Leader of Government, Commissioner William Marlin, said he was pleased with the outcome of a meeting he had with Ambassador Hushang Ansary during his recent visit to the island. We discussed a wide range of issues relevant to St. Maarten, the Commissioner said.
The first issue we discussed was the University of St. Martin, that has always been close to the Ambassador’s heart, as one of its founding fathers and patrons over the past 20 years. We discussed the current state of the financial situation of the University and the critical importance of its future role in the development of St. Maarten. For the University of St. Martin to survive, the assistance of the Ambassador was needed now more than ever, the Commissioner of Education said.
Of course the situation of the Mullet Bay was discussed, Commissioner Marlin said further. Marlin said that he told the Ambassador that the Executive Council will be sending a formal letter to Sun Resorts N.V. requesting for the remaining structures on the Mullet Bay property to be demolished as the Government feels that it is not necessary to defer this action until a decision is taken about the future development of the property.
Commissioner Marlin said he hopes this step will be taken before the end of the year.
Among some of the other issues discussed, was the need for housing on the island and the possibilities of participation by the business community in such a project. The leader of Government, who is also responsible for the portfolio of Housing, said he discussed several planned housing projects with the Ambassador, particularly the need for affordable financing. Together we looked at ways and means that private initiative could be helpful, and the Ambassador showed keen interest and desire to be helpful. He expressed the hope that other leaders of the business community will do the same.
