Transparency and accountability form the backbone of any functioning democracy. When governments fail to provide clear and complete information to the public, they risk eroding trust, weakening democratic principles, and undermining their credibility. Unfortunately, recent incidents involving St. Maarten’s Council of Ministers and the Department of Communications (DCOMM) highlight serious lapses in transparency and public accountability.

A Troubling Pattern of Avoidance

One of the most concerning issues is the consistent lack of direct answers provided by members of the Council of Ministers during weekly press briefings. Journalists attending these briefings often leave without the information they came for. On multiple occasions, ministers have chosen to defer answers with promises to respond in writing, but these written responses seldom materialize.

Even more alarming, some ministers fail to attend their own briefings altogether, opting instead to make appearances on radio programs during the same time slot. This raises serious questions about their commitment to keeping the public informed and respecting the press as a key institution in any democracy.

DCOMM as a Political Gatekeeper

The role of the Department of Communications, or DCOMM, has also come under significant scrutiny. Instead of fostering open communication between government officials and the public, DCOMM appears to have taken on a more politicized role. This was evident during the press briefing on July 9, 2025, when the Minister of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor (VSA) provided incomplete and allegedly inaccurate answers to questions posed months earlier.

Troublingly, attempts by journalists to seek clarification were blocked by DCOMM’s moderator. To add insult to injury, the live video of this briefing was subsequently removed from DCOMM’s social media platforms. An edited version was later uploaded, raising significant concerns about transparency and the freedom of the press.

These actions beg the question: Who at DCOMM is responsible for these decisions? And why is a government communications department—funded by taxpayer dollars—operating in a way that appears to silence media and manipulate public access to information?

Media Freedom Under Threat

Media professionals reporting on St. Maarten deserve the freedom to perform their duties without obstruction. Yet, longstanding journalists who have dedicated years to covering government activities are struggling to access basic information. Some are even denied entry to press briefings under policies that seem arbitrary and counterproductive.

These practices are deeply troubling. Media freedom is a pillar of democracy, and denying journalists the ability to question officials not only stifles professional accountability but also deprives the public of their right to make informed decisions.

For St. Maarten to uphold its democratic ideals, immediate steps must be taken to address these shortcomings. Ministers must commit to attending press briefings regularly and provide clear, accurate, and timely answers to all questions posed by the media.

Additionally, DCOMM must realign its operations to prioritize transparency and public service over political interests. This includes ending practices such as removing live briefings from public platforms and restricting media access to elected and appointed officials.

Finally, the people of St. Maarten must demand better from their leaders. Accountability starts with an informed electorate. By holding officials responsible for their actions—or lack thereof—citizens can help ensure that democracy and transparency prevail.

The Council of Ministers must remember that they serve the people, not political agendas. Transparency is not optional—it is a fundamental obligation. By fostering open dialogue, respecting media freedom, and providing clear information, St. Maarten’s leaders can rebuild trust and strengthen the democratic framework that supports the nation.

It is time for a renewed commitment to accountability, a steadfast defense of press freedom, and a clear rejection of practices that undermine trust in government. This is not just the responsibility of the officials, but a collective call to action for all those who believe in the power of democracy.

Additionally, DCOMM must realign its operations to prioritize transparency and public service over political interests. This includes ending practices such as removing live briefings from public platforms and restricting media access to elected and appointed officials.

Finally, the people of St. Maarten must demand better from their leaders. Accountability starts with an informed electorate. By holding officials responsible for their actions—or lack thereof—citizens can help ensure that democracy and transparency prevail.

The Way Forward

The Council of Ministers must remember that they serve the people, not political agendas. Transparency is not optional—it is a fundamental obligation. By fostering open dialogue, respecting media freedom, and providing clear information, St. Maarten’s leaders can rebuild trust and strengthen the democratic framework that supports the nation.

It is time for a renewed commitment to accountability, a steadfast defense of press freedom, and a clear rejection of practices that undermine trust in government. This is not just the responsibility of the officials, but a collective call to action for all those who believe in the power of democracy.

PHILIPSBURG: --- Last Thursday marked a pivotal moment for sustainable development and economic empowerment in St. Maarten with the official launch of the Agri Business Academy. This trailblazing initiative is a testament to the Ministry's commitment to economic diversification, sustainability, and food security in the nation. Developed collaboratively with Qredits and TWO, the academy is positioned as a vital resource to equip farmers, agriculturists, and landowners with the tools they need to succeed in modern agribusiness.

Suppose you're an aspiring or experienced professional in agriculture. In that case, the Agri Business Academy presents a unique opportunity to enhance your skills, grow your ventures, and contribute to a self-sufficient and resilient Agri-sector. The program’s first cohort has already heralded a promising start, and registration is now open for its next iteration, starting this October.

Empowering St. Maarten’s Agri-Sector Through Practical Learning

The Agri Business Academy program spans 15 weeks and offers a robust combination of practical agricultural training and essential business education. It’s designed to nurture an entrepreneurial mindset while providing participants with actionable skills to tackle challenges in the agri-sector. Whether you’re looking to refine your approach to supply chain management, improve marketing strategies, or perfect your product packaging, this program provides the tools to do just that. Crucially, the academy’s curriculum bridges the gap between agriculture and business, ensuring that participants not only succeed in the field but also the marketplace. By the end of the program, graduates will have a deeper understanding of how to manage operations efficiently, create value-added products, and secure a competitive edge in local and regional markets.

High-Value Incentives for Participants

One of the most enticing features of the Agri Business Academy is its integration with the Agri Loan program. Upon completing the 15-week training, participants become eligible to apply for an Agri Loan with highly favorable terms. The loan offers an interest rate of just 2%, alongside financing of up to $50,000 for growing agribusinesses. This access to affordable credit can be a game-changer, enabling farmers and landowners to scale their operations, invest in new technology, and develop innovative solutions.

It’s essential to note that completing the academy training is a prerequisite for loan eligibility. This ensures participants are well-prepared to manage their ventures responsibly and maximize their investments.

A Strong Start with the First Cohort

The inaugural cohort of the Agri Business Academy featured an impressive group of just under 20 participants. These included established business owners, emerging startups, and landowners eager to explore the vast potential of the agribusiness sector. This diversity underscores the program's broad appeal and relevance, attracting individuals from diverse backgrounds who share a passion for agriculture and innovation.

Feedback from this first group has been overwhelmingly positive, with participants expressing excitement about the knowledge gained and the community-building aspect of the academy. Their success stories will undoubtedly serve as an inspiration for the next wave of participants.

Registration Opens for October Session

For those interested in joining this transformative program, now is the time to act. Registration is officially open for the academy’s next session, slated to begin in October. Whether you’re a small-scale farmer looking to expand or a newcomer exploring opportunities in agriculture, this program is tailored to help you achieve your goals. Don't miss the chance to gain the skills and resources to take your agribusiness ambitions to the next level.

Recognizing the People Behind the Initiative

The Agri Business Academy would not have become a reality without the dedication and collaboration of key individuals and organizations. Special recognition goes to Shervin Frederick and Avril Isaac of the Department of ETT, who led this initiative under Country Package E6.

Their vision and hard work laid the foundation for what promises to be a lasting impact on the agricultural sector.

Gratitude is also extended to Ms. Bernise Stoffer of RVO and Ms. Leona Romeo of TWO. Their steadfast support and partnership were instrumental in bringing this innovative program to life.

Cultivating a More Resilient Future

With the launch of the Agri Business Academy, St. Maarten is taking bold steps toward building a more secure and sustainable future. By empowering individuals with the tools, skills, and access to funding they need, the academy not only strengthens the nation’s agricultural sector but also opens doors for economic development, job creation, and greater food security.

This is only the beginning. The Agri Business Academy represents a call to action for all those passionate about agriculture and sustainability. Together, we can cultivate resilience, foster innovation, and ensure that St. Maarten thrives for generations to come. Register today and join this exciting movement toward growth and self-sufficiency.

PHILIPSBURG: --- The Department of Economic Licenses is undergoing a significant transformation aimed at creating a faster, more efficient, and user-friendly experience for the business community and the general public. Dubbed the R4 Project, this initiative is addressing long-standing challenges by introducing innovative solutions and streamlining operations. While the road to improvement includes some temporary adjustments, these changes promise long-term benefits that will make licensing processes easier and more effective.

Temporary Closure of the Service Desk

Starting July 1, 2025, the service desk at the Public Service Center will be temporarily closed for a period of four to six weeks. This decision, carefully considered, was necessary to facilitate the overhaul of internal workflows and service delivery mechanisms.

During this time, the department continues to accept new license applications through alternative methods. Individuals with scheduled appointments are being contacted directly by the department's team to guide them through the new online submission process, which aims to streamline document submission and make it more accessible.

A Modernized Licensing Process

The temporary adjustments are more than just a pause—they are part of a larger strategy to reshape how the public interacts with the department. Some key improvements underway include:

• A Digital Submission Platform: The department is introducing a new platform that enables remote document submission, reducing the need for in-person visits and streamlining the application processing.

• Streamlined Procedures: The outdated submission process is being phased out, resulting in a more streamlined and efficient overall licensing experience.

• Walk-In Services: When the service desk reopens, an upgraded walk-in system will replace the previous appointment-only model, ensuring a more flexible and customer-focused approach.

By addressing issues such as backlogs and inefficiencies, this transformation aims to alleviate the challenges that small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) face, including delays and poor communication. Recognizing the vital role MSMEs play in the economy, these changes represent an investment in their growth and success.

Support from SEDC St. Maarten

For individuals needing assistance during this transition, support is readily available. The SEDC St. Maarten team, based at the Ms. Lalie Center, is providing free submission help. Their services are designed to bridge the gap for those unfamiliar with the new digital platform or in need of guidance during the process.

Additionally, SEDC St. Maarten offers a range of affordable training programs for aspiring and existing business owners. These programs cover essential topics like:

• Marketing strategies
• Business administration
• Tax filing
• With fees starting as low as $50, these training opportunities are an excellent resource for anyone looking to start or restructure their business. For support or inquiries, you can contact SEDC St. Maarten: Phone: (721) 542-8898

• Social media: Facebook and Instagram - @SEDCStMaarten

Engaging with the Community

The Department of Economic Licenses is committed to transparency and public engagement throughout this transformation. One way they’re keeping the community informed is through their participation in the upcoming Go Local Event.

Scheduled for July 24–27 on the Philipsburg Boardwalk, this event will feature a dedicated tent where visitors can:

• Meet the department’s team

• Receive updates on the R4 Project

• Share feedback about ongoing changes

This collaborative effort with the Chamber of Commerce underscores the department’s commitment to fostering stronger partnerships with the public.

Building a Better Future

The R4 Project is more than just a series of operational changes—it’s a strategic step toward creating a licensing system that is fairer, faster, and more responsive. The department’s dedicated internal team is overseeing every aspect of this transition, ensuring the improvements are sustainable and beneficial in the long run.

While the temporary closure may present some short-term inconveniences, these efforts are necessary to achieve a system that truly serves the needs of the public and the business community.

The Department of Economic Licenses extends its heartfelt thanks to the staff for their dedication under pressure and to the public for their patience during this transitional phase. These changes represent a joint effort to build a future-ready system that supports economic growth and meets the community's expectations.

The community is invited to join us at the Go Local Event to learn more, ask questions, and engage directly with us. Together, we can turn this transitional moment into an opportunity for lasting improvement and progress.

PHILIPSBURG: --- The Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic and Telecommunications (TEATT) is pleased to announce progress on the highly anticipated Philipsburg Market Place project. Preparations for the resumption of construction are now underway, marking a significant step forward in this critical development for the local community and economy.

Key stakeholders, including the Royal Caribbean Group, the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI), and the Ministry of TEATT, are actively reviewing the final architectural drawings. This collaborative effort ensures that the project’s design aligns seamlessly with St. Maarten’s infrastructure requirements and operational goals.

Additionally, discussions are ongoing between the Ministries of TEATT and Finance to explore potential relief measures for current and future vendors at the Marketplace. These conversations aim to identify ways to support small business operators as part of the broader development plan.

While specific details cannot yet be shared, the Ministry underscores its firm commitment to the realization of Philipsburg Marketplace. This project represents a key initiative to stimulate local entrepreneurship, enhance visitor experiences, and revitalize the economic and cultural heart of Philipsburg.

“The Philipsburg Market Place is more than just a development project—it is an investment in the future of our people and our economy. We are diligently working with our partners to ensure that every step we take serves the best interests of the community,” said a Ministry official.

Further updates will be provided as new milestones are reached. The Ministry of TEATT thanks all stakeholders and residents for their continued patience and support as this exciting project progresses.