson said while in China he managed to gather crucial information, which is vital for St. Maarten especially regarding several airlines. Richardson explained that right now Jet Blue is planning to add another flight to St. Maarten on weekends if the island can work out a better landing schedule. He further explained that he would be seeking to get Lufthansa back to St. Maarten while some focus will be placed on the European Market, German and British markets.
Richardson further explained that St. Maarten has already lost over 20% of its arrivals and businesses on the island are doing badly. He said there is much work to be done to make sure St. Maarten stays on its feet.
Richardson said a number of carriers including Air Transat, Virgin Atlantic, Southwest, Jet Blue is interested in the Caribbean.
